Colchester Vermont – Lakeside Living in the Green Mountain State

Colchester VT Hotels, Real Estate, Travel & History

Colchester VT Burlington, Middlebury, Champlain Valley Vermont

Explore Colchester, Vermont. You’ll find Colchester along the shimmering shoreline of Lake Champlain, just north of Burlington, Colchester Vermont is the kind of place that effortlessly blends small-town charm with stunning natural beauty. It’s a town where bike paths skim across the water, farmers’ markets thrive, and sunsets paint the sky in fiery shades over the lake. Whether you’re planning a visit or thinking about settling down, Colchester is worth getting to know.

Colchester, Vermont, borders Lake Champlain. The view of Mallets Bay from Bayside Park is spectacular. Colchester is named for the Earl of Colchester. The Mallets Bay Causeway, a former railroad bed, is now a popular walking path. Saint Michael’s College is located here. St. Michael’s College, VT Public Radio, and the VT Youth Orchestra all call Colchester home. Colchester is located on the shores of Malletts Bay, part of Lake Champlain. Colchester has many parks that offer hiking, tennis courts, and other outdoor activities. Colchester is also home to the Colchester Chronicle bi-monthly newspaper.

A Look Back at Colchester’s History

Colchester’s roots go back to 1763, when it was chartered during the era of the New Hampshire Grants. It was named after the Earl of Colchester, a nod to British influence during the colonial period. In the centuries that followed, this town evolved from a farming and trading community into a thriving residential area with connections to rail, lake commerce, and military history.

One of the most notable historic landmarks is Fort Ethan Allen, which opened in 1894 as a cavalry post for the U.S. Army. Though decommissioned during World War II, the fort’s legacy is alive and well. Its original buildings now house apartments, local businesses, and classrooms. Walking through this part of town feels like stepping into a living museum.

A Growing Community in Chittenden County

With a population of just over 17,000, Colchester Vermont is one of the larger towns in the state. Residents are drawn here by the sense of safety, the excellent location near Burlington, the access to water and mountains, and the vibrant community feel.

From college students attending Saint Michael’s College to families, retirees, and remote workers, Colchester attracts a diverse mix of people. Thanks to a strong local economy and its proximity to the University of Vermont and the tech corridor of South Burlington, Colchester continues to grow while maintaining its classic Vermont feel.

Where to Stay in Colchester Vermont

Many visitors choose to stay in a Vermont VRBO Vacation Rental on Lake Champlain. The Burlington, Colchester areas have some excellent and convenient lodging options, especially near Malletts Bay and Route 15. Browse the Vermont Vacation Rental map below to find Colchester, VT hotel deals, vacation rentals, and Airbnb vacation homes.

Hampton Inn Burlington, 42 Lower Mountain View Drive, Colchester, VT 05446
Hampton Inn Burlington is located off Interstate 89 in Colchester, Vermont. Enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Champlain, and the Adirondack and Green mountains. Picnic on North Beach or drive to ski areas such as Stowe and Sugarbush in the winter. Visit Shelburne, home of the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, and Shelburne Museum, where 150,000 works of art are displayed in 39 buildings on 45 acres of scenic property. Savor ice cream after a fun-filled tour of Ben & Jerry’s Factory, 30 miles from this Colchester, VT hotel.
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Lone Pine Campsites, 52 Sunset View Road, Colchester, VT | 802-878-5447
Known across New England and beyond as "Vermont's Favorite Family Campground", Lone Pine Campsites offers the quintessential Vermont camping experience in one of the most beautiful regions of the state, the Lake Champlain Valley. Located a mere stone's throw from Mallets Bay and 15 minutes from downtown Burlington, our 265 spacious campsites are surrounded by native trees and wildlife. We provide several RV hook-up options, offer RV rentals, and are happy to welcome tent campers.
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Days Inn by Wyndham Colchester Burlington
124 College Parkway
Colchester, VT 05446
A reliable, budget-friendly hotel near Saint Michael’s College with a pool and fitness center.

Quality Inn Colchester/Burlington Area
84 South Park Drive
Colchester, VT 05446
Located near I-89 and the university district, this hotel offers free breakfast and a central location.

Malletts Bay Vacation Rentals
Various locations on West Lakeshore Drive
For travelers looking for a lakeside retreat, check vacation rental map above for cottages, condos, and lake homes available seasonally or year-round.

Dining in Colchester Vermont

While Colchester may not have the restaurant density of Burlington, it more than holds its own with a handful of gems Vermonters swear by.

The Spot on the Dock (Seasonal)
0 College Street, Burlington (on the water, minutes from Colchester)
One of the best spots for lakefront dining with Vermont craft beers, fresh seafood, and sunset views.

Rozzi’s Lakeshore Tavern
25 Raymond Road, Colchester, VT 05446
Classic Vermont tavern fare with wings, burgers, and beer. Perfect for a casual bite after a bike ride or beach day.

Wicked Wings
North Avenue, Colchester (technically Burlington’s north end)
A local hot spot for—you guessed it—wings! Plus, a strong Vermont beer selection and comfort food galore.

Bayview Eats
Bay Road, Colchester, VT
Cozy neighborhood spot for breakfast and lunch with locally sourced ingredients and lakeside vibes.

Annual Events in Colchester Vermont

Colchester Winter Carnival
Held in January or early February, this fun, family-centered event includes snow sculpting, indoor activities, fireworks, and games at the town’s public school and rec centers.

Fourth of July Celebration
Colchester does Independence Day right—with a parade, concerts, and fireworks over Malletts Bay. It’s a community highlight that brings everyone together.

Causeway 5K/15K Race
This annual summer run is a favorite among locals and visitors, offering stunning views along the Island Line Trail.

Colchester Farmers’ Market
Held in the summer at Bayside Park, the market features Vermont produce, meats, honey, crafts, and live music.

Saint Michael’s College Fine Arts Events
Throughout the year, the college hosts art shows, concerts, lectures, and theatrical productions open to the public.

Local Neighborhoods and Villages

Malletts Bay is a scenic lakeside community with homes, vacation rentals, and direct water access. It’s lively in summer and peaceful year-round.

Fort Ethan Allen blends historic character with modern housing and easy access to parks and bike trails.

Severance Corners is one of Colchester’s most walkable mixed-use areas, with shops, condos, and dining.

Village of Colchester near Blakely Road is the civic and educational hub, close to the Town Offices, schools, and recreation fields.

Colchester Vermont Real Estate

Real estate in Colchester remains in high demand. Whether you’re buying a lakefront cottage or a modern townhome, the market offers a wide range of properties.

The median home price hovers around $400,000, with waterfront properties fetching higher prices. Condos and townhouses offer options for first-time buyers or downsizers, while larger family homes and multi-acre parcels attract long-term residents.

Colchester’s real estate benefits from its proximity to Burlington, good schools, lake access, and overall quality of life. It’s one of the most sought-after towns in Chittenden County.

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Colchester Town Clerk & Local Services

Need to register to vote, apply for a marriage license, or research local land records? The Colchester Town Clerk’s Office is your go-to resource.

Chartered: 1763
County: Chittenden
Colchester, VT Population:
2010: 17,067

GPS Coordinates:
Latitude: 44.3231
Longitude: -73.1148

Colchester Town Clerk
781 Blakely Road
Colchester, VT 05446
Phone: (802) 264-5520
Email: townclerk@colchestervt.gov
Website: colchestervt.gov

The Colchester town office is open weekdays and provides a full range of services, from property tax payment and notary services to issuing certified documents and organizing local elections.

Outdoor Attractions and Natural Beauty

Perhaps Colchester’s most jaw-dropping attraction is the Island Line Trail, also known as the Colchester Causeway. This stunning gravel path stretches out across Lake Champlain, offering miles of scenic walking and biking. During the summer, a small bike ferry connects the trail to South Hero, making for an unforgettable adventure.

For family-friendly fun, Bayside Park is a great spot with volleyball courts, a beach area, a skate park, and gorgeous lake views. Malletts Bay is another favorite destination—a perfect place to launch a boat, fish, paddleboard, or just relax and take in the view.

Winter visitors won’t be disappointed either. Once the lake freezes over, you’ll find locals skating, ice fishing, and even playing broomball on frozen stretches of the bay.

Historic Sites to Explore

Fort Ethan Allen remains one of Vermont’s most fascinating historic districts. Its stately parade grounds, historic officer quarters, and preserved cavalry stables offer a glimpse into military life from over a century ago.

Nearby, Saint Michael’s College, founded in 1904, adds a layer of collegiate energy to the town and hosts public lectures, performances, and cultural events throughout the year.

Getting Around

Colchester is conveniently located near Interstate 89, just a 10-minute drive from Burlington International Airport. Public transportation is available through Green Mountain Transit, which connects Colchester to Burlington, Winooski, and Essex Junction.

For cyclists, the town’s bike paths and access to the Island Line Trail make it easy to get around on two wheels. It’s one of the most bike-friendly towns in the state.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Colchester Vermont

Whether you're here for a weekend or considering a permanent move, Colchester Vermont offers a welcoming, beautiful, and enriching experience. From the sparkling waters of Malletts Bay to the historic corridors of Fort Ethan Allen, from vibrant college arts to family-friendly events, Colchester feels like home the moment you arrive.

Bring your bike, your sense of adventure, and a love for lakeside living. And don’t forget to catch a movie at the Sunset Drive-In, an old-fashioned, 4-screen drive-in for new releases, with a playground, concessions, and mini-golf course. The Sunset Drive-In is located on Porter's Point Road.

For more local photos and information about Colchester, Vermont, bookmark https://vtliving.com/towns/colchester/.

Clarey's Recreation Center, Colchester VT | Click to enlarge view

Champlain Valley Vermont

SUGGESTED CHAMPLAIN VALLEY VT LODGING Visit Burlington Vacation Specials. Browse Burlington VT vacation rentals, inns, resorts, and pet-friendly lodging availabilities below.

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