Montpelier, VT

Montpelier, Vermont may be small, but it is packed with charm, history, and a few surprising facts. As the nation’s smallest state capital, this cozy New England city offers big personality in a small footprint. Here are 10 fun facts about Montpelier that might surprise you:

1. The Smallest State Capital – Montpelier is the least populated state capital in the United States, with around 8,000 residents.
2. No McDonald’s Here – Montpelier is the only U.S. state capital without a McDonald’s. The city takes pride in supporting local businesses instead.
3. A French Name – The city was named after Montpellier, France, honoring French support during the American Revolution.
4. Beautiful Gold Dome – The Vermont State House features a stunning gold-leaf dome that shines brightly against the Green Mountains.
5. No Fast-Food Chains Downtown – You will not find big national chain stores in the historic downtown area. Montpelier focuses on local shops, bookstores, and cafés.
6. Capital Without a Skyscraper – There are no skyscrapers in Montpelier. In fact, the State House is one of the tallest buildings in the city.
7. Outdoor Lover’s Dream – The city is surrounded by trails, rivers, and hills. You can kayak, hike, bike, or ski just minutes from downtown.
8. Rich Political History – Since 1805, Montpelier has served as Vermont’s capital, and many major state decisions have been made inside its historic State House.
9. A Book Lover’s Town – Montpelier has an impressive number of independent bookstores for such a small city, including the well-known Bear Pond Books.
10. Community Spirit – From farmers markets to lively parades and local festivals, Montpelier is known for its strong sense of community and welcoming atmosphere.

Montpelier, the charming capital of Vermont, is known for its vibrant community and rich history. With a focus on education, government, healthcare, and small businesses, Montpelier offers a range of rewarding career opportunities. Here are some of the top jobs and careers in this picturesque city.

Top 5 Jobs in Montpelier, VT

Nestled in the charming state of Vermont, Montpelier is home to some of the state's finest educational institutions. Both public and private high schools in Montpelier are dedicated to fostering academic excellence and personal growth, preparing students for a successful future.

Top Public High Schools in Montpelier, VT

• Montpelier High School – Known for its inclusive community and strong academic programs, Montpelier High School encourages innovation and critical thinking. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, personalized attention helps students excel in various subjects including STEM and the arts.
• U-32 High School – Just a short drive from Montpelier, U-32 High School offers a comprehensive education with a focus on preparing students for college and beyond. Its diverse extracurricular activities, including sports and music, help students find and develop their passions.
• Harwood Union High School – Located in nearby Duxbury, Harwood Union High provides robust academic programs, emphasizing environmental science and sustainability. The school’s supportive environment nurtures leadership and community involvement.
• Northfield Middle High School – Offering a student-centered approach, Northfield Middle High School prides itself on small class sizes and personalized learning plans, ensuring each student’s unique needs and goals are met.
• Williamstown Middle High School – As part of the Orange North Supervisory Union, Williamstown offers an engaging curriculum that includes college prep courses and hands-on learning experiences, encouraging students to explore various fields of study.

Top Private High Schools in Montpelier, VT

• Vermont Montessori School – Emphasizing individualized learning, this Montessori school focuses on holistic education. Students enjoy a hands-on approach that fosters independence and a genuine love for learning.
• St. Johnsbury Academy – Although a bit of a commute from Montpelier, it’s worth noting for its rich history and prestigious academic reputation. This private school offers a wide array of courses and strong support services, preparing students for a diverse world.
• The Riverside School – Located in nearby Lyndonville, The Riverside School offers a unique, nature-based curriculum. Its intimate learning environment nurtures curiosity, leadership, and social responsibility among students.
• Green Mountain Valley School – Known for its world-class skiing program and rigorous academics, this school is perfect for students seeking a balance between sports and studies. Its dedicated staff supports both athletic and academic excellence.
• The Sharon Academy – Offering a progressive approach to education, The Sharon Academy focuses on collaboration and personal growth. Its vibrant community emphasizes critical thinking and effective communication skills.

Whether seeking a strong public school or a distinctive private school experience, students in Montpelier, Vermont have access to exemplary educational opportunities that cater to diverse interests and ambitions. These schools are committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals ready to contribute positively to society.

Montpelier, Vermont, is known for its welcoming community, historic charm, and emphasis on quality education. While Montpelier itself is small, the city and its nearby areas in central Vermont offer outstanding options for students looking to pursue higher education in liberal arts, law, environmental studies, and more. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant public college or a distinctive private university, you’ll find excellent choices within Montpelier and the surrounding region.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Montpelier, VT

Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) – Public/Private Hybrid – Located right in Montpelier, VCFA offers renowned graduate programs in creative writing, graphic design, music composition, and visual art. While many programs operate with private governance, it has public historical roots, making it a unique cultural hub.

Community College of Vermont (CCV) – Montpelier Campus – As Vermont’s largest community college, CCV provides affordable associate degrees, certificates, and workforce development programs. Its Montpelier campus is celebrated for small class sizes and personalized support.

University of Vermont (UVM) – Extension and Outreach in Central Vermont – While UVM’s main campus is in Burlington, its strong extension network provides access to university resources, continuing education, and non-credit courses accessible to Montpelier residents.

Vermont Technical College (VTC) – Nearby Randolph Center – Offering acclaimed technology, engineering, and nursing degrees, VTC is a top public choice just a short drive from Montpelier.

Norwich University – Public/Private Status (Northfield, VT) – Only 10 miles from Montpelier, Norwich is a senior military college with public service roots, offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, cybersecurity, business, and more. It has both public and private funding and leadership, blending the best of both worlds for students.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Montpelier, VT

Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) – As noted above, VCFA provides an inspiring, low-residency educational model for creative minds. Its private status allows for an intimate campus environment, attracting students from across the country.

New England Culinary Institute (NECI) – Formerly in Montpelier – Although it ceased residential operations in 2021, NECI played a huge role in Montpelier’s education landscape with its innovative culinary arts programs and hands-on restaurant experience. Its legacy lives on in the city’s food culture.

Goddard College (Plainfield, VT) – Roughly 8 miles from Montpelier, Goddard is known for progressive education, self-directed learning, and low-residency programs in education, psychology, and creative arts—making it a favorite for nontraditional and adult learners.

Norwich University (Northfield, VT) – As mentioned, Norwich blends private and public support, and its proud private history includes leadership in military and civilian education. It is the oldest private military college in the United States.

Champlain College (Burlington, VT) – Remote Opportunities – While based in Burlington, Champlain offers online programs accessible to Montpelier residents. It is lauded for career-focused degrees in business, technology, and cybersecurity, with a private college commitment to student support.

Choosing a college is a significant step—whether you prefer public affordability or private-campus advantages, Montpelier and central Vermont offer supportive, inspiring pathways to success for every learner.

Montpelier, Vermont may be the charming capital of the Green Mountain State, but when it comes to professional sports teams in the major leagues, the city keeps things simple. Unlike big metro areas packed with franchises, Montpelier does not have any NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or MLS teams. In fact, the entire state of Vermont does not host any major professional sports franchises.

That said, sports are very much alive in and around Montpelier. Fans here show strong support for regional teams, local clubs, and nearby pro franchises from neighboring states. Let’s take a closer look at what the professional and semi-professional sports scene looks like in Vermont.

Baseball – Vermont Lake Monsters (Collegiate Summer Baseball)

• Vermont Lake Monsters – Based in nearby Burlington, the Lake Monsters are part of the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL). While they are not a Major League Baseball team, they have a proud history. The franchise previously played as a Minor League Baseball affiliate before joining the collegiate summer league. Games at historic Centennial Field are affordable, family-friendly, and full of local spirit.

Soccer – Vermont Green FC (USL League Two)

• Vermont Green FC – Also located in Burlington, Vermont Green competes in USL League Two, a pre-professional league that features top college players from across the country. The club has quickly built a loyal fan base thanks to its exciting play and strong environmental mission. Match days bring high energy and community pride.

Hockey – A Strong Tradition in the Region

• While Montpelier does not currently have a professional hockey team, Vermonters are passionate about the sport. The state has hosted minor league teams in the past, and college hockey is very popular. Many residents cheer for nearby NHL teams such as the Boston Bruins or the Montreal Canadiens.

Basketball & Football – Rooting for New England

• Without local NBA or NFL franchises, Montpelier residents often support the Boston Celtics (NBA) and the New England Patriots (NFL). Both teams have enjoyed championship success, giving Vermont fans plenty to celebrate over the years.

Although Montpelier does not have major professional sports teams of its own, the city embraces athletics in its own way. From cheering on regional clubs to passionately supporting New England’s biggest franchises, sports remain an important part of the community. The smaller scale even makes games feel more personal and connected — proof that you don’t need a massive stadium to have big team spirit.

Montpelier, Vermont, may be one of the smallest state capitals in the U.S., but it offers a rich mix of spots for students to unwind, chill, and experience the unique charm of a vibrant small town. Whether you're into nature, history, or local flavors, Montpelier has something special for everyone.

Hubbard Park – Just a short walk from downtown, this beautiful park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Climb the old stone tower for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding hills—it's a perfect way to escape the stress of schoolwork.

Capital Plaza – Need a study break with some retail therapy or a movie night? Capital Plaza offers a variety of shops and a classic cinema where you can catch the latest flicks. It's a great spot to relax with friends.

Julio's Cantina – Known for its festive atmosphere, Julio's is the go-to spot for students craving some delicious Mexican food. Whether it's taco night or just hanging out with a refreshing drink, this cantina never disappoints.

Three Penny Taproom – This local favorite is where beer lovers gather to taste Vermont's finest brews. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and a great menu, you're sure to find a new favorite spot to chill after classes.

Lost Nation Theater – For a dose of culture, check out Lost Nation Theater, which hosts a wide range of performances from local talent. Whether it's a play, musical, or comedy night, it's an excellent place for engaging entertainment.

Local 64 – More than just a co-working space, Local 64 hosts events like open mics, art shows, and game nights. It's a creative hub where students can meet new people, share ideas, and relax in a welcoming community.

Montpelier may be small, but its charm and variety of student-friendly hangouts make it a gem for anyone looking to balance work and play. From scenic parks to cozy eateries, you'll find plenty of spots to recharge and enjoy student life in Vermont's capital.