The Best College Town In Vermont

When it comes to choosing the best college town in Vermont, selecting Burlington is a no-brainer. Vermont’s largest city and a center of commerce since it was chartered in 1763, this picturesque town of just over 44,000 people is located on the east shore of Lake Champlain. It has rapidly evolved into one of New England’s most important centers of trade, commerce and, eventually, education. Early inhabitants benefited from the economic opportunities provided by shipping on the lake, including trade routes with New York State and even to Canada, just 45 miles to the north.

With the ensuing prosperity and the influx of residents came a need for educational institutions, a need that was to be met by the establishment of the University of Vermont. This historic institution not only helped shape the town’s character, it also had an extremely positive effect on the state as a whole, as well as the greater New England region.

While the impact of this symbiotic relationship between “Town and Gown” continues to evolve, one thing remains clear—Burlington stands out not just as Vermont’s best college town but it’s also one of the best in the country.

A Brief History of the University of Vermont

The University of Vermont (UVM) can trace its origins to 1791, making it one of the first universities to be established in New England. Its founder, statesman and landowner Ira Allen, chose Burlington not just for its lakeside setting and its expanding economy, but also for its proximity to the fertile farmland required to feed an ever-growing population. Allen’s forward thinking led to UVM’s first building, The College, welcoming its first small cohort of students in 1802.

As for its name, the founders were quick to shorten it to simply “UVM” after the Latin for Universitas Viridis Montis, meaning “University of the Green Mountains,” a nod to the French term for the green mountains (ver mont) that defined the newly formed state. UVM quickly grew in size and stature, earning a reputation for programs in agriculture, life sciences, business, and environmental studies. It also became well-regarded for its research output, an area it still excels in.

The campus occupies a scenic position in Burlington just a short distance from the waterfront and within walking reach of the downtown. Now boasting a student population of just over 12,000, the university’s influence extends far beyond academics as it has also played a role in shaping Vermont’s social and political landscape for more than two centuries. Famous UVM graduates include the philosopher John Dewey, who studied and later taught innovative ideas on education; Jody Williams, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate for her work in banning landmines; and NHL Hall of Famer Martin St. Louis.

The Connection Between "Town and Gown"

The partnership between Burlington and UVM began with just a handful of students in the early 1800s. Today, the university enrolls thousands of undergraduates and graduate students, boosting the local economy and diversifying the region’s cultural life. And, while student spending on off-campus housing, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues adds plenty of value to the local economy, university research initiatives alone adds nearly $158 million to the local economy annually.

Perhaps the university’s biggest impact, however, is on healthcare across the state. The University of Vermont Health Network, an integrated non-profit healthcare system affiliated with UVM, operates six hospitals across the region. Its flagship, the University of Vermont Medical Center, also serves as the academic medical center for UVM’s Larner College of Medicine. In addition to employing over 19,000 people, it contributes more than $2.24 billion in economic impact to the region.

Then there’s UVM’s cultural impact. Benefits for locals include campus performances, lectures, and sporting events that also draw visitors from across the region. One long-standing tradition that highlights the "town and gown" connection is the "Catamount Spirit." It's very much evident when fans turn out to support UVM’s sports teams. Events like September’s UVM Weekend are another big draw.

Places to Visit on Campus

Covering an impressive 460 acres and just a half mile from Downtown Burlington, the UVM campus is a delight to explore on foot. Landmarks include the historic Old Mill building, known for its distinctive façade. Facing the park-like University Green and a part of University Row, this historic area also includes the Ira Allen Chapel and other old campus buildings. The photo-worthy Old Mill was built in stages during the 19th century on the site of the first college building, which was destroyed by a fire in 1824.

The Fleming Museum of Art on the far side of the campus is another must-see university attraction. Housing collections including ancient to contemporary works, it offers lectures and workshops to the public. The Dudley H. Davis Center, a more modern addition to campus, offers dining venues, student lounges, as well as performance spaces. It is noted for its high environmental standards, reflecting the university’s focus on sustainability.

Sports enthusiasts should check out the Gutterson Field House where the men’s and women’s Catamounts ice hockey teams compete. The building has a distinct character, and hockey games draw passionate local crowds. The Roy L. Patrick Memorial Gymnasium is another must-visit, this time for basketball fans.

Fun Things To Do In Burlington

While UVM very much serves as the town’s main focal point, there’s plenty to do in and around Burlington, too. A lively spot day and night, Church Street Marketplace is a pedestrian-only thoroughfare dotted with shops and cafés that regularly hosts live music, all an easy walk from campus. It’s an especially nice place for a wander during the summertime when events like the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival comes to town. It transforms Church Street into one big party zone with free performances by local and international jazz artists.

Other downtown events include August’s always fun Festival of Fools, a multi-day festival featuring street performers, acrobats, and comedy acts. During the winter season, Church Street is illuminated with lights and decorations with a tree-lighting ceremony, a holiday-themed market, extended shopping hours, carolers, and even an appearance by Santa himself. Sidewalk sales and pop-up markets also draw crowds of students, residents, and visitors.

The Flynn, a performing arts center, is located just off Church Street and hosts concerts, plays, comedy shows, and dance performances in a historic theater built in the 1930s. The ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a must-visit for those wanting to learn more about local ecology, marine life, and environmental stewardship. For active types, the nine mile long Burlington Bike Path is a must-do and runs along Lake Champlain with stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains. Other attractions worth mentioning include Waterfront Park and North Beach, popular spots for kayaking and swimming.

Local Hotels and Restaurants

Burlington’s reputation for hospitality is well-deserved, and the area near UVM offers a wide selection of hotels and dining options worth checking out. For an overnight stay close to campus, consider Hotel Vermont on Cherry Street or the Courtyard Burlington Harbor on Battery Street. Both are within walking distance of Church Street Marketplace and feature convenient access to local attractions. The Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown, situated along Main Street, is just a short stroll from the university’s main gate.

When it comes to dining, Burlington caters to a wide range of tastes near campus. Popular with students and locals alike, quick bites like Henry’s Diner offer tasty breakfasts and lunches that have been a mainstay for decades. The Skinny Pancake, with its creative crepe menu is another great spot to dine—with the added benefit of being located near the waterfront. For something more upscale, try Leunig’s Bistro on Church Street, which has earned praise for its menu inspired by European flavors.

The Final Word

Burlington is known as the best college town in Vermont for many good reasons. With its identity closely linked to that of the University of Vermont, this historic town and its first-rate educational institute are a shining example of the tremendous benefits that arise when “town and Gown” pull in the same direction. And as UVM continues to attract new students and residents, along with vacationers, the local economy and the area’s cultural and intellectual offerings will continue to flourish.