Last winter, the Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce was fortunate enough to receive a Tourism Promotions Grant from Visit Tillamook Coast to create a downtown walking map. Our goal was to produce a tool that would generate more foot traffic in the heart of Tillamook.
The rational behind these maps is that people shopping downtown – particularly visitors to the area – aren’t aware of how many different types of businesses are just within walking distance.
As you probably, know, our downtown has a lot to offer. From frozen yogurt to gourmet cupcakes, yarn and fabric stores, handmade soaps, florists, and vintage thrift shops… There are all kinds of things to explore and do in an afternoon.
And one thing our downtown business owners continue to be great at is interacting with their customers and making sure they know of other nearby places to visit. Now, thanks to the downtown walking map, they have a convenient tool they can reference and that helps visitors gain a better picture of our downtown.
Jackie Ripley, who co-owns Madeline’s Vintage Market Place on Third Street, said that her customers have responded positively to the new map – particularly those from out of state.
Jackie is one who has always done a great job of recommending her fellow downtown business (such as Sunflower Flats, Blue Moon Café, and the Phoenix Exchange) to her customers depending on what else they’re looking for. Now, she said she can easily show them how to get anywhere in downtown Tillamook.
And, she’s had several people in her shop who found her thanks to the downtown walking map.
Along with a printed version that can be picked up for free at the Chamber Visitor Center and different downtown business, there is also a web-based version available at www.gotillamook.com under the ‘downtown’ menu.
The web-based map utilizes GPS and the location services available on mobile devices to direct mobile users easily throughout the downtown area. Users can enter their location and see exactly how close they are to different downtown businesses. It also lets user search for what type of business they’re looking for. So whether it’s a cup of coffee, a place to eat, a manicure or an ice cream cone, the map lists the different options available, as well as how far away they are, addresses and phone number. Users can click ‘take me there’ which redirects to Google maps with an exact walking route to their destination.
This new downtown walking map is a free service for Chamber members in downtown. Other businesses can have their listing added to the map for a small fee by contacting the Chamber at the email below.
The Chamber Board and myself value your input and insight. Feel free to contact us anytime at info@tillamookchamber.org.