| And while suburban sprawl and the rise of "big box" retailers have homogenized so many American cities, Vermont's downtowns remain among the most interesting and exciting urban spaces in the country. Cities like Bennington, Brattleboro, Burlington, Middlebury, and Montpelier, are pedestrian-friendly and full of unique shops and attractions. In Rutland, Springfield, and St. Johnsbury, the state's architectural masterpieces are on display and in active use.
And best of all, Vermont's downtowns are vibrant, living places. From concerts on the town green, to locally owned shops, to delicious dining at the local restaurant, you will realize that Vermont's downtowns are like none other. Today these traditional centers are being actively preserved and revitalized. The Vermont Downtown Program provides technical and financial assistance to ensure that the urban cores of Vermont's most important cities and towns remain viable and vibrant. Beginning in 2002 the state has given special recognition to 17 downtowns: Barre, Bellows Falls, Bennington, Brandon, Brattleboro, Burlington, Middlebury, Montpelier, Morrisville, Poultney, Randolph, Rutland, Springfield, St. Johnsbury, Vergennes, Windsor, and Winooski. | 
