Marion is the perfect place to shop, eat and rediscover arts & culture
Follow the itinerary below to plan a fun day in Marion
1. Coffee
Start your day off right at Uptown Coffee Company, featuring donuts from local favorite, Donutland. Or, head over to West End Diner (which features an artisan village) for brunch and mimosas.
2. Shopping
Browse for something new to read at Swamp Fox Bookstore. If you’re looking to make your home feel cheerful, grab some specialty flowers from Roots in Bloom or find unique treasures and décor at SCOUT of Marion. When you’re done shopping, grab some treats for now or later at Iowa Popcorn Company or THE Chocolate Shop.
3. Lunch
The food options in Marion are endless! Grab a burger – and delicious fries – at Short’s Burger & Shine. If you head to Goldfinch Tap + Eatery, don’t miss the delicious Brussels sprouts. Hip-Stir, a brand-new restaurant that opened in 2021, features creative cuisine and snazzy drink offerings.
4. Fun activity
Be sure to visit the Art Gallery at Lowe Park, featuring work by local artists. On a nice day, there’s nothing better than heading outside to take a stroll on the trails at Lowe, which feature stunning sculptures.
If you really want to kick back, escape the hustle and bustle of daily life at The Sanctuary Spa. From facials to massage to nail services, enjoy the pampering you deserve. If someone in your party is in need of a trim (or beard trim), check out Trims Barber Shop, which has options for adults and kids.
Or take some time to freshen up your wardrobe. Find the latest in fashion at Designs by Michele, DiModa, MODE or JOY boutiques. If you need some new kicks, check out locally owned Brown’s Shoe Fit.
5. Dinner
Bistro 3 Nineteen is the perfect place for a relaxing dinner out. If you’re thinking pizza, skip the typical and head to Tomaso’s. Craving tacos instead? Local favorite Villa’s Patio is the perfect spot to satisfy your craving. Conveniently located on Blairs Ferry Road, Nara Thai Cuisine has incredible noodle and rice dishes. Or check out Mandarin Spice Asian Grill, located near Lindale Mall.
6. Entertainment
Be sure to check out the Giving Tree Theater calendar so you can catch a local theatre production in an intimate environment, complete with cozy sofas. And be sure to check the event schedule at Lowe Park – concerts and entertainment are offered throughout the warm months outdoors, and cozy Coffeehouse Night concerts are offered during the winter. Or simply enjoy the classic way to see a movie – in an actual theater! Collins Road Theatres has popcorn with REAL butter.
7. Drinks
In the heart of Marion, you’ll find Brick Alley and Uptown Snug, where you can sit by the fireplace or out on the patio to cap off a great day. The patio seating is nestled overlooking the Uptown Artway, a colorful oasis of nine public art installations.