Every local café has a story to tell about how it came to be. The Traveler is no different, its name honors the world travels of Walter Anderson. But this quaint space has its own story to tell and provides visitors with a feeling of home.
That is just how The Traveler’s Manager, Kassidy described the place – “It was a home, that has been reborn into a new kind of home.” As the former home of Mary Alice Owen, it was gifted to the Walter Anderson Museum of Art at her passing in 2022 and has added a unique addition to the museum’s campus. The nearly century-old building is largely as it was, with updated amenities and utilities to serve as a café.
Located directly behind the museum on Joseph Steet, the café serves as a gathering place for locals and a convenient place for coffee and a bite to eat for visitors. Along the pathway from the museum, is a rowboat, symbolizing Walter’s travels to nearby Horn Island, but most importantly, a place for children to play. A vine-draped arbor provides a transition between the museum and the café grounds. The landscaping is all native species, many that Walter loved.
As for the menu, Kassidy describes it as a fluid creation with input from staff and clients. Lots of flavors dominated by vegetarian options, and not centered on meat, although the smash burger is one of the best I have had, served with a choice of flavorful potato salad or homemade potato chips. Oh, and great options for coffee, prepared with a bright orange expresso machine – that along with the green of the building, defines the two branded colors of the place.
The grounds are also inviting for those that want to enjoy the outdoors, with seating on the spacious porch and under the trees. A stage is nestled to one side that is used for events that include music and a chance for community engagement. If you go, don’t miss the nostalgia of a Volkswagen Minibus in the front yard and a pollinator garden in the shape of Anderson’s beloved sunflower with a bicycle-themed sculpture in its center, a reference to Walter’s preferred mode of local travel.
As for what inspired this space, former Executive Director and current Strategic Advisor, Julian Rankin, shared this, “The idea behind The Traveler was to honor this century-old building while creating a vibrant modern space. We were inspired by the legacy of Shearwater Pottery (almost 100 years old itself), and the ways that historic materials can marry with contemporary art and craft. We commissioned more than a dozen artists to make original work that drew from the Anderson artistic legacy, including murals and moments that were inspired by Walter’s own cottage at Shearwater. And the name, of course, connects to Walter Anderson’s many adventures across the globe – from travels to France and China to his journeys across the Southern landscapes by bicycle and rowboat.”
For Mattie Codling, the museum’s current Executive Director, “The Traveler contributes to the mission of the museum by serving as a place where the community can gather and connect. Families, friends, and neighbors come to The Traveler to share a meal, listen to good music, and engage with the environment. This space has allowed the museum to engage with its visitors on a conversational level – offering a space that is warm and welcoming to all.
Kassidy describes a similar vibe that includes young families, young adults, “mom” groups with young kids that have a place to play, and friend groups that come to chat. As for why she loves The Traveler, Kassidy was one of the original staff members when it opened in early 2025 and has enjoyed the journey. “The staff is family and it is great to be trusted to grow the place into the future.”
If you go, ask for the Café au Lait – you won’t be disappointed!
*All photos are courtesy of Mark LaSalle
