Shopping is one of the best ways to relieve a heavy mind or a difficult day, but there’s an extra element of excellence when you shop locally. Supporting local makers is one of the best ways to bolster Tennessee’s economy, and it provides the serotonin boost that big box stores just can’t provide. The Factory at Columbia is located in a vintage shirt factory that has been revamped and reworked into a multi-merchant marketplace. Learn more about it below, and perhaps plan a shopping day for yourself.

You will find the Factory at Columbia on James M. Campbell Boulevard in Columbia, Tennessee, and it is home to one of the most unique shopping experiences in the state. The Factory is located in a renovated shirt factory from the mid-twentieth century, and the unique building boasts more than 71,000 square feet of industrial space.

The converted building still has its original steel windows and doors, and there is even a deck outside that lends itself to music and entertainment when the weather is right. There is free parking on-site, and the cluster of locally owned shops and vendors inside has a little something for everyone.

New shops are opening sporadically at the Factory, so make sure you check the current list of vendors on its official website. The Columbia Antique Marketplace is located on the lower level of the building and is a popular spot for treasure hunters, and the southern-inspired general store, the Fork of the South, is great for foodies. With over 50,000 books in stock, Leather Books is one of the largest U.S. suppliers, and you can peruse the collection on-site.

There are Makers Markets hosted on-site throughout the year, so make sure you keep an eye out for updated events! There is a yoga studio on-site, Lotus Rising Yoga, and the stunning artisan retail store, Mountain Ash Home, will elevate any home design.

Looking for something to take home? Head to Nashville Tea Co. for specialty tea blends and lattes, or perhaps check and see if Lolly’s Flower Truck is open on the Factory’s main floor. Wouldn’t a handful of blooms look beautiful arranged on the kitchen table?

Have you been to the Factory at Columbia? Are you ready to plan your own shopping experience?

Each vendor has its own hours, so make sure you double-check before visiting. The main office at the Factory at Columbia is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.

What a neat place to visit and shop! You can learn more about the Factory at Columbia on its official Facebook page, and we'd highly recommend checking for updates on its Instagram. The up-to-the-day posts are great for planning a fun trip!