In case you haven’t visited downtown recently, we welcome you to check out what’s new. Aurora is growing, and downtown is shining bright with more than a dozen businesses that opened in 2021. See what’s new in downtown Aurora.
French 75 Gallery and Lounge (pictured | photo by Amy Nelson)
French 75 is a cocktail lounge and art gallery. It might be new, but it feels like it’s been there forever. The eclectic mix of furniture and painted gold ceiling give the spot a warm and welcoming vibe. The cocktails are delightful, and there are beer and wine options as well as charcuterie. On Wednesdays during the Broadway season, French 75 is partnering up with Mora Asian Fusion for lunch and dinner. 56 E. Galena Blvd.
Superjumbo Retro Toy Store
The Yetee opened up a vintage toy shop that just happens to be hip and trendy. From nostalgic finds like ALF pins to a small rear gallery that hosts pop up art shows, Superjumbo brings a fun twist to a retro toy store. 102 E. Galena Blvd.
Yetee Station Arcade
For the first time, downtown Aurora has an arcade. Not only are we excited about Yetee Station, but it’s an admission-based arcade, so you can pay $15 and play all day. You can eat dinner, and come back to play some more. It’s perfect for all ages with a variety of games including pinball machines and vintage goodies like Q*bert. 11 N. Broadway
Chupacabra Puerto Rican Kitchen
From a food truck to a brick-and-mortar restaurant, Chupacabra Puerto Rican Kitchen is a welcome addition to Broadway. It’s quickly become a favorite with the dedication and passion of owners Maria and Peter behind every order. Delicious recipes and family tradition are found in large quanitities here. 31 N. Broadway
Six Thirty
The new media kids on the block are making a name for themselves by working with musicians out of California and elsewhere. They say the brand is built on hip hop and youth culture. Six Thirty offers a retail line of urban apparel and does work in photography, music production, and visual entertainment. 30 N. Broadway
Sammy Wammy Floral
Sammy Wammy is a full-service floral shop that creates floral arrangements for any occasion. They offer same-day floral delivery. The shop also sells creative baskets for gift-giving, like the Health C Basket that’s perfect for a friend on the mend. 40 E. New York St.
Latrice Murphy Design and Photography
Latrice Murphy relocated her studio from Broadway to River Street. Now boasting a larger space, the award-winning and admired photographer offers multiple backdrops, a dressing room, and wardrobe. 62 S. River St.
Enchanted Fairies
Sweet photos are being snapped in a fairyland inside of a Broadway storefront. Enchanted Fairies offers a magical photo experience for children. Book photos online. 10 N. Broadway
Seven Setting Suns Art Gallery
Vincenzo Valenziano’s vibrant photography gallery is bright and vivid. Seven Setting Suns is filled with Valenziano’s colorful works. 14 W. Downer Pl. Ste. 12
Alive Teen Center
A free drop-in center for teens, Alive Center provides after-school programming and clubs as well as summer activities for teens 6th to 12th grade. View their calendar. 76 S. LaSalle St.
Centro Botanico
A new Downer Place storefront is open with vitamins and wellness supplements. Find natural products, too. Call ahead for hours.
BCool Homes
Real Estate agent Bryan Cool set up shop at the corner of New York Street and Broadway. Visit the website. 36 N. Broadway
Keystone Historic Apartments
Much-needed residential is growing downtown. The historic four-story Keystone building started leasing one-bedroom lofts after undergoing an extensive renovation. The lofts are at the center of the arts and culture district. 30 S. Stolp Ave.