Celebrating Downtown Montpelier!
Montpelier Alive celebrates the City of Montpelier. We work with partners to sustain and build upon Montpelier’s vibrant downtown community by offering and supporting special events and activities and by promoting City businesses. We work to ensure a thriving local economy for Montpelier and to preserve the City’s historic character and unique sense of place.
Getaway to Montpelier!
Centrally located and easy to access from New England and Eastern Canada, Montpelier makes visits easy with no rush hour, easy parking, and a relaxed casual atmosphere that begs you to slow down and shed the stress of everyday life..
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Spring
As the snow melts and the days grow longer, Montpelier comes alive with fresh energy. Stroll along the Winooski River, explore blooming trails, and celebrate the season at the farmers market. Spring is the perfect time to savor local flavors and embrace the city's vibrant arts and culture scene.
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Summer
Long, sunny days invite you to soak up Montpelier’s outdoor charm. Enjoy live music downtown, dine al fresco, and paddle the Winooski River. Whether you're hiking nearby trails or exploring local shops and galleries, summer in Vermont’s capital is full of adventure.
Fall
Golden leaves and crisp air make autumn in Montpelier unforgettable. Take a scenic hike, visit the farmers market for seasonal treats, and enjoy the warmth of local cafés. With harvest festivals and breathtaking foliage, fall is the perfect time to experience Vermont’s charm.
Winter
Snow-covered streets and twinkling lights set the scene for a classic Vermont winter. Enjoy downtown shopping, warm up with local dining, and hit the nearby trails for skiing or snowshoeing. From festive events to fireside comforts, Montpelier is full of winter wonder.
Our Vibrant Capital City
Exquisite historic buildings are home to Vermont's state government, shopping, commerce and world-class dining and arts. Outstanding outdoor recreation is within minutes of the downtown. Montpelier is the largest urban historic district in Vermont. The crown jewel is the impeccably restored State House - one of the oldest and best preserved in the country. Three blocks away is the city's unique business district. Linger at independently-owned shops offering books, records, clothing, fine crafts and pastries, or dine in one of the many farm-to-table restaurants, craft beer bars, and cafes.
Things to Do
Whether your passion is the great outdoors or a great night on the town, we invite you to come play in Montpelier and central Vermont. From co-ops, galleries, and cultural institutions to classical chamber music performed by some of the world's finest musicians
Shopping
Leave your computer behind and experience the joy of shopping again. Visit our many independently-owned specialty boutiques surrounded by historic architecture and breathtaking natural beauty. Stroll through our charming pedestrian-friendly city and experience customer service with a personal touch. Our local merchants are dedicated to helping you find that something special.
Dining
Montpelier is not just a feast for the eyes. Montpelier has become known as a place for foodies with a great restaurant explosion in recent years. We invite you to take a culinary adventure in the Capital City. No matter what your taste is, Montpelier has it all.
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Latest News
Join Montpelier Alive and the Downtown Business Association on April 11 for Montpelier Community Spruce Up Day, a hands-on effort to freshen up downtown after winter. Stop by Montpelier City Hall anytime between 11 AM–2 PM to pitch in—supplies, ...
Washington County, Vermont is part of Washingtons Unite, a nationwide quilt project celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Designed by Montpelier quilter Patty Pirog, our county’s quilt block features the Green Mountain Star and the ...
The Foundation for a Resilient Montpelier is a new, action-oriented organization established to create a healthy and resilient city through facilitating democratic engagement, supporting community-led initiatives, and gathering and ...
"...The residents of this New England town in the foothills of the Green Mountains include students (at the Vermont College of Fine Arts), movie buffs (each March it hosts the Green Mountain Film Festival), foodies, artists and outdoors enthusiasts. Whether you’re in search of a meal at one of the many new farm-to-table restaurants, an art house movie or live music, you’ll find it all in this little capital city..."
Featured Events
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2pm
Join the downtown Business Association and Montpelier Alive for the first in a series of days this spring and summer where the community will come together to make Montpelier shine! After the long winter, sidewalks need sweeping, shop fronts and windows need washing, and weeds need whacking. Volunteers are invited to participate for 30 minutes or a few hours. Bring a friend, a team, or the whole family! All supplies will be provided.
Check in at the sign-up desk in front of City Hall.
There will be music as well as small “thank you” specials around town.
For more information, contact [email protected]
The classic Muddy Onion Gravel Grinder brings over 700 riders to the City of Bridges Saturday morning, accompanied by the Gear Fest on School Street which gives riders and visitors alike the opportunity to shop localy made gear.
Sunday morning brings The Mucker 5k and the Mini Mucker on the State House lawn.
While you're in town, grab a bite to eat, check out some live ... Visit Event Page
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7pm
Thursdays, 5–7 PM | Starting May 28 (All Summer)
Spend your Thursday evenings downtown this summer. The Downtown Montpelier Ramble is a weekly chance to stroll, shop, and connect, with local businesses staying open later and live street music popping up throughout the city.
Make it part of your weekly routine: meet friends, explore your favorite spots, and stick around after fo ... Visit Event Page
