Downtown Middletown – a Great Place for Kids and Families

Downtown Middletown is becoming such a hip place for dining, nightlife and shopping that it’s easy to forget the really great things for kids around here. When it comes to Middletown, many parents naturally think of R/C theater for movies, KidCity (which should be a staple in every parent’s activity arsenal), and Amato’s (which has such an extraordinary selection of toys, crafts, games and puzzles, not to mention trains that it is always a family favorite), as well they should. But there is so much more to Downtown Middletown than that!

Green Street Arts Center, an initiative of Wesleyan University, provides every student with the opportunity to discover new things about the world and themselves through carefully crafted classes, workshops and lessons.  As one of the only educational organizations offering classes across five disciplines of the arts - Music, Movement, Media, Visual and Drama - Green Street also hosts events, gallery shows, film screenings and recitals. Their after school program is available for grades 1-8 and lets students pursue and discover their passions. They offer arts classes, academic enrichment, an arts school for middle schoolers called junior school, and musical mentoring, which is a great way to learn an instrument.

The Buttonwood Tree is a performing arts and cultural center in Downtown Middletown and offers concerts and shows on a regular basis. In addition, they offer karaoke and plenty of ways to perform, engage with art or just watch others. They have tons of events each month, so check out their calendar online at http://www.buttonwood.org/events/ or plan to join in for an open mic night every Monday at 7:30 pm.

Let your kids explore their creative sides or hone their fine art skills with Middletown Art Academy’s art summer camps and art classes for ages 5-18. Summer camp sessions meet once a day for four consecutive days. Students receive individual instruction and work at their own pace in a non-competitive environment. Many students find their skills progress very quickly in camps because of the steady practice a daily class can offer. For more info and price list call (860)344-0554 or visit them online at middletownartacademy.com.

With lots of open skate times, theme nights and extended hours during school vacation weeks, Middletown Roller Skating Rink is a great choice of activity for kids. Parents can join in or just sit back and watch their kids go round and round. It’s a great way for them to get some exercise in a fun way. For more information, call 860-704-0064.

Vinnie’s Jump and Jive features a Mommy and Me Pre-K Movement class for kids 18 months to 5 years and a parent or care provider. Since toddler and preschool kids are bursting with energy, what better way to get some of it out than by wiggling and giggling together! Kids learn colors, numbers, pretend to be animals and stimulate their brain in ways that is important for these developmental stages in life. For information on the program, contact Vinnie’s at (860) 347-6971, ext. 3777 or vinnies@chc1.com.

NEAT, the North End Action Team, is another great resource for activities for kids and families. With their community music initiative, their new hiking club, and McDonough Garden Club, there is lots for kids and families. Add to that, the North End Farmer’s Market which is a great place to take kids to learn about food, and NEAT is a super resource for families. For information about all that NEAT has to offer, visit their website at neatmiddletown.org.

KidCity is Middletown’s children’s museum, and a fine one at that, drawing visitors from all over Connecticut. With age appropriate activities and plenty for your little ones to explore, it’s a favorite of local moms! The Toddler Sea Caves, reserved for children age two and younger, is a wonderful safe place to let these little ones explore without being trampled by older kids. Plus, there is just so much to occupy the older kids – the Clubhouse, the Video Theater, Musical features, the Clipper Ship, the Farm and more. You’ve got to check it out if you haven’t for some reason yet. For more information, visit www.kidcitymuseum.com or call them at 860-347-0495.

Amato’s is a classic toy store at its finest and that’s why it’s been a Middletown staple for so many years. With a train display on their lower level and toys bursting from its seams, this is a kid’s paradise. Plus, their toy selection is quite different than some of the bigger national name toy stores you’re familiar with. You’ll find a huge selection of model trains, puzzles, crafts and games, plus loads of toys for all ages. It is a must shop in Downtown Middletown. For information, visit their website at http://www.hobbysurplus.com/amatosmiddletown.html or call 860-347-1893.

Russell Library near Downtown Middletown has lots more than books. While its children’s book section offers a huge selection of books for your kids, you’ll also find movies and music to check out, and you can check out the activities and events they offer as well. Age appropriate story times from infants to 5 year olds, craft activities, a gardening group, and even introduction to Kenpo Karate. For information, visit their website at http://www.russelllibrary.org/kids/kids_events_progs.html or call them at 860-347-2528.

Just beyond Downtown Middletown, you’ll also find Oddfellows Playhouse which offers a variety of different classes and opportunities to perform for kids of all ages – and shows your whole family will enjoy, including the annual Children’s Circus of Middletown, for kids ages 8-14. Check out Oddfellows Playhouse’s website for more information at www.oddfellows.org.

Warmer Weather Treats

As warmer weather approaches, our attention inevitably turns to cold treats. From iced coffee to iced cream, frozen and cold treats are refreshing on a sunny day. Thankfully Main Street Middletown has a plentiful assortment of options.

Smoothies and Milkshakes:

• New England Emporium – features homemade smoothies for a cold treat on a warm day. Located inside Main Street Market at 386 Main Street.
• It’s Only Natural Market – hosting a great new juice and smoothie bar with refreshing variety and healthful options. Located inside It’s Only Natural Market at 575 Main Street.
• Javapalooza – While known for its coffees, this hip little cafe also features delicious flavors of milkshakes and smoothies. Located at 330 Main Street.

Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt:

• Lizzy B’s Sweet Celebrations – Carrying Praline’s Own Made Ice Cream and making their own ice cream cakes. Located at 170-8 Main Street.
• Froyoworld – Middletown’s frozen yogurt lounge where you’ll find lots of flavors and loads of toppings to choose from for just $0.49 per ounce. Inside Main Street Market at 386 Main Street.
• Cold Stone Creamery – Creamy Ice Cream and fabulous mix-ins make the flavors exponentially expand. So many choices, you’ll hardly know what to choose.  Located at 100 Riverview Center off Main Street in Middletown.

Iced Coffee:

• Dunkin Donuts – this New England classic naturally features iced coffee all year round. Now located at 423 Main Street.
• Klekolo World Coffee – boasts that any of their amazing coffee drinks are available on ice because they use coffee ice to make sure your coffee doesn’t water down. Located at 181 Court Street, just off of Main Street.
• Javapalooza – while known for countless creative coffees, this quaint café also features classic iced coffees perfect for chilling on a warm day. Located at 330 Main Street.

That's Amore'

While there are boundless options for romantic dining on Main Street, for special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Luce has got it all. Reviews at this Middletown restaurant consistently report superb food, a great atmosphere and exceptional service. For romance, this Tuscan inspired restaurant just might be the place to dine. Their menu offers an array of Italian fare and their wine list boasts wines from around the world. 

A delicious meal at Luce’s followed by a stroll, hand in hand, down Middletown’s Main Street, where warm street lights and cozy coffee shops lend a glow to the city. Main Street was ranked one of America’s most romantic main streets, and will certainly help send feelings of romance up and down her spine. 

While beautiful and unique floral arrangements and bouquets can be found and pre-ordered at one of Main Street’s top end florists, like Capricorn or Wild Orchid, specialty chocolates can also be found at Tschudin Chocolatier. For a high class, love-is-in-the-air Valentine’s date, this date idea has the ooh-la-la factor that will fit the bill.

Valentine's GIft Guide

We know it's hard to find the perfect gift for that special someone; and we've established already that the gift you give should mean something. Chocolates and red roses may be traditional, but finding a gift especially and uniquely for your sweetheart is far better. Here are just a sampling of ideas and specials happening in Downtown Middletown right now. From cupcakes to bicycles, there's no end to the perfect gifts you can find Downtown. Check them out today before Valentine's Day sneaks up on you. 

Overnight Retreat at the Inn at Middletown

Surprise your special one with this remarkable overnight getaway. The package includes an overnight stay for two at the luxurious Inn at Middletown, a chef preferred four course dinner for two, a bottle of champagne either at dinner or in your room, and a complete breakfast for two the next morning. Plus you’ll receive complimentary 24 hour valet service, and late check out (based on availability) – all for $259. Stop in or call to make your reservation today! (860) 854-6300 or (800) 637-9851.

Couples Retreats from Sanditz Travel

If you’d like you take your sweetie away with you for a little vacation, check out what Sanditz Travel has to offer. During the month of February, they are offering a special on Perfectly Paired from American Express vacations, which boast spa treatments, private lessons, poolside cabanas, romantic dinners for two, and more at a selection of carefully chosen, very romantic resorts. Stop in or call Sanditz Travel today for details or to book your couple retreat. (860) 346-5511.

Cupcakes

Everyone loves a cupcake and Middletown is in no short supply of them. Whether you choose to send a single delicious cupcake or a dozen of the sweet treats, this is a great slightly different option from the typical box of chocolate or dozen roses. Cupcakes can be purchased at NoRa’s Cupcakes at the North End of Main Street, where the cupcakes are known to have a cocktail like twist, or you can stop in for selections at Fusion Bakery, Lizzy B’s Sweet Celebrations and even It’s Only Natural where you can find vegan cupcakes. They’re all cupcake-licious.

Jewelry

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, jewelry does typically say a lot. Whether its diamonds or a simple charm bracelet, you pretty much can’t go wrong here. And, in Middletown, your options abound. Stop in at Mallove’s Jewelers or PJ Jewelers, both on Main Street, for an abundance of choices in wide array of price points. Or you can consider some of the other retailers on Main such as Echo Trading and Ladybug Boutique where they’re offering $5 off a purchase of $30 (only if you mention the Downtown Middletown blog), or Lastrina Girls where they feature an array of sparkly accessories as well.

Flowers

Sending the right bouquet can say a lot. Red roses are a common staple of Valentine’s Day, but they’re certainly not your only choice, and the florist of Downtown Middletown are famous for original bouquet designs of high quality flowers. Check out Capricorn Florist or the Wild Orchid and see what they have to offer. They may even have some suggestions of other suitable and romantic arrangements you can order.

Edible Arrangements

Some people just don’t get into flowers. Perhaps it’s an allergy or some other aversion, but regardless, there is an arragement for you. Edible Arrangements on Main Street in Middletown offers unique and edible bouquets that can be picked up or delivered right to your sweetheart. Give them a call at 860-346-1353.

Middlesex Fruitery, also right on Main Street, is another great option serving up specialty foods like cheeses and fruit in gift baskets that will make a great statement as well. They can be reached at 860-346-4372.

Gift of Music

Music IS romance. Romance IS music. So it would stand to reason that music lessons or a new instrument might suit someone’s sweetheart for this Valentine’s Day. For lessons or expert advice purchasing an instrument you cannot go wrong at Middlesex Music Academy on Main Street. Stop in and check the place out.

For the Biker Babes
Here's what Pedal Power has going on: All clothing is 30% off for Valentine's Weekend (Feb 16th & 17th). However, if you purchase similar items for your significant other, you get 40% off. For example, buy a jersey & shorts for yourself, get 30% off. Buy a jersey & shorts for yourself & a jersey & shorts for your significant other, get 40% off all 4 clothing items. There are some restrictions, customers should see our stores for details.

Spa Services

Getting her some spa treatments for Valentine’s Day is sure to be a winner and this year EG Salon is offering a terrific special. Choose any three services for $79. Services included in this special are 30 minute massage, 30 minute facial, 30 minute reiki treatment, warm sugar body scrub, bikini wax, spa pedicure, Shellac manicure, hair conditioning treatment, professional blow out, and make up application. This package makes a perfect gift, but also could be incorporated into the Pampered Princess date very easily. Just be sure to call ahead for reservations at 860-346-7714.

The Pampered Princess - Valentine's Date Idea #4

If you’re date’s idea of a good time is a pedicure and a massage, consider this date that’s full of ideas to pamper your princess.

To invite her on this date, gift wrap a tiara with a formal invitation to be pampered like a princess or send her a custom labeled massage oil to hint at what’s in store. With the many salons and boutiques along Main Street, you could easily accompany her as you indulge her in all her relaxing and pleasurable fantasies. 

A relaxing spa pedicure and manicure with paraffin treatment at Nail City will set the stage and let her know just how much you adore her. Add in a full body massage at EG Salon and it will be a Valentine’s date she will never forget. Right now, EG Salon is even offering a special of three treatments for $79 with options ranging from make up application to 30 minute massages or facials.

Before heading to dinner, stop by Lastrina Boutique and have her select a gorgeous new dress to wear to dinner or to Malloves Jewelers for a sparkly new accessory. 

Then take your princess to a romantic and relaxing dinner. She would enjoy any of the fabulous downtown restaurants, such as Osaka for a Hibachi experience, Forbidden City for gourmet Asian food, or for a romantic and relaxing experience, consider Stella D’Oro where the classic Italian entrees are delicious and the atmosphere is quiet and romantic. 

She’ll truly feel like a princess and never forget you were the one who made her feel that way.

Sexy Salsa - Valentine's Date Idea #3

For a date with lots of heat, plan a sexy salsa date. A thematic invite could include a jar of salsa with chips or even some hot peppers to give her a hint of what to expect for this steamy date.

On your date, you can start by taking her to Puerta Vallarta – the restaurant that is – where the ambiance is distinctively Mexican and the food is outstanding. It was recently named best Mexican restaurant in Middlesex County by Connecticut Magazine. You’ll begin your meal with salsa that’s fantastic and chips that are authentic; and their menu has something for just about everyone. Add some sizzle to your evening and share the Fajitas for Two followed by one of their spectacular desserts like Flan or Fried Ice Cream.

Just be sure you dine early, because you won’t want to be late for Vinnie’s Salsa Social.

At 8:00 on the Saturday evening of Valentine’s weekend, you’ll want to be sure to head over and stop in for a night of salsa dancing. This is where your evening will really heat up as you and your date burn up the dance floor. If you don’t know how to Salsa, don’t worry. This is a great opportunity to learn some sexy new dance moves together. They offer a brief introductory course at 8:00 p.m. and a social dance the rest of the evening. 

When the dancing draws to an end, quench your thirst over at La Boca Mexican Restaurant diagonally across the street for some Margaritas or Mojitos as you enjoy ambiance at their bar in the company of one another.

A Trip Around the World - Valentine's Date Idea #2

For Valentine’s Day this year, take your favorite travel buddy on a trip around the world. You’d be amazed at how many countries and cultures you can experience right in Downtown Middletown. You can set the stage with an invitation that looks like a passport, with pages to later glue in photos from each location or write a sweet message at each stop you make.

When the date arrives, you can begin the day over delicious crepes and coffee at The New England Emporium, followed by a visit to Echo Trading where you can explore gifts from around the world. Just a short walk and you can split a plate of sushi at Mikado or toast the day with an Irish beer at Eli Cannon’s. Share an Indian lunch at Tandoor and daydream together in the travel book section at the Book Bower inside Main Street Marketplace.

Before dinner at Tuscany Grill where live music is featured every Thursday and Friday evening starting at 7:00 pm, you can stop by Haiti’s Back Porch in the Riverview Center for a feel of the islands while supporting Haitian artists whose work is on display and for sale.

Follow dinner with a Mochi dessert and Jasmine Tea at Anoho. This will be a Valentine’s Day your aspiring world traveler will never forget. And the passport Valentine will make a great keepsake and an original Valentine’s card for your sweetheart.