Brattleboro, Vermont

Brattleboro is a town in Windham County, southeastern Vermont, with a population over 12,000 residents. It is the first major town over the Vermont border on Interstate 91, and thus a popular weekend getaway among wealthy New York and Connecticut tourists. The town largely rests in what is known as the Connecticut River Valley and is situated along the Connecticut River, at the mouth of the West River. Along the eastern edge is the Connecticut River and to the North, West, and South are an extensive network of hills and mountains. The town’s most densely populated area is downtown at the very bottom of the valley. Because of the area’s very hilly terrain, and relatively little flat land, residents have had to build houses practically on top of each other and on steep grades. This topography has helped to create a special urban atmosphere.Due to its close proximity to other east coast cities, Brattleboro’s ethic population comprises 3.4% of the total population, which is considered decidedly high for a predominantly white state. This large ethnic influence has given Brattleboro the most diverse establishments and institutions of any city in Vermont.

Beyond the major sections of the town listed above are what is known to locals as the “outskirts of Brattleboro”. These areas have a decidedly untouched rural feel with very little housing development and boast the last few farms left in Brattleboro after the collapse of the dairy industry in the 1970’s. At its peak Brattleboro had over 170 farms and now less than 10 are left even though Brattleboro is the headquarters of the Holstein Association.

Brattleboro offers a mix of a rural atmosphere and urban amenities such as a large number of hotels for visitors. Notable local restaurants include Capers, Peter Havens, 39 Main, Max’s, the superlative T.J. Buckley’s and the Metropolis Wine bar which has martinis and an extensive wine list. A local, affordable favorite is the Chelsea Royal Diner, where locals can get a “two-dolla-holla,” a $2 breakfast special early in the morning. There is also a “creamie” (soft serve ice cream) stand, which is crowded every summer night. Also noteworthy is Top Of The Hill BBQ, offering a wide array of grill-centric menu items such as pulled pork, ribs, and more interesting combinations (ie, a burger with grilled onions and peppers, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing).

Brattleboro is a host to a number of art galleries and stores including Vermont Artisan Design, the largest store of original artworks in the area. The Brattleboro Food Cooperative, a natural foods store and deli holds the claim of being the state’s first certified organic retailer.