Elizabeth Cravens
Pecan Groves Plaza, 3814 Main Ave. in Groves, is preparing to become Mid-County’s newest family fun destination, offering a one-stop hub for fitness, food, play and community connection, according to a news release. It is designed with families in mind — from toddlers to adults — and friends gathering for food and entertainment, the company shared.
The more than 25,000-square-foot newly built center was born from “a love for the community” by business owner and philanthropist Elizabeth Cravens, who envisioned a family-centered venue that reflects safety, connection and opportunities for families to grow together, she said.
For nearly 20 years, Cravens has worked in the construction industry across Southeast Texas from the Mid America Contractors corporate office in Groves. As the founder of Everlasting Changes, a local nonprofit known for supporting youth and families, Cravens continues to invest in the area she calls home.
“This community is so special to me. It’s where I was blessed to raise my own two kids and now where my grandchildren are growing up, and I want it to be a safe and fun place they are proud to call home,” Cravens said.
Pecan Groves Plaza features seven business suites that create a balanced mix of health, recreation, dining and family entertainment.
Opened Jan. 15 in Suite G is Main Avenue Fitness, a 3,300-square-foot gym with Bolt equipment, an InBody composition analysis machine, a sauna, restrooms and showers.
Main Avenue Fitness celebrated its grand opening Jan. 31 with an event featuring activities, competitions and giveaways. The Groves Chamber of Commerce conducted a ribbon-cutting Jan. 29.
“Main Avenue Fitness is a work of heart,” Cravens said. “We are our best selves when we are physically, mentally and spiritually in shape, and I hope our members are able to find their best selves here at Main Avenue Fitness.”
From within one of the upper-level suites at Main Avenue Fitness, Tatiana Barbosa with Muse Esthetic provides beauty services to clients, offering a special discount to all members. Muse offers a wide range of aesthetic services.
Coming soon to Suite E is Adventure Zone, a family play space designed to encourage creativity, movement and exploration in a safe, clean environment. It includes soft play areas for younger children and a large activity zone for children up to age 12 to climb, jump and explore.
The giant ball pit, slides, swings and play structure encourage adventure and imagination. Adventure Zone also features a cafe and private party room, while the upstairs level offers pool tables, air hockey and competitive laser tag for ages 8 and older — making it a destination the entire family can enjoy together.
At the center of the plaza, in Suite D, is Ascenders Baseball, a baseball training facility focused on developing athletes. Ascenders Baseball will offer batting cages and training equipment when it opens in late spring.
Food and fellowship also play a major role in the plaza’s family atmosphere. In Suite F, Burrito Bar Tortilla and Tamale Factory is being designed as a gathering space featuring Mexican cuisine, live music and room for dancing.
Meanwhile, Pops Boil ‘N Geaux will return for its second season in Suite A, offering crawfish and seafood favorites. Owners Robert Hardy and Kimberlyn Pearson plan to open as soon as crawfish supply meets quality standards.
Suite C is home to Ivy Lane Portraits, owned by photographer Simone Dosdall since 2022, offering families a place to capture milestones and memories. Suite B remains available for lease.
Next door to the plaza sits Flip Factory, operated by Micah Benoit since 2017, offering acro, recreational and competitive gymnastics.
“With its blend of fitness, play, dining and community spirit, Pecan Groves Plaza reflects Cravens’ vision of building more than just a building, but a welcoming place where generations of families can connect and thrive,” according to the announcement.
— Business Journal Staff
