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Montpelier

Montpelier, Vermont, United States

Montpelier, the charming capital city of Vermont, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of New England. With a population of just over 7,500 residents, Montpelier exudes a quaint and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a p…

#Capital city#Historic architecture#New England#Outdoor activities#Local food

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Montpelier.

Top Hotels in Montpelier

Top Flights to Montpelier

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Montpelier.

Tours

State House Tour

Guided tour of the Vermont State House, a historical and architectural landmark.

Shopping

Capitol Plaza Hotel Shopping

A selection of unique shops located in the Capitol Plaza Hotel.

Montpelier Farmers Market

Experience local produce and artisanal products at the Montpelier Farmers Market.

Outdoor

Hubbard Park Hiking

Enjoy hiking trails with scenic views of Montpelier from Hubbard Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Montpelier.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

As of the most recent estimates, Montpelier, Vermont, has an approximate population of 7,500.

Languages

French, French, Occitan

Average weather

Montpelier

Jan

-3°-13°

Feb

-1°-12°

Mar

3°-8°

Apr

11°-2°

May

18°4°

Jun

23°10°

Jul

26°13°

Aug

25°12°

Sep

20°8°

Oct

13°2°

Nov

6°-4°

Dec

-1°-10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Montpelier.

What people love

Montpelier, Vermont, the capital city of the United States, offers a unique and charming travel experience. Here are some pros of traveling to Montpelier:

Historic Charm: Montpelier is known for its historic architecture, including the Vermont State House, which is one of the oldest and best-preserved state capitol buildings in the country.
Nature and Outdoor Activities: The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including parks, trails, and the Winooski River, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
Local Food and Drink: Montpelier has a vibrant food scene with farm-to-table restaurants, cafes, and breweries showcasing the best of Vermont's local produce and culinary traditions.
Cultural Attractions: Visitors can explore art galleries, museums, and cultural events in Montpelier, including the T.W. Wood Gallery and the Vermont Historical Society Museum.
Small-Town Atmosphere: Montpelier has a laid-back and friendly small-town atmosphere, making it a relaxing destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Overall, traveling to Montpelier, Vermont, offers a mix of history, nature, culture, and local charm, making it a great destination for a peaceful and enriching getaway.

What to know

Montpelier, Vermont is a charming and picturesque city, but there are a few cons to consider when traveling there:

Limited public transportation: Montpelier is a small city and does not have an extensive public transportation system. This can make it challenging to get around if you do not have your own vehicle.
Limited dining options: While Montpelier does have some great restaurants, the options can be limited compared to larger cities. You may find fewer choices when it comes to dining out.
Weather: Vermont experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall, which can make travel difficult and limit outdoor activities during certain times of the year. If you are not accustomed to cold weather, this could be a drawback.
Limited nightlife: Montpelier is a relatively small city with a quieter nightlife scene compared to larger cities. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife with lots of entertainment options, you may find Montpelier lacking in this regard.
Limited shopping options: Montpelier is not known for its shopping scene, so if you are looking for a variety of stores and shopping opportunities, you may find the options limited in this city.

Overall, while Montpelier is a lovely destination with its own unique charm, these factors should be taken into consideration when planning a trip there.

Montpelier, Vermont, is the smallest state capital in the United States by population, known for its rich history and charming New England character. Here's a detailed history of Montpelier:

Early History and Founding

Charter and Settlement: Montpelier was chartered in 1781 and was named after Montpellier, a city in southern France, in honor of French aid during the American Revolution. The first permanent settlement was established in 1787 by Colonel Jacob Davis and General Parley Davis.
Incorporation: Montpelier was incorporated as a town in 1791, the same year Vermont was admitted to the Union as the 14th state.

Becoming the State Capital

Capital Designation: In 1805, Montpelier was selected as the state capital of Vermont due to its central location. The decision was influenced by the town's commitment to provide land for the statehouse and its proximity to other settlements.
Early Development: Following its designation as the capital, Montpelier experienced growth as government buildings and infrastructure were developed.

19th Century Growth

Vermont State House: The first statehouse was built in 1808, but it was replaced in 1836 by a new Greek Revival structure designed by Ammi B. Young. This building was replaced after a fire in 1857 by the current Vermont State House completed in 1859, which remains a significant landmark.
Railroad Era: The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century spurred economic development, facilitating trade and travel.

20th Century Developments

Flood of 1927: One of the most significant events in Montpelier's history was the Great Flood of 1927, which caused widespread damage throughout Vermont and led to major improvements in flood control and infrastructure.
Modernization: Over the 20th century, Montpelier continued to modernize while maintaining its historic charm. Its economy diversified, with government, insurance, and tourism becoming major sectors.

Important Landmarks and Figures

Vermont State House: The most iconic building in Montpelier, it is known for its gold leaf dome and rich history. It houses the Vermont General Assembly and is open to the public for tours.
Ethan Allen: Although not a resident, Ethan Allen is a key historical figure for Vermont. The Green Mountain Boys, led by Allen, played a crucial role in Vermont's early history.
Hubbard Park: A large public park offering trails and scenic views of the city, featuring the Hubbard Park Tower for panoramic vistas.
Kellogg-Hubbard Library: Established in 1894, it is one of the oldest and largest libraries in Vermont, serving as a cultural and educational hub for the community.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Preservation Efforts: Montpelier is noted for its well-preserved historic buildings and commitment to heritage conservation.
Montpelier Historic District: Much of the city is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting its architectural and historical significance.

Today, Montpelier is known for its vibrant cultural scene, commitment to sustainability, and active civic life, making it a unique and cherished capital city in the United States.