Restaurants, bars and fitness centers were able to let patrons inside for the first time in weeks, Wednesday.

NEW ULM — Restaurants, bars, salons and fitness centers celebrated the lifting of some COVID-19 restrictions Wednesday.

Last Friday, Gov. Tim Walz announced the lifting of restrictions as of June 10. The new order allows restaurants, salons and swimming pools will be allowed to operate at 50% capacity.

Fitness centers and indoor entertainment venues will be allowed to operate at 25% capacity or a maximum of 250 people.

Outdoor entertainment venues, such as sporting events, concerts and theaters may open at 25% capacity. Places of worship can increase occupancy rates to 50%.

Businesses throughout New Ulm were able to welcome back patrons. Some of these establishments were closed since the middle of March.

B&L Bar owner Rick Kamm was excited to reopen and said his patrons were happy to be back.

The bar had a “decent” crowd for a Wednesday. Kamm said a lot of people were calling ahead to reserve tables. By mid-afternoon, he had received around 35 reservations.

“I am really happy they are supporting us,” Kamm said.

The Lamplighter was seeing similar numbers. Customers were returning to the restaurant and bar. Owner Herb Knutson said the business was busy for Wednesday afternoon.

“That’s a real positive,” he said.

Some customers were still ordering carryout, but, regardless, Lamplighter’s roasted chicken was the most popular order.

In addition to restaurants and bars, fitness centers were able to open, including the New Ulm Recreation Center. The fieldhouse and track open at 5 a.m. No basketball, racquetball, or use of the indoor pool or locker rooms were allowed. All fitness equipment has been relocated to the Vogel Fieldhouse and spread out to maintain physical distance.

At this time, only individuals with memberships will be allowed to enter the facility, and individuals must be at least 15 to enter.

Some COVID-19 restrictions were lifted Wednesday, but all reopened establishments displayed signs asking people with symptoms to remain home.