Blu-PointeCharming Enclaves, Steeped in Character, Renew Themselves with Craft Breweries, Restaurants and Shops

Orange County, N.Y. – If you haven’t recently explored the downtowns of Orange County, N.Y., now is the perfect time to see what you have been missing.

Orange County, N.Y.'s downtowns are vibrant hubs of classic charm and modern allure. These picturesque enclaves, adorned with preserved architecture and quaint storefronts, are brimming with unique treasures. Discover an array of restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream parlors, and independent stores offering one-of-a-kind crafts, antiques, used books and artworks. From Port Jervis to Middletown to Newburgh, these downtowns are experiencing a renaissance, featuring new craft beverage hotspots, an innovative taco restaurant, a sweets shop transformed into an Italian eatery, and much more.

“Everywhere you look, there’s something new to discover in our charming downtowns!” said Amanda Dana, Director of Orange County Tourism & Film. “Even as these neighborhoods evolve, they maintain their classic American downtown character. The treasures you’ll find, the great coffee and craft beverages, the rich history, the friendly shopkeepers and residents, and the unique sense of place in each community – they’re all reasons to pick Orange County for your next getaway.”

View a video celebrating Orange County’s downtowns here.

New businesses open as more people are drawn to Orange County, which has seen steady growth in population over the years: 407,500 residents now, up from 385,000 just five years ago, according to U.S. Federal Reserve data.

Middletown, as one example, has seen various new downtown gems in that time. Equilibrium Brewery moved to its current location in 2019, a stone’s throw from the downtown art deco Paramount Theatre, where people gather for movies and live shows. Late last year, a department store, New Middletown, revived a building once occupied by Tompkins Dry Goods. A growing diversity of dining options include a wine bar and Vietnamese, Korean and Spanish restaurants.

New restaurants and businesses have sprouted along the Heritage Trail, a 19-mile path that weaves through several communities, connecting the downtowns of Middletown, Goshen, Chester and Monroe as well as scenic attractions. The trail, following the former Erie Railroad main line, is ideal for travelling from downtown to downtown, discovering new places to shop and eat.

Port Jervis’ revival began several years ago. Among its new businesses was the Fox N Hare Brewing Company, which opened at 46-48 Main St. in 2018. The popular spot did more than occupy a vacant building; it saved and revitalized a structure that had been decaying. The downtown now is being energized with a $10 million New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant funding nine projects. They include housing and commercial development in new and renovated buildings, streetscape enhancements and park improvements.

“The nine projects selected seek to build on the beauty and opportunities of the scenic Delaware River and surrounding mountains and the downtown’s historic charm by creating a multi-generational and technologically innovative downtown that is served by different modes of transportation, walkable, economically diverse and climate sustainable,” the state said in its announcement of the grants.

Port Jervis and its downtown will also benefit from the Orange County Land Trust’s “Save Orange County’s Last Wilderness” campaign, which will preserve a 35,000-acre region in the western end of the county. Enhancements there are expected to increase recreational opportunities, including 50 miles of additional trails, in an area popular with hikers, cyclists, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Newburgh has been a visitor hotspot for some time. The Newburgh Brewing Company became Orange County’s first brewery when it opened with views of the Hudson River in 2012. This past January, one of the downtown’s newest draws, Beso Taco Bar, opened next to mainstay restaurant Blue Pointe. Beso offers imaginative variations of the classic Mexican favorite, including roasted duck, charcoal chicken and swordfish a la brasa.

The village of Montgomery, with 3,800 residents, has invested $3.4 million in downtown improvements in recent years to amplify its considerable charm, including slate sidewalk pavers, granite curbs and a new senior center. Montgomery was one of two communities to receive a highly competitive $4.5 million “Foundation” grant from the state, announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul last February, to advance those efforts. Projects identified for the grant “will improve connectivity among the Village’s downtown parks and green spaces, improve streetscape safety and walkability, preserve historic structures, enhance the gateways into the community and improve wayfinding, signage and branding.”

The other grant was given to Highland Falls, another picturesque hamlet, which hopes to entice visitors to pause for a while on the way to the nearby U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

“Downtown Highland Falls is a small, walkable area with small buildings, housing amenities including barbershops, an ice-cream parlor, several historic churches, an Irish bar, a Mexican restaurant, and more offerings for residents and visitors,” the village said in its application for the grant. Projects identified for the funds include traffic flow and safety enhancements, main street façade renovations, branding and marketing and expanded access to the waterfront.

The enhancements and new businesses add to charms that have long been known by locals and others. Lovers of unique and handmade items flock to Sugar Loaf, a hamlet of artists artisans and independent shops. Downtowns in Warwick, Goshen and other communities each have their unique offerings that make a visit worthwhile.

“Come and explore all of our inviting, walkable downtowns,” Dana said. “These havens perfectly complement to our expansive farms, orchards and breathtaking landscapes. Everywhere you look, you'll discover a blend of classic charm and fresh experiences, delectable cuisine, and plenty of fabulous accommodations for your stay.”

About Orange County Tourism & Film

Orange County Tourism & Film, based in Goshen, N.Y., is the county’s tourism and film production headquarters and a participant in the I LOVE NY program. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging, events and film resources can be found at www.pickocny.com. Additionally, a fun, free, 60-page travel guide is available for digital download at pickocny.com/travel-guide/.

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Photo: Blue Pointe

For more information, contact:
J.P. McGuirk
Focus Media, Inc.
845-576-2212
jpmcguirk@focusmediausa.com