Date: March 23, 2009 |
With a beautiful courthouse square at its center, Magnolia is a lovely town of historic homes and great local shopping amidst the pine forests of south Arkansas. Also home to Southern Arkansas University, the town welcomes thousands of visitors during the third weekend in May each year for the Blossom Festival and World Championship Steak Cook-Off. This year’s event will be May 16 and 17, so book one of the chic rooms at The Loft on the Square and enjoy the shopping, dining and entertainment this town has to offer.
Shopping
Big Boy Toys and The Interior Story
79 Hwy. 82 E., 870-234-8899
It may be home to the world’s longest custom barbecue grill, but the real fun here is inside Big Boy Toys and The Interior Story. The store’s considerable square footage is filled with furnishings, gifts, accessories and more, crossing a range of styles from rustic to contemporary.
The Cosmopolitan Ladies’ Club
105 S. Court Sq., 870-234-6958, www.cosmopolitanladiesclub.com
Creativity is key at The Cosmopolitan Ladies’ Club, where you can find original art, sculpture and jewelry along with carefully chosen home accessories for those with an eclectic taste, from handmade mix-and-match dishware to James Hayes art glass.
Jennifer’s
117 S. Court Sq., 870-234-6356
If you’re looking for stylish separates and fun Brighton accessories, Jennifer’s is the place. Lines like Joseph Ribkoff, Vaneli, Karen Kane, Fresh Produce and more keep the looks constantly changing and always fresh.
Khakis
108 N. Court Sq., 870-234-1225, www.khakismensstore.com
Well-dressed gentlemen will enjoy Khakis’ selection of menswear, ranging from casual collared shirts and denim to suits and even Razorback gifts.
Lois Gean’s
109 S. Jackson St., 870-234-1250, www.loisgeans.com
This south Arkansas institution is home to the biggest names in fashion, including Trina Turk, Eileen Fisher, Diane Von Furstenberg and more, along with a complete Estée Lauder counter.
Manik
105 S. Jefferson, 870-234-0000
The newest addition to the square is Manik, a men’s and women’s clothing boutique catering to the young, contemporary crowd. With a well-edited selection of dressy pieces to choose from, Manik truly specializes in fun, casual separates, from denim to vintage-style tops and sundresses. Owner Hannah Bocan has carefully chosen her apparel, along with a few select accessory lines, from names new to the area.
Miller’s Pharmacy
111 S. Court Sq., 870-234-2011
If you’re looking for a hard-to-find gift, Miller’s Pharmacy is the place, with a wide range of great items from home décor to candles and guest towels.
Merle Norman and The Chameleon
115 S. Court Sq., 870-234-3986
Those who love to entertain also love Merle Norman and The Chameleon, where you can find linens, dishware, serving pieces and accessories to dress your table. Dress yourself as well with colorful jewelry, purses and loungewear, as well as Merle Norman cosmetics.
Murphy’s Jewelers
107 S. Court Sq., 870-234-3072, www.murphysjewelers.com
The finest in diamonds and gems create a sparkling display at Murphy’s Jewelers. Not only can you find Hearts on Fire, Tacori, Rolex and Tag Heuer, you can also custom create a diamond, pearl or gemstone piece to your specifications.
Pink N Blue Avenue
124 N. Court Sq., 870-234-7055
Moms will love Pink N Blue Avenue, thanks to their chic selection of clothing for babies, girls and boys, as well as bedding, Caden Lane bibs and accessories and even diaper bags.
Pittman Nursery
914 N. Dudney Rd., 870-234-8733, www.pittmannursery.com
The fourth generation of the Pittman family now runs this garden center, which is the largest horticultural nursery in Arkansas. Whether you’re looking to create a garden wonderland in your backyard or you just need a spot of spring color on your porch, Pittman’s wonderful staff can make it happen.
Sara’s
106 N. Court Sq., 870-234-4122
A nice selection of ladies’ apparel, including maternity and lingerie makes Sara’s a shopping standout. Plus, you’ll find girls’ and boys’ clothing and accessories, as well as all your baby needs.
A Shade Above
1010 N. Jackson St., 870-234-8182
Lighting of all kinds in a beautiful range of styles is the specialty at A Shade Above, whether you need a lamp, shade, chandelier or repairs.
The Shoe Box
102 S. Washington St., 870-234-5025
This family-owned business has been a fixture on the square for years, and you won’t be able to resist their amazing selection of shoes from Poetic License, Naughty Monkey, Nicole, Palladium, Born, Tom’s and many more. Their handbags and jewelry are equally tempting!
Simply Beautiful II
108 S. Washington St., 870-234-0095
A trip to Simply Beautiful II is sure to make you happy, with handbags, jewelry and accessories, as well as dolls and toys, baby gifts, gourmet foods, party dishes, serving pieces and even seasonal décor. We loved the Razorback and LSU cake pans!
The Treasure Chest
110 N. Washington St., 870-234-5514
Newly redecorated, The Treasure Chest is known for their great bridal registry and a huge selection of china, crystal, kitchenware and grilling items. You’ll also love their Vera Bradley bags and stationery, Me! Bath fizzies and Woodwick candles.
Dining
Backyard Barbeque
1407 E. Main St., 870-234-7890
Order up a rack of ribs at this Magnolia institution, where they’re smoking pork, beef and chicken late into the night. The sides are almost as good as the main events, including their yummy potato salad and baked beans.
Bayou Bistro
1210 N. Jackson St., 870-234-6468
With Creole and Italian specialties on the menu, as well as sandwiches, Bayou Bistro is sure to please everyone in your group. Don’t miss the sweet potato fries or the shoestring onion rings.
Hotwired
2053 N. Jackson St., 870-234-2674
Just off the SAU campus, Hotwired offers gourmet coffee drinks, soups and sandwiches, and breakfast all day long, as well as high-speed Internet access.
Mule’s Cantina
100 S. Washington St., 870-234-6668
Located right on the square, Mule’s is known for a menu featuring everything from burgers to stuffed potatoes, and pails full of peanuts on every table.
