In the past few decades, the expansion of online shopping and large malls on the outskirts of towns has led to a significant decline in popularity of the traditional main street. However, dotted around the country are hidden gem main streets that have retained their unique character and charm, beloved by locals and those visiting from out of town.
The website Present.com carried out a survey of 3,000 respondents to uncover the best main streets for Christmas shopping in America – places where you can find everything from boutique stores and artisan shops to historic storefronts.
The top 10 were as follows:
#1 Main Street, Aurora, New York
Top of the list was Main Street in Aurora, New York state. Locals described it as a ‘quaint escape brimming with historic charm and holiday spirit’ – think the kind of street you might find in one of the scenes of It’s a Wonderful Life. Nestled in the Finger Lakes region, its boutique shops and artisan stores are the perfect places to find those unique, one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts. During the festive season, it sparkles with twinkling lights, while lampposts are clad in wreaths, which makes for a truly magical destination for holiday shoppers.
#2 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York
The second most popular nationally was Main Street, Cooperstown, also in the state of New York. While Cooperstown is famous for its baseball heritage – it’s home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame – its Main Street transforms into a veritable winter wonderland during the holidays. Storefronts are decorated with artificial (or sometimes real) snow, candlelight glows softly through windows, and the whole thing has a very Dickensian feel.
#3 Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania
At number 3 is Main Street, New Hope, in Pennsylvania. This place is a vibrant hub of creativity and holiday spirit. Here you’ll find eclectic art galleries, quirky boutiques, and artisan shops – which makes it a treasure trove for unique Christmas finds.
#4 Main Street, Mystic, Connecticut
The Main Street in Mystic, Connecticut, really captures the spirit of New England Christmas. Here you’ll find a range of specialty shops, bookstores, local eateries and eclectic boutiques which actually make gift-hunting a joy, rather than a chore. Once you’ve finished shopping, you can stroll by Mystic River and check out its iconic drawbridge.
#5 Ocean Avenue, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Number 5 on the list adds a bit of sunshine to the festive season: it’s Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea in California. Already quite the upscale town, its main street features European-inspired architecture and elegant boutiques, making a must-visit for luxury Christmas shopping sprees.
#6 Genesee Street, Skaneateles, New York
Genesee Street in Skaneateles is quite Dickensian, as every year the town actually hosts a Dickens-themed Christmas celebration, complete with carolers and costumed characters. Set against the backdrop of Skaneateles Lake, the street’s mix of charming boutiques and stores radiates festive cheer.
#7 Broad Street, Nevada City, California
Broad Street in Nevada City, California, makes you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, thanks to the city’s gold rush-era architecture and Victorian Christmas celebrations. Occasional carolers and twinkling lights add to the festive atmosphere.
#8 Main Street, Lake Placid, New York
The Main Street, Lake Placid placed in 8th overall. As well as the ideal place to shop, Lake Placid – which hosted the Winter Olympics in 1980 – also boasts breathtaking mountain views. Along Main Street you’ll find an array of local boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and charming coffee shops where you can enjoy the festive decor and snow-dusted scenery while finding gifts to suit every taste.
#9 Main Street, Tarrytown, New York
Another New York State entry, Tarrytown’s historic Main Street simply oozes small-town charm, but with a sophisticated side. Here you’ll find unique shops, antique stores, and gourmet markets, ideal for more thoughtful gifts. Additionally, breathtaking views of the Hudson River further add to the overall experience.
#10 Park Avenue, Winter Park, Florida
Rounding up the top 10 is Park Avenue in Winter Park, Florida. The tree-lined streets feature many beautiful independent stores, and outdoor coffee shops so you can sit and soak up the sunshine in between purchases.
Five North Carolina main streets were included among the nation’s top 150 for Christmas shopping:
#14 Main Street, Hendersonville
Hendersonville’s Main Street is perfect for holiday shopping, offering local boutiques, artisan crafts, and seasonal decor in a welcoming mountain setting.
#31 Middle Street, New Bern
Middle Street in New Bern is perfect for holiday shopping, with local boutiques, historic charm, and a welcoming atmosphere that make it ideal for Christmas.
#33 Main Street, Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock’s Main Street is a magical holiday destination, with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and festive decorations that make Christmas shopping warm and inviting.
#40 Broad Street, Edenton
Edenton’s Broad Street captures the holiday spirit with unique shops, seasonal decor, and a cozy small-town atmosphere perfect for Christmas shopping.
#65 Front Street, Beaufort
Beaufort’s Front Street captures coastal holiday charm with unique shops, maritime gifts, and twinkling lights that make for a festive shopping experience.
