Howdy neighbors!
Supporting small local businesses is super important, right? They’re the heart and soul of our communities, boosting the local economy, creating jobs, and offering unique products and services you just can't find at big chain stores. Denton is a perfect example of a town bursting with amazing local spots, perfect for family outings. From cozy coffee shops to quirky boutiques, Denton has it all.
Let’s dive into some of the coolest local businesses that make Denton so special for family adventures.
Coffee Houses and Cafés
Jupiter House Coffee
Right in the middle of Denton’s historic downtown, Jupiter House Coffee is a must visit. It’s cozy, the coffee is fantastic, and it’s the perfect place for the whole family to relax. The kids can enjoy hot chocolate and homemade cookies while the adults savor a great cup of coffee.
West Oak Coffee Bar
Another favorite in downtown Denton, West Oak Coffee Bar is all about quality coffee and a friendly vibe. The atmosphere is super inviting, making it a great spot for families to hang out.
They have a selection of tasty treats that kids will love too!
Unique Boutiques
The DIME Store
If you love unique, handmade items, you’ve got to check out The DIME Store. This cute shop is packed with locally crafted goodies like jewelry, home decor, and more. It’s the ideal place for families to find special gifts or unique items for your home.
Half Pint Children's Boutique
Half Pint Children's Boutique is a delightful shop filled with adorable children's clothing and accessories. It’s perfect for finding cute outfits for the little ones and unique gifts for baby showers or birthdays.
Wilkinson’s Fine Goods
For those looking for high-quality leather goods, Wilkinson’s Fine Goods offers beautifully crafted items. It's a great place to find unique gifts or stylish accessories that the whole family can appreciate.
Norman Roscoe
Norman Roscoe is a trendy shop offering custom screen printed apparel and unique designs. It's a fun place to pick up cool tshirts and accessories for the family.
Juliet's Jewels
Juliet's Jewels is the go to spot for beautiful, handcrafted jewelry. Whether you're looking for a special gift or something for yourself, this boutique has stunning pieces that will catch your eye.
J.T. Clothiers
J.T. Clothiers is a long standing Denton staple, offering stylish clothing and accessories for men and women. It's perfect for a family shopping trip to find high quality fashion.
The Palm Tree Boutique
This boutique offers trendy women's clothing and accessories. It's a fun spot for mothers and daughters to find the latest fashion together.
Faded Blue
Faded Blue is a chic boutique with a great selection of women's clothing and accessories. It's another great spot for a family shopping day, offering styles that are both modern and timeless.
Dining Destinations
Barley & Board
For an unforgettable dining experience, Barley & Board is the place to go. Located in the historic Texas Building, this gastropub serves up farm-to-table dishes with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The rustic, modern vibe makes it perfect for a family meal. They have a kid friendly menu, ensuring everyone in the family has something to enjoy.
LSA Burger Co.
LSA Burger Co. isn’t just about great burgers - it’s a celebration of Texas music and culture. With a rooftop patio that offers amazing views of downtown Denton and live music, it’s a lively spot for a family outing. The kids will love the fun atmosphere and the delicious burgers, while parents can enjoy the music and the view.
A fantastic spot for a family meal, 940's Kitchen and Cocktails offers a diverse menu with something for everyone. Parents can enjoy a cocktail featuring Noble Wolf Vodka, a locally produced spirit, while the kids dig into tasty dishes from the children's menu.
Sweet Treats
Beth Marie's Old Fashioned Ice Cream
Beth Marie’s is a local favorite for delicious, homemade ice cream. With a wide variety of unique flavors, it’s a fun place for the whole family to enjoy a sweet treat. The old-fashioned parlor setting adds a nostalgic charm to your visit.
Hypnotic Donuts & Biscuits
Known for its creative donuts and mouth-watering biscuits, Hypnotic Donuts is a great spot for a family breakfast or brunch. Kids will love the fun, quirky donut designs, and parents can enjoy the hearty biscuit sandwiches.
Got a furry family member? Susie's Snack Shop is the place to go for all-natural, homemade dog treats. It's the perfect stop to pick up a special snack for your pet, ensuring they feel just as pampered as the rest of the family.
Family Friendly Activities
Explorium Denton Children's Museum
Explorium Denton offers interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage children in learning through play. It’s a fantastic place for a family outing where kids can explore, learn, and have fun all at the same time.
Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center
For families who love the outdoors, Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center is a great destination. With miles of hiking trails, bird watching spots, and educational programs, it’s an ideal place to spend a day exploring nature together.
Looking for a unique family outing? Horse's Axe offers axe throwing in a fun and safe environment. It's a great way for older kids and adults to enjoy some friendly competition and learn a new skill.
Check our monthly calendar here.
Local Shops
Atomic Candy
Atomic Candy is a whimsical candy store that’s sure to delight both kids and adults. They offer a wide selection of classic candies, unique sweets, and nostalgic treats. It’s a fun stop for the whole family.
Sleeping Lizzards
This eclectic gift shop has something for everyone. From unique home decor to quirky gifts, it’s a fun place to explore with the family. Kids will enjoy the colorful and creative items, while parents can find unique gifts and souvenirs.
True Leaf Studio
For families interested in plants and greenery, True Leaf Studio offers a variety of houseplants and botanical decor. It's a peaceful and inspiring place to find something green to take home and care for as a family.
Flowergarden118
Flowergarden118 offers beautiful floral arrangements and plants, perfect for brightening up your home or giving as a thoughtful gift. It's a lovely place to explore with family, finding inspiration in their stunning floral designs.
For families who enjoy gourmet foods, Ten: One Artisanal Cheese offers a delightful selection of handcrafted cheeses and charcuterie. It's a great spot to pick up something special for a family picnic or gathering.
Dining Spots
Hannah's Off the Square
Hannah's offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. They have a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for a family meal, and their menu includes options that cater to both kids and adults.
Cartwright’s Ranch House
For a taste of classic Southern comfort food, Cartwright’s Ranch House is a must-visit. Their hearty meals and friendly service make it a great spot for a family dining experience. The kids’ menu ensures that even the pickiest eaters will find something they love.
Entertainment and Culture
Dan's Silverleaf
Dan's Silverleaf is a key player in Denton’s live music scene. It’s the go-to place for awesome music and good vibes. While it’s a great spot for parents to enjoy a night out, they also host family-friendly events where everyone can enjoy the music together.
Recycled Books
Bookworms, rejoice! Recycled Books, located in a historic opera house, is a treasure trove of used and rare books, records, and CDs. It’s easy to lose track of time exploring their massive collection. It's a fantastic place for a family outing where everyone can find something they love, from children's books to rare finds for the adults.
Breweries
Denton County Brewing Company
For parents looking for a place to unwind, Denton County Brewing Company offers a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of locally brewed beers. They often host events and food trucks, making it a fun spot for everyone.
Bearded Monk
Another great spot for craft beer lovers is Bearded Monk. This laid back taproom offers a wide selection of beers and frequently hosts events, making it a fun place for parents to relax while the kiddos are at grandma’s 😉 .
One of the many reasons why my family and I love Denton is Denton is packed with fantastic local businesses that add so much character to tour town and provide perfect spots for our family outings. Make plans to visit these awesome places with your family and see what Denton has to offer. We’d love to hear about your adventures, so share with us here.
Supporting local businesses not only helps our community thrive but also keeps these beloved spots around for everyone to enjoy.
Did we miss any great businesses? Shoot us an email at davidr@macaronikid.com.
