Downtown and Main Street

Brattleboro's Main Street is one of the more lively downtown strips in rural New England — independent bookshops, natural food stores, used record shops, ethnic restaurants, and art galleries occupy buildings that would be empty in most comparable small American cities. The town's progressive reputation and relatively low rents have attracted artists and independent business owners for decades.

The Saturday farmers' market, held on the grounds behind the Museum, draws the largest crowds in the region during the growing season from May to November. The monthly Gallery Walk on the first Friday evening of each month opens studios and galleries across the downtown. The town also has a strong live music scene anchored by the Vermont Jazz Center and various venues along Main Street.

things to do neighbourhood
A story
In the 1990s, Brattleboro gained unexpected fame when two generations of local nudists exercised their right, under Vermont law, to appear in public without clothing. The practice eventually sparked a town ordinance, but not before Brattleboro became nationally known as the bare-it-all Vermont town. The downtown has since settled back into its usual identity as the most cosmopolitan small city in the state.