Montpelier, Vermont is a town that has famously and proudly supported local businesses.
In fact, it's the only state capital in the US without a McDonald's.
Based on its population size, it's the smallest capital city in the nation.
But don't let its small size deter you.
Montpelier is one of the most happening cities in the state of Vermont!
Independently-owned shops, restaurants, and galleries line the town's main street and
there is a certain distinct buzzing in the air as residents, their dogs, visitors, and
workers bustle about on the city streets in this distinctly quaint and endearingly peculiar
Vermont city.
Montpelier is a wonderful place to explore on foot or by bicycle.
As you stroll or roll around the city, you'll find a scene that is bursting with alluring
culture, excellent food, pleasing art, and rich diversity.
We recommend parking your car and experiencing everything that awaits you in Montpelier the
old-fashioned way.
And if you have a four-legged companion, you'll be pleased to discover that Montpelier is
one of the most dog-friendly towns in the country.
Join Viewcation as we take a closer look at this often-overlooked town and see what makes
it such a worthy vacation destination.
Take A Hike Along The Camel's Hump Trail
If you're in the mood to stretch your legs a bit and see a bit of Montpelier's natural
beauty, consider taking a hike out to the Camel's Hump.
To get a better idea of this path's size, the trail sprawls on for several miles while
passing through the heart of downtown on your way out to Duxbury.
These two towns are approximately 12 miles apart, so obviously, there is plenty to see!
But don't let its length hold you back from making a day out of strolling, hiking, or
jogging down this fantastic trail.
Along your journey, you will be treated to phenomenal views of the Camel's Hump.
During the winter months, you can cross-country ski along the snow-covered trails as well.
Visit The State Capital Building
If you only visit one of these featured destinations, the Vermont State House is certainly one of
the best.
Nestled in a patch of gorgeous trees and featuring a stately golden dome, this is one of the
top architectural attractions to visit in the entire state of Vermont.
The State House was built in the mid-1800s and is an architectural wonder.
Guided tours are available during the spring, summer, and early fall allowing you to get
an up-close look at its interior.
School field trips often can be seen touring the facility, but it's a perfect place for
guests of all ages to appreciate as well.
Go For A Stroll Around Hubbard Park
This enormous green space located in Montpelier covers nearly 200-acres and was first opened
for the public's enjoyment back in 1899.
It's pretty close to the State House, so you could easily squeeze both of these destinations
into the same day.
Inside the park, you'll find the Hubbard Park Tower – one of the most intriguing attractions
in the region.
It can be found high atop a hill, and there's a nice little trail that leads you there.
The entire park is lovely, and you could easily spend an entire afternoon here enjoying the
flora and fauna, having a picnic, getting lost in the woods, or simply spending some
time in a contemplative reflection of the natural world.
Grab A Jug Of Maple Syrup At Bragg Farm Sugar House
How could we dedicate a video to Montpelier without mentioning maple syrup?
Over at Bragg Farm Sugar House, they've been pumping out the sweet stuff for decades.
Like many other vineyards and farms in the state, Bragg is family-owned and operated.
The key to its success over the years has been its rich and inviting feel.
During the peak season, the Bragg's will sometimes do public presentations complete with lectures
and videos that detail the process of maple syrup production.
And when you visit, don't forget to make a pit stop at their gift shop, where you can
nab a box of premium maple candies!
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Catch A Show At Lost Nation Theater
Theater lovers' imaginations will come alive over at this quintessential Montpelier establishment
that's dedicated to preserving the fine arts without all of the pretentiousness that usually
goes along with that sort of thing.
This local theater has been a community staple for a quarter-century now and has routinely
been included on lists of the top theaters in New England.
According to their website, what makes Lost Nation so special compared to similar arthouse
theaters is their long-standing and resolute commitment to presenting plays that illustrate
the hopeful possibilities of human interaction.
Tour North Branch Vineyards
There are very few vineyards in the Montpelier area.
There are even fewer that have been owned and operated by a single family since their
inception.
What sets North Branch Vineyards apart is how the owners are so warm and pleasant to
interact with.
They have an abundance of knowledge on winemaking and know how to make visitors feel right at
home when touring their grounds.
This vineyard solely uses the grapes they grow on-site to produce their fine wines.
Some of their most notable varietals include River's Edge Red, Seyval Blanc, and La Crescent.
The vineyards tasting room is open to the public as long as guests are of legal drinking
age.
Get Lost In The Past At The Vermont History Museum
The Vermont History Museum is a history-buffs dream come true.
Hands-on exhibits, educational displays, and countless artifacts can be found on each floor,
and a tremendous amount of Vermont's heritage is preserved at this expertly-curated space.
If you have a few hours to kill, stop and learn all about the Abenaki native population
that has helped mold Vermont into what it is today.
You'll learn about the state's industrial and economic history as well.
Appreciate The Fine Arts At T.W.
Wood Art Gallery
This local institution recently relocated to its new location on Barre Street.
It features a medley of permanent and rotating exhibits offering a virtual treasure trove
of art for connoisseurs to take in.
It was originally established in 1895, and ever since then, it has remained dedicated
to showcasing and preserving Vermont's artistic heritage.
Within its walls sits the most extensive permanent collection of art in the state, including
Vermont's portion of the esteemed federal WPA collection.
Participate In A Pottery Workshop At Montpelier Mud
Vermont has long been a haven for artists, and Montpelier has always been a key player
in this tradition.
If you've ever wanted to learn pottery from a master of the craft, consider taking a class
over at Montpelier Mud.
Courses are held throughout the year allowing for just about anyone to create their own
unique piece.
Different workshops covering various techniques are offered.
We recommend if you've never tried out pottery making before taking their beginners Wheel
Throwing Class.
While it's a little pricey, at $230 a head, it's definitely a crash course that's worth
every last penny.
Workshops are held at various times throughout the day, from early in the morning to late
into the night, so regardless of what your itinerary looks like, you'll still be able
to get your hands dirty and mold up your next masterpiece!
Take A Selfie At The Coburn Covered Bridge
A covered bridge is a timber-truss bridge featuring a roof, decking, and siding, and
Vermont is known for being home to many of these vintage beauties.
One of the prettiest in the state can be found right in Montpelier.
The Coburn Covered Bridge is one of the most aesthetically pleasing and photo-worthy bridges
in all of Vermont.
Even though it's not painted bright red like so many other similar covered bridges in the
state, the worn and weathered wood beautifully contrasts with the woodland backdrop that
it rests in front of.
It's especially beautiful during the fall months when the leaves are putting on their
annual colorful show.
The bridge was built in 1851 and has been open ever since.
Historically, Montpelier had several other covered bridges peppered across its countryside,
but this is the only one that still stands.
If you're traveling in a vehicle, you can still drive across this bridge as well!
Refuel At Kismet Kitchen
If you don't mind spending a bit more than usual on a bite to eat, this restaurant features
some of the finest cuisines in the city.
It's a perfect spot for date night, and you and your significant other will be able to
sample a variety of fine wines while enjoying the many delicacies featured on their menu.
Kismet Kitchen is the pride and joy of a chef by the name of Julie Podair who worked as
a personal chef for years before establishing her own restaurant.
Julie sources most of her ingredients locally and isn't afraid to experiment a bit when
coming up with her adventurous menu items – although classic dishes such as steaks
and salads are also on offer.
Try The Ice Cream Over At Wayside Restaurant
We here at Viewcation are pretty big fans of all things ice-cream-related.
If we could do a channel just focusing on the top creameries across the nation, we probably
would!
Here at Wayside Restaurant, Bakery, and Creamery, not only will you find a full menu packed
full of delectable and affordable entrees and starters, but you'll also be treated to
some of the best ice cream in New England.
Wayside has been a staple of Montpelier since 1918, when it first opened its doors, and
it's only increased in popularity over the decades.
You might have to wait a bit for a table, especially on busier nights, but the experience
you'll have here is well worth the wait.
Might we add once again that their ice cream is out of this world!
After you've finished your meal, make sure you get yourself at least a scoop or two!
Their baked goods are pretty darn good as well!
Well, that's about all we've got to cover in Montpelier in this video.
But that's not to say that there isn't plenty else to see and do in this small yet distinguished
town.
If you've already been to Montpelier, what are some of your favorite spots in town?
And if you haven't been yet but are planning on visiting, what are you most excited to
see?
Let us know in the comments down below.
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Safe Travels!