Date: February 15, 2017 | Photography: Matt Johnson |
This charming town is using its history to propel it into the future—and attracting newcomers along the way
The Next Act
In terms of a local pop culture landmark, there’s nothing more iconic than the Rialto Theater. Thanks to efforts from the Downtown Beautification Committee and numerous generous donors, including Entergy Arkansas, Inc., the structure’s famous neon lights regained their glow in 2016. The community had the opportunity to see its newly relit neon marquee, which was recently renovated, during the town’s annual Holiday of Lights lighting ceremony.
The Rialto was originally constructed in the 1920s but received its iconic Art Deco-style façade during a 1940s renovation. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and still remains in operation today. Call the theater at (501) 268-6699 for showtimes.
For History-Worthy Events
Known as “the spot” for weddings, galas, holiday parties, and pretty much any other event, Robbins Sanford is a structure with a historical past. The venue boasts a grand hall that accommodates 250 people as well as a carriage house, which can hold almost 70. The combination of its attractive downtown location and early 20th century charm make it a character-rich choice for hosting an event.
The space garners its name from the famed Robbins-Sanford Mercantile Company, which was located here beginning in 1908 when the building was constructed until they went out of business in the 1950s. In 2009, it received a restoration that reinstated much of its original charm, making it the celebrated venue it is today.
An Established Institution
For many, Searcy and Harding University are synonymous. While the campus buildings may play a role in Searcy’s history (especially in the minds of those who walked their halls), today’s attendees are bringing current trends to the area. More than 6,000 students—from 49 states and 44 foreign countries—currently attend the private, four-year liberal arts university, making it an institution that continues to shape Searcy’s history.
Good Eats
You’ve heard the saying “Do one thing, and do it well.” Slader’s Alaskan Dumpling Co. epitomizes this with a menu that consists of three main course options: chicken pel’mini, beef pel’mini, and potato and cheese pierogi. Whichever you are in the mood for, the heaping plates of this comfort food won’t disappoint. Stop in for the dumplings and stay to linger over an Alaskan Tea or a classic pour over. In addition to their staples, they also offer ice cream and macarons from Little Rock’s Loblolly Creamery as well as Diamond Bear root beer.
Areas of Interest: A Few of Our Favorite Stops in Searcy
Sowell’s Furniture
207 West Arch Avenue
(501) 268-8100
sowellsfurniture.com
Interior Creations
1612 West Beebe Capps Expressway
(501) 268-2311
searcydesigncenter.com
The Boutique
112 North Spring Street
(501) 268-3434
searcyboutique.com
White River Flooring
800 South Main Street
(501) 268-5370
whiteriverflooring.com
