Top 5 Places to Visit in Montpelier, Vermont

Deep in the heart of New England is Montpelier, one of the world’s most fascinating capital cities. While it might be a tiny blip on the map, it has plenty to offer visitors, despite being the world’s smallest capital.

Montpelier draws people in with its small-town charm, stunning landscapes, and locally-run businesses. It’s a refreshing destination to retreat to and enjoy Vermont’s charm. This location is beautiful during any season.

Not sure what to do in the Montpelier area? We’re here to help. Here are the top five places (in no particular order) to visit in Montpelier, Vermont.

#1 Rock of Ages

A little-known fact about Vermont is that it produces some of the world’s highest-quality granite. Montpelier is in Washington County, the granite capital of Vermont.

Just a few minutes away from Montpelier is Barre, the home of Rock of Ages. You won’t find anything like this attraction anywhere else.

While it sounds like a music festival, it is actually a unique educational experience. Each year, over 100,000 visitors travel to this landmark to learn about granite quarrying and manufacturing and see the remarkable Smith Quarry.

The Visitors Center is an impressive and modern  5,000-square-foot space with exhibits, a theater, and of course, granite gifts. From here, you can purchase a caravan tour ticket.

On the caravan tour, you’ll visit the Smith Quarry. This impressive quarry is over 600 feet deep!

Rock of Ages is a fascinating attraction worth visiting while in Montpelier.

#2 Vermont State House

The Vermont State House building is the first image that appears if you Google Montpelier. There is a reason why this historic building is so representative of this city. It is one of the most beautiful state capitols around.

This gold-domed structure has a row of flowers leading up to it and lush greenery behind it. It is breathtaking any time of year.

The inside of the building also doesn’t disappoint. It’s a well-preserved 160-year-old space filled with historic charm. Its chambers are still home to the Vermont House and Senate. Additionally, you’ll find art and sculptures by local artists throughout the space.

You can enjoy this landmark by walking around the grounds, taking pictures, and taking a tour of the building.

It’s a must-see landmark in Montpelier where you can experience a slice of living history.

#3 Coburn Covered Bridge

Covered bridges are a quintessential Vermont sight. While visiting the state, it’s worth seeing at least one. Unfortunately, they are increasingly rare, with fewer than 100 remaining today.

One particularly famous one you should visit while in Montpelier is the Coburn Covered Bridge. It is the Montpelier area’s only surviving 19^th-century covered bridge. The bridge is only 15 minutes away from the city, so it’s an easy stop.

This structure is beautiful inside and out. The bridge is 69 ½ feet long and has wood trusses and steel beams. Even by Vermont standards, it’s impressive.

No matter what time of year you visit, it looks stunning. You’ll capture some incredible photos at this picturesque spot.

#4 Bragg Farm Sugar House and Morse Farm Maple Sugar Works

One product that Vermont is world-famous for is its tasty maple syrup. There are two very well-known places to visit in the Montpelier area.

The first is the Bragg Farm Sugar House. It’s only five minutes from the Coburn Covered Bridge, so you can easily pair the two activities. They have been maple sugaring the traditional way for eight generations!

At this farm, visitors can take a free guided tour to learn about their maple sugaring process and sample the syrup. After the tour, you can try delicious maple ice cream and buy gifts at the shop.

Another unique maple sugaring farm is Morse Farm. While it is similar to Bragg, it has a few distinct features.

There is a nature trail, a farm life museum, a country store, and a woodshed theater at the farm.

However, the star of the show is their premium maple syrup. You can take a tour of the tasting and see multimedia displays at their theater.

#5 Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Everybody loves ice cream! Ben & Jerry’s is one of the most legendary brands for this sweet treat in the US.

The ice cream factory is less than 20 minutes from Montpelier.

The factory is a sweet tooth’s paradise. There, you can go on a tour of the facilities and learn about the company’s history and how they make their ice cream.

At the end of the ice cream factory tour, you get a free sample of their delicious treats. Don’t forget to grab a full-size cone from the ice cream shop and pick up some unique gifts from the shop.