Something special is happening in Collingswood, New Jersey. Long known for its walkable downtown and indie charm, this Camden County gem is quietly reinventing what it means to shop, dine, and gather in South Jersey.
A new generation of business owners is transforming traditional storefronts into spaces where creativity thrives, neighbors connect, and purpose drives profit. From reimagined eateries to hybrid retail-social experiences, Collingswood is leading the charge in community-driven commerce — and the results are as inspiring as they are inviting.
If you haven’t explored the town recently, it’s time for a return visit. Because this isn’t just shopping anymore — this is something deeper.
The Factory: A 13,000-Square-Foot Home for Makers, Dreamers, and Doers
Tucked inside a repurposed movie theater on Fern Avenue, The Factory stands as a monument to Collingswood’s entrepreneurial spirit. This massive co-op makerspace spans 13,000 square feet and is home to a diverse ecosystem of creators — from woodworkers and metalworkers to ceramicists, indie brands, and even a local music instructor.
It’s also where you’ll find Revolution Coffee Roasters, a cult favorite among locals, fueling the creative energy of the space with small-batch brews and good vibes.
At the core of The Factory’s appeal is its fully equipped woodshop, offering shared machinery like table saws, joiners, and band saws. Here, artisans and hobbyists collaborate, experiment, and host hands-on workshops that are open to the public. Whether you’re learning the basics of welding or crafting your first piece of pottery, The Factory invites everyone into the process of creation. It’s more than a makerspace — it’s a community hub for building, bonding, and belonging.
Want more unique places to browse and buy from in the Garden State? Discover more standout shopping destinations here.
Stardust Cafe: A Pop Shop Evolution
Another exciting chapter in Collingswood’s story is unfolding at Stardust Cafe, the newly rebranded space formerly known as The Pop Shop. While longtime fans may recall the playful, diner-style atmosphere of its predecessor, Stardust Cafe is taking things in a bold new direction — think elevated comfort food, inventive mocktails, and a refreshed interior that blends style with soul.
While the full food and drink menu is still under wraps, expect a thoughtfully curated experience that caters to brunch dates, intimate dinners, creative meetups, and family gatherings alike. With a name inspired by the magic of reinvention, Stardust Cafe is poised to become a go-to venue for everything from casual hangouts to private parties — all in a space that celebrates music, art, and the social vibe of downtown Collingswood.
Odd Folk: The Anti-Big Box Boutique
Odd Folk brings a nostalgic-yet-modern feel to Haddon Avenue, offering a mix of curated clothing, vintage-inspired housewares, books, magazines, and even music. But this is far from a typical boutique. Odd Folk is built around a neighborhood-first mindset, complete with monthly art shows and a rotating selection of local vendors.
Stepping into Odd Folk feels less like entering a store and more like wandering into your coolest friend’s apartment — if they happened to be a tastemaker with an eye for aesthetics and a love for community events.
Mercantile 1888: Vintage Finds Meet Zero-Proof Socializing
At Mercantile 1888, the past and present come together in a uniquely Collingswood way. This general store-slash-mocktail bar fuses curated vintage jewelry, decor, and gifts with a menu of zero-proof cocktails that feel as indulgent as they are inclusive.
Whether you’re browsing the shelves or sipping on a handcrafted non-alcoholic drink, Mercantile 1888 offers a fresh take on shopping as a social experience. It’s ideal for a weekend stroll, a friend’s night out, or a quiet moment of solo exploration — all while supporting local makers and sustainable retail.
Ida’s Bookshop: Pages With Purpose
For those who crave a cozy reading nook with a mission, Ida’s Bookshop is the place to be. This women-owned literary haven centers stories written by women and Black authors, with a strong emphasis on inclusive children’s literature and lesser-heard voices.
The warm, welcoming interior feels like an invitation to slow down, discover, and reflect. It’s a must-visit for readers looking to expand their shelves — and their perspectives.
ExtraordinaryED: Smart Play for All Ages
ExtraordinaryED isn’t just a toy store — it’s a hands-on wonderland of games, puzzles, and educational toys that spark curiosity at every age. With a staff known for being especially welcoming to kids and families, this shop has earned its place as a staple in Collingswood’s downtown lineup.
Whether you’re looking for a birthday gift, a rainy-day activity, or something to get the whole family thinking together, ExtraordinaryED lives up to its name by putting the “extra” in everyday fun.
A Downtown Built on More Than Commerce
What makes Collingswood’s retail scene so remarkable isn’t just the products — it’s the purpose. These businesses aren’t just here to sell. They’re building community, creating opportunities, and making a meaningful impact on how we connect with one another.
That spirit is supported by the Collingswood Business Improvement District, which works closely with local shops and restaurants to support events, promotions, and placemaking. From sidewalk festivals to pop-up markets and First Friday art walks, this town is investing in the future of small business — and the people who keep it thriving.
For anyone who’s passionate about supporting local, Collingswood is one of the best towns in New Jersey to shop with purpose. And that purpose is woven into every storefront, every sidewalk chalkboard, and every handmade gift bag.
This is more than a shopping district. It’s a shared vision of what retail — and community — can be.
In the heart of downtown Collingswood, a bright storefront is doing more than just selling goods — it’s creating community, fostering inclusion, and empowering individuals with disabilities. This vibrant space, spearheaded by Keri Pastore, is not your average small business. It’s a hybrid retail and social hub designed for the individuals supported by JEVS Human Services, one of South Jersey’s leading organizations for people with disabilities.
More than a store, it’s a statement. A New Kind of Shop in Collingswood with Retail, Community, and Purpose Under One Roof
Pastore’s initiative offers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to engage in real-world job training, retail experience, and meaningful social interaction — all in one welcoming space. It’s about building confidence, independence, and skills that translate beyond the shop floor.
“We wanted a place where people could be part of something — not just in the background, but at the center of the action,” Pastore said. “Everyone deserves a seat at the table, and this is our way of setting it.”
The store features handcrafted goods, artwork, and home décor items — many of which are created by program participants themselves. Shelves are lined with candles, jewelry, tote bags, and locally made items that all tell a story. But just as important as the merchandise is the mission behind it: inclusion through entrepreneurship.
Every aspect of the storefront — from customer service to stocking shelves to greeting customers — is an opportunity for hands-on learning. Participants develop job skills that not only support their personal growth but also prepare them for employment opportunities in the broader community. Shoppers aren’t just purchasing a product; they’re contributing to a future of independence and possibility for someone in their neighborhood.
This innovative model blends commerce with community in a way that’s rare — and necessary.
Pastore, who has spent years working in vocational development and disability services, designed the storefront to feel like a part of the community, not a separate entity. Situated on one of Collingswood’s charming downtown blocks, the space fits right in — and that’s the point. It’s not about “special spaces.” It’s about inclusive ones.
“There’s so much untapped talent in the disability community,” Pastore said. “If we give people the right support and a platform, they shine.”
And shine they do. Whether it’s helping a customer find a gift, managing the register, or showcasing their latest handmade craft, participants are learning in a real-world environment that respects their dignity and celebrates their strengths.
This is the kind of initiative that’s putting South Jersey on the map for innovation in both retail and community development. And for those who haven’t yet walked through the doors of this Collingswood gem, there’s more than enough reason to stop by.
Looking for something meaningful to do this weekend? Explore more entertainment destinations in New Jersey while supporting a cause that’s changing lives.
Whether you’re shopping for a one-of-a-kind gift, supporting local creators, or just stopping in to say hello, this store represents everything that makes Collingswood — and New Jersey — a better place to live, work, and belong.