No doubt about it, Fernie is heating up for summer. Despite the typical few spring rainy days, the town’s been very fortunate weather-wise lately. One of the sure signs that summer is just around the bend? Patios. It seems like with the blink of an eye businesses have opened their umbrellas and welcomed patrons to the outdoor portions of their establishments.

Patios abound in Fernie with all types of service, foods and views. The Bridge Bistro and Stanford patios overlook the Elk River, some are roof top. Yamagoya offers a happening patio with highway action and mountain views, and the Clubhouse Restaurant overlooks the greens. Fernie’s newest patios curbside or street patios—all located in the downtown.

The street patios were a new addition last year, and quite the success as they’re back in full force despite a few critics. Some traditional folk resisted change and complained of the loss of parking spaces and potential hazard, not to mention “only being for tourists”!

To the contrary the curbside patios were widely supported and do bring a certain livelihood to the downtown area, encouraging people to enjoy the sights and sounds of the town throughout the day and evening. This year the downtown street patio locations include:

The Fernie Hotel – 691 1st Avenue
Loaf Bakery – 641 2nd Avenue
Big Bang Bagels – 502 2nd Avenue
The Northern Hotel – 561 2nd Avenue
Infinitea Tea Bar & Boutique – 501-1st Avenue
The Brick House – 401-2nd Avenue

Stemming from the City Beautification Committee, the idea was to allow an area where “people can sit, relax and take in the beauty of our downtown and its unique backdrop”. In addition, “it encourages people to stay longer, spend more money in our community and experience the social aspect of outdoor seating”.

So whether you’re out for an extended leisure day, back in from a long day of biking, just off work or perhaps just passing through town, the street side patios ensure a positive wind-down experience and good times. Enjoy!