5 Must-See Sites in Montpelier, Vermont

Located just south of the city is Berlin Pond, a popular spot for locals and visitors to walk, fish, bird watch and bike. The protected lake and surrounding lands are home to more than a pond; it encompasses forests, cedar swamps and beaver meadows. © Anna Fraser | Dreamstime.com

Producing Vermont maple syrup for eight generations, Maple Sugarhouse at Bragg Farm makes pure maple syrup the traditional way, using buckets and a wood-fired evaporator. Visit the farm store and sugarhouse year-round, and be sure to stop by Maple Ice Cream Parlor and gift shop. The sugarhouse offers a free, guided tour and invites visitors to find their favorite grade of syrup at the tasting table. © Steve Callahan | Dreamstime.com

Learn about Vermont’s rich history at Vermont History Museum. The museum sits in the Pavilion Building in downtown Montpelier and features both permanent and temporary exhibits. The museum is open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. © Jon Bilous | Dreamstime.com

The state capitol of Vermont, Montpelier is home to Vermont State House, an early 19th-century Greek Revival building. It’s one of the country’s best-preserved state capitol buildings. The State House is currently open to the public Monday–Friday, 7:45 a.m.–4:15 p.m. Self-guided and guided tours are available. © Mihai Andritoiu | Dreamstime.com

A tributary of Lake Champlain, Winooski River, the name coming from the Abenaki word meaning “wild onion land,” is a great spot for some outdoor recreational activities. Many hit the water to canoe, kayak, fish and swim. For fish enthusiasts, look for brook trout, rainbow trout and brown trout. © Jiawangkun | Dreamstime.com