Fiction Writing Communities in Burlington, Vermont

Find active fiction writing groups, venues, and literary events in Burlington, Vermont. Connect with local writers and grow your craft.

Writer-Friendly Venues in Burlington

Muddy Waters Coffee

Main Street, Downtown Burlington

A beloved local institution that's been fueling Burlington writers for decades. This cozy coffee shop has a bohemian vibe with mismatched furniture, local art on the walls, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere for laptop-wielding creatives. The back room offers quieter seating away from the main counter bustle.

Cost: Best times:

Fletcher Free Library

College Street, Downtown Burlington

Burlington's stunning main library features a dedicated 'Quiet Study' floor with individual carrels perfect for focused writing. The building itself is architecturally inspiring, and the local history collection can spark ideas for Vermont-based stories. Writers often claim the window seats overlooking the lake.

Cost: Best times:

Phoenix Books Burlington

Church Street Marketplace

This independent bookstore has comfortable reading nooks scattered throughout, including a cozy upstairs area with armchairs. Being surrounded by thousands of books creates an inspiring atmosphere, and the staff are incredibly knowledgeable about local literary events and writing groups.

Cost: Best times:

Generator Makerspace & Coworking

South End Arts District

While primarily a makerspace, Generator offers coworking memberships perfect for writers who want a dedicated workspace. The creative energy from artists and makers can be inspiring, and the space hosts regular creative workshops and networking events for Burlington's creative community.

Cost: Best times:

Dobra Tea

Church Street

This authentic tea house offers a serene escape from Burlington's bustle. With floor cushions, low tables, and an extensive tea menu, it's perfect for writers seeking a meditative atmosphere. The upstairs level is particularly quiet and conducive to contemplative writing.

Cost: Best times:

Waterfront Park

Lake Champlain Waterfront

Burlington's crown jewel offers stunning lake and mountain views that have inspired countless writers. The park features numerous benches and picnic tables, and the bike path extends for miles along the shoreline. Perfect for outdoor writing sessions or breaking through writer's block with a inspirational walk.

Cost: Best times:

Speeder & Earl's Coffee

Pine Street, South End

A writer's secret weapon in Burlington's South End Arts District. This spacious coffee shop roasts their own beans and offers plenty of table space with reliable wifi. The industrial-chic atmosphere and proximity to art galleries creates an inspiring environment for creative work.

Cost: Best times:

Shelburne Farms

Shelburne (15 minutes south of Burlington)

This historic working farm offers breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. The grounds include quiet spots perfect for outdoor writing, and the farm's rich history and sustainable practices can inspire environmental or historical fiction. The visitor center has indoor seating during colder months.

Cost: Best times:

Maglianero Cafe

Battery Street

This Italian-inspired cafe near the waterfront offers excellent coffee and a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for literary work. The space features high ceilings, exposed brick, and large windows with harbor views. Less crowded than downtown options, making it ideal for focused writing sessions.

Cost: Best times:

Burlington Writers Workshop Space

Various locations (rotating)

While not a permanent venue, this active writers' group meets monthly at different Burlington locations including libraries, cafes, and community centers. It's an excellent way to connect with the local writing community and discover new writer-friendly venues through fellow authors.

Cost: Best times:

Burlington, Vermont Writing Community Guide

Burlington's vibrant literary scene offers numerous opportunities for fiction writers to connect, share work, and grow their craft. The city's creative atmosphere, bolstered by the University of Vermont and a strong arts community, supports diverse writing groups catering to various genres and experience levels.

Sample Writing Groups:

Champlain Valley Fiction Writers

Fletcher Free Library - Chapin Room

Second and fourth Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 PM

General fiction critique group welcoming all genres

How to find: Listed on library's community programs page and Meetup.com

Burlington Speculative Fiction Circle

Muddy Waters Café - upstairs room

First Saturday of each month, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

Science fiction, fantasy, and horror writers

How to find: Facebook group 'Vermont Sci-Fi Writers' and Phoenix Books bulletin board

Queen City Writers Workshop

Burlington Community & Economic Development Office meeting room

Weekly Tuesdays, 7:00-9:00 PM

Literary fiction and memoir

How to find: Meetup.com and recommendations from local bookstores

New North End Novelists

Members' homes (rotating)

Monthly, third Sunday, 2:00-4:30 PM

Novel-length projects and longer works

How to find: Word-of-mouth through other writing groups and UVM extension programs

Write On Burlington

Dobra Tea - private dining area

Biweekly Wednesdays, 6:00-8:00 PM

Mixed genres with emphasis on short fiction

How to find: Crow Bookshop community board and local arts newsletters

Finding Writing Groups:

What to Expect:

Typical Format:

Most groups begin with informal socializing, followed by structured critique sessions where members share 2-10 pages of work. Feedback focuses on plot, character development, pacing, and dialogue. Some groups include writing exercises or craft discussions.

Time Commitment:

Plan for 1.5-3 hours per meeting, plus time to read other members' submissions beforehand

Cost Expectations:

Burlington, Vermont Writing Events & Opportunities Guide

Burlington's vibrant literary community offers year-round opportunities for writers of all levels. From university-sponsored workshops to cozy bookstore readings, the Queen City provides diverse venues for literary engagement.

Practical Tips:

Timing:

Most conferences occur in summer/fall when university facilities are available. Winter events focus on indoor venues like libraries and bookstores.

Costs:

Many events are free or low-cost ($25 or less). Multi-day conferences typically range $200-400.

Registration:

Popular workshops fill quickly. Register early, especially for summer conferences with limited capacity.

Local Writing Resources

Independent Bookstores

Phoenix Books Burlington

191 Bank Street, Burlington, VT

Flagship independent bookstore hosting frequent author events, book clubs, and actively promotes Vermont writers through dedicated local author sections and consignment programs.

Crow Bookshop

14 Church Street, Burlington, VT

Historic independent bookstore specializing in rare and used books, with strong support for local authors and regular literary events in their cozy downtown location.

Libraries

Fletcher Free Library

235 College Street, Burlington, VT

Burlington's main library featuring extensive fiction collections, writer's workshops, author readings, and quiet study spaces. Offers meeting rooms for writing groups and hosts the annual Vermont Reads program.

UVM Bailey/Howe Library

538 Main Street, Burlington, VT

University of Vermont's main library with special collections, research resources, and archives that support fiction writers researching Vermont history and culture.

Literary Publications

Vermont Literary Review

Statewide literary magazine accepting fiction submissions from Vermont writers, with editorial offices in the Burlington area.

Green Mountains Review

Regional literary journal publishing fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, accessible to Burlington-area writers.

Writing Organizations

Vermont Writers' Cooperative

Statewide organization with active Burlington chapter offering workshops, critique groups, networking events, and publishing guidance for fiction writers.

League of Vermont Writers

Established writers' organization hosting monthly meetings in Burlington area, featuring guest speakers, writing contests, and peer support networks.

University Programs

UVM Continuing & Distance Education Writing Courses

Community-accessible creative writing courses including fiction workshops, often taught by published authors and open to non-degree seeking students.

Practical Information for Writers

Burlington's Literary Heritage

Burlington, Vermont stands as a beacon of literary culture in New England, where the stunning backdrop of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains has nurtured generations of exceptional writers. This progressive college town has attracted renowned authors like Grace Paley, whose activism and storytelling prowess helped define Vermont's socially conscious literary identity. The city's independent spirit manifests in its thriving bookstore culture, from Phoenix Books to historic Crow Bookshop, creating intimate spaces where readers and writers converge. Burlington's literary heritage reflects Vermont's broader commitment to environmental consciousness and social justice, themes that permeate the works of residents like Julia Alvarez and Chris Bohjalian. The University of Vermont serves as an intellectual anchor, while venues like the Flynn Center provide platforms for literary expression. Vermont's tradition of small-town storytelling, combined with Burlington's cosmopolitan sensibilities, creates a unique literary ecosystem where intimate human dramas unfold against sweeping natural vistas. The city's literary culture celebrates both the pastoral traditions of rural New England and the progressive values of contemporary America, making it a vital center for writers exploring themes of place, identity, and community in an ever-changing world.

Notable Authors

Grace Paley

Renowned short story writer and activist, influenced Vermont's progressive literary culture

Howard Frank Mosher

Celebrated chronicler of Northeast Kingdom life and culture

Julia Alvarez

Dominican-American novelist exploring themes of immigration and identity

Chris Bohjalian

Bestselling novelist known for psychological thrillers and historical fiction

Literary Landmarks

Flynn Center for the Performing Arts

University of Vermont's Bailey/Howe Library

Lake Champlain

Inspiring Quotes

"Vermont is a place where you can still hear the silence."
—

"The mountains and lakes of Vermont provide the perfect backdrop for stories that matter."
—

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