Just a few miles to our north is Middletown, a city well known for its history rooted in steel and paper mills. Many of the historic buildings have recently found new life as unique shops and amazing restaurants, bringing a new vitality to the downtown area.
“We are a city of makers,” says Chris Xeil Lyons, economic development director for the city of Middletown. “Middletown is home to numerous, authentic independent businesses. Whether you are looking for a family outing, mural art, local distilled bourbon or a fun night out, we have something for everyone.”
After exploring the city, we compiled our list of ten things to see and do in the revitalized downtown area of Middletown this summer.
1 Pendleton Art Center (PAC)
The PAC serves as both workspaces and storefronts for close to 50 local artists. Creativity abounds with art studios focused on painting, photography, custom clothing, fiber art, quilting, glass art, jewelry and much more. Exhibitions, events and classes are also available. Hours vary, so check their website. 1105 Central Avenue, PendletonArtCenter.com
2 Mz Jade’s Soul Food
Mz Jade’s offers homemade southern dishes "Flavored with God's Favor and Highly Seasoned with Love." Best known for her seafood weekends which include crab legs, shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob and a hard-boiled egg—all bathed in a buttery sauce. Other favorites include ribs, chicken wings, pork chops and fresh homemade side dishes. 6 South Broad Street, MzJadesSoulFood.com
3 White Dog Distillery
The distillery was started by West Chester resident and retired chemical engineer Mike Dranschak and his wife, Debbie. Their dog Kody serves as the inspiration behind the labeling for the distillery’s smooth line of handcrafted spirits. Their line of bourbon, agave, gin, rum and vodka is available for purchase or can be enjoyed in cocktails served at their indoor bar or outdoor patio. 1357 Central Avenue, WhiteDogDistillingCompany.com
4 BUZZZ at Gracie’s
BUZZZ is the newly opened summer patio concept from Gracie’s, a restaurant known for providing delicious big city comfort food since 2017. The spacious patio offers a neighborhood feel in a fun, urban setting. Some favorite dishes include Gracie’s meatloaf, crispy pimento cheese balls, charred Brussel sprouts and seared ahi tuna, to name a few. 1131 Central Avenue, GraciesMiddletown.com
5 Bad Ass American Bar, Bistro, Biking & Boating (BAABS)
Summer is the perfect time for a scenic kayak tour of the Great Miami River. BAABS offers their rentals and livery service for two, six or ten-mile kayak trips. They also have a full-service bistro and bar with patio seating near the river. Advance reservations are strongly recommended during their peak summer season. 2401 Carmody Blvd., BAABSEnt.com
6 BeauVerre Riordan Stained Glass Studio
Established in 1838, they are the oldest continuously operating stained glass studio in the US. They create custom pieces for homes, businesses and places of worship. Their studio is part gallery and part museum, with tours available. They also offer classes, an event space, restoration and repair services.1054 Central Avenue, BeauVerre.net
7 Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop
The shop offers a tempting assortment of candy, ranging from contemporary favorites to classic hard-to-find items. They also feature glass bottled craft soda, homemade ice cream and unique gifts. A visit to Grandpa Joe’s is like traveling back in time—you’ll feel like a kid in a candy store. 1212 Central Avenue, GrandpaJoesCandyShop.com
8 Sorg Opera House
Don’t let the word ”opera” mislead you, the Sorg offers rock concerts, magicians, musicals and more. Upcoming theatrical productions include Children of Eden, Drinking Habits 2 and Tuck Everlasting. Finish out the summer with their Blues & Roots Rock Extravaganza 2 on August 13, followed by musical performances by Aja! A Tribute to Steely Dan, Terrapin Flyer and Night Fever—Tribute to the Bee Gees. 63 South Main Street, SorgOperaHouse.org
9 Rolling Mill Brewing Company
Rolling Mill is Ohio’s only dedicated gluten-free brewery. The owners spent years learning how to brew a quality beer that could be enjoyed by people with celiac disease and other gluten intolerances. The result is a line of flavorful and refreshing craft beers that includes American lager, German pilsner, IPA, stout, brown ale and more. 916 1st Avenue, RollingMillBC.com
10 Bourbon’s Craft Kitchen & Bar
Bourbon’s specializes in gourmet street food served with a selection of over 130 whiskeys and craft cocktails. You’ll find unique items like queso poutine fries and pineapple slaw, along with classics like chicken and waffles. Sandwiches are offered with either two steak patties or chicken in styles ranging from “truffle & gouda” to “sweet n’ smoky.” 2231 N. Verity Parkway, BourbonsKitchen.com