Bridging campus and community through ties to Downtown Maryville
While Maryville’s historic downtown is full of small-town charm, it is steadily growing alongside the city’s population. A short walk across the pedestrian bridge puts MC students in the heart of downtown, connecting them to local businesses and a flourishing community. As the city rapidly grows, students now have more options for dining, shopping and entertainment.
Some local establishments that draw MC students are Vienna Coffee Co., Two Doors Down and Brackins Blues Club.
With the newly established on-campus location, as well as its downtown location, Vienna is an ongoing hit among MC students, due to their high-quality coffee and pastries, and a cozy atmosphere for studying or socializing.
Currently, they offer a 10% discount for all MC students, but on March 1, they will be eliminating this perk and transferring to their Vienna rewards system.
“The new reward system allows students to earn points on every purchase that can be redeemed for free drinks and food items, and it also includes birthday rewards and special bonus point days and happy hours throughout the year,” said Beau Branton, Vienna’s marketing manager and operations coordinator.
Employees of Vienna’s downtown location said the reward system is not changing from the pre-existing rewards system that many Maryville College students already use.
The program is free to join and designed to provide ongoing value with each visit. Although the loss of their discount may be an adjustment for some students, Vienna assures that it will be beneficial for all customers.
Coffee is not all that downtown Maryville has to offer. For students 21 or older who are looking for a fun night out, Brackin’s Blues Club is an excellent choice, offering a cozy dive-bar atmosphere. The bar offers food, drinks and pool tables.
Brackin’s hosts various events to stay connected with the MC community, such as homecoming and alumni events, while also sponsoring and promoting the College.
“We have always been one of the hometown bars for the College,” said Christina O’Rourke, owner of Brackin’s Blues Club. “We appreciate the students, faculty and alumni that have always supported us and our hometown dive vibe.” Another popular local bar, Two Doors Down, encourages students to enjoy a relaxing space with food, drinks, live music and more.
“College Night” every Wednesday at Two Door Down includes half-off pizzas and a jukebox party, according to Beverage Director Miriam Quesada.
While many MC students aren’t aware of everything downtown Maryville has to offer, local establishments support the college and welcome students.
Whether you want a quick coffee pick-me-up, a fun night out on the town or to go shopping locally, there is something for every MC student.
As Downtown Maryville continues to expand, its partnership with the College reflects a growing connection between campus and community. Students can experience all downtown Maryville has to offer with a short walk across the bridge.
“We value our relationship with Maryville College and love being part of the downtown that so many students engage with daily,” Branton said.
“Downtown Maryville” banner located across the pedestrian bridge. (Photo courtesy of Emma Knight)