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If Nicholas Sparks wrote a book set in Arkansas, it would be in the town of Wilson.
What makes it an idyllic, small southern town? This unique place has good ideas:
- A cotton gin turned restaurant that deserves to be on Magnolia Network
- A vintage gas station turned mercantile
- A cafe that you may have been to 100 times and still can’t wait to go back
- A beautiful downtown square with a luxury hotel and shops
- The new Gunn’s Supermarket that everyone wishes was in their hometown
That’s Wilson, alright!
My wife Rebecca and I found ourselves in Wilson on business. What was meant to be a quick drive to Northeast Arkansas and back turned into a 4-hour stay in “the cutest town I have ever seen,” according to Rebecca.
Our first stop was Gunn’s Supermarket. Inside the store, we thought we stepped into a Hallmark movie. It’s the type of place where the owner not only greeted everyone he walked by but also asked how their mother, aunt and dog were doing. Friendly doesn’t even begin to describe it.
We drove past the downtown square and were compelled to pull in and walk around. We saw the iconic Louis Hotel and verbally agreed that we were coming back for a stay in that stunning place.
Across from the square, we popped into White’s Mercantile and found the cutest gifts. Whether you need a gift or want to treat yourself, you’ll 100% find a quality piece here. Across the street from the mercantile, a garden of flowers caught our eye. Venturing over, we found ourselves eating lunch at The Grange.
Now, if you’re like us and your travels revolve around the best places in town to chow down – this place is a must! They focus on fresh, local and in-season ingredients. I highly suggest the Tater Tot Nachos as the fried pork belly on top was “chef’s kiss.” But, when we tried the Sausage Gravy and Biscuits, we began planning our return trip to Wilson and The Grange. They serve a little bit of everything, including a full coffee bar featuring Mountain Bird Coffee, plus ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes! For a full menu, check out their website here.
For days after, we were still talking about our visit to Wilson. What stood out was how everyone we met and spoke to felt like friends and family. For a town of less than 800 people, they’ve done a beautiful job of making it home. We will definitely be back.
The Grange at Wilson Gardens
15 South Jefferson St.
Wilson, AR 72395
870.576.3057
Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 6:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday: 12-5 p.m.
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5 responses to “The Grange at Wilson Gardens”
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Very interesting read. This makes me want to visit the Grange at Wilson Gardens.
Me too! I went to Wilson a few weeks ago, but now I want to go back and eat at The Grange!
What a great article on Wilson, AR. You showed us all a hidden gem. I am ready to go eat at the Grange and stay at the Louis Hotel!!
[…] venue, the Grange is home to various unique events that celebrate the arts and local culture. The Grange hosts everything from art classes to fitness events and farmer’s markets to fine […]
I am very fortunate to be an employee at The Louis Hotel in Wilson, AR. Thank you all for such positive words about our little town. I encourage each of you to come visit with us in Wilson, I guarantee your visit will be everything you hope for and more. That’s what we do here in Wilson.