Not Too Big, Not Too Small

Burlington is one of the best-known college towns in the United States, recognized over the years by Travel + Leisure, Livability, Best College Reviews, CollegeRank, and more. In addition to Champlain College, Burlington boasts three other higher education institutions, and students represent a quarter of the city's total population. There's a lot going on in Burlington, and there's always something new to see.

To explore downtown, just head down the hill toward the water—it's just a five-minute walk from campus. The epicenter of Burlington is the legendary Church Street Marketplace. You'll know you're there when you hit the cobblestones. Wander around for a while: explore our unique stores, tea and coffee shops, and boutiques. Enjoy street performers, or have a great meal in any one of the restaurants featuring local ingredients and outdoor dining.

Then, head for the lake. You'll find the waterfront and community park graced with pristine shoreline as far as the eye can see and a magnificent boardwalk, built for strolling, biking, running, even snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. Watch a beautiful sunset over the Adirondack Mountain range. The waterfront is home to the city's largest festival site, where a number of major events take place throughout the year.

There's a whole world of entertainment in and around the city, which truly offers the best of everything: from a stellar downtown urban atmosphere to close proximity to some of the best outdoor sports terrain in the country, Burlington is the smallest big city you'll see. Explore our town for yourself—you're bound to discover your own favorites.

Burlington Brags

• Named America's Capital of Education by Urbanful.
• Named #1 Best College Town by Travel & Leisure.
• Ranked #7 on Outside Magazine's 16 Greatest Places to Live in America.
• Named the next Gig City by US Ignite.
• Named "One of the 10 Great Places for Campus Culture" by USA Today Travel Guide

See more Burlington and Vermont accolades!