Historical City Center of Montpelier

A very special atmosphere

Montpelier is one of the largest cities with a historical city center in the whole of Vermont. It has a special flair with all its old red-brick stone buildings. It doesn't really matter if you are rather up to a little stroll through the city center or desire to take a glance at the buildings from inside, Montpelier will make you enjoy your stay in any aspect.

The jewel of the city

The so-called State House is the centerpiece of the city, which has been restored several times and is kept well-preserved and taken care of by its inhabitants. It was built in 1859 and can be seen from afar due to its golden dome and white facade. During the construction period, the renaissance style was blooming, which is reflected in this building and its ornaments. The front arcade is the only part of the house that was built during the 1830s. With its statue of Ethan Allen the style of architecture is rather reminiscent of the heroic construction style of ancient Greek.    

Colorful districts with a special charm

Only a few streets away one finds the business quarter of Montpelier. There is a bunch of tiny book and record shops, which are all quite independent and no subsidiaries of big chains. This is what makes the area so charming. You will warmly be welcomed to the shops and is allowed to delve into the world of literature and music. If you get hungry, there are plenty of cafes and bakeries in the neighborhood, offering delights to sweeten your afternoon.

Art wherever you look

Montpelier has many a times been awarded to be one of the smallest towns with the largest offers on art. In this regard, the city's theater must not be forgotten. In the huge assembly hall of the city hall, the Lost Nation Theater plays a huge role offering a wide range from classic to modern performances in its six months lasting season. In the Savoy Theater, at regular intervals, there are unique independent films shown as well as  Hollywood blockbusters. In addition, a huge film festival takes place here every year in March.

Historical multitude newly discovered

Apart from the cultural highlights, one will of course have the chance to learn more about its history and contemporary eye witnesses in numerous museums. In the historical city center, there are institutions that deal with the development of the Vermont's society. Here a refined picture of Vermont, its inhabitants and territory is portrayed. The art center presents artworks topically emphasizing on the civil war. Both domestic and international artists were given the chance to exhibit their impressions and artful interpretation of that time.

An excursion into the colorful heart of Vermont

The historical city center of Montpelier is not only optically impressive, but it has also a lot to offer culturally. It's up to you what you make of your time here, but make sure you'll have plenty of it. The city might seem tiny at first sight. This impression, though, does not reflect what is has to offer, especially taking your time when strolling around the charming buildings and streets.

By car

Coming from Burlington 

The Interstate 89 connects Burlington with Montpelier. One easily gets here taking Interstate 89.

Coming from New York

Traveling here from New York, first take Interstate 95, exit at 27A and carry on in the direction of Trumbull/ Waterbury. Change to Route 8 for a while before changing to Route 15 and then changing to Interstate 91. Entering Vermont, one needs to change to Interstate 89 leading straight to Montpelier.

By public transport

You may take bus line 86, operating at regular intervals. From Burlington it takes an hour to get to Montpelier.