A visit to America's smallest State Capital
Montpelier, Vermont
If you can see a golden dome when you exit interstate I-89, then you have found it, the smallest capital city in America. Surrounded by green mountains, farmlands and granite quarries, Montpelier was declared Vermont's State capital in 1805. Montpelier is a small city that is run by local businesses and residents. Even though tourism generates most of the income in this small state, Montpelier residents thrive on their small communities and local produce. The city is so determined about their locality that they kept the McDonalds restaurant chain out.
Montpelier is a rare state capital. When you walk into the capital building, which is topped by the golden dome, you can go through the main door and walk out on the other side, stepping onto a trail that leads to Hubbard Park. Hubbard Park is one of the oldest State owned parks in Vermont. It harbors a great diversity of plant and tree life. There is a mixture of unique red oak, beech trees, red and white pine, and old hemlock growth. Hubbard Park has 185 acres with about 7 miles of hiking and skiing trails, numerous picnic areas, a soccer and ball field, a small pond, a sledding hill, and a 54 foot observation tower that was built from stones derived from old local walls.
Hubbard Park in Montpelier, VT.
For a larger view, click here.
There are many different ways you can experience Montpelier. Onion River Sports on Langdon Street rents bikes and roller blades by the hour, day or week. During the winter season they rent skis and snowshoes. The store can also outfit any of your sporting needs. Across from them, Mountain Café serves organic health food and fresh smoothies. Those who prefer a stout can celebrate at McGillicuddy's Irish Pub. Charlie-O's, a bar on Main Street, gives a different musical fare to its customers. The bar has changed through the years, but the building has been a "drinking hole" since 1880. "It is considered as home to many Montpelier people as their own living room is to them," says the present owner.
The New England Culinary Institute Restaurant on Main Street gives a fresh and lively outlook to Montpelier. It features two restaurants and a café. A Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Shop sits across the street. Not only does it serve fresh Vermont made ice cream, but also has a "Free Cone Day" once a year in May in celebration of the owner's birthday. In downtown Montpelier you will find unique shopping, quaint clothing stores, and a couple of bookshops that thrive on their diverse clientele and assortment of literature.
On State Street, which runs adjacent to Main Street, you will find a number of small stores and restaurants. When you start walking up the street, you will notice that you are walking towards the Capital building. You an grab fresh Sushi and fruit smoothies from State Street Market, and relax on the green lawn in front of the Capital building. Alternate dining includes Nini's Wrap Works and Julio's, a Mexican restaurant featuring two dollar margarita nights on Wednesday. For a more elegant dining experience there is J.P. Morgans Steak House. Sarducci's Italian Restaurant is another local favorite.
There are several excellent lodging options, including some very nice Bed and Breakfast Inns to stay at while visiting this charming city. The Inn at Montpelier is located on Main Street, and Betsy's Bed and Breakfast is on East State Street. The Capitol Plaza Hotel provides all the services of a large hotel and is located on State Street. The Maplecroft Bed and Breakfast in nearby Barre (802) 476-8313 provides comfortable and economical lodging. Montpelier is also short drive from Stowe, Vermont which offers dozens of additional accommodation options.
Montpelier hosts many colorful events. For more information about upcoming Montpelier events, please check our events section. For additional information about Montpelier visit our Montpelier town page.
If you can see a golden dome when you exit interstate I-89, then you have found it, the smallest capital city in America. Surrounded by green mountains, farmlands and granite quarries, Montpelier was declared Vermont's State capital in 1805. Montpelier is a small city that is run by local businesses and residents. Even though tourism generates most of the income in this small state, Montpelier residents thrive on their small communities and local produce. The city is so determined about their locality that they kept the McDonalds restaurant chain out.
