I’ve had a crush on Columbia, Tennessee, for years. The town south of Nashville (south of Franklin and Spring Hill) has long had a thriving downtown square and a cool arts district. Right now, tons of small businesses have their doors open and their shingles out. A friend and I took a day trip so I could show her around; now I’m sharing my favorites with you.
We really went to Columbia because my friend wanted to check out this new yarn store. I don’t knit (too much counting!), but even I was gobsmacked by Megan Butler’s collection of organic and natural fibers. She has packed a lot into a tiny shop in Row & Co., an assemblage of small (literal and figurative) businesses in the Columbia Arts District.
This two-story shop off the Public Square has been a fixture in Columbia since 1955. It’s known for its upside-down sign, which you can grab on a shirt or a pair of socks. They also stock outdoor gear, shoes, and clothing. Think of it as Columbia’s version of Friedman’s Army Navy Surplus (R.I.P.).
Another long-time business on the Square, Accents and Antiques has two floors of booths from antique, vintage, and retro goods vendors. I found some vintage buttons for a coat I'm sewing, while my friend found a wood-and-brass butter charm she's going to turn into a piece of furniture.
Yes, Bloomstall sells fresh flowers and plants, including air plants and unusually shaped houseplants that require soil. If you are looking for some green to have at home over the winter, this is a good stop. The pretty pink shelves also hold fun gifts, including jewelry and home decor.
