In partnership with Downtown Silver Spring.

On the bright Saturday morning’s Nate Fisher and Christy Batta have to themselves, they ease out of bed and metro into Downtown Silver Spring. After moving to the area four years ago for jobs, they have fallen in love with the melting pot of a city.

“We came to Silver Spring to heal and get control of our lives,” says Fisher. They see the city as the perfect place to be inspired and energized. Prior to their move, the couple struggled to find stable jobs; and while Fisher battled depression, Batta dealt with a multiple sclerosis diagnosis.

Today, they credit Silver Spring with bringing peace and prosperity to their lives. Fisher now runs a consulting firm and production company called Createrly. His girlfriend, Christy Batta owns a graphic design firm for socially conscious companies.

They both work out of various coworking spaces in the area and find Downtown Silver Spring’s new outdoor workspace, the OUTBOX, an inspiring spot to get the creative juices flowing.

Presented by Adventist HealthCare, the OUTBOX is a dedicated space where busy professionals can enjoy the sunshine, charge their phones, and enjoy complimentary wi-fi.

For Batta, the deep connections she’s made in the area has meant the most. “Everyone is welcoming and genuine,” says Batta. “If they ask you how you are doing, they actually want to know.”

Fisher agrees with that sentiment, saying “people are a little more engaged here. In other areas, people don’t even make eye contact. You’re like passing ships in the night. But Downtown Silver Spring has this small town feel that’s different than the big cities.” “It’s a vibrant community of people who support one another and engage with the world around them. I really love that.”

As busy creative professionals, the couple rarely leave the area. And with a plethora of restaurants, activities, coffee shops, and more, they don’t have to. With open weekends to explore the downtown area, here’s where they go:

Catch Up On Emails At The OUTBOX

Developed in partnership with Architectural Technology students at Montgomery College, the OUTBOX is an outdoor workspace stationed in Downtown Silver Spring. “Christy and I both have a nontraditional approach to our professional and personal lives,” says Fisher.

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“I love that the OUTBOX breaks from the traditional office space. It’s a way to embrace the real world outside of the office space mentality.” The outdoor workspace has seating, wifi, outlets and a plethora of coffee and refueling options just steps away.

Buy Local At Downtown Silver Spring Farmer’s Market

Pick up the week’s essentials– like fresh fruit and veggies from neighboring farms at the weekly Farmers Market. With so many hidden gems, you never know what you’ll uncover while strolling through the bustling outdoor farmer’s market in Downtown Silver Spring.

See A Show At Regal Majestic

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From major blockbusters in IMAX to limited release films, the Regal Cinema in Downtown Silver Spring is a movie buff’s dream. Located in the heart of Downtown Silver Spring, the theater is steps away from local foodie favorites like CAVA and Taylor Gourmet.

“The Majestic is in the perfect location and has convenient parking,” says Fisher. “I love walking the downtown area, grabbing dinner or a snack somewhere and catching a movie.” And aside from new movies, new luxe features will also be coming soon to Regal.

The Downtown Silver Spring theater is currently upgrading to convert their seats to luxurious, comfy recliners complete with footrests. The new amenities will debut in December. Till then, guests are free to test drive the King-Size Recliners on display in the theater lobby.

Get Creative at Color Me Mine

If you love working with your hands, head to Color Me Mine in Downtown Silver Spring. Go alone, bring a friend, or bring your entire crew. The art studio welcomes the experienced and inexperienced alike. Students take classes in painting, hot glass, chalkboard art, and mosaic mirrors.

“Seeing other people make things is just inspiring,” says Batta. “It opens up the possibilities.”

Discovering the sights, sounds, and energy of Downtown Silver Spring is just the beginning. For more events and special happenings, visit downtownsilverspring.com.