Author: Brandon Hanson

Feeling a little sad to leave summer behind? You’ll quickly fall for fall when you discover all the ways downtown Sioux Falls is the place to be this season.

Here are our top 10 reasons to head downtown in the weeks ahead.

You’ll be prepared for sweater weather

Fall is an excellent time for a wardrobe update – whether it’s a new coat to carry you through the cold ahead, some new attire for work or your upcoming holiday events. And, of course – there are sweaters everywhere.

Stop in boutiques in every direction downtown and you’ll find one-of-a-kind apparel and accessories.

Want to try out a new shop for the new season? Stop by Combine inside The Bancorp Building at Cherapa Place, which features men’s and women’s apparel, home and gift items.

And head to Pasque Boutique at The Steel District for fun women’s apparel and accessories.

The aromas will draw you in

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fall – especially in food and beverage form.

The Source just dropped its fall menu, you’ll find everything from apple cider donut muffins to pumpkin spice twist coffee cake at Queen City Bakery, and Josiah’s is featuring a house-made apple crisp latte and a “banana nut muffin” London Fog.

Want to brew a hot beverage for yourself?

Start with the fall sampler at the Spice & Tea Exchange and find your favorites among blends such as Bourbon Chestnut Herbal Tea, Ciderhouse Blend Herbal Tea, Pumpkin Chai Latte Black Tea and Warm Bread Pudding Black Tea.

You can find a new place to live

There’s never been a better time to make downtown your next home.

With an unprecedented number of new lofts available, and even condos for purchase, there’s a floor plan and amenity package for any prospective resident.

Get to know your options, plus take a rare look at occupied lofts, at the Sept. 21 Downtown Loft Tour. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., take a self-guided tour of available apartments and be amazed by your living opportunities. It’s $5 per person to tour and kids 12 and under are free.

After purchasing your pass at The Cascade – 701 N. Phillips Ave. — you will receive a guide with a map of all participating properties, as well as a sticker that allow you to gain entry to the properties.

Because Oktoberfest is about more than a month

October arrives early in the form of Oktoberfest at Remedy Brewing Co. Sept. 21 from 12 to 3 p.m., where you’ll find signature brews along with German food, live music, a stein holding contest and Dachshund races. Entry is free, but $45 gets you tastings from 15 local breweries.

The next weekend, Holiday Inn City Centre hosts Stacks and Steins from 5 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 28 featuring German food, live music, stein holding and the game of Hammerschlagen.

It’ll have you feeling crafty

Indoor activities are everywhere downtown this fall. For instance, decorate a pumpkin at the Washington Pavilion on Oct. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. For $20, you can purchase a ready-to-go kit with a large pumpkin or three small ones plus decorating materials. Click here for details.

The Museum of Visual Materials is a great stop for paint-and-create classes for all ages, plus special programs for kids. Click here for the current offerings. 

Plus, keep the creativity going at home with fun indoor activities you’ll find for kids at Child’s Play Toys.

Because it’s officially comfort food season

You’ve still got more  than a week to sample the creations of more than two dozen downtown chefs with the entries in the fourth annual Pork Showdown. Plus, keep an eye on your favorite downtown restaurants for fall feature menus that will be ramping up in the coming weeks. Looking for a sweet treat? Don’t miss the fall favorites already in at Mary’s Mountain Cookies – from pumpkin chocolate chip to molasses chai.

And, up your skills as a home chef with a huge variety of cooking classes ahead at Plum’s Cooking Co.

Want one with an especially fall feel? Midwest Fall Classics on Oct. 11 will feature a menu of deer chili, beef and lamb chislic with chimichurri and sweet potato fries and caramel apple upside down cake. These classes fill up fast. Check out the schedule here. 

It’s not too soon to holiday shop

Want to know what a stress-free December feels like? Ask the person who starts holiday shopping now.

Make sure and keep your gift-giving list in mind as you stop in some of downtown’s shops this fall. Check out the spooky windows at Zandbroz Variety and head in to find the perfect stocking stuffer or gift for someone who appreciates the unique.

Make an afternoon of it along the boardwalk at 8^th & Railroad Center and discover fun new fall décor at Simply Perfect and Sticks & Steel while scoping out some holiday season gifts along the way.

And don’t miss a stop at Alcove from the Washington Pavilion – now open at The Steel District – for a museum store filled with gift ideas.

It’s the perfect time for movies

Downtown Sioux Falls offers movie-going experiences like nowhere else.

Take a step back in time with all the modern comforts of today’s movie theaters at the State Theatre, which is consistently bringing in new films.

Like Harry Potter and Batman films? You’ll love this month’s lineup. Click here to learn more. 

And if you haven’t visited the Sweetman Planetarium at the Washington Pavilion yet, put that on your fall schedule. Current films are great for all ages and allow you to “fly” through the universe, feel like you’re part of a bird migration and take a peek at what cities will be like in the future. Plus, at 25 to 45 minutes long, the films easily fit into part of a broader visit downtown. Click here for details.

Because the forecast calls for jazz

Warm up the cool nights with a visit to downtown’s new Trio Jazz Club. Located inside Washington Square, you’ll find live jazz and other entertainment Tuesday through Saturday.

Plus, taste the latest menu from the owners of Brix Wine Bar, Maribella Ristorante and R Wine Bar.

Click here for the latest schedule.

Circle Oct. 26-27 on the calendar

If you make one family fall visit downtown this season, consider the weekend of Oct. 26-27.

It’s Spooky Science at the Washington Pavilion’s Kirby Science Discovery Center on Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Explore art and science while experimenting with oozing pumpkins, gummy worm dissections and more, plus kids take home a bag of Halloween treats. Click here for details.

Plus, get spooky for a good cause with 2024 Sioux Falls Zombie Walk. Purchase your parade button from 12 to 4p.m. at Remedy Brewing Co., get your zombie make-up done by fabulous volunteers, and walk the streets together! There’s a costume contest with prizes and a parade starts at 4 p.m. Parade proceeds this year benefit the Sioux Falls Roller Dollz and The Compass Center.

And then, keep the costume on and come back downtown Oct. 27 for trick-or-treating in downtown businesses from 1 to 3 p.m. There’s no need to register!

Keep up with everything happening downtown at www.dtsf.com.

Exciting things are happening in downtown Sioux Falls (DTSF) as we welcome a fresh batch of new businesses to our thriving community!

These unique shops and services are ready to bring new energy, creativity, and excitement to the area. From fashion to fitness, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re searching for the best restaurants in Sioux Falls, planning a perfect date night Sioux Falls, or looking for great retail spots, our newest members have something to offer!

Meet Our Newest Members

Alcove

Looking for unique home decor or the perfect gift? Alcove has you covered with cozy, modern items that will add a fresh touch to any home.

Be sure to check them out during your next stroll through downtown Sioux Falls.

SISU Fit

If getting fit is on your to-do list, head over to SISU Fit.

Their personalized training sessions and group fitness classes make it fun to stay active in the heart of the city.

Pasque Boutique

For those looking to stay stylish, Pasque Boutique has all the latest fashion trends and accessories. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or someone special, this boutique will keep you looking chic.

Combine

Combine features carefully curated clothing, homeware, and more for women and men alike,. In-store, we aim to offer an elevated shopping experience that begins and ends with you. Find us in the heart of downtown Sioux Falls at Cherapa Place.

Perch

Need a cozy spot to relax and sip on some great coffee?

Perch is the perfect place to unwind. Located in downtown Sioux Falls, this coffee shop offers a welcoming atmosphere with delicious brews.

Jaunt

Outdoor enthusiasts, rejoice! Jaunt provides the gear and clothing you need for your next adventure. Whether you’re exploring nature or heading out on a Sioux Falls tour, Jaunt has you covered.

The Tail That Got Away

Your pets deserve some love too!

The Tail That Got Away offers top-notch grooming, toys, and treats for your furry friends. It’s the perfect stop for anyone looking to pamper their pets in pet-friendly Sioux Falls.

Support Small, Shop Local

Exploring the incredible boutiques in Sioux Falls and shopping small is a great way to keep our community strong. These new businesses, along with other local favorites, are key to making downtown Sioux Falls a lively and welcoming destination for both residents and visitors. When you support these businesses, you help strengthen our city and its unique character.

Join the DTSF Community

Want to be part of something bigger? Consider joining our community of members at DTSF! Our members receive exclusive support and networking opportunities to help their businesses thrive. Being part of this unified downtown community means contributing to a strong, vibrant city. Together, we can build a better Sioux Falls! Learn more about becoming a member here.

By supporting downtown Sioux Falls, you’re not only discovering great shops, restaurants, and services, but you’re also contributing to a unified and thriving city. Together, we can continue to grow and make Sioux Falls the best place to live, work, and play!

Here’s the first thing to know about parking downtown: There nearly always are going to be spots available if you know where to look.

“The biggest thing we hear is there’s not enough parking, and we know there’s adequate parking to meet demand,” said Matt Nelson, the city’s public parking facilities manager.

“It might not be directly in front of the business you’re visiting, but chances are there’s a spot waiting for you within a very short walk no matter what time of day you visit.”

Follow this go-to guide to find your parking space of choice:

Quit circling

We likely all have fallen into this habit: Looking for an on-street parking spot as close as possible to our downtown destination.

“I’ve been guilty of it too, but often it’s actually easier to quit driving up and down popular downtown streets and go straight to a ramp,” said Joe Batcheller, president of Downtown Sioux Falls Inc.

“You have so much access with our ramps within such a short walk of your destination, and on nights and weekends, I’ve rarely ever seen a full parking ramp – maybe just for the largest parades of the year.”

From Phillips Avenue

Downtown’s busiest stretch, from Ninth to 12th streets along Phillips Avenue, is filled with easily accessible parking.

“If you’re going to the stores and restaurants at 10th and 11th and Phillips, for instance, we absolutely recommend the First Avenue ramp,” Nelson said.

“It’s located directly east of the Shriver building at 110 E. 11th St. You get in, and we have allocated hourly parking in the most convenient spots literally right next to the exit onto the street.”

With more than 600 spots in that ramp, you’re going to find one – especially after hours.

Going closer to Eighth and Phillips? The new Mall Avenue parking ramp at 110 S. Mall Ave. offers more than 500 spots, and again “the easiest spots are right there at ground level and often a three- to five-minute walk to where you’re going,” Nelson said.

For the Washington Pavilion

The Washington Pavilion and areas on the south end of downtown are served by multiple parking ramps – especially after 5 p.m. when many people visit for entertainment.

“The Pavilion ramp is a great options, and Washington Square’s parking ramp is free after 5 p.m., and it’s literally directly across from the Pavilion,” Nelson said.

“Plus, adjacent churches typically offer overflow parking for a small fee.”

For Levitt and Falls Park

If you’re heading to the north side of downtown, life gets easier after hours and will get even better soon with the opening of The Steel District.

“Once the ramp fully opens there, we’ll have 1,000 more spots available on nights and weekends, plus additional public parking,” Nelson said. “For now, we’d suggest the ramp at Eighth and Dakota, and after hours, there’s a lot of surface parking in the area, including at Raven.”

Want a preview of how you can navigate the new Steel District ramp? Watch the video below:

On East Eighth Street

Still really prefer surface parking? You’re in luck on Eighth Street, where all the stores and restaurants typically have access to at least some surface parking.

If you’re there on nights and weekends, don’t forget the ramp at the Hilton Garden Inn and CNA Surety Building, which puts you within an easy walk of 8th & Railroad Center and lots of food and beverage activity.

The expanded Cherapa Place development also is served by a new ramp that connects its office and retail spaces, in addition to new surface parking.

“Throughout downtown, unless there’s a business with a sign that says no parking or customer only or they will tow, they’re pretty much open to the public after 5 p.m. and on weekends,” Nelson said. “There are a handful, so just watch the signage as you’re entering or parking.”

By the numbers

The numbers definitely are in your favor, Nelson added.

“On an average night downtown, about 25 percent of our available parking is used, meaning 75 percent of public and private parking is open and available,” he said.

“On an average weekday, we’re more like 70 percent full, but that still means there’s absolutely parking available in every corner of downtown.”

Once you learn the options, it becomes easy, Batcheller said.

“There are more than 1,000 parking spaces within a half-block of Lewis Drug, for example,” he said. “You just need to learn where to look.”

Get connected

To see a full map of city parking ramps, click here.

Plus, download the Park Smarter app to make locating and paying for parking even easier. You can find that and more information on  transportation downtown here.

“The app is super-easy and user-friendly,” Batcheller said. “And once you’re set up, you won’t have to worry about getting a ticket if your time goes longer downtown because it will alert you. Save time, discover the ramps and your visits downtown will get even better.”

In the heart of Sioux Falls, there’s a vibrant energy that calls music lovers from near and far. Over the past few years, the downtown area has blossomed into a thriving hub for music and culture, thanks to the dedication and passion of the community. This flourishing scene is the result of years of hard work and support from local businesses, artists, and fans, who have collectively nurtured a creative ecosystem that is now bearing fruit. As the melodies echo through the streets of downtown Sioux Falls, it’s clear that this city is becoming a cultural destination, uniting people through the universal language of music.

That energy is palpable tonight at Levitt at the Falls, where The War and Treaty are set to take the stage. This husband-and-wife duo, founded in 2014 by Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with their soul-stirring music and powerful performances.

The War and Treaty are not just another band; they are a force of nature. Recently nominated for their first-ever GRAMMYs, including Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song for “Blank Page,” they are redefining the music scene with their raw and authentic sound. This year, they also received their first Duo of the Year nomination from the Country Music Association and a Vocal Duo nomination from the Academy of Country Music. Their talent and influence have been recognized by prestigious institutions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Americana Music Association, where they earned the Duo/Group of the Year award for the second consecutive year.

Michael and Tanya Trotter’s journey is one of resilience and triumph. Michael, a veteran, began his songwriting journey influenced by his mother’s strong Christian faith and upbringing. He found solace in music while serving in Iraq, where he used his gift to cope with the tragedies of war and help others heal. As he shares, “There are no caskets. Only the remaining clothing and gear that was issued. In the open, exposing yourself in front of the enemy while you are pausing to memorialize your battle buddy.” Music has been his refuge and a powerful tool for healing and unity.

Tanya, affectionately known as “Tick Tick Boom” by their daughter, complements Michael’s “Boom” energy perfectly. Their relationship is a testament to patience, compassion, and intimacy. Michael reflects, “I have learned it takes patience to be part of a duo, and if you learn that patience, you’ll have stronger relationships.” Their dynamic changed when they got married and had children, further deepening their bond and their music.

The War and Treaty’s music speaks to universal truths and emotions, bridging divides and bringing people together. Their song “Yesterday’s Burn” encourages listeners to let love in, echoing the healing power that music can bring. As Michael continually writes songs, his artistry remains rooted in the stories of love, loss, and the human experience.

Having previously opened for Chris Stapleton this past May at the Denny Sanford Premier Center, The War and Treaty return to charm the city once again. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering their music for the first time, tonight’s performance promises to be unforgettable.

SDPB.org/music offers streaming of tonight’s show, allowing you to experience the magic from wherever you are – however, if you are in listening/walking/driving distance you’ll want to be there in person.

Join us at Levitt at the Falls for an evening of music that transcends boundaries and touches the soul. The War and Treaty invite you to see the humanity and heart through their music, reminding us all that we are much more alike than we are different.

Don’t miss this chance to witness one of the most electrifying acts in American music today. Gather your friends, bring your family, and immerse yourself in a night of healing and unity. We’ll see you there!

---

About Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. (DTSF)

Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. (DTSF) boldly leads the downtown community by fostering diverse experiences, economic growth, and a healthy environment. Visit DTSF.com to find the best things to do in Sioux Falls.

 

At Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. (DTSF), we believe in the power of collaboration and community to create a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving downtown area.

Over the past couple of months, we’ve hosted a series of important meetings aimed at enhancing walkability, safety, and retail success in our beloved downtown. These meetings, filled with hope and collaboration, are a testament to the strength of our community and the dedication of those who live, work, and play here.

Walkability Forum: Building a Pedestrian-Friendly Downtown

In our recent blog post, we highlighted the significance of walkability and how it contributes to a vibrant downtown environment. At the beginning of summer, DTSF hosted a forum dedicated to this very topic, bringing together residents, city employees, and urban planning experts. The discussions focused on practical ways to make our streets safer and more pedestrian-friendly.

By enhancing walkability, we aim to create a downtown that is not only easy to navigate but also enjoyable to explore on foot. This forum reinforced our commitment to making Downtown Sioux Falls a place where people of all ages and abilities can move around freely and safely.

Retail Meeting: Strengthening Our Local Retail Community

Our bi-weekly retail meetings continue to be a cornerstone of support for downtown retailers. These meetings provide a space where new and established retailers can gain confidence, share experiences, and collaborate on initiatives to support one another.

A highlight of this month’s meeting was celebrating 605 Running Company being named the Best Running Store in the Country. Retailers also shared encouraging news about an uptick in both local and out-of-town visitors, driven by community support and recent positive media coverage.

To further promote local shopping, DTSF and the downtown retailers organized the Shop n’ Stroll: Crazy Days event on July 19th and 20th. Featuring more than a dozen downtown retailers, this event emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses. Shopping locally not only boosts the local economy but also strengthens our community ties. From wedding registries to holiday shopping to family friendly promotions, every purchase at a downtown retailer contributes to a vibrant and sustainable local economy.

Bar Owners Meeting: Balancing Livability and Nightlife

DTSF’s meeting with downtown bar owners focused on balancing the livability of our downtown area with maintaining a thriving nightlife scene. Safety was a primary topic, and bar owners shared the extensive measures they take to ensure the safety and happiness of both customers and residents.

The Sioux Falls Police Department and downtown residents joined the discussion, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and mutual support in the effort to keep Downtown nightlife a key Sioux Falls attraction.

One of the standout contributions was from the Compass Center, which introduced the “Safe Bars” program. This program offers training and education on bystander intervention, de-escalation, advocacy, and staff support, culminating in a certification that equips bar owners with the tools to enhance safety and security. The meeting underscored the importance of working together to create environments that deter safety issues and support a harmonious coexistence between nightlife and residential life.

DTSF: The Connector and Advocate

DTSF plays a crucial role as a connector, bringing together businesses, residents, and city officials to foster a better environment for all.

Our mission extends beyond visible events and initiatives; it involves the behind-the-scenes work that makes downtown Sioux Falls a great place to run a business, live, and have fun. The collaborative spirit seen in these meetings is a powerful reminder that it takes all of us working together to make downtown Sioux Falls a place for everyone.

Stay connected with DTSF by following our social media accounts, signing up for our newsletter, and exploring membership if you are a business. Together, we can continue to build a vibrant and inclusive downtown community.

Visit DTSF.com for more information and to get involved!

Been downtown lately? Here are 10 reasons to visit soon that might surprise you.

Think you know what’s waiting for you with a trip to downtown Sioux Falls? Prepare to expand your perspective. Downtown’s mix of locally-owned, innovative businesses always are offering something new.

Don’t miss these top 10 reasons to pay a visit soon.

You can start your day off right

Downtown Sioux Falls is filled with signature coffee shops and beloved breakfast spots, but there are some more under-the-radar ones you might want to consider.

Wagoo Burger, for instance, is about much more than burgers — starting with breakfast, where you can craft your own breakfast sandwich or choose from their chef-created ones. Find it inside Fernson at 332 S. Phillips Ave.

On weekends, head across Phillips to try the brunch menu at Blarney Stone Pub — where entrees include a Bloody Mary or mimosa.

Or go north on Phillips and sample away at the delicious brunch buffet offered at Papa Woody’s on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come hungry, because it’s impressive — including custom omelets and crepes and a full salad bar.

Because 2019 is calling — from your closet

It’s understandable. Years of pandemic-era athleisure, hybrid workplaces and all that change might have left your wardrobe in growing need of a refresh. This is where downtown boutique shopping can help in a big way.

Did you know there are a half-dozen boutiques within a block of each other on Phillips Avenue? Not only does that make a day of shopping incredibly simple, but inside each one you’ll find a team ready to help you find the updated pieces you’ll love to take home.

Don’t forget to head to 8th & Railroad Center, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind apparel and accessories at Sticks & Steel and Threads, or to Jones421 where you’ll find a unique selection of vintage clothing.

Pro tip: This is a great time of year to update your wardrobe, because you’ll find excellent deals on summer clothes and can be the first to shop new fall apparel. The upcoming Shop & Stroll July 19-21 will offer even greater savings.

There are new spots for lunch

It’s officially time to rediscover the lunch break — especially downtown. Step away from your desk, call up a colleague or friend, and take the time to enjoy lunch downtown. We promise — you’ll be recharged and more productive when you get back to work.

Plus, there are new options to try. For example, R Wine Bar now is open Monday through Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. with a menu of salads, paninis and smaller portions of the restaurant’s classic pastas.

Don’t forget The Cookie Jar is now open inside the Lumber Exchange building across Reid Street from 8th & Railroad Center, where you’ll find favorite sandwiches and rotating specials.

Don’t want to stray from Phillips Avenue? The new North End Bakery & Deli in the Jones421 building has amazing handcrafted sandwiches for breakfast and lunch.

Your kids will thank you for it

Downtown Sioux Falls truly is for all ages, and here are three experiences that should be part of any childhood:

Shopping at Child’s Play Toys

It doesn’t get any better than a toy store where you’re encouraged to touch, feel and try before you buy.

But that’s what you’ll find at Child’s Play Toys, where kids can hop on a scooter, stretch out some slime or play pretend at a dollhouse or grill set.

The team is just back from market, so there are lots of fun new things to discover — just ask and they’ll find the perfect thing for the little one in your life.

Splashing in a fountain

Find this one tucked behind the Hilton Garden Inn — right out the door from Starbucks (so you can sip on your favorite while you watch the kids) or off the recreation trail. The leaping fountains will quickly become your kids’ favorite way to cool off.

Discovering the Stockyards Ag Experience

If you know you know, but many families likely don’t! Don’t go to Falls Park without a stop at the Stockyards Ag Experience, where your kids will have fun and learn at the same time at the Farm to Table exhibit. They’ll explore and play their way through food production while understanding more about how agriculture touches all of us.

With dynamic interactive exhibits and informative display panels, the exhibit offers learning experiences for food enthusiasts of all ages. The Farm to Table exhibit educates generations about food production, all while honoring farming and farm families.

Home chefs are welcome

Speaking of local food, downtown isn’t only about dining out. Shop for the kitchen or pantry here and then head home to put your purchases to work.

The Spice & Tea Exchange offers countless ways to perk up your grilling, rim your next cocktail deliciously or flavor a pitcher of iced tea.

And Plum’s Cooking Co. will even help train the next generation of home chefs in your household with summer cooking kids camps. Click here to find out more.

It’s great for a guy’s day out

We could chat a long time about all the ways to enjoy a girls’ day out downtown, but there’s plenty for the guys too.

Update your look a bit at Duluth Trading Company, JH & Sons, or both, depending on your style.

Pick up the perfect new pair of athletic shoes at 605 Running Co.

Indulge in a relaxing one-of-a-kind barber experience at SIR by Vanessens, with a straight razor shave complete with hot towels, hot shave cream, with a smooth face shave.

You can find a new way to show your SoDak style

Our 605 pride really shines in downtown Sioux Falls — especially if you know where to look.

Sticks & Steel has a great selection of South Dakota mugs, puzzles and decor, while Home Porch Gifts will craft you a basket of locally made products and Zandbroz Variety carries everything from local authors to apparel.

MK Threads will keep you on trend with your SoDak wear.

And, for the youngest calling our corner of the world home, how cute are these at Child’s Play Toys?

Live entertainment is waiting

Along with all your favorites — the Levitt Shell, State Theatre and 8th & Railroad block parties — there’s new live entertainment happening across downtown.

Trio Jazz Club now offers live music Tuesday through Saturday.

There’s a weekly summer concert series Tuesdays over lunch at Cherapa place all summer.

And don’t miss the upcoming Four Winds Music and Art Festival July 19-20 bringing days of live music and art downtown.

If you’re going to eat ice cream, eat it here

No matter which side of downtown you’re on, there’s a reason to stop for ice cream.

North side? Find SDSU-crafted favorite flavors at Candy Cloud Factory.

East side? Stop into Polar Bites, where along with rolled creations there are great gluten and dairy-free options.

South end? Don’t forget Parlour is now inside the Washington Pavilion — and open late Thursday through Saturday.

Because your dog deserves it

If nothing else, you owe your dog a trip downtown.

Many businesses welcome your furry friend and will even have a treat waiting when you come in to shop, have a beer or sit down for a meal.

Stop by the Kirby Dog Park, where you’ll find outstanding play space for dogs of all sizes and quickly become part of a community of regulars.

And don’t miss the newest place to indulge your pup: The Tail That Got Away, a new boutique catering to canines and their owners inside the Jones421 building. Head home with a new leash, grooming products, dog treats and other finds that will have you and your dog ready to return downtown soon.

Finally, in the interest of equal time: Don’t forget about the cats. Cattitude Cafe is the only place in town where you can sip a coffee, grab some lunch, play with a favorite feline and maybe even go home with a new pet. Plus, it’s even better in July — when every Friday night is movie night with the cats! Click here to learn more and make your reservation.

And that’s amazingly just the start. Click here to connect with even more downtown activity including the latest guide to downtown events.