Best Place to People-Watch (08)
Burlington City Hall Park
Winner: 2008.
- 149 Church Street, Burlington, VT, 05401
- http://www.enjoyburlington.com/Parks/CityHallPark.cfm
Bench With a View
A stroll though Burlington City Hall Park is like going on a cultural safari. Without leaving your bench, the sidewalk or your car, you're sure to witness pensive bohemians, punk-rockers, barefooted nappers and tots splashing in the fountain. The park's expanse is only half a city block, but there's enough local flavor to fill an afternoon with quality people watching. Grab a book, find a seat and, while pretending to read, listen to the colorful stories of these Queen City inhabitants. As long-winded locals try to top each other's anecdotes, you can watch the tension grow between opponents of a chess match. And, since amps are allowed in the park — with official permit — you never know when the show will turn into a concert. There's never a dull moment in the shadow of City Hall.