In the land of maple trees and ski slopes, Montpelier stands out as a capital city and also for a unique cultural phenomenon known as the Valentine Phantom. It is disputed whether the mysterious Valentine Phantom first came to the city in the early 1990s or at the start of 2000, but the practice of an unknown person covering store fronts, government buildings, and even chimney stacks with red hearts on white paper has become a ubiquitous part of city life. So much so, that a Main Street church designed its new roof to include the red hearts that appear overnight every February 14th.
First settled in 1787, the central location has served this capital city well. The French city of Montpellier served as the inspiration for the name, as a nod of thanks for the French support during the American Revolution. Post-revolutionary war roots and the seat of Vermont government gives the area loads of historical and politico vibes. The city as a whole is known for its forward thinking and support of green living with the state's first hydro-powered electricity in 1884, modern legislative acts in support of sustainable farming, and independent businesses and theaters.
Moving to Montpelier
When considering a move to Montpelier one should pack snow shovels and hot cocoa mugs for the long snowy winter, rubber boats for the mud season, sun hats and shorts for the hot humid summer, and a camera to capture the changing leaves of fall. Whatever you do, don't show up in a gas guzzling SUV worthy of a reality TV star while rocking a real fur coat in this town of tree-huggers and environmentalists. The natives may never speak to you.
In fact, if you plan to live and work in the area which receives a walk score of 100, you may become a full-time cyclist or pedestrian on the Cross Vermont Trail or Central Vermont Regional Path. Those needing to get further than their two legs can carry them will be pleased to know that the Green Mountain Transit Authority and Burlington bus lines keep residents connected to neighboring communities.
Potential residents should note the location of apartment or house rentals in Montpelier to see how accessible the paths or bus stops are from the home. Other things to note in planning a move and searching for the ideal breakfast nook to imbibe in daily feasts of flapjacks and maple syrup are the requirements of landlords. Most require a deposit, first month's rent, and a year lease. Coming up with the deposit and rent at once can seem expensive so check out many of the all bills paid apartments to ease the financial sting.
Neighborhoods in Montpelier
Montpelier has many small neighborhoods, each offering something unique in terms of housing styles, geographical features, views, and landmarks.
Northfield Street: Home to local landmarks of government buildings and the National Life Insurance Company, this area features rental homes and condos.
Park West: Cul de sacs characterize this primarily residential neighborhood in Western Montpelier.
Toy Town: On the Western edge of the city, it is bordered by the Winooski River and has several bus stops for those committed to living car free.
Murray Hill: Elevated on Murray hill, condo dwellers delight in their array of options offering prime views of the city.
Upper Elm Street and Lower Elm Street: Lying on either side of the Winooski River, these neighborhoods offer waterfront views and are situated near bus stops.
North Street: Just outside of more densely populated neighborhoods, North Street offers plenty of space while still close enough to busier parts of the city.
Towne Hill: Rental homes with views of Camel's Hump and lots with enough land to explore your inner farmer compose this portion of town.
Berlin Street: One of the southernmost sections of town, offering easy access to the twin city of Barre.
College Hill: Rental properties are plentiful in this area marked by institutions of higher learning, but it's also a large enough neighborhood to snag a great rental apt that isn't too close to campus.
Downtown Montpelier: In a city where the walk score is already 100, this is deemed the most walkable neighborhood. Continuing with the superstar mentality, most of the businesses located here are locally owned.
The Meadow: Satisfy your sweet tooth by living close to Birchgrove Baking in a neighborhood near Hubbard Park known for community involvement.
Barre-O - Small apartment buildings are easily found in this hip hood next to downtown. Search here for a 1 bedroom apartment for rent and become neighbors with the Lost Nation Theater and Sarducci's restaurant.
Hubbard Park: 185-acre Hubbard Park and its observation tower are basically your backyard when moving here.
Living in Montpelier
A culturally rich town that is certainly never dull with its paper heart attacks, a performing goat, and a bagel cafe featuring live fiddle music. Farm-focused with its many farm-to-fork restaurants, such as Salt, and a sizable farmers market, farmers and family run maple syrup empires add to the dining scene that is further enhanced by the presence of the New England Culinary Institute.
Artistic experiences are not confined to the chef's table, with the T.W. Wood Gallery and Arts Center, Lost Nation Theater and Capital City Concerts enhancing the lifestyle. Independent and foreign film screenings as well as live music performances at The Black Door, round out the entertainment scene of the city.
Outdoor living is another important aspect of life in Montpelier. Hubbard Park, skiing, biking, North Branch Nature Center, birding, hiking, and camping depict the outdoor scene that is central to living here. The mix of culture and active living keeps Montpelier popular, as does its proximity to neighboring headquarters of Ben and Jerry ice cream.
