Tip-toeing thru Troy

I say tip-toeing because "baby it was cold outside" and, therefore, icy. Myself and my girl crew decided to spend the day after Christmas wondering the streets of Troy- the historic district, in particular. We did not plan for the icy cold and closed -for the holidays- shops. We understand that the small business owners need a break and deserve to enjoy the holidays too, it just means we will have to wander back again. We found a parking spot among the row houses and 19th century buildings. After walking, carefully, for about one block, the smallest crew member was worried that her hands might freeze off so hot chocolates were in order. We pulled into the next sit down cafe and received great service and hot drinks at Spill'n the Beans Coffeehouse. The gentleman behind the counter got our orders just right but I wish there was more to say. I felt like the place needed a little more color or ambiance.

While the girls warmed their hands, I wandered a couple doors down and was lured in, immediately, by beautiful Christmas window displays. Folksy decor always sucks me in. Blue Bird Home Decor was just the place for me. The store was full of little knick knacks, rethought light fixtures, accessories and much more. The pieces I adored the most were the paintings of animals in the winter that made me feel warm and happy. I regret that I did not choose one to adopt. I was told the mother of the store's owner is the artist that puts her heart into each of these sweet paintings. When I'm back in Troy, Blue Bird will be a repeat for me and I may find a painting to call my own!

I ambled through the Blue Bird in a true state of joy, before I met up with the girls and dropped into the little corner bookstore next. Market Block Books was small but seemed to cover all the bases. Our day was cut short from there, due to freezing toes and stores that close, but we passed by a few more windows that looked enticing for our next round. I would love to check out all the goodies at Anchor #5 Boutique and who can resist a store with fluffy white cotton hanging in the windows and a name like Broccolis! I don't know what the prices are like at Copper Fox but the clothes look chic and unique. There are 2 more bookstores, a fancy looking wine store, more than a handful of art galleries and many more places that I will blog about when I get back to Troy. Restaurants were a miss for us. We tried Muddaddy Flats Quesadillary and were not impressed, food was bland and boring and restaurant was very college dive like. The other restaurants on our radar were closed or would not satisfy picky kids. Next time I am in town I have my taste buds set on the Illium Cafe for dinner and Manory's Restaurant for a family friendly breakfast.

If you find yourself near Troy or another place that you are wondering about their wonderful, let us know at Stowaway Travels and we will help you plan the best bon voyage!