If you live in Evansville, you know that West Franklin Street is THE place to be. This fun and lively streak runs through the center of Evansville, and you can find all sorts of exciting events and activities happening on and off throughout the year. There are more than 65 stores and restaurants down the line, so there’s always something to do! For a highlight reel of what you can look forward to on and around Franklin Street, here are seven local spots that stand out from the crowd.

1. Ready to unleash your artistic talents? Well, ready or not, once you step into SnickerDoodle Art your artistic juices will flow. This colorful paint studio allows you to reserve space and supplies for paint parties for adults and children. You can also choose from a number of art classes including watercolor, calligraphy, and more. It’s an exciting place for kids’ birthday parties, office bonding, bridal parties, whatever you can dream up!

2. Mamma Mia it’s a pizza! Franklin St. Pizza Factory’s brick oven pizzas will have you jumping for joy. Come with a big group because this is a place where you’ll find something for everyone. They’ve got tons of toppings to choose from and homemade signature pizzas already proven delectable. The ultimate topping? The affordable prices.

3. Ok, you’re having a great time exploring Franklin Street and your sugar craving kicks in. Time to panic? No. Time to head over to Milk & Sugar for some rich and delicious ice cream. Your sweet tooth will be happy in no time with a selection of 16 unique ice cream flavors, as well as cookies, hot chocolate, and other sweet desserts.

4. The greatest food pairing of all time isn’t peanut butter and jelly, macaroni and cheese, or burgers and fries. The greatest food pairing of all time is…food and music. Lamasco Bar and Grill has mouth-watering sandwiches, wings, and other bar bites paired with blues, rock, soul, and well, every music genre you could possibly want. If you’re looking for a fun time, you’re looking for Lamasco.

5. Can’t make it down to Franklin Street, but still want to get some good food from the area? Marx BBQ caters a variety of delicious foods for all sorts of events and appetites. They’ll do anything from hors d’oeuvres to an entire feast. In addition to catering, Marx BBQ is a tasty restaurant known for their special homemade barbecue sauces. 

6. The best gifts are those with a personal touch. When you shop at Hett’s Graphics & Gifts, not only will you find a host of gifts, you can also have your items personalized with screen printing or embroidery. Local sports fans will also want to visit. Hett’s sells a variety of sports and school spirit items. Spirit sprinkles!

7. For good beer at a remarkable price, stop by Evansville’s neighborhood bar – Leroy’s Tavern. No frills or gimmicks, just a good, traditional American bar that’s known for it’s delicious pizza, friendly service, and five-dollar lunch specials.

Before you go, download the free Towny app to receive instant access to exclusive perks all over town. When you spend local, your dollars stay in your community and benefit you + your neighbors. Don’t miss all a thing!