MEET THE HILTON BURLINGTON LAKE CHAMPLAIN
Burlington is open for business! The state of Vermont did a great job of “flattening the curve” over the last 16 months, but we have finally made it through a world-wide pandemic. Recently, mask mandates and travel guidelines were lifted and the 4th of July marked the official ‘reopening’ of the city of Burlington.
Now that we can normalize meetings and events once again, it’s time to start searching for new or improved properties to celebrate with an event that will get your attendees out of the house, out of the hotel room, and back in a safe, face-to-face environment where they can congregate and share new experiences together again.
We were fortunate enough to talk with Tom Smith, Director of Sales & Marketing at the Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain, to hear more about their properties recent improvements, what meeting planners can expect in Burlington, and what is in store for this summer and fall.
Has your property seen any upgrades or renovations recently? If so, please explain. more.
Yes, we have undergone a complete transformation! Over the past year, our guestrooms, lobby, event space, and restaurant have been completely renovated. I am most proud of the local infusions that truly represent the spirit of Burlington. Local art throughout the hotel, our signature Lunaroma biodegradable organic bath products, and Vermont Artisan Coffee pantries on every guestroom floor are a few examples of the local community positively engaging our guests now on a daily basis.
What are your meeting and event capabilities?
We have a variety of unique event spaces to fit a variety of different needs. We have 20,000 sq. ft. with additional seasonal outdoor space to accommodate everything from intimate private dinners overlooking Lake Champlain to highly produced technical conferences for over 400 guests.
What is the most common feedback your property receives?
Guests love our convenient downtown location with unbeatable lake views. However, guests routinely rave about our team members. I am lucky to work with such a talented group of people that consistently put the guest experience first. We can talk about renovations, lake views, etc., but our incredible team members make our hotel special and keeps guests coming back.
What does your property offer group attendees outside of their event? (Restaurant, bike rental, airport shuttle, etc.)
The beauty of hosting an event with our hotel is that you are literally within walking distance of the best that Burlington has to offer. On property, we offer a full service restaurant and bar, bike rentals, pool, fitness center, and public lounge locations to take in those incredible Lake Champlain sunsets. Just steps out our doors is the historic Church Street Marketplace flush with shops, bars, restaurants, and lively art scene. Grab one of our complimentary bikes or stroll down to Waterfront Park and take the scenic route along the boardwalk. Did I mention a lake cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen yet? Oh yeah, that is just a short walk out the door as well!
How has your property prepared for Meetings & Events post pandemic?
I am relieved to see travel open up and capacity restrictions fade away. In-person events and engagements drive the spirit of hospitality. We have always taken safety and cleanliness incredibly seriously, so adjusting to “new” standards or expectations has been in lock step with our goal to provide guests with the best possible experience. Guaranteeing a clean and sanitized environment at our hotel…absolutely. With that said, the most crucial piece of post pandemic preparedness: our Team. All of our team members have a platform for detailed training and open dialogue aimed at safety and service. We start with ensuring our team members feel safe and motivated to jump back into in-person events. A prepared and passionate team is what makes or breaks the meeting and event experience. Bringing this all together in the post pandemic event world is the recipe for success for all parties involved.
Has your property adapted its technology infrastructure to support hybrid meetings?
We have an incredible onsite AV partner with Encore (formerly known as PSAV). We have hosted numerous hybrid events, broadcasting live and recording everything taking place onsite. We hope that as things continue to open up safely, we see everyone back on property. However, should anyone wish to broadcast live with a hybrid meeting, we have you covered.
What is your favorite activity in the Burlington area?
The Burlington area is filled with incredible experiences. Mountain biking, skiing, paddle boarding, shopping, dining, you name it. However, one thing that simply cannot be replicated anywhere else is a serene walk on the boardwalk along Waterfront Park at sunset. If you don’t believe me…give it a shot yourself. The sun setting behind the Adirondacks reflecting that amber glow on Lake Champlain is truly a gem of an experience only found in Burlington.
In your opinion why does Burlington make a great place to host an event?
We may be a small city, but we pack a big punch in the memory department. We celebrate diversity and strive to be the best we can be on all levels. I may be biased, but I find Burlington to be “authentic.” We want everyone to experience the amazing culture and businesses that our local community is built on. Local isn’t a buzz word in Burlington, it’s a sense of pride and deep rooted community that we strive to share on a daily basis. Oh yeah, and it is accessible through our international airport (BTV) and an easy drive to Montreal, New York, and Boston!
What would be a local tip for event attendees when visiting the Burlington area?
Schedule some time to take a walk and breath it all in. Arrive a day early or stay late if you can. Don’t worry about packing everything into one visit. Slow down and enjoy the beauty of Lake Champlain and a few of the amazing local restaurants, shops, and parks that make Burlington the special place that it is. We are always happy to make suggestions on property if you are short on time. Don’t’ be afraid to do a little research… I hear Hello Burlington has a great website.
Feel free to reach out to Tom Smith of the Hilton Burlington with any questions or comments at Thomas.Smith@aimhosp.com
