Oh, So Thankful For Our Downtown
This Thanksgiving, we are oh so thankful for our downtown! Times have changed and the town may have grown, but one thing remains constant: the heart of our city. We give thanks to our local businesses that make this small town special.
Murray Main Street
Deana Wright has been the heart and soul of Main Street Murray for 21 years, working as a one-woman team to support the downtown area and its vibrant community. Her dedication and personal touch has made her a beloved figure, as she goes above and beyond to ensure the downtown thrives. For Deana, the best part of her role is the strong sense of community and family she experiences every day in downtown Murray. She takes pride in helping grow a welcoming atmosphere where locals and visitors alike can feel at home.
Special Spotlights
Bolin Books
Bolin Books, owned and operated by Wesley and Whitney Bolin, has a long history rooted in public library book sales, book vacations, and dreams of someday opening a bookstore. The idea came to life during the COVID pandemic, when the couple, spending more time at home, discussed their future and their love for reading. Whitney, inspired by her childhood love of Adventures in Odyssey and dreams of her own Whit’s End, and Wesley, who had sold books online for over a decade, found common ground in their shared passion for books. Wesley’s late father, James Duane Bolin, also envisioned owning a small-town bookstore, and the two often discussed the dream of Bolin Books. After Duane’s passing in 2022, the couple renewed their efforts to open the store in his memory.
Located in Murray’s historic downtown, Bolin Books is part of the couple’s mission to revitalize the area, attract visitors, and restore a Main Street building. They’ve received invaluable support from local businesses and the Murray Convention and Visitors Bureau. Wesley’s love for books comes from his parents, both educators and authors, while Whitney, who discovered her passion for reading through childhood books like Sideways Stories from Wayside School, pursued a career in public radio and technical writing before joining Wesley in this venture.
Murray Art Guild
The Murray Art Guild (MAG) Community Art Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering arts enrichment. Its mission is to “Motivate artistic growth through community arts development.” Established in 1967 by a group of passionate community members, MAG was created as a space for artists to create, exhibit, and sell their work. Over 55 years and several locations later, this mission remains central to the organization’s purpose. MAG offers arts programming for local youth and adults in various mediums, hosts year-round exhibitions, sells artwork through its Art Market, and provides creative spaces in its studios. The facility features two community workspaces, designated areas for weaving and clay, and private studio rentals.
In May, the MAG Community Art Center relocated to 403 Maple Street, situated on the south side of Murray’s court square. This location serves as a temporary home while the new building is under construction just a few blocks north on 4th Street. The center has embraced its role in the downtown Murray community. The facility features a retail Art Market showcasing the work of over 40 local artists, offering a variety of fine arts and crafts. This provides an excellent opportunity to support the MAG Community Art Center, local artists, and discover unique, handcrafted gifts. Additionally, the center hosts workshops for both adults and youth, utilizing its community space, weaving studio, and clay studio.
Printing Services of Murray
Printing Services of Murray is a family-owned commercial printing and design company that has been serving the community since 1964. As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we continue to offer a wide range of services, from traditional print materials like business cards, brochures, and posters, to promotional products including shirts, hats, mugs, banners, yard signs, and much more. Visit their growing online storefront at www.printingservices365.com to explore their products, or reach out to them for custom quotes. If you don’t find exactly what you need, you can call them at 270-753-5397, email at office@print102.com, or stop by at 102 North 4th Street in downtown Murray, just off the court square.
Danny Pruitt, the owner and CEO since 2012, has been with the company since 1985, when he started working here at 18 years old. The business has proudly been a part of downtown Murray for nearly its entire 60-year history, a location Danny holds dear for its nostalgic charm. He also values the close-knit, walkable community of downtown businesses and the friendly atmosphere that comes with it.
Red Bug Yarn & Gifts
Red Bug, founded in 2010 by Trudy McFarlane, began as a response to a growing need in a small town. An avid knitter, Trudy saw an opportunity to create something special. The shop's growth was steady, with Jill Courtney joining in 2011, followed by Susan Williams and Cindy McDaniel in 2015. The addition of new gift lines marked a key moment in the store's growth, and a move to a larger location in 2015 allowed for even more expansion. In early 2021, Red Bug found its new home on Court Square, a prime spot for both foot traffic and community connection. In 2022, Janeen became part of the team, and with the retirement of the original founders, Susan and Janeen now continue to carry the love for knitting forward.
Nestled in the heart of the action, this location offers a front-row view of the vibrant Downtown Farmers' Market and the festive ice skating rink during Christmas Merriment, one of Red Bug’s favorite things about being on the court square. Across the square stands the historic courthouse, adding to the charm of the area. With an inviting atmosphere, this corner has become the perfect spot for knitters and locals alike to gather and create connections in a warm, welcoming community.
A Good Thing Consignment
A Good Thing Consignment Shop, serving Western Kentucky since 1997, offers a carefully curated selection of furniture and accessories from top regional consigners. With a constantly changing inventory, the shop caters to everyone — from first-time buyers to experienced collectors — providing quality, sustainable pieces for any home. By shopping here, customers not only find unique items but also help reduce waste. With new treasures arriving regularly, there’s always something special waiting to be discovered.
Carraway Furniture & Mattresses
Carraway Furniture store is a family owned and operated business since 1958. With the help of Terese and Ronnie Shemwell, the store has built a reputation for its wide selection of furniture and friendly customer service. As a local business, Carraway Furniture offers a personalized shopping experience.
Greymare Music Works
Greymare Music Works is a family-owned, hometown music store with big aspirations to serve the local music community. The store offers a variety of instruments, lessons, repairs, recording services, and a welcoming space for musical fellowship. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, Greymare Music Works is dedicated to helping you along your musical journey. They invite everyone to stop by and see how they can support and inspire your passion for music.
LuLu’s Home Trends Gallery
LuLu’s Home Trends Gallery has been family-owned and operated since 1932. Originally known as Crass Furniture, INC., the name LuLu’s was adopted when the current owners took over. This home trend store is recognized as one of Kentucky’s most unique furniture and home accessory stores. Travelers, collectors, bargain hunters and shoppers alike come from near and far to experience a piece of LuLu’s history. With a diverse selection of items, there is something to suit every style, from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Stop on in to explore a collection of one-of-a-kind pieces waiting to be discovered!
Main Street Market
Main Street Market, a gourmet grocery store in downtown, has been welcoming customers for the past two years. Owned by Robby and Carrie Bryant, the store offers a curated selection of high-quality, artisanal products, including specialty cheeses, gourmet snacks and unique ingredients. With a focus on service and premium goods, the Bryant’s have created a welcoming place for food lovers and those seeking something special. The store has quickly become a beloved part of the community, known for its upscale offerings and personalized touches.
Mugsy’s Hideout
Jay and Maria Baron, true-blue Chicagoans with 25 years in the food industry, turned their dream into reality by opening Mugsy’s Hideout in Murray, Kentucky. After years of vacationing in the area, they decided to bring authentic Chicago-style cuisine to the South. With a passion for top-quality food, Mugsy’s offers a taste of home for Chicago transplants and new flavors for foodies alike.
Murray Lumber Company
Murray Lumber Company is a well-established, family-operated business that has served the local community for over 80 years! The company offers a comprehensive selection of building materials and related products, including treated lumber, roofing materials, siding, tools, and hardware, tailored to meet the needs of contractors, builders, and homeowners alike. Beyond just materials, the knowledgeable staff provides expert advice and personalized service to help customers with their construction and renovation projects. Whether it's a small DIY task or a large-scale building endeavor, Murray Lumber Company is a trusted resource.
Murray Supply Company, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Murray Supply Company has been a trusted fixture in downtown Murray. Starting as a small hardware store, it grew under the ownership of Larry Hurt, when he purchased the business in 1974 and grew the business through purchasing local hardware and plumbing companies. Today, with over 12,000 square feet of retail space and six warehouses, Murray Supply is known for its extensive selection and exceptional customer service. With a focus on quality products and personalized service, it remains a go-to shop for all home improvement needs in western Kentucky.
New Life Christian Bookstore and 5th & Main Coffees
They first opened their doors in 1987, and since then, they've had the joy of witnessing incredible changes in the world, their community, and the industry. Through it all, their mission has remained constant: to serve the community and offer products that truly make a difference. Whether in-store or online, their greatest joy is supporting their customers and making every experience a positive one.
Venture down to the lower level of New Life Christian Bookstore to discover a cozy coffee shop that feels like a hidden gem. Owned by Karen Welch, who greets every guest with a warm smile, this charming spot offers more than just coffee. With its inviting atmosphere, locally sourced coffee and delicious handmade pastries, 5th and Main is the perfect place to settle into a corner and linger for an hour or two.
Rudy’s on the Square
Rudy’s on the Square, a family-owned restaurant in the heart of downtown Murray, has been serving up fresh, home-style comfort food since reopening in 2017. Originally established in 1936, the restaurant was purchased by Pamela, who has since made it her mission to offer great-quality meals and top-notch customer service to the community. Known for their breakfast served all day, delicious fish specials and signature Hot Brown sandwiches, Rudy’s menu offers something for everyone. Whether you are dining in or ordering carry-out or delivery, they strive to make every guest feel like family. Make sure to come visit them on Fifth Street and experience the warm, welcoming atmosphere and delicious, Southern-inspired dishes that keep customers coming back for more!
Shaffer Coffee Co.
In 2017, Mike and Kellie, known as the "car people," decided to open a coffee shop in Murray to serve the community in a new way. With Mike’s love of coffee and Kellie’s vision, they transformed an empty corner unit into a unique space with a story, featuring a wall of chipped paint and salvaged wood from a tornado-hit warehouse.
With support from family and friends, their dream became a reality. Beyond serving great coffee, their goal is to create a place where people leave better than they came, spreading kindness and strengthening the community.
S&N Kicks
Founded in 2023, S&N Kicks has quickly become a standout store for footwear and on trend fashion in the community and surrounding areas. As a premier shoe store, they offer a large selection of designer shoes, athletic footwear, clothing, custom shoes and accessories, all under one roof. Whether you are hunting for the latest sneaker drop, upgrading your wardrobe or looking for something uniquely custom, they have you covered. Your perfect fit is just a step away at S&N Kicks
The Clothing Co.
The Clothing Co., a boutique opened by Adrianne Rogers, has been a standout in the community for the past year. Specializing in trendy clothing, stylish accessories and fun stickers, the boutique offers a unique shopping experience for women looking to express their personal style. With a welcoming atmosphere and eye-catching items, The Clothing Co. has quickly earned a large following in its first year of business.
The Fanspired
Your go-to destination for all things fan gear. Explore unique sports and pop culture-inspired collectibles and merchandise. Become part of the Fanspired community and share your own Fanspiration stories with fellow fans.
Fanspired is a small business with a big passion for both sports and entertainment. Their mission is to capture the spirit of what drives people to be devoted fans. Whether you're a Lion of Lannister, Gryffindor, or Detroit enthusiast, they have the perfect merchandise to proudly show off your team colors and wear your pride. More than just a store, Fanspired is a place where fans can come together, exchange their personal stories of fandom, and inspire one another. It's a community where shared passions bring people together, offering support and celebrating what fuels the fan spirit in all of us.
The Wizard of Sportcards
The Wizard of Sportscards, owned by Earl SHroader, is a specialty shop offering a wide range of collectible items such as sports cards, hobby boxes, vintage toys, and trading cards like Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering. The store caters to enthusiasts and collectors, providing both a place to buy rare and unique items and trade or sell collectibles. Known for its fair pricing and knowledgeable service, it has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors interested in sports memorabilia and related items.
Toasty Bois
Toasty Bois, a pair of lifelong friends with 30 years of blue-collar experience, is on a mission to make their mark in the jerky world with Heat Crafted Jerky. They focus on three things: attention to detail, creating flavorful and healthy jerky for any time of day; consistency, ensuring every bite is just as good as the last; and top-notch customer service. They’re grateful for the trust customers place in their products.
Vigilant Arms & Outfitters
Vigilant Arms and Outfitters, owned by Bryan Vanover, has been serving outdoor lovers for the past two years with a wide range of top-quality gear. The store offers everything needed for outdoor adventures, from hunting gear and rain jackets to kayaks and camping equipment. With a focus on durability and performance, Vigilant Arms and Outfitters provides top-tier advice and the best products for those who love to explore nature. Whether you're gearing up for a hunting trip or a kayaking excursion, Bryan and his team are dedicated to helping customers find the perfect gear for every adventure.
Wits’ End Records
Wits’ End is the newest addition to downtown Murray, offering a unique space for music enthusiasts and vinyl collectors alike. Owned by Tim Peyton, the shop features a thoughtfully curated selection of new and vintage vinyl records spanning various genres, appealing to a wide audience. More than just a record store, Wits’ End serves as a social hub for the community. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere invites patrons to relax, explore music, and connect with others. Regular live music events showcase local and regional talent, transforming the space into a lively venue for performances. Whether you're an avid vinyl collector or simply looking to enjoy great music in a vibrant setting, Wits’ End brings a fresh cultural touch to Murray's downtown scene.
