University Mall - Image 1
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University Mall

3.8
·3k reviews·South Burlington, United States

A comfortable, laid-back retail complex with over 60 stores, offering a nostalgic shopping experience and convenient parking.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Quiet shopping experience

CrowdLow
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University Mall - Image 1

University Mall

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Quiet shopping experience

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A comfortable, laid-back retail complex with over 60 stores, offering a nostalgic shopping experience and convenient parking.

3.8
(3k reviews)

"It serves its purpose. Comfortable, laid-back retail complex with a nostalgic vibe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park & Explore Town

Redditors suggest parking here to easily access Burlington town by foot or bus. :car:

🧼 Mall Cleanliness

Staff diligently keep the mall clean and safe, making for a pleasant visit. :sparkles:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kohl's & JCPenney

Kohl's & JCPenney

Anchor Stores

Find a good variety of clothing, home goods, and essentials at these familiar department stores.

Bubble Tea Haven

Bubble Tea Haven

Food Court Area

Discover the city's sole bubble tea shop for a sweet treat amidst your shopping.

Children's Play Area

Children's Play Area

Designated Zone

A free, safe space for kids to burn energy while parents take a break.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Embrace Nostalgia

While University Mall offers a comfortable escape, especially in winter, it's often quiet. Visit during weekdays for a truly laid-back experience. Embrace the nostalgic vibe of this older mall, a sentiment echoed by many visitors.

Parking & Town Access

If you're heading into Burlington, consider parking at University Mall or along Shelburne Road. Redditors suggest this as a convenient spot to then walk or bus into town, saving on downtown parking hassles.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quiet shopping experience
Crowd
Low
When
Winter days
Why
Cozy indoor escape
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Is it cool to park at UMall or Shelburne Road and just walk/bus into town?

🚗 Park & Explore Town

Redditors suggest parking here to easily access Burlington town by foot or bus. :car:

🧼 Mall Cleanliness

Staff diligently keep the mall clean and safe, making for a pleasant visit. :sparkles:

🧓 Nostalgic Charm

Embrace the 'Boomer life' vibe; it's a comfortable, if dated, shopping spot. :heart:

🧸 Free Kids' Zone

A great perk for families, offering a dedicated space for children to play. :child:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park & Explore Town

Redditors suggest parking here to easily access Burlington town by foot or bus. :car:

🧼 Mall Cleanliness

Staff diligently keep the mall clean and safe, making for a pleasant visit. :sparkles:

🧓 Nostalgic Charm

Embrace the 'Boomer life' vibe; it's a comfortable, if dated, shopping spot. :heart:

🧸 Free Kids' Zone

A great perk for families, offering a dedicated space for children to play. :child:

🪑 Rest Stops Available

Plenty of seating areas throughout the mall for when you need a break. :chair:

What Travellers Say

3.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

University Mall is appreciated for its clean, safe, and comfortable atmosphere, offering a nostalgic shopping experience. Visitors enjoy the convenience of familiar stores like Kohl's and JCPenney, a free children's play area, and ample parking. However, some find the mall dated with limited food court options and a quiet ambiance, especially during off-peak hours.

"Dated... however nostalgic. It serves it propose. However, will be interested if it will survive another 10 years. Great for walking in the winter time. Feels safe and is clean. We appreciate the old Mall. Boomer life."

William Martin

"This is a nice little mall, that has variety of stores including Kohl’s and JC Penney. We found the only bubble tea store in this city in this mall. There’s also some popular stores like H&M, American Eagle, Bath & Body Works, Victoria’s Secret, Zales, Kays and Verizon. Prices are fair, alongside sales promotions in a lot of these stores.

The staff did a nice job of keeping the mall clean and safe. They got a food court, that sadly has only 2 stores. There’s a free children’s play area. Throughout the mall there’s also spots for guests to sit and rest. The parking lot is pretty big, lots of spots available."

Nehal Ahmed

"Love coming up to the University Mall with my son. When we're able to since we love in Rutland County. Wish there were free wheelchairs available cause I got hurt at work and had a very hard time walking around the whole mall. We checked out Target, Vermont Gaming Academy, & the phone case store cause my case has been broke for a while. All the folks were very polite. Thanks for everything."

Pawz Brown

What People Like

Clean and safe environment
Nostalgic atmosphere
Free children's play area

What People Dislike

Dated appearance
Limited food court
Quiet ambiance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

University Mall is located in South Burlington, Vermont. It's easily accessible by car, with a large parking lot. For those using public transport, the mall is served by local bus routes, making it a convenient destination without a car. Some visitors even use it as a parking hub to access downtown Burlington.

Yes, University Mall boasts a pretty big parking lot with plenty of spots available, making it easy to find a space even during busier times. :car:

Absolutely! Reddit users often suggest parking at University Mall or along Shelburne Road as a strategic move to then walk or take a bus into downtown Burlington, avoiding downtown parking fees and hassle. :bus:

University Mall is situated near major routes like I-89 and US-2, making it accessible from various directions. The mall is a prominent landmark in the South Burlington area. :road:

Many find it a practical choice. Parking here and then using public transport or walking into Burlington can be a cost-effective and less stressful way to reach downtown events. :ticket:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, University Mall does not have an admission fee. Entry to the mall and browsing its stores is free. :moneywithwings:

University Mall generally follows standard mall hours, typically open daily. However, specific store hours may vary. It's always a good idea to check the mall's official website or individual store listings for the most up-to-date information, especially around holidays. :clock10:

While not as bustling as larger malls, University Mall does host occasional sales and promotions within its stores. Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts, especially from anchor stores like Kohl's and JCPenney. :gift:

The mall is generally accessible, with wide walkways and elevators. However, some visitors have noted a lack of free wheelchairs, so if mobility is a concern, it might be worth inquiring about rental options in advance. :wheelchair:

Typically, only service animals are permitted inside most shopping malls, including University Mall. It's best to leave pets at home to ensure compliance with mall policies. :dog:

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stores

University Mall features anchor stores like Kohl's and JCPenney, alongside popular retailers such as H&M, American Eagle, Bath & Body Works, Victoria's Secret, Zales, and Verizon. There are also specialty shops and a food court. :shopping_bags:

Yes, you can find well-known clothing brands like H&M and American Eagle at University Mall. JCPenney and Kohl's also offer a wide selection of apparel for all ages. :shirt:

The food court at University Mall is quite limited, with only a couple of vendors typically open. Visitors have noted it's a good spot for a quick bite, and it's where you can find the mall's only bubble tea store. :ice_cream:

Yes, you can find stores like Verizon for mobile services and accessories. Other specialty shops might also carry electronics or phone-related items. :iphone:

University Mall has well-known jewelry retailers such as Zales and Kay Jewelers, offering a selection of fine jewelry for various occasions. :ring:

🎫 👨‍👩‍👧 Family & Fun

Yes, University Mall is family-friendly! It features a free children's play area where kids can have fun. The mall's layout is also easy to navigate with strollers. :stroller:

The main attraction for kids is the dedicated, free children's play area. It provides a safe and engaging space for them to play while parents can relax nearby. :child:

Certainly. Throughout the mall, there are designated spots for guests to sit and rest, which is very convenient, especially for families or those who need a break from walking. :bench:

Visitors consistently mention that the mall staff does a nice job of keeping the mall clean and safe, making it a comfortable place to walk around. :shield:

While it's a standard retail mall, you can find a variety of items from clothing to accessories and jewelry that could serve as gifts. Stores like Bath & Body Works and specialty shops offer giftable items. :gift_heart:

📸 📸 Photography

University Mall offers a nostalgic, retro aesthetic that can be interesting for photography, especially if you appreciate older mall architecture. The clean interiors and varied storefronts provide diverse backdrops. :camera:

Look for the clean, well-lit corridors, the food court area (even with limited vendors), and the storefronts of popular brands. The children's play area can also offer colorful, playful shots. :frame_photo:

Generally, taking photos of products within individual stores is at the discretion of the store management. It's always polite to ask permission before taking detailed product shots for commercial or extensive personal use. :memo:

As an older mall, University Mall might have some classic mall design elements. Focus on the overall layout, the lighting, and the signage for a retro feel. :building_construction:

Selfies are generally fine in common areas of the mall. Just be mindful of other shoppers and avoid blocking walkways or entrances. :iphone:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

University Mall is a great spot for families looking for a relaxed outing. The free children's play area is a major highlight, offering a safe and fun space for kids to burn off energy. The mall is generally clean and easy to navigate with strollers, and the availability of seating throughout provides convenient spots for parents to rest. :child:

While the food court options are limited, the presence of the city's only bubble tea store can be a fun treat. Anchor stores like Kohl's and JCPenney offer a good range of clothing and essentials for children. The overall atmosphere is laid-back, making it less overwhelming than larger, busier malls. :stroller:

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, University Mall offers several advantages. Firstly, entry and parking are free, which immediately cuts down on expenses. Many of the stores, including anchor tenants like JCPenney and Kohl's, frequently have sales and promotions, allowing for affordable shopping. :money_bag:

Furthermore, as highlighted by Reddit users, parking at University Mall can be a cost-saving strategy for exploring Burlington itself. By parking here and utilizing public transport or walking into the city, you can avoid downtown parking fees. The mall provides a comfortable, climate-controlled environment for browsing without the pressure to spend, making it a good option for a low-cost activity. :ticket:

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers to Burlington

If you're visiting Burlington for the day, University Mall can be a convenient stop or a strategic parking location. Its ample free parking is a significant draw, especially if you plan to explore the city center. Redditors often recommend parking here and then walking or taking a bus into downtown Burlington to save on parking costs and hassle. :bus:

While the mall itself might not be a primary tourist destination, it offers a comfortable place to grab a quick bite, do some essential shopping, or simply escape the weather for a bit. The presence of familiar stores and a relaxed atmosphere make it an easy and accessible part of a day trip. :camera:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The University Mall Experience: Nostalgia Meets Modern Retail

University Mall offers a comfortable, laid-back retail experience, often described as nostalgic by visitors. While it may not boast the sheer scale of newer, sprawling complexes, it provides a solid selection of over 60 stores, including popular anchors like Kohl's and JCPenney. This makes it a practical spot for everyday shopping needs, from clothing and accessories to home goods. The mall's clean and safe environment, maintained by diligent staff, contributes to a pleasant atmosphere for shoppers. :shopping_bags:

Beyond the retail offerings, University Mall caters to families with a free children's play area, a thoughtful amenity that enhances its appeal for those with young kids. Ample seating throughout the mall ensures visitors can rest comfortably during their visit. While the food court is noted for its limited options, it does house the city's only bubble tea store, a unique draw for many. The mall's spacious parking lot further adds to its convenience. :child:

For those looking to explore Burlington without the hassle of downtown parking, University Mall serves as a strategic starting point. As Redditors suggest, parking here and then walking or taking a bus into the city center is a common and effective strategy. This blend of practical shopping, family-friendly features, and its role as a gateway to the wider Burlington area solidifies University Mall's place as a functional and appreciated local hub. :car:

Navigating Parking and Town Access

For visitors aiming to explore Burlington, University Mall presents a practical solution for parking. Reddit discussions highlight that parking at the mall or along nearby Shelburne Road is a common tactic for those who wish to then walk or take a bus into the city. This approach is often favored to avoid the potentially higher costs and difficulties associated with parking directly in downtown Burlington. :bus:

This strategy is particularly useful for day-trippers or shoppers who plan to spend significant time in the city center. By utilizing the mall's ample parking, visitors can enjoy a more relaxed transition into Burlington's urban environment. The convenience extends to those who might be working in the area, with some Redditors mentioning using this parking strategy for full work shifts. :car:

While University Mall itself offers a comfortable shopping environment, its strategic location and accessible parking make it a valuable resource for accessing the broader attractions of Burlington. It's a testament to how local knowledge, shared online, can significantly enhance a visitor's experience by offering smart, cost-effective solutions. :light_bulb:

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