Welcome to Downtown Bennington

Downtown Information

Bennington has a thriving Downtown area, with shopping, dining, events and services - there really is something for everyone in downtown Bennington.

If you're planning a visit to our Downtown area, you'll want to visit our business directory, which is divided into four categories; shopping, dining, services, arts & entertainment and lodging. We also have a downtown events calendar where you can find out what's happening Downtown to help you plan your visit.

If you can't find something you're looking for, email us and we'll help you find what you're looking for.

Downtown Welcome Center

Be sure to visit the Downtown Welcome Center where you can browse through our brochure rack, review our large area map or just relax in an armchair as you plan your stay in Bennington.

Situated at the corner of South Main Street (Route 7) and Elm Streets, the Dowtntown Welcome Center is open from 9-5, Monday through Saturday.

Located in a National Register Historic Building, the Welcome Center was a blacksmith shop and includes the original fireplace. It also served the Bennington Police Department for a time as their headquarters. Inside you'll find an information desk, staffed by a trained docent, providing personal service for your visit to Bennington.

The Downtown Welcome Center also serves as a gallery with changing exhibits featuring artists from the Bennington area. Adjacent is the new memorial garden that can be enjoyed by all.

Better Bennington Corporation

The Better Bennington Corporation (BBC) is the lead organization which coordinates public and private efforts to maintain Downtown Bennington as the commercial and cultural heart of the community.

The BBC utlizes the National Main Street Program Four Point Approach of Downtown revitalization. These four points mirror the standing Committees that accomplish much of the work and progress in Downtown. These are Design, Economic Development, Marketing & Promotions and Organization. The Downtown program also has a seperate Business Recruitment and a Business Retention. As a result of the active arts community in Bennington an Arts & Entertainment committee has also been established.

For detailed information on any Committee and their activities, click on the Committee name.

Each of these seven areas strengthens the Downtown economy, fostering the continued use of existing commercial buildings while promoting and preserving Downtown Bennington's unique assets, charm and history.

Downtown Bennington is also a Vermont Designated Downtown, making it eligible for various state programs and grants.

We encourgae you to look around, find out more about our Downtown area and even consider becoming a member of the BBC. Membership brings many benefits not only to you, but to our Downtown revitalization efforts.

Please also consider joining our e-newsletter mailing list. It's easy, and we guarantee no spam, just great information about Downtown Bennington.