Montpelier is one of the most beautiful cities in all of Vermont, and well should be. It is the grand capital of this wonderful state. The best part about Montpelier is the wonderful walking tours that one can take that show you the incredible history found up and down their city streets. These walking tours are an excellent family activity that will fascinate each and every one of you. Montpelier is sure to grab your heart along the way as well.
The walking tours are actually three different tours. Here is a brief overview of each of them along with highlights of each:
State Street Tour - This tour has 14 stops and focuses on structures built for government. It includes a number of historic buildings and sites that are quite incredible to look at. Here are a couple of the better stops along the way:
The Vermont State Capitol (1836 and 1859)
This gold leaf domed structure is Greek inspired and is the third location of it’s kind. It is a wonderful example of style and grace, and it provides Montpelier with a wonderful Capitol building that is built for beauty as well as function. The dome is famous for containing actual gold in its make up.
Pavillion Office Building (1971)
Sporting Steamboat Gothic Architecture, this building is the third to stand on this spot. It is built by modern day technique, but it uses the old school vision. The spot was once used for a tavern and hotel for weary travellers.
Walton Block (1879)
Though the building has been renovated extensively, it is still true to the original. It is named after Samuel Walton, a bookbinder and merchant. The cast iron columns that adorn the facade give it a distinctively Italianate flavor.
The Main Street Tour - The Main Street tour has 17 sites, and is peppered with every type of architecture imaginable. The stops are each unique in their own way and are a visual masterpiece.
Main Street Depot - (c.1880)
The three story Depot was originally an integral part of the Montpelier and Wells River Railroad. The railroad was an important connecting port to the White Mountains. The building was constructed in 1875 after some terrible fires ravaged downtown.
Prentiss House - (early 1800s)
Originally located at the Kellogg-Hubbard Library, the Prentiss House was relocated to this spot. Prentiss was a Chief Justice of the Vermont Supreme Court, and fathered a long line of lawyers. Ten to be exact.
College Street Tour - The College Street Tour has 9 stops, and are highlighted by the Vermont College Campus. There are a number of private homes and properties highlighted as well.
Dillingham Hall - (Built 1897)
Former US Senator William P. Dunningham was the owner of this property, and he served as the President of the Board of Trustees for Vermont College.
Bower House - (Built 1910)
This house is famous for giving contrast among the many Queen Anne homes that line this area. The shingle style architecture is devine, and the front porch hearkens back to the days of family living and sharing outside.
These historical walking tours are a wonderful way to enjoy the great city of Montpelier, and the Vermont capital is quite proud of the tours. Take the family along and take a look back at the beautiful architecture, and history that is Montpelier.
