Every Monday, Heart on Main Street’s Executive Director Patrick Keiser visits a different community to feature the downtown area and its retailers through their social media channels. Here is a selection of some of the towns he has visited and some of his favorite retailers there. If you would like your town to be featured, email contact@heartonmainstreet.org.
McKinney, Texas
Some sections in the historic downtown of McKinney, Texas, make you feel as though you are stepping back into the Wild West. Despite the age of the buildings downtown, many were modernized in ways that add to the aesthetic.
Doozie’s Corner is one store that has had this effect on downtown McKinney. This gift, home decor and women’s apparel store epitomizes the bright and white concept. The brightness of the inside makes it feel larger inside. The retailer applies pops of color throughout the store to perfectly highlight desired products or sections.
Ely, Minnesota
Ely, Minnesota, is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Superior National Forest, serving as a gateway to the renowned Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Known for its rich mining and fur trading history, Ely has evolved into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The town offers abundant canoeing, fishing, hiking and wildlife observation opportunities.
As one retailer remarked, “There’s probably 2,000 of the state’s 10,000 lakes around here.” The town’s vibrant arts scene and annual festivals, such as the Blueberry Art Festival and the Harvest Moon Festival, celebrate its unique cultural heritage and community spirit.
One store that embodies the community spirit of Ely is the Ely Mercantile, or “The Merc.” Specializing in locally made items, artwork and custom apparel, the Merc allows residents of Ely to connect to the area in new and unique ways. Store Owner Kara Polyner has curated products representing her community and what it means to live there.
Saratoga Springs, New York
Downtown Saratoga Springs has become a vibrant shopping district over the years, thanks to years of hard work by local merchants and the Downtown Business Association.
Maddy Zanetti, co-owner of Impressions of Saratoga, has been key in this revitalization. Impressions of Saratoga sells housewares, T-shirts, kids’ items and memorabilia from races at the local horse racetrack. The retailer also hosts events and collaborates with other merchants in town because it knows that when the area works together, all businesses benefit.
Murphysboro, Illinois
Surrounded by scenic parks, the Shawnee National Forest, and a university, Murphysboro brings a confluence of outdoor lifestyle cultures, nature lovers and the arts community. This same convergence was found in the store Muddy Roots Collective. This store specializes in houseplants, gifts for plant lovers and plant-themed art by local artists. Muddy Roots has many plant books and starter kits. The store’s emphasis on locally made art and jewelry makes Muddy Roots a great representation of Murphysboro.
Hannibal, Missouri
The town of Hannibal makes sure that there is ample opportunity for residents and visitors alike to celebrate its rich history. Every year, Hannibal hosts over 40 festivals and events in the downtown area, attracting countless people to patronize the downtown businesses.
Mississippi Marketplace stands out to people in downtown Hannibal. The gift, kitchen and specialty food store has a small-town feel. The retailer hosts in-store cooking classes and carries brands local to Hannibal and Missouri as well as some popular national brands.
