Brattleboro and Burlington Chosen in Top 25 Arts Destinations Poll

MONTPELIER – Two Vermont cities are among the Top Arts Destinations in AmericanStyle magazine’s annual readers’ poll. Burlington and Brattleboro were named in the 25 Small Cities category (populations of up to 100,000). Santa Fe, New Mexico took the top spot on the list which also included Boulder, CO, Chapel Hill, NC, Key West, FL and Carmel, CA.

The 12th annual poll showcases the nation’s small, medium and large cities that roll out the red carpet for art tourists and cultural travelers. Unique performance venues, premier galleries and year-round festivals are among the reasons readers selected these Vermont communities.

“I’m delighted for both Burlington and Brattleboro and not at all surprised at their selection,” said Alex Aldrich, the Executive Director of the Vermont Arts Council.

“Frankly, I am surprised that only two Vermont cities were named. My hope is that people visiting as a result of this article will discover that they have to return again and again to experience all the art and culture that Vermont has to offer.”

"Remember the vital roles played by artists during the last recession," said Wendy Rosen, publisher of AmericanStyle, a lifestyle magazine for art enthusiasts, collectors and travelers. "They moved in to dying Main Streets, shuttered factories and warehouse districts, and converted them into galleries and art scenes. Their murals, outdoor sculpture and other public art enchanted tourists and helped spark new investment. Artists led the way then, and they are leading the way now."

"Tough economic times also make consumers conscious of where their products come from," Ms. Rosen added. "Art lovers know they can make a positive impact by buying from local galleries and local artists, so their dollars recycle in the community and support homegrown talent. We all know that art and handcraft galleries are among the few remaining places where you can find authentic, made-in-America gifts and art products."

With so many Vermont communities to choose from, arts lovers will be itching to hit the road this summer. The diversity of cultural options for all interests will provide Vermont vacationers and "staycationers" dozens of delightful destinations within easy driving distance.