Every downtown is a little different from the next. From the shops, dining options and other businesses surrounding the area each downtown has something different to offer. Greenville is among those cities who is continuing to improve their downtown and have realized that this area is a place of growth and could be a draw for visitors who want to get off the freeway and explore more of the local flavor.
Our stop this month for "Travel East Texas" is to Greenville to explore a little and get a feel for what there is to do in the downtown area. Of course if you are looking for "corporate" restaurants and shopping look no further than the highway, but if you want to explore a little more of the local, small business scene then be sure to stop by downtown Greenville.
Greenville's downtown is unique in that it is not situated like a typical Texas city downtown with a square, but is rather a long strip, consisting of two main streets, which have a few shops, that are open at various times and a couple of restaurants.
Mary of Puddin Hill made the move downtown from off of the freeway, and now has a cute little shop with a wide variety of gifts and Texas themed items. They feature items from the Sweet Shop in Mt. Pleasant, mini Bundt cakes and monster cookies. Be sure to stop in and check out all their goodies.
As you make your way around downtown be sure to check out the amazing mural art on the buildings. It's not quite like Deep Ellum but it sure is making strides to bring art to a location where there is not any. The murals are each unique and interesting to look at. I think every downtown should have a few.
Another unique stop is the Uptown Shopping Forum, where we found Cheesebrough and Campbell Specialty Chocolates. Each of the amazing chocolate treats from their store are made by hand. You can find chocolates shaped as tools for Father's Day, purses and heals for Mother's Day, and a few others that can fit that special person on your list. Be sure to check out all their offerings, and take a look at the other shops inside the Uptown Forum.
For lunch we decided to eat home made pizza at Fatto A Mano, located right next door to where the Greenville Farmers Market is located. They have a varied menu for pizza options. But if you are not feeling like pizza be sure to check out their pasta and salad selections. They have indoor and outdoor seating available. The outside seating is covered and has cute herb gardens located close by so you know when your food has fresh ingredients.
Last but not least a great stop downtown is Landon Winery. Sample a flight, have some antipasto or sit and enjoy a full glass and soak in the space. Landon also has indoor and outdoor seating for your party. It's a great spot to venture to with a group or a special date night. Their staff is very knowledgeable about the wines they offer and are willing to help you find your favorite. Of course you can join their wine club and have their wine delivered directly to your house, where available, or come to your closest location and pick up your bottles.
Of course Greenville, is not just located downtown. There is more to see else where in town depending on what you are looking for. Greenville use to boast, that they were the "Cotton Capital of Texas." In honor of that proclamation they have the Audie Murphy Cotton Museum, which is fun for the whole family. Step back in time to learn about the cotton industry and see the exhibits on cotton and the military in one location. Start your day in Greenville at the museum and then wander downtown, for the evening.
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