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Review Montpelier
There are better places in Vermont
1.5
rating
By
Madeline_VT (
May 29, 2017)
For a state capital this town sure is lacking - in many areas. First, the roads here are total garbage. If you drive a car (which you will likely need living in rural VT), be prepared to succumb to costly car repairs season after season. Not only are there enormous potholes on AL ...Read More
L of the streets, the streets themselves are narrow with cars parked mostly in the line of traffic making it nearly impossible to get where you wanna go at times. And be on the lookout for pedestrians because they walk right out in front of traffic without bothering to look!! Winter makes this even more challenging because the plows seem to be nonexistent as well. In terms of housing be prepared to pay way over market rate for a rundown apartment with little to no amenities. If you're looking to buy be prepared to spend $$$! Taxes are high too. That's most all of Vermont though. There is a nice sense of community - small town everyone knows everyone - with a handful of summer events and farmer's markets to keep you entertained mostly during the days. Not much of a nightlife. Restaurants are ok -- unfortunately nothing mind-blowing, but a couple of farm-to-table options and whatnot. If you have a family the public schools are safe and quite good. If you need childcare for infant-preschool there are literally 3 options and you will likely be put on a waitlist and spend at least $275/week per child. The economy is mostly State jobs, healthcare, some non-profits, and restaurant/retail. There is an aging population here, so great for retirees who don't mind Vermont's insane weather. Oh yeah, the weather here is strange since the town sits in a bowl of mountains. Feels like the sun NEVER comes out even on days when you know it's there. Lot's of rain and snow all year, and cool short summer nights. Do not recommend for anyone with seasonal mood disorders. Vermont can be a lovely place to visit and if you are someone with unlimited finances it can also be a great place to live. It's a State for the wealthy with an ever-growing below poverty population. Makes no sense. Burlington is a better option if you're hoping to move to VT. If you are a young family looking, I'd look elsewhere as you'll struggle financially, professionally (jobs are very competitive) and culturally as there is not a lot going on. If you are single, you'll likely be disappointed in the lack of nightlife and limited dating options.
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Good Times In Montpelier, VT
4.5
rating
By
Anonymous (
May 25, 2010)
Since Vermont is one of the least populated states in the USA, I didn't expect to find an urban metropolis full of high rises and skyscrapers on my first visit to Montpelier. However, I was lucky to enjoy some good restaurants, see some great attractions and to receive some great ...Read More
hospitality at my friend's house along College Street, between Vermont College and New England Culinary Institute.
I basically stayed within walking distance from downtown Montpelier. Although I didn't have high expectations from Vermont's capital city with a population of less than 10,000 people, I enjoyed local history, food, entertainment, and culture.
I walked along Main Street and State Street, which are the major streets the form downtown Montpelier. The entire area is only a few blocks, so there is no need for public transportation or driving. Full of quaint shops, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, theaters, and municipal buildings, the city reminded me of a typical good old fashioned American small town city. Downtown Montpelier is dominated by rather standard 2-3 story brick buildings with late 19th century and early 20th century architecture. However, The State House's Greek Revival architecture particularly caught my eye.
I absorbed some local culture in Montpelier by enjoying a play at the Lost Nation Theater and catching a movie at the Capitol Theatre, which is an old fashioned movie palace. The dining options seemed endless, as there is something on every corner. I enjoyed good dinner at the J Morgan's Steakhouse, which is right across the movie theater. Being a history buff, I had to visit the Vermont History Museum which features artifacts and visual exhibitions.
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Family friendlyPublic transit is accessibleWalkable to grocery storesYards are well-keptLots of parksWalkable to restaurantsFriendly neighbors Safe at night Pet friendly Streets have sidewalksA quiet areaSense of community
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Compare Montpelier, VT Livability
A+
Amenities
Are there many local amenities in
Montpelier?
Yes, there are lots of amenities close to this location.
Parks
Mill Pond Park
Hubbard Park
Montpelier Historic District
Union Elementary Playground
Union Elementary Playground
Blanchard Park
Turntable Park
Montpelier Recreation Field
Entertainment
Hubbard Tower
Capitol Theatre
Vermont Historical Society Museum and Pavilion
T.W. Wood Gallery & Arts Center
Wood Art Gallery
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
Central Vermont Memorial Civic Center
Twin City family Fun Center
Food & Drink
Uncommon Market
Yankee Wine & Spirits
Three Penny Taproom
Langdon Street Tavern
Pinkys on State
Charlie O's
Domino's
Dunkin'
D
Commute
Is public transit available in Montpelier?
Of all people who commute,
3.1% take public transportation in
Montpelier.