Major accolades for Automobile Alley

When it comes to cookies and creative expression, Automobile Alley is a prime destination.

Two businesses in the downtown district are ranked in the top ten for their respective categories by USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards.

Katiebug’s Sips & Sweets claimed the No. 2 spot for cookies. The business, located in a mint green bungalow at 7 NW 9th St., offers more than just cookies. Cake slices and homemade marshmallows are also on the menu, along with shaved ice in the summer and hot chocolate in the winter. Katiebug's is open from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

After getting your sugar fix, walk on over to Factory Obscura at 15 NW 9th St. and soak in one of the best immersive art experiences in the country. It claimed the No. 5 spot on 10Best’s list.

Factory Obscura describes itself as a collaborative company creating immersive experiences that awaken wonder, build community and make the world better. The performance space opened in 2020. Its 6,000-square-foot exhibit, Mix-Tape, brings to life personalized playlists from a bygone era. Guests are able to hear, see and even feel the artwork.

Factory Obscura also has rotating installations such as “Cosmic Callback: An Illuminated Interlude”. It features an original soundscape accompanied by light and projections. If you want to check it out, you need to hurry. The sound and light odyssey goes dark July 31.