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UniqueCartel t1_jd2r6rg wrote

If I can offer my own list of underrated (mostly) Western Mass towns. Sunderland, greenfield, Southbridge (controversial pick!), shelbourne falls, and most of the towns along Rt 7 in the Berkshire’s depending on what you think of Pittsfield (I think it’s fine)

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CoolAbdul t1_jd36mt9 wrote

> Southbridge

No.

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UniqueCartel t1_jd3ub4y wrote

A lot has closed that was great 10 years ago. The bowling alley and the cannery (a great performance space for bands). My pitch for Southbridge is that I lived in their downtown for a couple years. Although dumpy and depressed, my car was never broken into, and most people were pretty friendly. I think Jerry has since passed away (iykyk). Nearby to some pretty good restaurants, mostly in Sturbridge but some pretty decent in Southbridge itself. Margaux’s Deli is a really good sandwich shop too. Sturbridge coffee roasters is decent I hear. Good access to some farms to get fresh turkeys for the thanksgiving and farm fresh produce most of the year. Has access to west like dam with us a great spot to go jogging or throw a frisbee, walk the dog. My only complain is that it’s just too far away off the beaten path. Like I said, controversial pick. I get it.

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ProdigiousNewt07 t1_jd40liq wrote

I agree with you! I grew up just next door in Sturbridge and recently moved back (partially because I literally can't afford rent anywhere in the country anymore, but also because MA is a good place to be) and I always thought Southbridge got way more shit than it deserves. Yeah, it can appear a bit shabby and sketchy in parts, but the people are good, genuine, and unpretentious. Mill Street Brews was cool while it was around and there's still a lot of great food for way less than you'd pay elsewhere. I think Southbridge would be fertile ground for someone with vision and lot of money to resuscitate the local economy. Independent businesses could survive there whereas it seems like they're getting squeezed out in other parts of the state and the town has a lot of the walkability and "vibes" younger people are looking for.

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Applecocaine t1_jd5hk41 wrote

Pittsfield has a lot of fun places and hidden gems, sadly you gotta risk getting shot.

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