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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Easier parking & fewer crowds

Vermont State House Montpelier
Best Time
Easier parking & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Vermont's charming Greek Revival State House, the nation's smallest capital, featuring historic art and free tours.
"A must-see for any traveler, this gem feels personal, peaceful, and full of charm."

🚗 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Art & History Collection
Interior
Discover a fascinating collection of art, including historic portraits and hand-carved furnishings, showcasing Vermont's heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Navigating Montpelier
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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.
✨ Smallest Capital Charm
Experience the unique charm of the smallest state capital by population.
🌊 Check Flood Status
Be aware of potential flooding in Montpelier, especially after heavy rain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 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.
✨ Smallest Capital Charm
Experience the unique charm of the smallest state capital by population.
🌊 Check Flood Status
Be aware of potential flooding in Montpelier, especially after heavy rain.
🖼️ Art & Fossils
Look for marine fossils in the floor tiles and admire the historic art collection.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, parking is typically available in front of the building. Visitors often report that arriving early ensures a parking spot.
Montpelier can experience flooding, particularly after heavy rainfall.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to visit and walk around inside the Vermont State House is typically free.
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.
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.
Weekend access can be limited or vary. While some events might occur on the lawn,
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.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
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.
Yes, events are occasionally held on the State House lawn, such as rallies
or community walks. 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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
While personal photography is usually allowed, avoid intrusive photography during official proceedings or if it disrupts other visitors.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Weekday mornings offer fewer people for interior shots.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. 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.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
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. This destination provides a rich, immersive experience for anyone interested in the past.
📸 Photographers
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. Remember to be mindful of lighting conditions and any restrictions on flash photography to get the best shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Gem: Greek Revival Style
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.
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.
Montpelier's Resilience: Facing Floods
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. The resilience of the town and its commitment to rebuilding are evident, with efforts to restore and reopen public spaces like the State House.
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.
A Hub for Civic Engagement and Expression
Recent demonstrations have seen students and community members gather at the State House to advocate for various causes, including calls for a ceasefire. These events underscore the State House's role as a focal point for public discourse and activism in Vermont.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit