I Think I Like This Little Life: Romanticize Your Day in JXN
“Romanticizing Life” has become a buzzy term on social media, but the premise of it is universal – finding joy, peace, and more positivity through gratitude and closer observation of the world around you.
Read on for some of our favorite ways and places to pause and gain a deeper appreciation – and a different perspective – in the City With Soul.
Take a Lunch Break at The Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art
A lush outdoor getaway in the heart of Jackson, The Art Garden at MMA is the perfect place to slow down and savor the moment among native flora and seasonal foliage. Free to visitors and surrounded by Jackson’s foremost arts and cultural centers, set out a picnic blanket with lunch, your favorite read, or art supplies to paint en plein air while enjoying several permanent art installations and relaxing water features.
Get Inspired to Make a New Playlist at a Local Record Store
Add to the soundtrack of your life at two of Jackson’s foremost record stores, OffBeat and The End of All Music. OffBeat not only offers new and vintage vinyl in Downtown Jackson, but also alternative culture like artwork, clothing, comics, Japanese toys, model builds, games, and more. In Fondren, The End of All Music frequently hosts some of the latest limited edition vinyl releases, as well as being an intimate spot to catch concerts from up-and-coming artists from Mississippi and beyond.
Buy Yourself Flowers or Start an Herb Garden
No matter the time of year, surrounding yourself with fresh greenery indoors and out is a proven mood booster. Jackson’s climate allows for a year-round growing season, and experts at places like Hutto’s Home & Garden Center and Green Oak are happy to lend their expertise to beginner and expert gardeners alike. Greenbrook Flowers, Everyday Gardener, Whitley’s Florist, and the Mississippi Farmers Market (open Saturdays) are go-to spots for beautiful cut flowers, and Beans & Bananas has a great mix of indoor plants to liven your space.
Learn Something New at a Museum or Workshop
Jackson is rife with learning opportunities; step into the shoes of historic leaders and hear groundbreaking stories at places like the Two Mississippi Museums, Smith Roberston Museum and Cultural Center, and the Eudora Welty House & Garden. Looking to learn a new skill? Take a chance and explore your creative side at a workshop hosted by Briarwood Arts Center, or dive deeper into your emotional health through art and energy work at Jax-Zen Healing Arts Center.
Declutter and Give Back to the Community
Doing a deep clean of your closet not only helps you make room for healthy changes – it’s also a great way to give back to those that need it most. The Good Samaritan Center and N.U.T.S. (Neat Used Things For Sale), and Stewpot Community Services, take clothing and food donations and provide additional volunteer opportunities that serve Jackson families.
Ditch the Tech at Your Next Meal
Invest in time with loved ones – or just yourself and a good book – at the table by going phone-free. From the shaded patio at the Library Lounge at Historic Fairview Inn to a progressive dinner throughout the Belhaven Town Center, to a sophisticated downstairs bar at The Westin Jackson and late-night eats, drinks, and live blues at F. Jones Corner, Jackson has plenty of spots to unplug and enjoy the ambiance.
