Colchester

County: Chittenden
Best Creemee Stand: Broadacres Creemee Stand

 

Here's what we love about Colchester, Vermont: The town is full of character and personality. Colchester provides a balanced suburban lifestyle with access to plenty of dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities. Still want the hustle and bustle of Church Street? No problem! Colchester is an easy 15-minute drive to downtown Burlington. Brunch at Sneakers and an afternoon cooling off on the beach at Bayside Park are well within your reach. 

Colchester, located in Chittenden County, is the second most populous town in Vermont with just over 17,000 residents. But don't be fooled, there's still plenty of fresh air and room to spread out. Colchester lies immediately north of Burlington with a meandering Lake Champlain coastline. The Colchester Causeway and Burlington Bike Path, an old rail line, connect Colchester to Burlington and the Champlain Islands. With breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks, the Causeway attracts residents and tourists alike.

Colchester has a great small-town vibe with an active community that loves to get outside. A quick drive around town and you're bound to see plenty of folks walking, jogging, biking, and simply enjoying the sunshine. The town is home to more than a few parks. Bayside and Airport Park provide excellent space to play with young children. A trip to Niquette Bay State Park will award visitors with a scenic trail system that never gets old. 

Considering the proximity to Lake Champlain, fishing, sailing, and general recreation on the water is a must. Malletts Bay provides beach and boating opportunities while Colchester Pond offers a serene escape into nature. Come winter, ice fishing and pond hockey dominate the bay.

Local produce is abundant at Sam Mazza's Farm Market, while Shaw's and Costco are a quick drive away for your everyday needs. Don't forget to enjoy a delicious creemee at Broadacres Creemee Stand or the Village Scoop during the warmer seasons.

Colchester’s close proximity to Burlington and Burlington International Airport make this community an excellent commuter town. There are still plenty of local employers including the Vermont National Guard, UVM Medical Center, Green Mountain Coffee, and GE Healthcare.

The Colchester School District is well-respected throughout Vermont. The district serves nearly 2,100 students with 450 faculty and staff members. CSD promotes personalized learning and technology skills and maintains comprehensive music and art programs. The district is composed of five schools spanning K-12.