How to Become a Tourist in Your Own Neighborhood

 
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Let's face it; we are so absorbed by our daily routines that we become blind to the differentiating details right in front of us.

I admittedly take my neighborhood of Downtown Memphis for granted -- its historic architecture, the unmatched touristy people-watching, the food and flavors from friend chicken to high-end Italian. I thought I'd share a few of my favorite Downtown Memphis experiences to shift your thinking as a local (or even a visitor who finds this to be a vacation resource!). I had the most wonderful afternoon with some fellow Memphis creatives (pictured below) to get my wheels turning.

 
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I'm wearing a Joie wrap dress from Oak Hall and locally-made earrings by Tilton Street, available at Oak Hall.

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PURE MEMPHIS MUSIC SERIES + TASTINGS AT OLD DOMINICK DISTILLERY
Old Dominick Distillery, conveniently located just blocks from our front door, embodies a Memphis-focused brand through every sip, tasting, concert, and pop-up experience. I've been impressed with the vodka and whiskey batches thus far and have been honored to taste some of the exclusive labels over the past year.  If you haven't yet had a tour or met head distiller Alex Castle, you're in for a treat.

THURSDAY DINNER + CORNHOLE AT LOFLIN YARD
Thursday nights at Loflin now host casual cornhole tournaments, a perfect framework for date night or a group outing. Order shared plates of Gayoso con Queso or a cheese and sausage plate; the Loflin Hot Chicken sandwich or reuben are excellent new menu additions, too.

PERUSE THROUGH THE HIVE COLLECTIVE
A pop-up retail concept has prompted buzz among Downtown and the larger Memphis creative community. The Hive pairs retail from some of my favorite visual artists (including Pretty Useful Co.) with approachable dialogue and discussions on hiring and working with creatives.

SUNDAY SUPPERS AT THE GRAY CANARY
Alex and I recently made the most of our weekend wind-down at the new Sunder Supper series at The Gray Canary. Whereas many Downtown establishments do brunch beautifully, The Gray Canary is keeping the party going for the entire neighborhood with 3-9 p.m. hours, $10 craft cocktails, bar menu  and family-style suppers exclusive to the coveted day of the week we wish would never end!

A STAY IN RENOVATED MADISON HOTEL ROOMS
A stunning locally-curated hotel concept is coming this October; and until then, you can enjoy a stay in the just-renovated guest rooms after a night on Main Street or along  the Riverfront.

 
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From L to R: Make-up artist Matt Gossett | Stylist Kim Newsom | Stylist Lauren Draffin | Business Owner Tremika Morris | Blogger Brittany Meyers Cobb | Business Owner Moziah Bridges

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