Greetings, fellow adventurers! I’ve had the privilege of exploring many remarkable destinations. Today, I’m excited to share with you a journey through the charming town of Exeter, a place that holds a special spot in the hearts of Pixar fans as the hometown of the Pixar brothers.
A Pixar Fan’s Dream: The Pixar Ball
Our journey begins at the heart of Exeter, where we discover the town’s iconic landmark, the Pixar Ball. Perched high above the town square, this giant Luxo ball is an homage to Pixar Animation Studios and their famous animated short film, “Luxo Jr.” As a Pixar enthusiast, seeing this playful symbol in the real world was a dream come true.
Tip: Visiting the Pixar Ball is free, and it’s a fantastic spot for photos. It’s accessible all day, every day, and beautifully lit at night.
A Walk Through History: Exeter Historical Society
Just a short stroll from the town square, we find the Exeter Historical Society. This charming museum houses a treasure trove of artifacts and stories that transport us back in time. I was particularly fascinated by the exhibits showcasing the Pixar brothers’ upbringing in Exeter and their early influences.
Tip: The Exeter Historical Society is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is $5 for adults, well worth it to uncover the town’s history and Pixar connections.
Art and Inspiration: Swasey Parkway
Swasey Parkway, a beautiful riverside park, is where you’ll find a sense of tranquility and artistic inspiration. Take a leisurely stroll along the Exeter River, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the lush greenery. It’s not hard to imagine how the natural beauty of Exeter influenced the Pixar brothers’ creativity.
Tip: Swasey Parkway is open year-round, and admission is free. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon.
Pixar-Inspired Eateries
As we explore Exeter, don’t miss the opportunity to savor some Pixar-inspired dishes at local eateries. Nestled in the heart of Exeter, New Hampshire, Luxo Cafe is a Pixar fan’s dream come true. From the moment I stepped inside, I was transported to a world of whimsy and creativity. The decor, inspired by Pixar’s iconic lamp mascot, Luxo Jr., and vibrant movie posters, set the stage for a memorable dining experience.
The Menu: Pixar on a Plate
Luxo Cafe’s menu is a celebration of Pixar’s most beloved characters and films. It offers a delightful fusion of comfort food and culinary creativity. As I perused the menu, I couldn’t help but smile at the cleverly named dishes that paid homage to Pixar classics.
Buzz Lightyear Burger: My culinary journey began with the “Buzz Lightyear Burger.” This towering masterpiece featured a juicy beef patty topped with crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and zesty pepper jack cheese. The accompanying “Space Fries” were a delightful twist on classic french fries, dusted with a hint of intergalactic seasoning.
Finding Nemo Pasta: Next up, I couldn’t resist trying the “Finding Nemo Pasta.” This seafood delight featured succulent shrimp and tender scallops swimming in a rich garlic butter sauce, all served over a bed of linguine. It was a flavorful tribute to the underwater adventures of Marlin and Dory.
Toy Story Tacos: The “Toy Story Tacos” were a playful nod to Woody and Buzz. These street-style tacos came in a trio, each with its own unique filling. I savored the BBQ pulled pork, zesty chicken, and tangy grilled vegetable options, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas.
Sweet Surprises: Luxo Cafe didn’t disappoint when it came to dessert. The “Wall-E Chocolate Lava Cake” was a decadent delight, with a gooey chocolate center that oozed out like Wall-E’s heartwarming personality. And let’s not forget the “Up-Inspired Balloon Sundae,” a colorful treat featuring scoops of ice cream, whipped cream, and rainbow sprinkles.
A Pixar-Inspired Experience
What sets Luxo Cafe apart is its dedication to providing a complete Pixar-inspired experience. From the cheerful Pixar-themed decor to the whimsical menu items, dining here felt like a journey into the world of animated storytelling. I appreciated how each dish paid homage to beloved characters and moments from Pixar films.
The service was warm and attentive, and the staff’s enthusiasm for Pixar added an extra layer of charm to the meal. They were more than happy to share trivia about the films and engage in spirited discussions about favorite Pixar moments.
Tip: Prices at Luxo Cafe and Toy Story Treats are reasonable, and they offer a fun dining experience for Pixar fans.
A Whimsical End: Exeter’s Art Scene
Before concluding our journey, let’s immerse ourselves in Exeter’s vibrant art scene. The town is dotted with galleries and studios, showcasing the work of talented local artists. It’s a perfect way to wrap up our visit, appreciating the cr
