Vermont State House Montpelier
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Vermont State House Montpelier

4.7
·181 reviews·Montpelier, United States

Discover Vermont's charming Greek Revival State House, the nation's smallest capital, featuring historic art and free tours.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Easier parking & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Vermont State House Montpelier

Vermont State House Montpelier

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Easier parking & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Vermont's charming Greek Revival State House, the nation's smallest capital, featuring historic art and free tours.

4.7
(181 reviews)

"A must-see for any traveler, this gem feels personal, peaceful, and full of charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking is Easy

Arrive early for readily available parking right in front of the building.

🏛️ Self-Guided Tours

Enjoy a fascinating self-guided tour to explore the historic chambers at your own pace.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Dome

Golden Dome

Exterior

The iconic gold-leaf dome is a stunning architectural feature, visible from afar and a symbol of Vermont's capital.

Legislative Chambers

Legislative Chambers

Interior

Explore the beautifully preserved Senate and House chambers, featuring original 1859 desks and historic portraits.

Art & History Collection

Art & History Collection

Interior

Discover a fascinating collection of art, including historic portraits and hand-carved furnishings, showcasing Vermont's heritage.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Vermont State House is the smallest state capital in the US, making it a charming and less overwhelming visit. Arrive early for easier parking, especially during peak seasons or event days. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid potential weekend crowds or local gatherings.

Navigating Montpelier

Montpelier is a small city, and the State House is centrally located. Be aware that the area can experience flooding, as seen in recent events.TikTok+1 Check local conditions before your visit, especially if traveling during or after heavy rainfall.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Easier parking & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Montpelier officials say downtown is closed until the Winooski River recedes. #TheWeatherChannel #fyp #weatherchannel #weathertok #flood #flooding #Vermont
@weatherchannel
28.7K likes • 569.7K views

🚗 Parking is Easy

Arrive early for readily available parking right in front of the building. Reddit

🏛️ Self-Guided Tours

Enjoy a fascinating self-guided tour to explore the historic chambers at your own pace. Reddit

Vermonters if you have time and hands to spare your xommunities need a hand. Now maybe isnt the best time for tourists to visit but donations are certainly needed. #Vermont #Montpelier #VermontFlood
@shotsjameson
27.4K likes • 652K views
Walk with us and the Central Vermont Out of the Darkness Walk to Prevent Suicide— October 5th at the State House Lawn in Montpelier! There are so many ways to participate; walk, donate, volunteer…..even play bingo! Sunday, September 28th is Bingo night which will also double as a fundraiser for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Come have some fun with #DJTRAD (aka @taylorhopesfor...
afterthoughts.vt
5 likes • 278 views

✨ Smallest Capital Charm

Experience the unique charm of the smallest state capital by population. TikTokReddit

🌊 Check Flood Status

Be aware of potential flooding in Montpelier, especially after heavy rain. TikTokInstagram+1

Throwback to our Dome to Home Wall Raise at the Vermont State House! 🫶🔑🔨 This momentous occasion happened exactly one month ago, and we had a great time collaborating with other Vermont Habitat Affiliates and volunteers on this project. 🏠 Special thanks to @cvhabitat4humanity for all their hard work coordinating this event! 👷‍♀️🧱🔨 #habitatforhumanity #wallraise #affordablehousing #vtstatehouse ...
greenmountainhabitat
10 likes • 230 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking is Easy

Arrive early for readily available parking right in front of the building. Reddit

🏛️ Self-Guided Tours

Enjoy a fascinating self-guided tour to explore the historic chambers at your own pace. Reddit

✨ Smallest Capital Charm

Experience the unique charm of the smallest state capital by population. TikTokReddit

🌊 Check Flood Status

Be aware of potential flooding in Montpelier, especially after heavy rain. TikTokInstagram+1

🖼️ Art & Fossils

Look for marine fossils in the floor tiles and admire the historic art collection. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(181 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Vermont State House for its beauty, historical significance, and charm as the nation's smallest state capital. The well-preserved interiors, including legislative chambers and art collections, are highlights. While some note it's less grand than other state capitols, its personal feel and historical authenticity are highly valued. Occasional events on the lawn add to its dynamic presence.

"We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Vermont State Capitol in Montpelier. While this building is less than impressive than some others in size and ornament, it was still enjoyable to see. We got there first thing and parking was readily available in front of the building. Trying to see them all, so this checks this one off the list."

Brian Dible

"The building is beautiful and steeped in history. I particularly liked the self-guided tour. It was fascinating to see the old Senate and House chambers, which are so well-preserved. It's a great stop for anyone interested in American history and architecture."

Asiri Bo

"Fun time at the smallest state capital! The Vermont State House in Montpelier is absolutely beautiful with a gold leaf dome. Surrounded by gorgeous landscaping, it’s one of the oldest U.S. state capitols still in use, where legislators sit in original 1859 desks. Inside, you’ll find elegant chambers, historic portraits, and hand-carved furnishings. Montpelier itself is the smallest state capital by population—making this gem feel personal, peaceful, and full of charm. A must-see for any traveler!"

Marta Stashevska

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Historic interiors
Smallest capital charm

What People Dislike

Less grand than others

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Vermont State House is located in downtown Montpelier, Vermont. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is generally available nearby. Montpelier is also accessible via public transportation routes, though direct bus services to the State House itself might be limited. TikTok

Yes, parking is typically available in front of the building. Visitors often report that arriving early ensures a parking spot. Reddit

Montpelier can experience flooding, particularly after heavy rainfall.TikTokInstagram+1 It's advisable to check local weather and road conditions before your visit, especially if traveling during spring or after significant storms.

Yes, Montpelier is a very walkable city, and the State House is centrally located within the downtown area, making it easy to explore on foot. TikTok

Montpelier, Vermont, is approximately a two-hour drive from Montreal, Canada, making it a feasible day trip or stopover for those traveling between the two locations. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to visit and walk around inside the Vermont State House is typically free. Reddit

The State House is generally open to visitors on weekdays, often with hours like 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, but it's best to check the official Vermont State House website for the most current hours, as they can vary. Instagram

Yes, free guided tours are often offered, providing insights into the history and architecture of the building. Self-guided tours are also a popular option. Reddit

Weekend access can be limited or vary. While some events might occur on the lawn,Instagram+1 interior access is more reliably available during weekday business hours. Always confirm hours before your visit.

There is no admission fee to visit the Vermont State House. It's a free attraction for all visitors interested in history and architecture. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you can explore the beautifully preserved Senate and House chambers, admire historic portraits, see hand-carved furnishings, and discover unique architectural details like the marble floor tiles with marine fossils. Reddit

While specific accessibility details should be confirmed with the State House administration, historic buildings often have some limitations. It's recommended to contact them directly for the most accurate information regarding ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Reddit

Yes, events are occasionally held on the State House lawn, such as rallies Instagram or community walks.Instagram These events can add a dynamic element to your visit.

It's the smallest state capital in the U.S. by population, offering a more intimate and charming experience. It's also one of the oldest U.S. state capitols still in use, with legislators sitting in original 1859 desks. TikTokReddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use inside the State House, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of ongoing legislative sessions or events. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior, especially the golden dome and the surrounding grounds, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the legislative chambers and the grand architecture are also popular subjects. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted around government buildings for security reasons. It's best to check with local authorities or the State House administration before attempting any drone photography. Instagram

While personal photography is usually allowed, avoid intrusive photography during official proceedings or if it disrupts other visitors. Instagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Weekday mornings offer fewer people for interior shots. Instagram

Capture the intricate details of the architecture, the historic desks, and the art collection. The surrounding landscaping, especially in fall, also provides a picturesque backdrop. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Vermont State House offers a manageable and engaging experience for families. Its status as the smallest state capital means it's less overwhelming than larger capitols. Kids can enjoy exploring the grand chambers and imagining lawmakers at work. The self-guided tour allows families to move at their own pace, and the historic art and furnishings can spark curiosity. Reddit

While there aren't specific children's play areas, the building's history and architecture can be educational. Encourage them to look for interesting details, like the marine fossils in the floor tiles.Reddit Remember to check for any special events on the lawn that might be of interest to younger visitors. The readily available parking also makes it convenient for families traveling with children. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about American history and architecture, the Vermont State House is a must-visit. As one of the oldest U.S. state capitols still in use, it offers an authentic glimpse into 19th-century governance and design. The Greek Revival architecture, particularly the iconic golden dome, is a significant draw. InstagramReddit

Delve into the preserved legislative chambers, complete with original 1859 desks, and admire the collection of historic portraits and hand-carved furnishings. The presence of marine fossils in the marble flooring adds a unique geological dimension to the historical narrative. Reddit This destination provides a rich, immersive experience for anyone interested in the past. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Vermont State House presents numerous photographic opportunities. The golden dome is a stunning subject, especially during the golden hour for dramatic lighting. The exterior architecture, with its classical elements, offers a strong visual presence. Instagram+1

Inside, the legislative chambers provide a sense of grandeur, while the historic portraits and detailed furnishings offer opportunities for close-up shots. The marble floors with fossils are a unique detail to capture. Reddit Remember to be mindful of lighting conditions and any restrictions on flash photography to get the best shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Gem: Greek Revival Style

The Vermont State House, designed by architect Thomas Silloway, is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture. Its most striking feature is the magnificent gold-leaf dome, which crowns the building and is visible from many points in Montpelier. The exterior showcases classical elements like columns and pediments, reflecting a timeless elegance. Inside, the building maintains its historic grandeur, with meticulously preserved legislative chambers that transport visitors back in time. InstagramReddit

Visitors often marvel at the original 1859 desks in the Senate and House chambers, offering a tangible connection to Vermont's past lawmakers. The interior is further enhanced by a collection of historic portraits and hand-carved furnishings, each telling a story of the state's heritage. The attention to detail, from the marble flooring to the ornate ceilings, makes exploring the State House a visually rewarding experience. Reddit

Even the marble tiles on the floor hold a secret: they contain marine fossils, a subtle reminder of Vermont's geological history. This blend of architectural beauty, historical significance, and natural elements makes the Vermont State House a captivating destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Reddit

Montpelier's Resilience: Facing Floods

Montpelier, like many towns in Vermont, has faced significant challenges due to flooding. Recent events, such as the July 2023 floods, caused considerable damage to the downtown area, including impacting the vicinity of the State House.TikTokInstagram+1 These floods highlight the vulnerability of communities situated near rivers like the Winooski River. TikTok

Despite the devastation, the spirit of Montpelier and its residents shines through. Social media content from the time shows community efforts to help each other and calls for donations.TikTok The resilience of the town and its commitment to rebuilding are evident, with efforts to restore and reopen public spaces like the State House. Instagram+1

When planning a visit, it's always wise to check local conditions and be aware of potential weather-related disruptions, especially if traveling during or after periods of heavy rainfall. The community's ability to come together in times of crisis is a testament to their strength and unity. TikTok

A Hub for Civic Engagement and Expression

The Vermont State House lawn is more than just a picturesque setting; it's a space for civic engagement and public expression. Throughout the year, it serves as a venue for various events, from political rallies to community gatherings. Instagram+2

Recent demonstrations have seen students and community members gather at the State House to advocate for various causes, including calls for a ceasefire.Instagram+1 These events underscore the State House's role as a focal point for public discourse and activism in Vermont. Instagram

Visitors might witness or even participate in these demonstrations, offering a glimpse into the active civic life of Montpelier. It's a reminder that the State House is not just a historical monument but a living center of democratic participation. Instagram+1

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