Milford is a commuter-friendly borough with a thriving tourist season
Along the banks of the Delaware River, the rural borough of Milford attracts thousands each year with its lush outdoor destinations. The community is known as a gateway town to the Poconos, as it's near where Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey meet. Hiking trails, scenic overlooks and winding waterways create a thriving summer tourist season, but Francesca Lombardo with the Milford Borough Office says year-round residency is just as strong. "People are flocking to this area because of the location," she says. "You can get on the interstate and be in Newark or New York City in about an hour or two, so lots of people commute." The borough is also well-loved for its friendly residents, historic architecture and annual events. "It seems like a sleepy little town, but there's always something to do," says Scott Palermo, president of Milford Presents. "It's a great place to visit, but I can also testify that it's a great place to live."
River recreation, scenic trails and parks in the Poconos foothills
The tourist season is strongest between late May and September. Quick access to the Delaware River and Milford Beach makes kayaking, whitewater rafting, tubing and swimming favorite pastimes. "People go down the river in anything that can float," Palermo jokes. People hike and bike the McDade Recreational Trail to explore forests and hilly overlooks, while spots like Raymondskill Falls are popular for their cascades. In winter, the nearby Poconos Mountains are hubs for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating. Inside town limits, West Ann Memorial Park hosts annual festivals. Catharine Street Ball Field & Skate Park has a playground, baseball field and skating ramps. The Grey Towers National Historic Site features a historic mansion with French chateau architectural influences and landscaped lawns.
First Street reports that Milford has a major risk from flooding; however, both Palermo and Lombardo say the town is rarely impacted by the Delaware River overflowing. "It's certainly something that's noted for people who live on that side of town, but I can't recall the last time we had a major flood, especially in the past 10 years," Lombardo says.
Some historic homes and wooded lots priced below the national median
Milford has preserved many of its 19th and early 20th-century homes. Historic Victorian homes, bungalows, Cape Cods, American Foursquares and ranch-style houses are common sights. In forested parts of the community, Cape Cod and ranch-style homes are still available, but so are New Traditional designs and properties with raised foundations. Lots are often above 1 acre, offering more space and privacy than homes within the borough's limits. The town's median price is approximately $380,000, less than the national median of around $415,000. However, some homes can cost over $1 million.
Milford Historic District has shops, diners and cultural attractions
Milford Historic District is the town's commercial heart. It's home to locally owned stores and restaurants, like BetterWorld coffee shop, Willow home goods store and Realms of Rock record store. Milford Diner is a staple for laid-back fare, while the Historic Dimmick Inn is known for its heaping servings and live music. At West Hartford and Mill streets, Waterwheel Café, Bakery & Bar blends American classics with Vietnamese flavors. Key Food Marketplace is the town's primary supermarket, but people can find locally sourced produce at the Milford Farmers Market, open seasonally on Sundays.
Local attractions include The Columns Museum of the Pike County Historical Society. Among the neoclassical mansion's artifact exhibits is the "Lincoln Flag," which was placed underneath the 16th president's head after his assassination. The Milford Theater & Performance Arts Center hosts live shows and film screenings throughout the year. Tourists can stay at the historic Hotel Fauchère, which has hosted many famous guests, from U.S. presidents to baseball legend Babe Ruth.
Students attend Delaware Valley schools that are highly rated by Niche
Milford students attend the Delaware Valley School District, starting at Delaware Valley Elementary, which earns a B-plus Niche rating. Next is Delaware Valley Middle and High schools, which have B-plus and A-minus scores. The high school offers career and technical education programs in construction trades, culinary arts and early childhood education.
Interstate 84 and town highways make commuting to other states quick
Most residents drive, and Highways 209 and 6 are core thoroughfares connecting to Interstate 84 and Highway 206, which lead commuters to New York and New Jersey. Traffic can get heavy around rush hour, and congestion grows during the tourist season. The nearest airport is New York Stewart International Airport, about 40 miles away. The closest hospital is Bon Secours Community Hospital, 8 miles away.
Film festivals, music celebrations and trick-or-treating draw visitors
Milford is a small town, but it hosts several large-scale events. For the past 25 years, the Black Bear Film Festival has celebrated independent filmmaking. Crowds flock to the historic Milford Theater to watch screenings. During the Milford Music Festival in June, people explore sidewalk sales and live concerts all over the borough. Palermo says he loves the variety of music, as bands play anything from Broadway show tunes and folk music to flamenco rhythms and Grateful Dead covers. Other local events include the Saint Patrick's Day Parade and a Toast to Milford, where downtown shops offer free snacks and drinks to attract more business. During Halloween, "people come from all over the surrounding areas to collect candy," Lombardo says. "It's so busy that the whole town basically shuts down. The streets get packed."
