This week we are highlighting some amazing downtowns that have not only survived but have retained their charm and flourished in a world of strip malls and e-commerce. Make one of these downtowns a destination on your next vacation, starting your day at the local coffee shop and ending it with a local dinner. Find a new favorite store and meet some friendly people.
Burlington, Vermont- Church Street
The largest city in Vermont, with a population of around 42,500, Burlington is a great place to visit any time of year, especially if you are looking for outdoor recreation activities and independent shopping and dining experiences. The historic downtown is centered around Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian street lined with stores and restaurants. On summer weekends the expansive farmer’s market is a great place to grab a small bite and enjoy the surroundings. The downtown extends toward Lake Champlain, with many opportunities to get on the water, including boat tours and renting a kayak or paddleboard.
We make a point of visiting Frog Hollow (a local art gallery), Common Deer (gifts and essentials for men, women, and home) and Outdoor Gear Exchange (outdoor clothing, gear, and accessories). The Farmhouse Tap & Grill is a great lunch spot. If you are looking for a great steak and a nice bottle of wine, try the Blue Cat Steak & Wine Bar.
Estes Park, Colorado- Elkhorn Avenue
A great place to explore the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Estes Park attracts a wide range of visitors, from outdoor enthusiasts to families on a Western road trip. The downtown area has over 300 shops, a nice assortment of restaurants and cafes, and tour companies for recreational activities. Don’t be surprised if you spot elk, moose, deer, or a bighorn sheep while spending time downtown. Your best chance to see wildlife is during the spring, fall, and winter when the animals move to lower elevations.
Along Elkhorn Avenue you will find a few of our favorite stores, including Earthwood Artisans (local art gallery), Patterson’s Glassworks Studio & Gallery (handmade gift items and decorative pieces) and a local favorite since 1956— Brownfields Souvenirs and Outdoor Gear.
Estes Park has a nice assortment of restaurants and other dining options. We like to start our day at Kind Coffee, visit Penelope’s World-Famous Burgers and Fries after a hike, and end the day at Twin Owls Steakhouse.
Fredericksburg, Texas- Main Street
Located in the Hill Country of Texas, the Fredericksburg historic district is a great place to spend a few days shopping in over 150 stores and choosing from 100 restaurants and over 30 wineries. For seven months of the year, visit the local farmer’s market featuring locally grown vegetables and produce as well as cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and live music.
The downtown history tour is a great way to acquaint yourself with the area, learning about the pioneers and other past residents, including President Lyndon B. Johnson and Admiral Nimitz.
Look for a few of our favorite stores: Artisans, A Texas Gallery (local art gallery), The Rustic Star (casual home and ranch décor), and Farm Haus Antiques (curated home goods and unique finds). We recommend trying both German and barbecue restaurants during your visit. Der Lindenbaum is a local favorite serving authentic German food. And you can’t go wrong with the Texas barbecue at Backwoods BBQ or Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Hall.
Middleburg, Virginia- Washington Street
The small town of Middleburg, Virginia, is just 40 miles outside of Washington DC but retains its old-world character. The town, known as the “nation’s horse and hunt capital,” offers a variety of equestrian activities, historic sites, and local wineries. Middleburg’s historic district is less than a mile long, but it is full of unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries.
Some of our favorite shops are The Christmas Sleigh, (authentic German Christmas gifts and ornaments) and Crème de la Crème (European home goods).
The Red Fox Inn and Tavern gives you an unforgettable dining experience in a historic Inn that was built by George Washington’s first cousin. Common Grounds serves great coffee and has a delicious assortment of sandwiches for lunch.
Santa Fe, New Mexico- Historic District
Santa Fe, New Mexico, boasts the United States’ oldest public building, church, house and neighborhood. It has 10 major museums and some 200 world-class art galleries, making it an art and history lover’s paradise. Downtown Santa Fe is a designated National Historic District with its adobe buildings and Old West feel.
Radiating out from the Palace of the Governors, Santa Fe’s historic downtown features boutiques, Southwestern jewelry shops, art galleries, and many restaurants.
For traditional New Mexican breakfast in a casual atmosphere, try Tia Sophia’s. Located in the historic La Fonda hotel, La Plazuela offers a new world spin on Southwestern cuisine. The Shed is a local institution and is world renowned for its red chile enchiladas.
New Mexico is full of stores and galleries— a few of our favorites that are very unique and can be enjoyed by everyone are New Millennium Fine Art (Native American art), KESHI the Zuni connection (Zuni arts & crafts), and Passementerie (artisan clothing and textiles).
