If you thought Saratoga Springs was only known for the Saratoga Race Track or SPAC think again – it’s now been named as having one of the top 10 main streets in the country.
Broadway in Saratoga has been named 7th best main street in the entire nation by USA Today’s 10Best.
The complete top 10 list is:
- Emporia, Kansas
- Howell, Michigan
- McMinnville, Oregon
- Staunton, Virginia
- Ogden, Utah
- Franklin, Tennessee
- Saratoga Springs, New York
- Eureka Springs, Arkansas
- Bath, Maine
- Georgetown, Texas
Aspects of the main street taken into consideration were the architecture, the sense of history, how many locally-owned businesses are on the street, and community-focused spots.
While many of the cities on the list have a Victorian era vibe, Saratoga was in part selected for its Colonial Revivial and Beaux-Arts architecture.
Historic buildings, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants were also mentioned for their contributions to this designation, along with the wide sidewalk benches excellent for people-watching.
Experts in the field of main streets were chosen to determine 20 initial nominees, and the top 10 winners were voted from there; experts included professionals like Patrice Frey, President and CEO of National Main Street Center.
The other 10 cities that made the top 20 but couldn’t quite squeeze into the final cut were:
- Alexandria, Virginia
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Dahlonega, Georgia
- Galena, Illinois
- Greenville, South Carolina
- Key West, Florida
- Port Townsend, Washington
- Provincetown, Massachusetts
- Silver City, New Mexico
It is certainly wonderful to see Saratoga nationally recognized for one of its attractions that many of us probably take for granted.
What’s your favorite spot on Broadway?
Sources:
- USA Today: Best Main Street
