November 8, 2023
For delightful small-town charm minutes away from Memphis, head to Collierville. It’s just a quick 30-minute drive southeast of Memphis.
Step back in time at the picturesque Collierville Town Square, lined with unique shops, local restaurants, an historic train depot and a charming bandstand gazebo. In fact, the entire downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Collierville Town Square, about 30 minutes from Memphis, has a vibrant, friendly atmosphere and serves as the cultural center of the town with dining, entertainment, arts and community activities. It’s also a popular spot for visitors who want to experience Southern hospitality with a unique historic vibe.
History Is on View in Collierville
You can step into that history at the Morton Museum of Collierville History, which explores 150 years of the town’s stories, people and important moments. The historic building served as the Collierville Christian Church from 1873 until the 1970s and was designed in the Gothic Revival architectural style popular at the time. Most of the original design elements remain or have been reconstructed, including the tower and beautiful arched stained-glass windows.
Inside the Morton Museum you’ll find permanent exhibits including objects from the 1800s and information on the two Civil War battles fought in the town in 1863. There are also rotating displays, as well as regular events for residents and visitors.
If you want to learn more about Collierville, find things to do and local events, or schedule a walking tour of the area, you can pop in to the Depot Visitor Center, a restored 1940s historic train depot that serves as the tourism office’s headquarters.
Families, history buffs, and train aficionados will love the square’s collection of historic trains that you can explore inside and out. This includes the iconic Frisco 1351 steam locomotive, a business train car and a 1940s red caboose.
Food Finds in Collierville
Whatever your tastes, Collierville Town Square’s many restaurants will keep you well fed. Try traditional Scottish fare at Highlander Restaurant & Pub, Southern-inspired upscale dining at Raven & Lily (a favorite local brunch spot), delicious Italian favorites and specialty pizzas at Cafe Piazza, or go for a Collierville classic meat-and-three cafe at The Silver Caboose Restaurant & Soda Fountain.
If you’re looking for famous Mid-South staples, Collierville has locations of Dyer’s Cafe. Dyer’s Café is the home of the best deep-fried burgers this side of the Mississippi, cooked in 100-year-old grease brought east from the original Beale Street location.
For your java fix, Square Beans Coffee is a must visit. Collierville’s original indie coffee spot, Square Beans serves espresso, coffee, frappes, tea and smoothies, plus breakfast and baked goods. It also offers free Wi-Fi and indoor and outdoor seating on the square.
You can’t skip dessert! Since the 1960s, Mensi’s Dairy Bar has provided the Collierville Town Square with the best soft-serve ice cream and milkshakes. The old-school shop is walk-up style, to-go only, so you can pick up a waffle cone or cup of ice cream and stroll around (or find a bench) in Town Square Park.
Boutiques and Shops in Collierville
For shopping in and near the square, stop by Little Shop by the Tower at the base of Collierville’s water tower for locally made gifts, jewelry and art. Or get your leather goods and Americana apparel at Hewlett & Dunn Jean & Boot Barn, a longtime local favorite. You can spend an afternoon walking and exploring local shops and businesses on your visit.
Places to Stay in Collierville
There are several hotels in Collierville, ranging from a Hampton Inn to a Fairfield Inn & Suites. In addition, the city has RV parks and campgrounds for your enjoyment.
Whenever you come to visit, don’t forget to stop for a photo op in front of the Collierville mural!
Enjoy Seasonal Events in Collierville
Spring to Summer
There’s plenty of seasonal fun to be had in the Collierville Town Square, too. Each spring, the square hosts bluegrass jams on Friday nights at 6:30 p.m. from April through October. Just bring a chair – or your own acoustic instrument – and join in the fun.
The first weekend in May is the annual Collierville Fair on the Square, two days of shopping, good eats and live music. Summer marks the beginning of the Main Street Summer Concert Series to the square on select Thursdays, June-October, and there’s a classic car display on Main Street every other Wednesday night.
Winter Activities
When the weather cools down, visit the square for the annual cornstalk, pumpkin and mums displays in the historic district – it’s the perfect backdrop for your holiday card or an Instagram post. For the holidays, experience Christmas in Collierville with lights, carriage rides around the square, visits with Santa and regular entertainment throughout the season.
