A Day of Fairhope

For the first blog post, I thought it only appropriate to introduce Fairhope, Alabama.

This beautiful coastal town is where I get to call "home." There are so many neat little nooks and crannies throughout, and new businesses, you could find something different every day. The population is over 20,000 people with thousands visiting from all over the world, so there is always someone new to meet. However, it's still a very small town and you will definitely run into a friend or neighbor on any given day. It really feels like you're in one of those Hallmark movies about a charming, southern town.

The art...THE ART!!! That is the heart of Fairhope. I don't think I can count on two hands the amount of galleries that are in downtown alone. The biggest contributor and advocate to the art community in Fairhope is the Eastern Shore Art Center. They are the first to open and kick-off Art Walk (first Friday of each month where the local businesses open up and the whole town comes in and walks the streets to enjoy art, music, and food).Plus, there is the springtime outdoor art show and festival that brings artists from all over the country to exhibit, and thousands of visitors to see it.

Then there is the food. Ah the food... Fairhope has amazing seafood options since it's right on the coast. But it also has some great Italian, sushi, grills, and dessert spots. And if you're into the quaint coffee shop vibe, you're in luck there too. From top-of-the-line gourmet meals to sitting down with a couple of drinks and listening to some live tunes on a patio, Fairhope has you covered!

We'll be exploring specific places and lists as the blog goes on. But for now, let's just go over a typical day you might have in downtown Fairhope. Keep in mind, in Fairhope, time slows down and it's all about relaxing and indulging.

~ Begin the day with a delicious breakfast.

• If you have plenty of time, maybe Another Broken Egg.

• For a quick coffee and bite, try Warehouse Donuts & Bakery.

~ Take stroll down to the pier and hike along the bluff before it gets too hot (in the summer), whip out the old rod & reel to catch some trout or redfish, or just enjoy a book under one of the many oak trees.

• If you have little ones, a morning at Fairhope Community Park (complete with splash pad and playground) might be just the ticket.

~ Head into downtown to check out one of the local art galleries or tour the current exhibit at the art center.

~ It's probably lunchtime at this point.

• The Mill is a family-friendly spot with a few choices:

• Or grab a chocolate malt at Two Sisters Bakery.

~ Shopping!!! There way too many adorable boutiques and antique shops, it's impossible to visit them all in one day, so just settle on the most eye-catching (plenty of window displays).

• If you're looking for great deals, Hertha's or Yvonne's are AWESOME resale boutiques for the ladies.

• Fairhope also has the cute little book shops, the Fairhope Pharmacy with great gifts, and even a Christmas store!

~ Happy hour?

• Tamara's has the best with $5 apps and great drink deals!

• Thyme on Section is also delectable with a changing menu.

~ Dinnertime!

• Feel free to stay at Tamara's or Thyme (my personal fave - it's all about the truffle fries) for fine-dining options , or R Bistro with great dessert.

• Sushi fan? Master Joe's has the freshest!

• Italian - The Alley Bistro and Wine Bar - for sure.

• But if your heart's desire is a sunset supper, Sunset Pointe, of course.

~ After dinner, head down to Bone & Barrel for some live jams & a nightcap.

• Speaking of nightcap, McSharry's Irish Pub has live Irish music Sunday nights and 10/10 would recommend.

It may appear that downtown Fairhope is mostly food, art, and shopping, and don't get me wrong - it is, but in the most picture-perfect town on the coast! There are still plenty of other outdoor activities and yearly events to attend, and we will be sure check those out and share those with you. See ya next post!