The east coast is home to some of the country’s most historic cities, and it also boasts some gorgeous state capitals where you’ll find lots of things to see and do among picturesque scenery, including these.
Montpelier, Vermont
America’s smallest state capital by population is Montpelier, with just over 7,400 residents, but it packs a punch when it comes to charm and character. It has a small-town feel with big city amenities and even hosts Vermont’s largest urban historic district. Some of its most magnificent historic buildings include the State House, one of the most well-preserved historic structures in the country. The gold-domed Greek-Revival building is open for public tours and features an impressive decorative and fine art collection. There are scenic hiking trails that run right through town too, like Camel’s Hump which travels through the heart of the city leading to spectacular views as the third highest peak in Vermont, soaring nearly 4,100 feet. If you’d rather view the “hump” from afar, visit Hubbard Park where there are miles of winding trails and an observation tower.
Albany, New York
Lying along the Hudson River, Albany is worlds away from the hustle and bustle of New York City, providing a fabulous escape and a great place to live – if you visit you might want to check out some of the Albany houses for sale while you’re there. Living here year-round, you can enjoy the changing scenery with autumn bringing a dazzling display of golden yellow, brilliant orange and fiery red, while spring and summer mean colorful flowers and winter, a snowy wonderland. There are lots of enticing cultural attractions, including museums like the New York State Museum which showcases both permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore the natural and cultural history of the state. Take a tour of the capitol building with its 19th-century architecture that includes grand staircases, period chandeliers, and elaborately carved details.
Boston, Massachusetts
Filled with history, incredible architecture, and a picturesque waterfront, Boston is especially captivating in the springtime when the flowers are in bloom and in autumn when vibrant foliage blankets the city. While you’re here, walk the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail that’s marked with a red stripe, starting in Boston Commons parks, traversing through some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, featuring 16 important sites related to the Revolutionary War, culminating along the Charlestown waterfront. Don’t miss the Old North Church, the site from which the famous “One if by land and two if by sea” signal was sent.
Hartford, Connecticut
Hartford’s capital is one of America’s oldest cities, with the first settlement here established back in 1635. It’s home to some especially picturesque parks like Bushnell, which offers winding paths, lots of shady trees, a pond and fountain, a carousel, and a pavilion where live performances are frequently hosted in the summer. This is also where a number of special events are held like the CT House Music Festival and the Puerto Rican Parade and Festival. Just west of downtown is a gorgeous historic home that was once the residence of noted author Mark Twain, the Mark Twain House and Museum, built in American High Gothic style. The 25-room Victorian mansion is a National Historic Landmark, open daily for tours.
