Montpelier has the largest urban historic district in Vermont. Its crown jewel is the lovingly restored State House, one of the oldest and best preserved in the country. Vermont’s State House has produced some very progressive ideas, but also features marble floors with fossils, a portrait gallery and glimpses into Vermont's past. Visitors are welcome any time. It is particularly thrilling during the legislative session, generally January - April, when democracy can be seen in action.

Montpelier is a walking city. The heart of the downtown is three blocks from the State House. Walkers are invited to enjoy the beauty of the city's architecture. Montpelier's compact retail district offers something for everyone and is reminiscent of a graceful, earlier time. Featuring locally-owned, unique businesses, Montpelier has many one-of-a-kind products, as well as an ability to supply most of the convenience needs of shoppers. Linger in four independently-owned bookstores after dining in one of the more than 15 restaurants or delis in the city.

Montpelier is recognized as one of the best 100 small arts towns in the United States. Its thriving arts community includes the Lost Nation Theater in City Hall, offering professional performances six months of the year. Onion River Arts Council ensures Montpelier has great music performances and events almost every month. The arts cinema, Savoy Theater, also produces the World Cinema series and the Green Mountain Film Festival in March, drawing movie connoisseurs from far and wide. Music and theater fill the air, and sometimes streets, during warm months. Wednesday night band concerts, a pocket park music series, and Third Thursdays are great reasons to visit downtown Montpelier. Browse the Artisan’s Hand, a great arts cooperative, or visit Buchspieler, offering music of any genre.

Montpelier is home to many museums and galleries. City Hall houses the U.S.S. Montpelier naval museum. Expanded and renovated museum space for the Vermont Historical Society Museum re-opened in the Pavilion building in late 2003. Permanent exhibits on the theme of Freedom and Unity complement historic elements featured in State House tours and exhibits, plus provide education facilities. On Montpelier’s upper plane, the T. W. Wood Gallery & Arts Center, showcases works of the Civil War era Montpelier native, and of contemporary artists.

Montpelier nestles in a valley at the confluence of the Winooski River and its North Branch. Nearly 500 acres of parkland provide ample recreational opportunities. Montpelier's bike path follows the Winooski River. Almost 200 acres of North Branch River Park offer gentle trails and access to miles of challenging cross-country ski or walking fun. Hubbard Park, the city’s premier park, with great views, a stone observatory, and trails, is a short walk from the State House. Nearby attractions include covered bridges, farms, Rock of Ages Visitor Center, Cabot Cheese and Ben and Jerry's factory.

Information: 802-223-9604; mary@MDCA.org, www.mdca.org