Uptown Marion is abuzz with new activity. While it’s always fun to stroll the streets, the square and the Uptown Artway, there are several new spots to check out. Goldfinch Tap + Eatery focuses on thoughtfully crafted American favorites with chef inspired twists. The comfy, casual eatery is a chic spot to meet up for drinks before a show at Giving Tree Theater, or a great spot for a family night out to dinner. Shorts Burger & Shine, a favorite joint in Iowa City, serves up an extensive array of delectable burgers and sandwiches. You can also try the hip-stir for a unique dining experience.
In the The District – Czech Village and New Bohemia there has also be a flurry of shops and eateries opening. Café Saint Pio Coffee Shop Café is a quaint spot with a vintage feel in Czech Village, a lovely spot for meeting with a friend. When you are ready to shop, stop by Moss. Formerly housed in the NewBo City Market, it’s now in a bright retail space on 16th Avenue, offering more indoor plants and planters, plus as décor items for the modern home. The list of options is endless from food and drinks at Crosby's, Lacayo and Lion Bridge Brewing to shopping at the Funky Zebra and Sweet Mercantile.
Central City Mainstreet has an exciting new addition, too. At The Family Room you will find a whole host of party options to keep everyone from the kids to grown-ups entertained. They plan and host nerf wars and slime parties for the little ones. For the young at heart, there are escape room challenges and murder mystery dinner. If you have your own event idea, you can even rent the space.
Over in Mount Vernon, there are more newcomers on the dining and retail scene. Kae Apothecary allows shoppers to dive into self-care, with a whole host of all-natural, hand-made products to enhance a bath, purify your environment, and pamper your skin. Bauman’s, which has been a fixture in Mount Vernon since 1909 and is under new ownership, has a dynamic selection of men’s clothing. Pop into The Local, Glyn Mawr Winery, to enjoy a glass of wine or an Iowa craft brew in a cool, rustic vine-to-table establishment.
Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend or even longer, stop by any or all of these four districts for a taste of what Linn county has to offer.
Linn County Main Streets: www.linncountymainstreets.com
