Things To Do
in Montpelier
Montpelier is the capital city of Vermont, United States. It is known for its charming small-town feel and historic architecture. The Vermont State House, a stunning neoclassical building, is a prominent landmark in Montpelier.
The city offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing in the nearby Green Mountains.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the Green Mountain National Forest. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the changing leaves.
Grab lunch at a local café in Montpelier. Spend your afternoon visiting the Vermont State House and taking a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.
Finish your day with dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere and locally-sourced dishes.
Take a scenic drive along Route 100 to marvel at the fall foliage. Stop at lookout points for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Return to Montpelier and visit the local bookstores. Enjoy an afternoon of browsing through unique shops and perhaps pick up a new read.
Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local craft brewery. Sample some Vermont beers and unwind with friends or family.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Small-town charm with a strong sense of community.
- Rich history and numerous historical sites, including the Vermont State House.
- Access to beautiful outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing.
- Generally low crime rates, contributing to a feeling of safety.
- Vibrant local arts scene and cultural events throughout the year.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other areas in Vermont.
- Harsh winter weather, which may not be suitable for everyone.
- Reduced access to larger amenities and services typically found in bigger cities.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Montpelier
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails around Montpelier, including those in Hubbard Park and the nearby Green Mountain National Forest.
Enjoy scenic bike rides on local roads or designated trails, with options for both road biking and mountain biking.
Experience the Winooski River through kayaking or canoeing, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the natural landscape.
Visit local parks like Montpelier's Hubbard Park or the waterfront to enjoy outdoor picnicking with family and friends.
Try your luck fishing in local rivers and ponds, with a variety of species available in the area.
Take some time to observe the diverse bird species found in the natural habitats around Montpelier.
When winter comes, nearby ski areas provide opportunities for skiing and snowboarding as well as cross-country skiing.
Join guided nature walks to learn more about the local flora and fauna while enjoying the fresh air.
Places to Visit in Montpelier
Visit one of these nice places.
This historic building offers stunning architecture and a beautiful golden dome, providing an excellent backdrop for photos.
Just outside of Montpelier, this serene lake offers picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A sprawling park with walking trails and lookout points that provide panoramic views of Montpelier and the surrounding hills.
A great spot for nature photography, featuring trails along the North Branch of the Winooski River and diverse flora and fauna.
Located by the Winooski River, this park offers beautiful river views and historic charm, perfect for outdoor photography.
A lovely park that provides a great view of the Vermont State House and is ideal for capturing vibrant seasonal changes.
Although not in the city, a short drive to Vermont's highest peak offers breathtaking mountain scenery and photo opportunities.
Charming streets filled with historic buildings, shops, and cafes provide countless opportunities for candid street photography.
Food in Montpelier
Montpelier Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local treat, Maple Creemees are soft-serve ice cream made with real Vermont maple syrup. The Sugar Shack and Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks are popular spots to indulge in this iconic dessert.
Must-Try!
Vermont is renowned for its cheddar cheese, and sampling a cheese plate with local variations is a delightful way to savor the regional flavors. Check out the Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company for a delectable selection.
Freshly made with local apple cider and a dusting of cinnamon sugar, these delectable donuts are a beloved Vermont tradition. Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill for a taste of this seasonal delight.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open every Saturday, the Montpelier Farmers Market is a mecca for farm-fresh produce, artisanal products, and delectable street food offerings. It's a great place to mingle with locals and discover the best of Vermont's culinary offerings.
During select evenings, the Savoy Theater hosts food truck gatherings where you can relish an array of street food delights from local vendors. It's an excellent opportunity to sample diverse cuisines in a vibrant, communal setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Montpelier, it is common to greet with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. A warm smile goes a long way in making a positive first impression.
Residents of Montpelier value their personal space and privacy. It’s important to be mindful of this and avoid overly intrusive questions, especially in initial conversations.
Montpelier has a strong sense of community and supports local initiatives. Participating in local events or supporting local businesses is seen as a sign of respect and engagement with the community.
Safety
Tipping in Montpelier
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Montpelier, like in many parts of the United States, is generally considered customary in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and salons. The standard tip is usually 15-20% of the total bill before taxes, although this can vary based on the level of service provided. In some cases, such as to-go orders or casual dining, tipping may be less common or at a lower percentage.
Payment practices in Montpelier are consistent with those found throughout the United States. Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are also increasingly common. Cash is accepted in many places, but it is less frequently used due to the rise of electronic payments. In larger establishments, digital payment options such as mobile wallets might be offered for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Montpelier when the flowers bloom and temperatures gradually rise. Expect mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 70°F (21°C). This season is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the city parks.
Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures, ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 80°F (27°C). This is the peak tourist season, with numerous outdoor events, festivals, and activities. Expect a vibrant atmosphere but also higher accommodation rates and crowded attractions.
Fall (September to November) is known for its stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. Temperatures range from 40°F (4°C) to 70°F (21°C). This season is perfect for scenic drives and enjoying local harvest festivals. The weather is typically crisp and pleasant.
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures averaging from 10°F (-12°C) to 30°F (-1°C). Expect snow and opportunities for winter sports. The holiday season also brings festive activities, making it a magical time to visit, but be prepared for chilly weather.
Montpelier at Night
Hiking in Montpelier
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene woodland trail located just a few miles from Montpelier, ideal for a peaceful hike among nature.
Offers walking trails through diverse habitats and educational programs about local ecology.
Located a bit further out, this park offers challenging hikes with stunning panoramic views from the top.
Features a network of trails with opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the scenic views of the river.
Provides a variety of trails along the Winooski River, suitable for hiking and birdwatching.
Aiports
How to reach Montpelier by plane.
Located approximately 35 miles away in Burlington, Vermont, this is the largest airport in the region, offering numerous domestic flights and some international services.
Approximately 95 miles from Montpelier, this airport serves as a major hub for southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts, with various domestic and international flights.
Around 120 miles away in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, this large airport serves the Hartford area and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Located about 130 miles from Montpelier, this airport serves Albany, New York, and offers many domestic and some international services.
Approximately 180 miles away in Boston, Massachusetts, this is one of the largest and busiest airports in the region, providing extensive domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant racial group in Montpelier, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A smaller demographic group in Montpelier, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
An emerging demographic group in Montpelier, representing a variety of cultural backgrounds.
A minority demographic in Montpelier, including individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting the increasing diversity.
A small demographic group in Montpelier, representing indigenous heritage.
Includes individuals who do not fit into standard racial categories, contributing to the city's diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Montpelier, attracting many fans and participants at the high school level and beyond.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community leagues, with a strong following during the winter season.
Soccer has gained popularity in Montpelier, with youth leagues and community events promoting the sport.
Given Vermont's cold winters, ice hockey is a favored sport, with local rinks hosting games and practices for all ages.
Track and field events are common in high schools, with many students participating in various disciplines.
Lacrosse is becoming increasingly popular in Montpelier, especially among youth and high school athletes.
Volleyball is played in schools and during community events, often attracting a dedicated following.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montpelier.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Montpelier's food scene is accommodating to vegetarian and vegan preferences, with many establishments offering innovative plant-based dishes. Kismet and Skinny Pancake are known for their diverse vegetarian and vegan menu offerings.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find several eateries that cater to their dietary needs. For gluten-free options, the New Moon Cafe and Sarducci's are highly recommended for their thoughtful and delicious gluten-free selections.