The Charming Piggott City Market
During a recent Southeast trip, we spent 24-hours in the small town of Piggott, Arkansas. After our stay at the Inn at Piggott, we strolled through town, stopping here and there. One of our favorite stops was the charming Piggott City Market.
The Market is mid-block, nestled between buildings facing Piggott’s town square. The green awning makes it easy to spot. In addition, gold lettering on storefront windows let you know what you will find inside such as “baked good,” “memorabilia,” and “crafts.”
Those three words combined were all I needed to step inside.
Outdoor seating and potted plants greet customers entering the Market.
Check out the cases filled with goodies then place your order or purchase gifts at the counter.
It's a Coffee Shop, Bakery, and Cafe
First, you notice the case filled with baked goods. Stuffed from breakfast at the Inn at Piggott, I didn’t try any sweets, but they looked delicious.
Next to the baked goods is a cold case filled with drinks and other edibles. Also, a large chalkboard menu on the wall listed food and drinks available to customers.
Friendly staff greeted us as soon as we entered, answering any questions we had. Tables and chairs ready to seat hungry customers dotted the front of the light-filled Market
Piggott's history and claim to fame hangs on the walls throughout the Market.
Filled with Handcrafted Gifts and Local History
Second, you notice the old brick and stucco walls covered with historic photographs, posters, and memorabilia. Each item displayed teaches you about Piggott’s town history. FYI, Andy Griffith made his film debut here and Ernest Hemingway spent time in Piggott.
Next, as you move deeper into the historic building, you see artisan crafts in all possible varieties. From home decor to food items to kitchen needs to apparel, the gift section has plenty of eye candy for shoppers.
According to store owner, Tracy Cole, local residents of all ages sell their products at the Market. She said, “We have some books, pot holders that a little girl in town makes, and honey that’s local. That kind of stuff. The soaps are made by a lady locally.“
Did we make a purchase? Why yes we did. The honey looked too good to pass up.
An exposed original brick wall surrounds a repurposed window filled with artwork by local artisan.
Vintage style displays contain locally made products.
Find gifts created by both young and old.
Market Loft on the 2nd Floor
Above the Piggott City Market on the 2nd floor is a 2-guest room loft. It has a full kitchen and sitting area. Guests can rent one room and share common areas or rent the entire loft.
We didn’t get to see it because the guest had not yet checked out, but we were told it is available for travelers to Piggott.
The Market Loft is often reserved by guests planning a longer stay in the area.
Hang with the Locals at City Market
If you are looking to get a feel for Piggott’s personality, this is the place. The City Market is a gathering place for locals. They are friendly and willing to tell you why they live in Piggott.
So…stop in. Enjoy a pastry or frittata. Pick up a souvenir or gift for a friend. Learn a little history about the area while hanging with the locals. It will warm your heart.
Feel the love locals have for their hometown and learn a bit of town history.
Owner, Tracy Cole
About the Owner
Meet Tracy Cole. Tracy, along with her husband Joe, own the Piggott City Market and Market Loft.
Born and raised in Piggott, they went to school together, married there, then moved away to pursue their careers. Both had parents still in Piggott so, after 24 years away from the area, they returned.
Tracy and Joe purchased the old bank building, remodeled, redecorated, and reimagined it into The Inn at Piggott. About the same time, they opened the Piggott City Market located on the town square.
Looking for more yummy foods to enjoy?
Head over to our "Places to Eat" page for other Worthy Detour stops.
