HYPERLOCAL NEWS HUB BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS DEPARTMENT OF JOURNALISM
Creatively Romantic in Cooper-Young
Valentine's Day may have wrapped, but some outings can be romantic year-round
By Bri Jones/MicroMemphis reporter
So you've polished off the chocolates and the flowers have wilted. Now what? Who needs a hallmark-card-designated holiday to celebrate love and togetherness? There are numerous restaurants in the area to choose from. You both can decide from one of the 18+ restaurants in the area. There are many interesting things to do for couples in the area. I would suggest either walking or riding your bikes along Cooper St. Cooper Young Business Association’s, Tamara Cook said, “Cooper Young is one of the last places you can stroll as slow or fast as you can under the moonlight”. Either one or all of these categories may fit you and your partner's lifestyle. Spend the day trying something new. Do something out of the norm for your relationship. Here is a list of things to do in Cooper Young just for you.
Share an experience. Go get a tattoo or a piercing at Underground Art. The tattoo shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 3pm-10pm. Piercings are available during shop hours; however, tattoos are done by appointment only, so call in advance. Also, visit Midtown Acupuncture & Natural Apothecary for some stress-relief. Small needles used for therapy is out of the norm for some people, but they also offer massages and other services. Call in advance to set up an appointment.
Visit Urban Outfitters and Charm Boutique. Urban Outfitters offers urban apparel for both men and women. Charm Boutique is a consignment store offering designer women’s clothing and jewelry. Flashback will give you an instant flashback to a vintage style department store and offers furnishings, housewares, and clothing from as far back as the 1920s.
Visit inbalance Fitness for group fitness classes and sign up for spa membership. Men, visit Midtown Yoga with your partner for some relaxation and stretching. Also, impress your partner by your ability to protect him or her. Midtown ATA Martial Arts offers classes to teach you both taekwondo.
Visit Burke’s Books so you can read to each other and buy some books so you can enjoy reading time. Also, spend time reading to others learning to read at Literacy Mid-South. It is a way you can volunteer your time and encourage someone else to learn to read.
Bring a bottle of wine and your creativity for a night out with your partner at ArtjamN. This paint studio offers couple’s night out, where you and your partner can paint on one canvas to create a memorable piece of artwork together. Check the calendar on artjamn.com for more information.
Dedicate a day to get free HIV testing. This may not be the most exciting part of your day, but Memphis' HIV rates are high and your partner may be the best person to go with you. The Gay and Lesbian Community Center offers painless testing every Wednesday night from 6pm-9pm and takes about 20 minutes for results. Call first to see if testing is available. As of publication of this piece, funding for the free tests had been suspended due to budget cuts. 278-6422
Visit the House of Mews. It is a non-profit cat rescue adoption agency. Be a hero and adopt a cat. Take a friend, significant other, or spouse with you. Make memories and share experiences with those you love. Life is short, enjoy the special moments. |
Bri Jones/ MicroMemphis reporter

Bri covers Lifestyles for MicroMemphis.
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