Seniors Head For Montpelier

Montpelier, Vermont, the “Green Mountain State” has long been known as the smallest state capital in the US with under 8,000 inhabitants. Nevertheless, the Vermont History Museum, College of Fine Arts and the New England Culinary Institute keeps senior visitors coming back again and again.

Despite its small size, Montpelier is noted for its historical buildings and attractions. It’s history goes back to 1787 when a Colonel Jacob Davis named the site after the city of Montpelier in southwest France. And YaHoo…it’s the only state capital in the country without a McDonalds, a Burger King…or even an airport.  How about that?  Pretty laid back I’d say.

What Put Montpelier On the Map?

While the Winooski River provided power for mills and an iron foundry prospered, it was the Vermont Central Railroad that helped the city to prosper back in 1849.

The river is the habitat for many species of wildlife like sandpipers, American osprey, beavers and otters. The many trout and walleye make the river a rich fishing ground for fishing enthusiasts.

The NY TImes Travel page had an article called 36 Hours in Montpelier, Vt. that will give first time senior visitors an overview of the city. Every city in our country seems to have attractions that draw in visitors and Montpelier has its share.

Hubbard Park Invites Senior Visitors

Hubbard Park, with its magestic trees, gets lots of attention and is one beautiful place to take in on your visit to Montpelier. It totals 185 acres that has many picnic areas where senior citizens can enjoy a picnic. Senior hikers can hike the 7 miles of trails and a climb the 54-foot observation tower that will give you a panoramic view of the park and its surrounding areas.

The gold leaf dome of the state house includes real gold and offers a spectacular contrast with the wooded hillside of Hubbard Park in the background. The interior is adorned with marble floors, spiral staircases and finely carved wood trim.

And Go-Vermont offers attractions that you will not want to miss plus some super recreation areas that senior visitors find attractive. Select the Photo Gallery at the bottom of the page and you’ll see why thousands come to Vermont every fall to take in the colorful trees.

Vermont (Green Mountain in French) will keep your senses jumping wherever you choose to travel. So many cities have tours but few have walking tours. In Montpelier you’ll find the State Street, Main Street and College Street Historic Walking Tours filled with folks just like you who enjoy viewing historical buildings. A walk through the downtown areas provides insight into the early years of our nation’s history.

I think that you will find Montpelier very laid back and you will feel right at home with the small-town atmosphere. Enjoy your visit to Vermont and while you are there, check out these super Scenic Drives that include Montpelier on Route 89. jeb