story and photos by STEPHANIE NICOL
The Diana Theater sits steadfast in the middle of downtown Tipton, welcoming locals and visitors with the same historic hospitality as it has for the last 100 years. It’s a fixture in this small Central Indiana city where moviegoers can still catch the latest release for just $5 and under, enjoy movie treats at reasonable prices, and relax in a space that’s a throwback to simpler times.
But while the Diana remains fairly unchanged, the city blocks surrounding it have morphed into a treasure trove of destination worthy shops and eateries. Most of these businesses were launched by Tipton natives and long-term residents who’ve committed to investing in their own community. They’ve experienced first-hand the charm that Tipton holds, and wanted to expand that to a level that now draws visitors and day-trippers from all over the state and beyond. And, with so many boutiques and specialty retailers, you can easily spend an entire day browsing and filling your car with unique finds.
“Downtown businesses truly support each other,” says Amanda Baird who, along with her husband Jacob, owns and operates East Street Provisions, a bright and airy “farm to fork” café serving up fresh breakfast and lunch options using many local products. “We don’t compete, and we all work hard to promote all the businesses in town.”
Store owners work together to ensure they’re not carrying all the same items, which becomes quickly evident as you begin your stroll around town. Walking into Urban Homestead is a transition from small town Americana to big city style. This home décor shop is chock full of the latest furniture trends and plenty of affordable gift items and accessories. Owner Kindra Tragesser has lived in Tipton since she was two years old, and wanted a way to give back to her community.
“My husband and I made our living in Tipton and our goal was to rehab a building on the downtown square,” Kindra says. “Opening a brick and mortar was to help draw people to Tipton and share this place we love.” Which is exactly what she did when she opened seven years ago.
On either side of Urban Homestead, there are two more boutiques, Glamour & Grace which carries trendy clothing appropriate for all ages, and Anchored in Hope, a home décor and gift shop specializing in products made by local artisans.
Stop by the Empty Vase for flowers and fun gift items before you round the corner to experience Horton’s Home & Garden, a Tipton staple since 1976. This store is a sensory delight, outshined only by the family whose name is on the building. Tim Horton and his daughters Katey and Holly are frequently on hand to load fresh flowers and plants into your car, ring up your bounty of newfound home décor items, and provide samples of their homemade fudge. They make 3,000 pounds of this confection each year, and Tim is quick to point out that it’s a family recipe handed down through generations. “My mother taught me how to make fudge,” he says, “then I taught Holly. She continues the tradition.”
Just across Jefferson Street from Horton’s is a quaint shop called “The Feel Goods.” Here you’ll find stylish apparel, “reworked” clothing, graphic tees, spirit wear, and accessories. Don’t be surprised when you’re greeted with the smell of fresh-brewed coffee; there’s even a little coffee bar right inside the store.
Culinary options in Tipton have increased significantly over the last few years. In addition to East Street Provisions, The Shack is a new take on the original Pizza Shack, now offering a full bar area and expanded menu. The Sandwich Shoppe is the place for sandwiches, soups, and salads, while family-friendly Mad Tap serves smokehouse favorites. But for those wanting to embrace nostalgia, you can still enjoy a Jimbo Platter at Jim Dandy, which has been around since 1964; or an ice cream treat at the South Pole, a Tipton institution for more than 50 years.
