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Ivana De Domenico

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Main Street America: America’s Most Charming Main Streets

May 4, 2017 by Ivana De Domenico

Ivana De Domenico- Main Street America

Sixty years ago, just about every town in America, small and large, had a distinctive Main Street characterized by department stores, Mom and Pop shops, movie theaters, soda fountains, and  general stores like Five and Dimes. The Main Street of today may look a little different than that of years past, and even though towns across America have seen a decline in business overall due to the rise of shopping malls, which then gave way to online shopping, Main streets, for the time being, are here to stay.

According to Harrisonburg, Virginia resident Eddie Bumbaugh, “During the decades of the 1970s to 1990s, the downtown district underwent significant deterioration, vacancies, and economic challenges, as was the case with many communities around the country.” There has been a concerted effort, over the last decade, however, to restore deteriorating Main Streets to their former glory. As shopping malls shut their doors, becoming massive concrete ghost towns, we are seeing a return to traditional values with a resurgence in Main Streets across the nation.

Here are just a few of the most charming Main Streets in America, compiled from Travel & Leisure, Fodor’s Travel, and the Great American Main Street Awards. This summer, if you’re looking for something to do, why not drive to your nearest Main Street, or one of the ones on this list if you’re up for a road trip, and take a leisurely stroll down the idyllic streets lined with boutique shops and family-owned restaurants? You could easily spend a whole day in one of these towns if you slow down and take the time to savor their distinctive charm.

1. Ann Arbor, Michigan

Much of Ann Arbor’s downtown activity is due to its being a college town, with long-term residents sharing the streets with University of Michigan students who make up more than a third of the population. Being a college town serves Ann Arbor well, as its breweries, art galleries, and retail shops never lack for business.

2. Saratoga Springs, New York

In stark contrast to the clogged, overcrowded streets of New York City, closed in by towering skyscrapers, Saratoga Springs offers a welcoming retreat for New Yorkers. Its main thoroughfare, Broadway Avenue, is the quintessential image of a Main Street, lined with small businesses, flowerbeds, benches, and trees strung with twinkling lights.

3. York, Pennsylvania

You may be surprised to find a small town in central, PA on a list of the greatest Main Streets in America, but York has come a long way in its efforts to revitalize its downtown since its last department store closed in 1978 and the town fell into neglect. Now, York hosts a monthly First Friday where stores and restaurants stay open late, with special events and discounts, to attract visitors. Nearly all of the late Victorian and Classical Revival style historic buildings have been restored.

4. Galena, Illinois

Chicago may be the star attraction in Illinois, but just three hours outside the metropolis, Galena provides a welcoming return to the Main Streets of years past. The downtown businesses are housed in brick mid-19th century storefronts and include antique shops, restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and even an old-fashioned ice cream parlour with more than 40 flavors to choose from. A trolley departing from Main Street and taking riders out to local wineries completes this charming small town.

5. Dahlonega, Georgia

Dahlonega is one of the Great American Main Street Awards three 2016 winners. Located just 65 miles north of Atlanta, this town’s Main Street won for its walkable downtown, gourmet restaurants, unique shops, and one-of-a-kind Southern hospitality. Although the town has a population of just 6,000, more than a million people visit Dahlonega each year.

Top Winter Towns to Visit This Season

December 20, 2016 by Ivana De Domenico

Top Winter Towns to Visit This Season

As the polar vortex is rapidly approaching, you can bet that snow is coming along the way. Winter time is a beautiful time to take a walk in the crisp, quiet air or even enjoy the views through the window, cozied up by a fireplace. Bundle up your coats, because these are the most beautiful winter towns in the U.S. to add to your winter travel list.

Stowe, Vermont

There’s no better place to relax and play in the frigid dead of winter than in Stowe. Known as one of the top towns in the New England area for winter fun, Stowe offers a variety of options such as multiple ski slopes, dog sledding, ice fishing, and ice skating. If you’re looking to take in the dazzling views of winter through the glass, there are a variety of indoor options available as well, such as resorts & spas, indoor rock climbing, shopping, and cabin rentals. This is your ultimate destination for making the most of your winter.

stowe vt

Stowe, VT

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge offers over 300 inches of snow each year, hence known as the best town for hitting the slopes. However, this town is known as one of the top tourist towns in the state. The town is known for its mining history and artistic winter sculptures. It is also very well loved for its luxury hotels and spas, dining, and outdoor fun. Breckenridge offers the real experience of a winter wonderland.

Breckenridge, CO

Breckenridge, CO

Bend, Oregon

There is no better place to get your winter hiking experience in than Bend, OR. The town gets less than 30 inches of snow, but the slopes are made ready for your ultimate ski/snowboarding experience. After hitting the slopes, climb down to mainland to enjoy dry fun of dining, shopping, and relaxation through Oregon’s nature. Don’t forget your snow boots, because you’ll want to experience the fascinating trails that the State has to offer. If you’re a fan of fresh, cool winter air, then this is the place for you.

Bend, OR

Bend, OR

Ketchum, Idaho

Ketchum is known for having the world’s largest snow making machine, and olympic ice skating practices. They’re also known for their extravagant holiday season where you’ll want to spend your whole day outside (don’t forget about the amazing Fireworks show). If you’re looking to get your adrenaline rushing, Ketchum offers Heli-skiing and is a must try for those with skiing skills. Don’t forget to check out the town’s most famous, family-owned restaurant, Vintage.

Ketchum, ID

Ketchum, ID

Ogunquit, Maine

For the most significant winter wonderland experience, Ogunquit is a great experience. Known as a tourist town during the summer months, experiencing the ocean in the dead of winter is a beautiful sight. With the lower winter prices, you can support the local arts and unique shopping experiences of the town’s winter season. The local holiday festivities will allow you to relax through the hustle and bustle of the winter season, while experiencing the local holiday cheer.

Marginal Way Beach in Ogunsit, ME

Marginal Way Beach in Ogunquit, ME

Ivana De Domenico

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