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Welcome to the Vernon Cultural District

The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development approves Vernon's application to create a cultural district in Rockville

The Vernon Cultural District was created Aug. 21, 2025 after years of hard work by Vernon's Cultural District Advisory Board and town staff.

Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne, joined by Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz and others, gathered at the New England Civil War Museum inside Vernon town hall to celebrate the approval of Vernon’s application to establish a state-recognized cultural district in the Rockville section of town. Vernon's cultural district is the 14th cultural district in the state and the first in Tolland County.

The district encompasses downtown Vernon and extends from Pitney Park on the east to Saxony Park on the west, Talcott Park to the north and Henry Park to the south. It includes the New England Civil War Museum and Research Center, the New England Motorcycle Museum, several historic structures, and arts-focused businesses.

A Cultural District Advisory Board, consisting of leaders in Vernon arts community, town staff and others, oversees and promotes the district.

For more information about the Vernon Cultural District, click here.

About the Vernon Cultural District

Why create a cultural district in Vernon?

The purpose of creating a Cultural District in the downtown Rockville section of Vernon is to:

Create a framework that increases coordination and collaboration among arts and cultural organizations (public, private and non-profit) enhancing the many artistic and cultural activities in our downtown;

Build a vibrant arts and cultural community that attracts artists, cultural organizations and businesses, improving quality of life and making our community more attractive for the benefit of residents and visitors alike;

Contribute to economic development by attracting artists and cultural enterprises; encouraging business and job development; establishing the Cultural District as a tourist destination; preserving and reusing historic buildings; enhancing property values and fostering local cultural development;

Create a sense of place in our downtown, thereby strengthening its image and identity as a primary destination for individuals and families seeking performing arts, entertainment, dining, art, concerts, community events, and downtown shopping.

The Vernon Cultural District

Map of the Vernon Cultural District