The capital city of Vermont, Montpelier offers a number of attractions. Montpelier is considered one of the best places to live in Vermont, with its many parks, restaurants and coffee shops. Art and culture thrive here at the Vermont State House, with its gold dome and art collections. Vermont History Museum features multimedia exhibits relating to the history of the state, while plays and musicals can be enjoyed at the Lost Nation Theater. One fascinating side of the city is that there are no McDonald’s or Burger King outlets here. While this was believed to be an urban legend, it is fact, as the city prefers to keep its food local. Scroll below to learn more about the best things to do in Montpelier, Vermont.
1. Tour the gardens at Vermont State House
Vermont State House is one of the oldest of the nation’s state capitols. It is also the best-preserved. Here visitors can gaze at the original interiors. The main highlights include the Governor’s Office, the Hall of Inscriptions, and the Cedar Creek Reception Room. Throughout, magnificent art hangs on the walls. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours and a brochure and detailed map can be found in the Main Lobby. An audio tour wand is provided, or visitors can listen to the tour details on their cell phones. Free guided tours are also available between June and October that last for around half an hour per tour.
Vermont State House
Address: 115 State St, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: Vermont State House
Opening hours: Nov - Jun: Mon - Fri: 8am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun); Jul - Oct: Sat: 11am - 3pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
2. Browse the artwork at T.W. Wood Gallery & Arts Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Thomas Waterman Wood was born in Montpelier and was an artist who led the National Academy and the American Watercolor Society. Much of his work can be viewed in the T.W. Wood Gallery, which was named for him, including sketches, diaries, prints, and paintings. The gallery aims to preserve the artistic heritage of Montpelier and American art in general and many exhibitions are held here. Art classes are also available in the gallery. While entry to T.W. Wood Gallery and Arts Center is free, donations are welcome.
T.W. Wood Gallery & Arts Center
Address: 46 Barre St, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: T.W. Wood Gallery & Arts Center
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Sun)
3. Fresh air fun and relaxation at Hubbard Park
Hubbard Park has two pavilions for use by visitors. The Old Shelter Pavilion is at the top of a grassy hill, offering lovely views. Picnic tables, grills, and a water fountain are available here, as well as a composting toilet. The New Shelter Pavilion is a family and handicap-friendly pavilion, with grass, picnic tables, a water fountain, and a grill. The park’s Seven Fireplaces are located in the middle of the forest. These are perfect for campfires. Fitness trails are also available throughout the park. Pictured here is the Tower, that was built in 1915. It stands at the highest point in the park and offers panoramic views over Montpelier.
Hubbard Park
Address: 400 Parkway St, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: Hubbard Park
Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)
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4. Retail therapy at Capital City Farmers Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Capital City Farmers’ Market offers three markets featuring the fresh produce of more than 60 local farmers and producers. This produce includes fish and meat, fresh vegetables, and a variety of fruit, as well as cheeses, plants, maple syrup, honey, and wool. A selection of artisan crafts is also available at the market, which is held every Saturday throughout the year. Indoor markets are held in the winter months.
Capital City Farmers Market
Address: 60 State St, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: Capital City Farmers Market
Opening hours: Sat: 9am - 1pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
5. A cultural evening at Lost Nation Theater
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Lost Nation Theater on Friday, August 27, 2021
Lost Nation Theater is a performing arts venue offering more than 125 performances each year, including poetry, stage plays, and musicals. Five Mainstage Shows are held each year. Special performances are available for the children. Special events include the Edgar Allan Poe Spooktacular Halloween event. The theater also hosts a professional theater training program and youth theater and runs special workshops for schools.
Lost Nation Theater
Address: 39 Main St, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: Lost Nation Theater
6. Sample the wines at North Branch Vineyards
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
North Branch Vineyards is a small family-owned and operated winery nestled on the North Branch River in Montpelier’s picturesque valley. The winery produces unique wines using locally and regionally grown grapes. Visitors can sample the wines in the Tasting Rooms and purchase bottles to take home. Among their wines, is the 2012 Frontenac Gris, dry white wine with white peach aromas and enticing hints. Another popular wine is the 2011 Seyval Blanc, semi-dry white wine with a crisp green apple and citrus aroma.
North Branch Vineyards
Address: 82 Trillium Hill Rd, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: North Branch Vineyards
Opening hours: Apr - Dec: Thu - Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
7. Learn about the state at Vermont Historical Society Museum
Vermont’s history community is made up of over 190 historical societies, museums, and cultural organizations. VHS is committed to recognizing and supporting local history efforts; understanding that local societies are an integral part of sharing and preserving Vermont’s story. The center runs a variety of history programs and services, where locals and visitors can learn more about the history of Montpelier and the State.
Vermont Historical Society Museum
Address: 109 State St, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: Vermont Historical Society Museum
Opening hours: Vermont History Museum Exhibits & Store: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm; Vermont History Center, Leahy Library & Galleries: Tue - Fri: 9am - 4pm; 2nd Sat: 9am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
8. Explore the Montpelier Historic District
Dating back to the 19th century, the Montpelier Historic District features 450 buildings in 19th-century architectural styles. The Vermont State House is the main focus of the district. However, other significant buildings include the State Street Federal-style residences, the Pavilion Building, the Italian Renaissance Revival Kellogg Hubbard Library. The 1820’s Federal-style Vogue Shop was damaged by fire but was successfully restored. Basically, this area of town is a true reflection of the major architectural styles of the 19th century.
Montpelier Historic District
Address: 7-31 Court St, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: Montpelier Historic District
9. Experience beauty at North Branch Nature Center
North Branch Nature Center is set on 28 acres (11.3 hectares) of fields and forest nestled on the North Branch of the Winooski River, 2 mi (3.2 km) from the center of town. The park is run by a group of naturalistic and offers the chance of bird and insect watching, swimming in summer, and skiing in the winter months. It is also the perfect place to relax beside the river in the fresh air while appreciating the wonders of nature.
North Branch Nature Center
Address: 713 Elm St, Montpelier, Vermont, USA
Website: North Branch Nature Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm (closed Sat & Sun); Nature trails: 24 hours (daily)
10. Have a sweet time at Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks on Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks offers free sugar house tours and tasting. Multimedia displays can be viewed in the woodshed theater, while a country store sells the farm’s produce, including maple syrup, kettle corn, and candy. A variety of gift items are also on sale. Visitors can enjoy an outdoor Vermont farm life museum, with whimsical carved folklife characters, or explore nature trails through the farm.
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
Address: 1168 County Rd, Montpelier, VT
Website: Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Explore the beautiful and historic Montpelier, Vermont
Whether exploring the city’s historic districts, browsing the art galleries and museums, heading out to the farms and vineyards, dining on local cuisine, or enjoying an evening of culture, there is much to see and do in the capital of the state of Vermont. Here we list the best things to do in the city.
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