There are several things that Collegedale is known for such as the famous Imagination Station playground and the “Little Debbie” factory. But by living and going to school in Collegedale, I have discovered some hidden gems that the average person may not know about. So, next time you are in the area, check out the places below!
Meraki Mobile Boutique
Did you know that in Collegedale there is an adorable women’s clothing boutique hidden inside The Bird Shoppe on Apison Pike? Meraki Mobile Boutique has such a variety of adorable clothes and accessories for just about any occasion — it has easily become one of my favorite local places to shop! They also have a location in Dayton inside of Scoopy’s Ice Cream Place, and they are a traveling boutique. Feel free to check them out while in town or on their website. The owner was sweet enough to give our readers a discount code AMYM15 (valid through 7/15) that can be used in store at 9409 Apison Pike Ste 101 or online!
The Bird Shoppe
While checking out Meraki Mobile Boutique, The Bird Shoppe is a unique store to check out as well! Of course, it is a bird watcher’s and enthusiast’s dream, but it also has other unique items for the home and garden. One of my favorite things in this beautiful store is that they have handmade items such as jewelry that are made by and profit people in developing countries such as Haiti. The store owner runs a non-profit called Shoulder to Shoulder that helps feed and send to school children in Haiti, so you know that your purchases benefit others as well! They are also located at 9409 Apison Pike Ste 101 in Collegedale.
Crumbleberry Market
This more recent gem really is hidden. I got lost several times before I found it — no joke, but it was totally worth the wait. Located on the campus of Southern Adventist University, Crumbleberry Market is tucked away in a corner in the corridor to the left of the post office (so you aren’t wandering around as I was!). Crumbleberry Market offers a delicious vegan and plant-based breakfast and lunch menu. Even if plant-based isn’t your thing, I recommend at least trying it — I think you will love it! I recommend the waffles and have gotten them several times. My sister-in-law’s go-to favorites are the sweet and savory toasts as well as the falafel bowls for lunch. (Side note: They are on hiatus until school starts again in August at the University.)
Coal Coffee Co.
Coal Coffee Co. is also located inside of Crumbleberry Market. Not only is it convenient to finally have a coffee shop in Collegedale, but they also offer some coffee that isn’t your normal corner coffee shop coffee. They are most known for their different “mineral coffees,” the most popular one being their charcoal latte. I was skeptical, but after seeing it around campus, I finally tried it and it was addicting to say the least. (Side note: They are also on hiatus until school starts again in August at the University.)
Thrifty Med Plus Pharmacy
Ok, you may be thinking, “How is a pharmacy a hidden gem?” or “It’s located right on the corner of Apison Pike and Ooltewah-Ringgold Road (Main Street) — it’s not hidden!” But have you ever been inside? Thrifty Med Plus is not your average pharmacy. Well, it is, and it isn’t. Yes, it’s where I get my prescriptions filled, but it also offers an array of unique items and gifts. I don’t even know how to describe the items they carry as they sell semi-medical items such as stuffed animals you can warm in the microwave to comfort kids, to unique purses — I am always getting distracted by the wonderful things they carry! I recommend checking it out for yourself.
Some honorable mentions from other local moms:
Prior Attire Consignment Shop: Located on Main Street, this is a great place to pick up new-to-you clothes on a budget!
The Tinker Fairies Cottage: Also located off of Main Street, they offer a unique variety of gifts, many made by local artists!
Hidden Hills Farm and Saddle Club: Located off of Edgmon Road, this is a great place for birthday parties, farm workshops, and riding lessons. You can learn more about what they offer on their website.
Piece-A-Cake Bakery: Conveniently located off of Apison Pike, Piece-A-Cake Bakery is there for all of your cake and cookie needs!
White Oak Mountain Trails: If you like to hike or mountain bike, the White Oak Mountain Trails are a must do! You can find more information on the trail route on this website.
Mountain Oaks Tea Room: If you are looking for a beautiful and historic event space, check out the Mountain Oaks Tea Room located on Church Street. For more information about booking, you can visit their website.
Southern Adventist University Disk Golf Course: If disk golf is your thing or something that you’ve wanted to try, SAU conveniently has a disk gold course located on campus near the Wellness Center.
Chatt Space Nutrition: Chatt Space Nutrition offers workspace away from home and they also have a shake and tea bar. More information on the space can be found on their website.
4 Corners Cafe: Located at 4 Corners on Apison Pike, the 4 Corners Cafe offers a great selection of items such as soup, salad’s and sandwiches, as well as a breakfast menu.
I hope this has been a helpful guide for you to explore some new places in Collegedale!
You never know what gems you may find!
