• Matthew Thorsen
• Three Needs Brewery & Taproom

Three Needs Brewery & Taproom

185 Pearl St. Burlington, facebook.com/threeneeds

The Needs is a cut (or two) above most college bars. It's got great beer, lively pool tables and an enormous outdoor patio. Swing by at 4 p.m. on weekdays for Duff Hour: a double dose of "The Simpsons" and dollar drafts. Pro tip: The pizza is way better than you'd think.

Akes' Place

134 Church St., Burlington, 864-8111

This classic college-town bar — with pool, darts and sports — was your older brother's favorite when he was in school here. It might become yours, too.

Finnigan's Pub

205 College St., Burlington, finnigansvt.com

An upscale beer list, live music and DJs make this longtime BTV staple a solid weekend destination. Philadelphia Eagles fans flock here Sundays during football season.

Manhattan Pizza & Pub

167 Main St., Burlington, manhattanpizzaandpubvt.com

A usually low-key college hang, this corner joint is noted for a killer beer selection, good pub grub and local bands on the weekends.

McKee's Pub & Grill

19 E. Allen St., Winooski, mckeespubsvt.com

Grab a beer and sit outside to watch drivers royally misunderstand Winooski's traffic circle at this Saint Michael's College haunt. The weekly drink specials are crucial.

Rasputin's Bar

163 Church St., Burlington, facebook.com/rasputinsvt

DJs play this popular college hangout three nights a week. Pool and TVs entertain anyone who doesn't feel like dancing. 21+ on the weekend.

Ruben James

159 Main St., Burlington, rjsburlington.com

• Matthew Thorsen
• Ruben James

Lively sports bar by day, sweaty dance club by night, RJ's is especially popular on Sundays during NFL season. You'll find any game you want on one of several TVs. Try the food — there are 40-cent wings every day of the week. You'll be surprised. In a good way.