just visited this past weekend - had certain expectations of the town based on CC reviews of Wes and the town. Specifically, the word "gritty" has been a commonly used descriptor. Well, hubby and I were pleasantly surprised, if not downright shocked - this town is an absolute hidden gem imo.
The diversity of shops/restaurants, with walking paths along a scenic riverfront, creates more character and a more energetic vibe/character than most of the other NESCAC towns, notably Williamstown, which had an almost antiseptic feel on the 100 yard retail strip - which certainly may appeal to some, but not us. As residents of the Garden State, I would favorably compare Middletown most closely to Montclair (more affluent in general, but with a similar overall diversification socioeconomically) , and to a lesser extent parts of Summit / Ridgewood. You can get a nice steak in any of these towns, as well as authentic empanadas or Korean bulgogi.
As a real estate investor, my eye quickly notices the availability (or lack thereof) of retail/commercial space - and I didn't notice one material empty space from the boutique hotel (on the south end), down to the diner at the north end of Main Street. Also, a good amt of construction going on, and not one fast food chain.
For those in the know, has this revitalization been recent?
The diversity of shops/restaurants, with walking paths along a scenic riverfront, creates more character and a more energetic vibe/character than most of the other NESCAC towns, notably Williamstown, which had an almost antiseptic feel on the 100 yard retail strip - which certainly may appeal to some, but not us. As residents of the Garden State, I would favorably compare Middletown most closely to Montclair (more affluent in general, but with a similar overall diversification socioeconomically) , and to a lesser extent parts of Summit / Ridgewood. You can get a nice steak in any of these towns, as well as authentic empanadas or Korean bulgogi.
As a real estate investor, my eye quickly notices the availability (or lack thereof) of retail/commercial space - and I didn't notice one material empty space from the boutique hotel (on the south end), down to the diner at the north end of Main Street. Also, a good amt of construction going on, and not one fast food chain.
For those in the know, has this revitalization been recent?