Things to Do in Montpelier in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Montpelier
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Shoulder season pricing means you'll find accommodation rates 20-30% lower than summer peak, with last-minute booking still viable through mid-month
- The fall foliage is actually at its most vibrant in early November, particularly around Hubbard Park where the maples turn deep crimson against the granite outcrops
- Local food scene hits its stride with harvest season still in full swing - farmers markets run through late November and restaurant menus feature peak Vermont ingredients like squash, apples, and late-season greens
- Crowds thin out significantly after leaf-peeper season ends in mid-October, so you'll have downtown Montpelier and State House tours largely to yourself on weekdays
Considerations
- Weather is genuinely unpredictable - you might see 15°C (59°F) and sunshine one day, then wake up to snow flurries the next. Pack for all four seasons in one trip.
- Daylight becomes scarce fast, with sunset around 4:30pm by late November. This cuts into afternoon outdoor activities and makes evening plans feel later than they are.
- Some seasonal attractions and rural businesses start closing for winter after Thanksgiving, limiting options if you're visiting the final week of November
Best Activities in November
Hubbard Park hiking trails
November is actually ideal for the 7 km (4.3 miles) of trails here because the bugs are gone, the foliage is still colorful early month, and you get clear views once leaves drop. The 54 m (177 ft) stone observation tower at the summit offers views across five mountain ranges. Trails are well-maintained but expect muddy patches after rain. Morning hikes work best - by 3pm it's getting dim under the tree canopy.
Vermont History Museum and State House tours
November weather makes this the perfect time for indoor cultural activities. The Vermont Historical Society museum is genuinely fascinating on Vermont's Revolutionary War history and early statehood, while State House tours show off the Greek Revival architecture and Vermont marble interiors. Worth noting that State House tours require advance booking and run Tuesday through Friday only.
Local brewery and distillery tours
Vermont's craft beverage scene is year-round, but November brings special releases and smaller crowds. Three Penny Taproom, Prohibition Pig, and Capitol City Beverage all within walking distance of downtown. The cool weather actually makes the tasting room atmosphere more appealing than summer heat. Many places feature live music on weekends.
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks visits
While sugaring season is spring, November is when local sugarhouses sell their year's production and you can learn about the process without crowds. Located 5.6 km (3.5 miles) north of downtown, this working farm offers maple tastings, outdoor sculpture trail, and views across the valley. The farm store stocks products you won't find elsewhere.
Lost Nation Theater performances
November typically features the start of their winter season with productions in the intimate City Hall Arts Center. This professional regional theater punches above its weight with quality productions in a 150-seat venue. The cozy indoor setting is perfect for November evenings when you want culture without battling weather.
Mad River Valley skiing preparation trips
By late November, Sugarbush and Mad River Glen ski areas 32 km (20 miles) south often have early season operations if weather cooperates. Even if slopes aren't fully open, visiting the valley to scope terrain, check equipment rentals, and book holiday season lodging makes sense. The drive through the valley is scenic regardless of snow conditions.
November Events & Festivals
Vermont Harvest Festival
Early November typically features harvest celebrations at local farms and the Capitol City Farmers Market. While not a single organized event, multiple venues host special harvest-themed markets, cider pressings, and seasonal food tastings. Check individual farm schedules as dates vary year to year.
Thanksgiving holiday weekend
The Thursday-Sunday around US Thanksgiving sees locals return home and some businesses close, but also features special restaurant menus and the start of holiday shopping season downtown. Worth noting that accommodations book up with visiting families, so reserve early if traveling this specific weekend.