If you want to make your city better, you have to know what already makes it great. Many mid-sized American cities are seeking to restore lost glory after decades of population loss and economic decline. Take Rochester, New York, a Rust Belt City finally stabilizing after many challenging decades.

What's great about Rochester? Growing up in Rochester, you always hear about the world-class colleges and universities, the highly-skilled workforce, and of course the "Garbage Plate." But an often overlooked asset is Rochester’s stock of great urban neighborhoods.

Neighborhoods like Park Avenue, Neighborhood of the Arts, and Grove Place offer the kinds of dynamic, walkable, mixed-use environments that are now in high demand. Let’s take a look at what we can learn from three of Rochester’s best neighborhoods.

Park Avenue

Situated east of downtown, Park Avenue is a winding, tree-lined street that weaves together a neighborhood known for its specialty shops, sidewalk cafes, and bustling street life.

What’s great: Park Avenue offers one of the most vibrant and walkable experiences in Rochester. There are people walking on the sidewalks, eating at cafes, perusing shops, and sitting on front porches. A visit on any given Saturday speaks for itself: Park Avenue is the kind of place where people like spending time.