With historic downtown New Bedford within arm's reach, many residents of neighboring towns and cities may not be aware of what it really has to offer. I hear time and time again people say "Oh wow, I never knew this was down here." That, more often than not, is the issue; people don't venture downtown to scope things out. If you did, you would discover many small businesses that bring downtown New Bedford to life. Here are a few of the establishments downtown that as a New Bedford native I have discovered and hope others do as well.

1. Calico

Located on 173 Union Street in New Bedford, this small clothing store brings a whole new vibe to downtown. They are stocked with new fashionable clothes that you will want in your closet. Founded as a vintage store back in 2005, the owner Elissa Paquette would go from thrift shop to thrift shop picking up new finds. That's when, in 2011, she created her first batch of her own new clothes and other brands as well. Now Calico is located in two separate locations, and this store opens up a new opportunity for women to find unique pieces that you can't find anywhere else. There is also an online shop where you can shop too. Calico is open Mon-Sat 10-6 and Sun 12-4.

2. Brick Pizzeria Napoletana

Looking for fresh, well-made pizza? Well, 163 Union St. is the place to be. Brick is one of the most popular little pizza shops in downtown. With a welcoming atmosphere and amazing services, Brick offers a nice place to stop for lunch during your break or dinner later on. They even offer outside seating which is perfect for those beautiful summer days. Here's a link to the menu: http://www.pizzeriabrick.com/menu1.html

3. Be Jeweled

Located right off the cobblestone streets of downtown, Be Jeweled is found on 26 Centre St. Independently owned since 2000, this shop was opened in New Bedford right after their shop opening in South Dartmouth. This jewelry store has a quirky location, with a view of the harbor, and is even right across the street from the working waterfront. They offer a wide collection of unique styles by talented designers from around the world. There is a piece for everyone that will help you show off your style and overall individuality.

4. Green Bean

Located on 740 Purchase St., this coffee shop offers a cool hangout for people of all ages. They make all vegetarian and vegan food for breakfast and brunch. Known for their funny and truthful signs on the street outside their shop, people can't help but be drawn in.

Even if you are not a vegan/vegetarian, there are rave reviews on their Facebook page that show just how amazing their food and coffee is. Lastly, another unique thing about this coffee shop is from time to time, they will have a live band, even local bands playing in their shop. If you're ever downtown, I highly recommend you drop by.

5. Gallery 65

Gallery 65 is on 65 William street and is a gallery full of art made by a diverse number of artists. Their mission has been to bring new art and shopping to the historic district of downtown New Bedford. They allow artists to show off their work and they hold special workshops on all things art. When you walk by the store front, you cannot help but want to stop and look around. Gallery 65 is truly the home to some amazing and beautiful artwork.

6. No Problemos

As a native of New Bedford, I feel as if everyone knows about No Problemos. If not I will tell you it's one of the most popular "hipster" restaurants around the area. There seems to always be a constant flow of workers, students, and kids going here. This shop offers amazing Mexican food, even beer, sangria, and wine. The customer service is always great and is a loved restaurant by many New Bedford residents. Don't believe me, go see for yourself... or check Yelp.

With many more small shops in downtown New Bedford, these were a few of the most popular ones. I hope that with time, people from all over will give these places a try and open up opportunities for a few new shops to open down there as well.