A modern general store and so much more
The Savanna Marketplace opened its doors in October 2013. It's located in a historic building in the heart of historic downtown Savanna. It previously boasted an original 1930's soda fountain and pharmacy. The space still holds the original soda fountain counter where visitors can enjoy hot and cold drinks, loose-leaf teas, and 50 varieties of vintage and craft sodas.
The remaining space is now filled with art, locally made jewelry, apparel designed by the owner, USA based products, and all-natural products such as handmade soaps and branded seasonings.
Note: Chris is proud of his iced caramel macchiato barista skills. Order one – you won’t regret it!
How the Savanna Marketplace started
Chris Lain and his partner, Jube Manderico, were looking for a vacation away from their fast-paced Chicago life when they decided to check out Savanna. They fell in love with the natural beauty of this small city on the Mississippi River and its simpler lifestyle. Chris and Jube put an offer on a weekend house, which was accepted only hours later. Not long after, they quit their big-city jobs and moved to Savanna fulltime. Their goal was to bring new business to Savanna's quaint downtown that would boost the local economy and offer products that promote a relaxed way of life on the Mississippi River.
Savanna Marketplace and the Ecology Inn (more information below) were born.
Fun fact: One of the owners, Chris, is the Mayor of Savanna!
A place for both locals and travelers
The Marketplace's "Shop & Gather" theme makes it a favorite spot for locals and travelers. A comfy leather couch and chairs sit near the back of the store surrounding a fireplace and TV. Free Wifi encourages guests to grab a coffee or tea and stay awhile. They also serve chicken and egg salad sandwiches, soup of the day, and homemade energy drinks. Paintings by local artists are displayed on the wall as well as home décor and t-shirts designed by Jube.
These items showcase their collective love of the beauty of small-town Savanna and all it has to offer. A piano sits in the middle of the store is available for anyone who is musically talented--or not! It’s not uncommon to have a mid-day sing along.
An outdoor seating area out front of the shop sits right next to the sidewalk in the middle of this historic downtown. There is also a private, covered courtyard out back where you can read a book or write while enjoying coffee and a peaceful view of the Mississippi River. They also offer mountain bike rentals to ride around Savanna or on the Great River Bike Trail. This 62-mile paved bike path is a premiere trail that starts in Savanna and travels south to the Quad Cities through small river towns. Details: Bike rentals are $12 for two hours or $16 for four hours.
Ecology Inn is a place to wake up to
In addition to owning the Savanna Marketplace, Chris and Jube also own Ecology Inn, a vacation rental located above the store. It is set up as a modern flat with shared living spaces.
About those gorgeous rooms
This place is perfect for a weekend getaway with friends and/or family. Ecology Inn offers four bedrooms with shared living room, dining room, full working kitchen, and two decks overlooking the Mississippi River. There are three front rooms facing the street. The Radke, Pierce, and Dupuis rooms share a bathroom. The Bowen Room, located at the back, has a private bath and a river view. Each room has its own TV and seating area. The decor throughout is a mix of vintage, antiques, and modern classic. It has all the amenities to make your stay memorable.
Check out the map
Ecology Inn boasts a map that guests mark where they are from. The map shows that they have had visitors from all over the world. The most common reason for all of them visiting Savanna is to see the Mighty Mississippi River.
Contact Information
Savanna Marketplace
321 Main St, Savanna, IL 61074 | (815) 273-0336
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Ecology Inn
321-1/2 Main St, Savanna, IL 61074 | (815) 273-0336
Website | Facebook | Instagram
