Our world was turned on its ear in March but now we’re trying to get back to some altered version of normal. We’re finding ways to support each other and safely enjoy doing the things we used to do. Visiting Downtown Waco can be part of that return to life, in fact, it’s actually an especially good time to rediscover downtown. Here are a few of the reasons why:

1. New things! The last few months have been hard on small businesses, for sure, but a number of merchants were already planning to open up downtown and used this time to finish their spaces and open their doors. Just to name a few …

Mamaka Bowls opened up at 215 S. University Parks, serving up bowls, smoothies and surf vibes. A handful of new vendors opened up in Union Hall, including Po’ Boy Place, Ceviche del Mar and Around the World desserts.

Zada Salon and Spa and Waco Adventure Tours moved into Mary Avenue Market, offering a whole range of services. And Wicked Hair Studio at 1124 Washington is brand new on the downtown scene.

Reckless Ironworks’ retail venture and The Black Daisy Boutique are also new additions bringing even more style to downtown.

Plus, there are all those fun temporary murals up around downtown and the Elm Avenue area. Find them on Creative Waco’s public art map.

And there’s even more that you have to come downtown and check out.

2. Plenty of Parking! One concern we’ve heard from folks for years is that there’s not enough parking downtown. (And usually, it’s just a matter of knowing all the great places to park) But right now, because we have not returned to the tourism heights we had reached for a while, there is more easily accessible parking. Come on down now and enjoy how quickly you can get in and out of the great shops and eateries.

3. Scooters! Blue Duck scooters have flocked to downtown and you’ll find them in a row on various street corners. Download the app, follow the instructions, get to cruising around!

4. No crowds! With fewer tourists and other folks who may be choosing to stay at home a little longer, that means shorter lines for your coffee or acai bowl order and an easier time of social distancing. Plus, shops and restaurants are still maintaining a smaller capacity of folks in their establishments.

5. Downtown Needs You! Many small businesses are struggling now, it’s true. But supporting downtown businesses means supporting downtown and growth and a gathering place that has become a pride of the city.

A dollar spent in a downtown business is a dollar voted for a future vibrant downtown we can all enjoy, that anchors our city and our region and spells out who we are and what we stand for. Downtown needs us, but WE need downtown!