Local Businesses that Opened During Covid-19 - Part I

Covid-19 has proved challenging for all - especially small business owners. Many have made major adjustments and found creative ways to grow their business. Others, however, took this approach from the very beginning when they decided to open their doors despite the pandemic. Here are some of those businesses that opened their doors while we were hiding behind ours. 

Challenge Athletics

At The Cannery, 25 Parce Ave Suite 175, Fairport, NY 14450

Challenge Athletics opened in early August. They offer dance, tumbling and martial arts classes as well as private lessons, camps and birthday parties. We tried out a tumbling class with my 1.5 and 4 year old. The class was very much like a "sampler" involving the kids in martial arts and dance activities but with a primary focus on the basic tumbling skills. The kids had so much fun and the staff is so kind and patient. It was a great opportunity to see my kids' abilities and interests in a more formal setting. 

Pittsford Farms Dairy 

733 Park Ave, Rochester, NY 14607

​Pittsford Dairy has opened a second location and amidst a pandemic nonetheless! This location is much smaller than their Pittsford location but they still have plenty of delicious handmade ice cream and other locally made products to go around! During our visit in August there was not indoor seating or tables but this makes for a great place to stop and grab a treat while strolling Park Avenue. 

Chai Guy

 729 Park Ave, Rochester, NY 14607

Conveniently located right next door to Pittsford Dairy, Chai Guy serves a variety of specialty drinks along with Amazing Grain Breads and Kiss Me Cookies. There is indoor seating but we had a great time grabbing some chai tea, then heading over to Pittsford Dairy for some ice cream with the kids.

Goldfish Swim School

3349 Monroe Ave, Rochester, NY 14618

We had an amazing experience partnering with Goldfish Swim to check out their new facility in Pittsford. When we started lessons, my 1.5 year old hated bath time and my 4 year old was very sensitive and skittish when it came to any water above the knees. I am happy to now be able to say my daughter squeals with joy when she sees her bathing suit or hears its bath time. She absolutely loves the water thanks to this swim school! Aside from the joy and confidence Goldfish gave my kids when it comes to lessons, they have learned the essential safety skills and even glimpses of independent swim skills in just 3 short months. The facility has been very good with sanitizing and making sure the environment is safe for the members.  

Juniper Gift Shop

620 Titus Ave, Rochester, NY 14617

I stopped by Juniper Gift Shop before heading over to my cousin's bridal shower. This is an adorable local shop with several locally made items available to purchase. The outside is deceiving as there is much more inside than meets the eye. There is a room full of children's products and others with kitchen goods, gifts and home decor. Give yourself plenty of time to browse, you are sure to find something great!

Unleashed Nutrition

650 Whitney Rd, Fairport, NY 14450

Nestled perfectly between Pizza Chef and Ladybugs Play in Fairport, you will find Unleashed Nutrition. ⁣This tea & protein shake bar opened late August and is the perfect stop to refuel while on the go. The staff was so great with kids and will customize any drink to make it fun and exciting for them - they can even have the colors of their tea match their favorite superhero. Even the protein shakes can be made kid friendly! All the options are so customizable and the staff are there to help you find what you are looking for. Gluten-free, caffeinated, or covered in sprinkles - they have something for everyone. Be sure to share your beverage on social media to receive $1.00 off!