Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/35164
play Play Around Town in Verona A hometown atmosphere and summer escape Nestled in the heart of downtown Verona, the view from Tuvalu Coffeehouse and Gallery’s porch says it all. Victorian homes- turned-specialty shops sit alongside new construction, bike paths criss-cross the landscape and cheerful parks peek out of neighborhoods, lending the city a down- to-earth aura that feels just right. Stop in any destination and you’ll find out why, despite its growth, the small ‘burb’s nickname—Hometown USA—still rings true. In a place where employees at the local grocery store carry purchases to your car, a friendly vibe greets you every step of the way. Inside the locally owned retail shops, proprietors offer warm smiles alongside stylish wares, including trendy clothes and jewelry, high-style home dé- cor, fresh flowers and more. When your stomach starts to growl, cafés offers more than just homey treats, serving up locally crafted treasures as well. And then there are the city’s parks. For a simple summer afternoon, pack up your bike, baseball gloves, kites or swim suits and venture along the Military Ridge State Trail running right through the city, canoe the Upper Sugar River Watershed or take a dip at Fireman’s Park Beach. Whether it’s your hometown or you’re just passing through, you may find your- self wanting to head back to that front porch to soak up the sun’s rays—and the small-town view. Tuvalu Coffeehouse & Gallery 300 S. Main St.; (608) 845-6800 Fair trade coffee, local art and goods, live mu- sic on the weekends and a place for the kids to play make this a hip café for everyone. The Purple Goose 400 W. Verona Ave.; (608) 845-2368 Step into a friendly atmosphere to find women and children’s clothing, locally made jewelry and great accessories in the latest styles. House of Flowers 129 N. Main St.; (608) 845-8111 Find beautiful bouquets for any occasion and stylish home accents for every personality. June 2011 bravamagazine.com 61 Don’t miss... Photo by Kendall Parisi