I'm going on my first trip to Vermont (August 19-25th)and will be staying in Burlington. What are some things to do? I like boat trips, scenic drives, museums, eating & beer, shopping, walks in parks (but not serious hiking or canoeing). Any suggestions??

You can take a cruise on either the Northern Lights or the Spirit of Ethan Allen. You can't miss them down on the Waterfront.
Leaving Waterfront Park is the Burlington bike path. Great for biking/walking.
If you like eating and beer, hit one of our brew pubs. The Vermont Pub & Brewery, Three Needs, and American Flatbread to name a couple. Head a few miles south on Route 7 to the Magic Hat Brewery in South Burlington.
Scenic drives? Lots of 'em. Get yourself a good map and go. If you head east, you'll head into the Green Mountains. Stowe is anice day trip.

Hit the brew pubs.

Three words. Ben and Jerry. Go to their factory. Not in Burlington, but not far at all. Waterbury I believe.

The Shelburne Museum is just south of Burlington, and has a wonderful collection of Americana - you'll need at least one FULL day to see most of it. Really lots of fun!

http://www.shelburnemuseum.org/

For shopping, dining and beer go to Church Street Marketplace in the center of Burlington.

http://www.churchstmarketplace.com/

Burlington is really a great little city - have fun!

Cyn

thanks all... your ideas have been very helpful. Vermont sounds like a nice place. I think my trip will be fun and interesting...

Ethan Allen Homestead is also an interesting museum
http://www.ethanallenhomestead.org/

In addition to the cruises mentioned you can take the ferry over and back to NY. The views from Lake Champlain are beautiful because you can see both the Green Mts and the Adirondacks.