"By getting a couple of key businesses, Gavi and the brewing company, they acted as the anchors for other businesses to come in," explained Niki Matala of the Chamber of Commerce.

City Councilman Bob Fiala first chose to open a business Willoughby 20 years ago, partly because of the historic downtown feel.

"We said that we can be in Willoughby and be just as successful as if we were on St. Clair in downtown Cleveland. We've proven it. We use the city of Willoughby as our marking platform," said Fiala.

Deanna Rowe, owner of the Hamilton House Bed and Breakfast, also points to the downtown and Willoughby's cozy feel for her success.

"I think it's the variety of the restaurants and the shops make it a wonderful place to visit even for a day," said Rowe.

A visit could include a trip to the Fine Arts Association where Linda Wise provides all the arts under one roof.

"A lot of towns don't have a place like this where people can come for theatric performances and art, dance or theater classes. (They) enjoy all those things at once," said Wise.

There's always a reason to visit because as Wise put it, "The sidewalks don't roll up in Willoughby."

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