Walking Tour: Collingswood, NJ

Collingswood New Jersey is a sweet suburb that is as quaint as the name sounds. It’s a town fond of events such as the annual arts and crafts fair, book festival, pride pop-up, holiday celebration, and the long-running weekly farmers market. The central stage for most festivities is Haddon Avenue, a strip made up of a few blocks lined with small retail businesses, restaurants, and services. You can stroll the “Avenue” with friends for a shopping-filled afternoon peppered with coffee breaks, a treat from the bakery, or a magnificent meal at one of the many restaurants. 

Step off the main drag and you’ll find yourself among leafy trees, beautiful front gardens, sidewalk-lined streets, and a variety of architectural styles. From stoic Victorians to classic twins and ranches, the homes run the gamut and each one is as lovely as the next. It is easily accessible by PATCO or a quick 15-minute drive from Center City Philadelphia, which makes this a great commuter town. 

Philly Home Girls recently popped over for a visit, explored the retail business, and had an exceptional lunch. We had a tough time condensing this list into a 5-minute readable blog, there are so many small businesses to support in addition to the ones highlighted below. Come and take a walk with us down Haddon Avenue.

Something For Everyone  

While we enjoyed browsing local retail stores, at least one of us was always exclaiming “There truly is something for everyone here”. If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift, Collingswood maybe your magic solution. 

Occasionette 724 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | We’re starting with this one, not only because it is a main event of Haddon Ave but it’s also our V.I.P. client's creation! From barware to baby items, the shelves are stocked with gifts and knick-knacks of all kinds. You WILL find something for your serious thoughtful friend as well as your silly auntie. The staff is super helpful so if you feel overwhelmed, simply ask for help and you shall receive. They also have an awards program that you should sign up for, you won’t regret it.  

Arts Plus 704 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | A staple of Haddon Ave for the past 46 years, 99.9% of their inventory is made in the USA, Canada as well as the local NJ and PA area! They also carry items made in Europe and others through Fair Trade. You’ll find artwork, jewelry, pottery, and textiles, they have it all. They also offer framing services and photo restoration.  

Wander Boutique 825 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | A boho eclectic collection of women’s clothing and accessories. Your best bet is to pop into the shop so you can try on all the things; including sunnies, bags, hats, and clothing. If you’re in a pinch they do have a well-updated website to shop from. 

Clutter Vintage 697 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | We once scored some excellent 1930s Christmas Santas from here, however it’s worth a visit all year round. Filled with bric-a-brac, treasures you didn’t know you needed, jewels, and all sorts of vintage artifacts. Their well-priced inventory is always changing so it’s a must to stop in each time you are in the area. 

Time Lapse Vintage 689 Haddon Ave, Collingswood |Take a trip down memory lane. While we were perusing the goods there were squeals of “I had these when I was a kid” “OMG remember these?!”. The assortment includes records, toys, collectibles, and even VHS tapes. If you really are looking for a blast from the past check out the old 90’s Sassy magazines. Come and get it! 

Galerie Marie 709 Haddon Ave, Collingswood |WOW! The incredible selection in this shop includes handmade dolls, sculptures, tarot cards, and other mystical goodies. The dolls are meticulously crafted by the owner and artist Kimberly Camp herself. They are majestic, creative, and anything but your “typical” doll. Shelves and tables throughout the store are filled with crafted items from over 200 additional artists from all over the world.

Blue Moon Premium Olive Oil & Vinegar 742 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | Bring your taste buds because you can sample each and every offering in the store (and there’s a lot!). They feature olive oils from around the world, and vinegars from Italy. After taste testing, we walked away with a bottle or two (that Sicilian lemon vinegar is irresistible!) Aside from stocking up for your personal pantry, they can create unique favors for corporate gifts and private labeled bottles. 

Cynplicity Artisan Soap 684 Haddon Ave, Collingswood |Lotions, soaps, and the list goes on. All products are made by the owner, and they all include natural ingredients and essential oils. There is zero synthetic fragrance which is a true pleasure to find. Our photographer Jamie stocked up on her shampoo and conditioner bars, raving about how much she and the family love them! 

ExtraordinaryED 808 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | Treat your family and friends to a game night! You’ll find educational games for the young ones, and party games for adults. There are many items under $15 that will bring joy and hours of entertainment (we’re looking at the tubes of tiny dinos, world landmarks, and cats). 

Secret Origins Comics and More 888 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | If you don’t think comics are your thing, we dare you to head into this store. We bet there is a match for everyone. From Lilo & Stitch to Toxic Summer you’re bound to find something that delights you. Collectors of course will be pleased to discover the special something they’ve been hunting for. 

Bespoke Home + Life 817 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | For the moment the shop is temporarily closed. Our fingers are crossed that it is opening back up again soon. Known for their incredible home merchandising installations complete with plants, elevated candles, and stunning furniture, all of which is for sale. Their mascot (aka dog) Griffin is often lounging around the shop being his grand good looking self. 

Ida’s Bookshop 734 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | The sister store to Harriet’s Bookstore in Fishtown. In addition to must-read titles, there are a number of events to attend. A focus on celebrating women authors, artists, and activists, is something we always need more of. 

Inner Groove Records 798 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | Voted the best vinyl shop by South Jersey Magazine, there’s definitely something to satisfy your ears here. Is your own collection collecting dust? You can sell them your records, or they’ll even come to your home if you don’t want to lug it into the store. They also have their own label that “specializes in releasing the rare and hard-to-find LPs of yesteryear”. 

House Finch 740 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | There are big vats of bird seed to fill your feeders, bird houses, and books about birds for true bona fide bird lovers and newbies alike. There is also a wide variety of items which brings the saying “put a bird on it” to life. Be it a candle warmer, tea towel, children's books, pottery, or tote bags. The shelves are loaded with bird items and they are all pretty amazing- in fact, many are crafted by local artists.  

All Fired Up 602 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | Our photographer shared a perfect mom-and-daughter date that involved All Fired Up. They went around the holidays, picked out and painted a number of pieces as gifts, and then hit the stores on Haddon Ave together. It all ended with a lovely lunch and was a memorable day. You pay by the piece so you can take as much time in the shop as you like. They also offer parties in shop and take-home parties! 

Living Like a Local 

One of the things we love about the main drag in Collingswood is there are shops that keep it local and support your daily errands. Pop into one of these staples that have been on the Avenue for years, all for the resident’s convenience. 

The Principled Pet 802 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | Grab your cat and dog food from this local shop that has been around for over 10 years. They have all the accessories too- leashes, poop bags, pet beds, etc. Throw a toy in the bag just for fun! 

Collingswood Sew & Vacuum 699 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | Back in the day you didn’t run to Target when your vacuum broke. Instead, you brought it to town, had it fixed, and that workhorse was back in business in your cleaning arsenal. WE LOVE THIS! Not only do they repair vacuums and sewing machines, they also sell them. Although they have a website, the best thing to do is pop into the store and discuss your needs in person, like back in the good old days. 

Boardman Fire Extinguisher Co 649 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | If you thought vacuum repair was a blast from the past- how about refurbishing your home fire extinguisher? While we were strolling through town, we saw a customer clutching her beloved fire extinguisher to be brought in to be repaired. 

OHMGrown Yoga 1030 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | A welcoming studio that offers many different practices that support all levels. They also have a hearty selection of workshops and events, including a Panama Retreat that looks pretty magical. 

Knight Park Park Ave and Browning Rd, Collingswood |Green space is everything and Collingswood has a gorgeous park in walkable distance to just about everywhere in the borough. Enjoy a little league game, grab a pick-up game of basketball, or escape around the small picturesque pond. 

Collingswood Public Library 771 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | We love that the local library is in the heart of it all! Visit to partake in one of the amazing events like mosaics class, family movie matinee and educational seminars for adults and kids.

The Collingswood Farmers Market 713 N Altlantic Ave, Collingswood | Not your typical market- it’s more like a festival that happens every weekend. With a tent dedicated to adoptable dogs, live music, and tons of vendors carrying fresh produce, food, and community groups it’s non-stop fun! Rain or shine May-Thanksgiving 8 am-12 pm.

Treats and drinks

Mercantile 1888 765 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | You may have noticed that there aren’t any bars on this list. That’s because Collingswood is a dry town. However, you can still sidle up to the zero-proof bar located in Mercantile 1888. Offering creative mixed non-alcoholic cocktails that aren’t your run-of-the-mill concoctions (hot tip: all drinks can be THC infused). They even have a weekly happy hour. Peruse the curated items while sipping. You’ll find all sorts like snazzy vintage-inspired men’s shirts, toiletry bags, cards, jewelry, tees, and of course bitters and non-alcoholic “booze”. 

Grooveground Coffee Bar 647 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | Where are our 80’s babies? A coffee shop with a dynamite record collection that leans toward the 80’s artists. Not only can you grab a drink and vinyl there are all sorts of toys and pins that will catch your eye. 

Revolution Coffee Roasters 809 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | Sip indoors or outdoors. You can also sip at home as they have a subscription service of small batch beans that they have roast themselves. Can’t make it to town? They deliver too. If that’s not enough you can always find them selling their goodies at the Collingswood Farmers Market.

Dulce Artisanal Pastry 740A Haddon Ave, Collingswood |Fresh bread and homemade pastries are a must in our pantries. Pop into this local artisan bakery and get your hands on the most delicious croissants, crispy-crusted breads, and baked desserts that will have your guests wanting more. They sell out easily so hit them up earlier in the day. 

The Candy Jar by 1892 721 Haddon Ave, Collingswood |The second you open the door, the sweet smells of hand-dipped pretzels loaded with toppings, bonbons filled with creams, and old-fashioned penny candy greet you. We brought back a box of treats back to the office and let’s just say there weren't any crumbs left behind. 

Where to eat 

Sabrina's Cafe 714 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | We grabbed lunch at a nice big table for 8 in the bright airy space (an old Woolworths!). We’re still dreaming about the vegan bowl with tofu, coconut rice, and butternut squash. 

Haddon Culinary 741 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | A market that has a full-service butcher, prepared foods, bakery items, all the cheeses you could dream of and made-to-order sandwiches. If you get thirsty while shopping, grab an ice-cold frothy drink from the coffee bar. Picnic tables are outside to enjoy your feast. 

Maria’s Bread Sandwiches 685 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | If you are a sandwich lover run to Maria’s. We’re not talking about your traditional hoagies here- think more creative combos on bread all melty and crispy. They do pizza parties on Friday nights so reserve your pie now! 

June 690 Haddon Ave, Collingswood | For an elegant night out, make a reservation at French restaurant June. You may recognize the name when it was located on E Passyunk Ave. It has since moved to Collingswood into a charming space on the corner of Haddon Ave and Collings Ave. The chef hails from South Philly and has been a part of pretty much every outstanding French restaurant in the Philly area, as well as Michelin Star restaurants in Paris. If you want a more casual experience grab a bite at their sister restaurant Cafe Le Jardin in nearby Audubon. 

If good Italian is your jam you have your choice of EIGHT Italian restaurants on the strip (and one on Collings Ave but had to include). With names like Villa Barone, Il Fiore, Sapori Trattoria, Albertino’s, Bistro de Marino, and Zeppoli you can’t go wrong. And that’s just the true dining restaurants- there are a handful of casual pizza and sandwich venues also worth trying such as Montegrillo Cucina, Stella Pizza, and Cafe Antonio's.

What a list! And we weren’t able to include everyone. There are many more small businesses to explore on and off Haddon Ave. So take that trip across the bridge and spend and idyllic afternoon into evening in Collingswood. When you’re driving around and you inevitably ask yourself “should we move here?” give us a ring! We have agents licensed in NJ that would be happy to show you around.