Burlington

Often considered one of the best places for outdoor enthusiasts to live and play, Burlington is also a bustling college town and a terrific spot for a lively long weekend or a slower-paced weeklong visit. A slew of big-city-bred entrepreneurs have put down roots here, bringing a more sophisticated cultural vibe to the hippie haven. Burlington’s farm-to-table movement is among the strongest in the country; wintertime skiing and hiking in the Green Mountains give way to watersports on Lake Champlain in the summer. You’ll want a car, a boat or both for exploring the bounty of activities in this northern Vermont town.