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How did we choose our Main Streets Across America? Here are the criteria we used when we studied classic main streets from around the country.

  1. Strong local business presence
  • Are there independent and/or owner-operated businesses that have been present on the street for more than 25 years? 50 years? 100 years?
  • Do businesses strongly support the community and “do good” for others?
  • Is the street historically significant to the development of a particular product, company or industry?
    • First store location for a large well-known retailer
    • Place where a product was invented or first sold
    • Key role in the industrial revolution
  • Key attributes of commerce and economic development (current or historical)
    • Railroad or trolley tracks; served as an old stagecoach or pony express route
    • Waterway (canal, river, shipping port)
    • Strong local business association; chamber of commerce
  1. Community Gathering Spots / scenic vistas
  • Does the street have one or more of the following:
    • A favorite local coffee shop, barber shop or other spot (even a sidewalk or street corner) where people greet one another or gather to chat about the news of the day
    • Town hall; local or state government buildings
    • Town common; Band shell
    • Meeting halls for social or fraternal organizations
    • School campuses
    • Boardwalk; walking path or bike path
    • Parks, playgrounds or recreation area; community gardens; sitting/viewing area
    • Public art (sculptures, murals, unique architectural designs)
  1. Celebrations of history and traditions/Reflections of civic pride
    1. Parades; community events; festivals
    2. Farmers markets; craft fairs
    3. Monuments; statues; historical markers; flags or street banners on display
    4. Evokes a sense of nostalgia
    5. Street, buildings or landmarks named after noteworthy citizens or listed on the national register of historic places
    6. Is the street the location of a significant historic event? (political, social, cultural)
  2. Diverse social and cultural events and activities
    1. Ethnic, Multi-cultural, multi-generational organizations and activities
    2. Several different denominations of churches or places of worship
    3. Diverse businesses and business owners
    4. Theatres; museums; summer concerts; public performance
    5. Organizations and activities that create a strong sense of community and “do good” for others