Columnist Muriel Stevens: District enlivens Henderson

Wednesday, April 14, 2004 | 8:16 a.m.

When the District at Green Valley Ranch Station Casino celebrates its grand opening Thursday, it will be an eye-opener.

Billed as a "Metropolitan Lifestyle Center," the District includes more than 40 retail shops and restaurants, luxury lofts and apartments, offices above the shops and a class A office building (not yet completed). More than three years in the making, the District was developed by American Nevada Company (which is owned by the Greenspun family, which also owns the Las Vegas Sun).

John Kilduff, president of ANC, beams when he talks about the District and the team of experts he assembled who made it all happen.

The District's mix of shops and eateries is terrific. And so is the location at the southwest corner of of I-215 and Green Valley Parkway in Henderson. Most beguiling is the Main Street view with full-grown trees, strolling areas and other pedestrian-friendly features.

A number of the stores and restaurants were already being stocked when I visited this week. A small number are still being completed. I can't wait until Anthropologie opens. This hip clothing, accessories and gift shop is for all ages.

Coldwater Creek has selected the District for its newest full-line store. Says Georgia Shonk-Simmons, president and chief merchandising officer, "Everything is designed with browsing in mind and the merchandise is arranged to reflect the lifestyle of our customers."

Coldwater Creek offers women's apparel, jewelry, gifts and accessories.

Chico's, J.Jill, Talbot's, Ann Taylor Loft and White House Black Market all have shops at the District. For men there's Joseph A. Banks and Portfolio/Kevo Menswear. Pottery Barn and Williams-Sonoma are ideal for kitchenware and home decor.

My Gym is a fitness center for kids. Along one walkway is a Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf -- it makes a good cup of tea. Ben & Jerry's ice cream is next to Lucky Dog, a "gourmet hot dog emporium." And next to that is Flea Bags, a doggie bakery -- wow Fido with healthy snacks made from the best ingredients.

How good are the dog biscuits? Try one. Just bite carefully; they can be hard.

Remember the Elephant Bar on Maryland Parkway? It's back in town at the District. I wonder if the topiary elephant will return, too.

New to our area are Al's Garage for casual food, 24/7, and Kennedy, an around-the-clock dining room. Also new to the area are King's Fish House and Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que. Both are owned by California restaurateurs. They are not franchise chains, although each owner does have six locations in California.

La Salsa Mexican grill and Panera Bread offer more food options. Ethel M chocolates will bring a sweet touch and a new twist to the District with a Design-Your-Own gifts case.

Grand opening festivities begin at 10 a.m. Thursday with Henderson Mayor James Gibson and other city officials cutting the ribbon. Bring the family. The fun continues through Sunday, beginning at noon with strolling mimes, stilt walkers, balloon artists, the Yacht Club Jazz Trio and prizes, including three shopping sprees. There's more to come at the District.