Farmington

Suggestions for a 'girls' day out' in Farmington

During the always-hectic holidays, women often still perform the bulk of mental labor involved in keeping family schedules, making travel arrangements, and buying gifts, so it’s no surprise that afterward, around about January, we feel pretty wrung out – like we’re running on fumes.

 

But nothing puts fuel in the tank quite as effectively (or as enjoyably) as a day spent with one or more gal pals. To that end, On the Ground Farmington is providing suggestions for planning a walking “girlfriends’ day out” tour that’s focused on self-care and connection.

 

Because after spending a couple of months thinking about everyone else, it’s finally time to spend a few hours focused on you.

 

THINGS TO DO: For those who love to shop, Downtown Farmington has a handful of obvious go-to options – Dress Barn, Clothes Encounters, and TJ Maxx for clothes; Tuesday Morning for home goods; Tre Sorelle for unique items from around the world – and you can always catch a matinee at our beautifully restored 1940 movie house, the Civic Theater.

 

But for something a little different, consider dropping in at Bodhi Yoga for a gentle flow, slow flow, yin yoga, or flow & restore class. (These class types are all in keeping with the relaxed vibe of a self-care day, but more intensive classes are available, too.) Gamer girls, meanwhile, will want to hit up 1 Up Arcade Bar, where you can play classic video games while enjoying a cocktail. Others might prefer do figure eights at Riley Park’s free outdoor ice rink, where you can use your own skates, or borrow some on-site (and then grab a warm drink at Starbucks); and artsy-craftsy types should consider making a reservation at Painting with a Twist, where you’ll be guided through creating your own take-home masterpiece – preferably while sipping wine you can bring along for the occasion.

 

Finally, you could “get inked” at Evolve Tattoo – but then again, that may be a far more permanent memento than you’re looking for.

 

TREAT YOURSELF: One of my favorite places to go for a facial (available in 30, 60, or 90-minute increments) is Salon Legato, while those looking for something in a mani-pedi should check out VIP Nails & Spa, or Athena Nails. For a massage – be it deep tissue, reflexology, or the hot stone variety – simply make an appointment at Bellis Therapeutic Spa.

 

LUNCH/DINNER OPTIONS: It’s cliché to say, but when it comes to restaurants, downtown Farmington truly has something for everyone.

 

If you’re in the mood for sushi (or other Japanese dishes), stroll down to the recently opened Samurai Steak House; Chive Kitchen, the town’s buzz-worthy, acclaimed vegan restaurant, draws everyone in – vegetarians and omnivores alike – by way of its tasty, varied menu options; if deli is what you’re craving, Dagwood’s extensive sandwich board is guaranteed to please; John Cowley & Sons Irish Pub & Restaurant offers a cozier, more upscale dining experience, with several comfort food options; Laziz, as well as the smaller, more intimate Rumi (specializing in Persian fare), serve Mediterranean cuisine; for Mexican food – or maybe, more importantly, terrific margaritas – there’s Tres Amigos; Mi.Mosa is a local favorite hangout, with addicting truffle fries, a solid variety of sandwiches, salads, and entrees, and unique cocktails; and when nothing short of a juicy burger will hit the spot, head to Basement Burger Bar, where you can “build” your burger (or salad, but seriously, come on) to order.

 

COCKTAILS/BEERS & DESSERTS: Many of the restaurants listed above have a full bar, but one beloved and highly popular local establishment not yet mentioned is the Farmington Brewing Company, where you’ll find a number of delicious craft beer options, including FB’s own Blood Orange Wheat. And right nearby, you’ll find some of the town’s best cocktail and dessert options in one place: Browndog Barlor & Restaurant, which offers not only irresistible small batch artisan ice cream, but mixes these unique ice cream flavors into some pretty amazing and original cocktails. (The food is quite good, too, but I’m always most swept away by the small eatery’s most decadent concoctions.)

 

So here’s to you, ladies. If you can, give yourself a decadent day in Farmington sometime soon. You deserve it.

 
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