365 Things to Do in Memphis #181: Have a Milkshake at Wiles-Smith Drugstore

The Wiles-Smith Drugstore on Union Ave. is the oldest pharmacy in Memphis. It's also a great place to get a milkshake. Assignment #181 in the 365 Things to Do in Memphis is to belly up to their soda fountain.

Walking into Wiles-Smith is sort of like getting dropped into the late 1960s. Very little has changed at the shop (including, I think, some of the greeting cards). But that's not a bad thing – it means that they've kept their soda fountain and lunch counter in working order.

I recommend the chocolate shakes, which are served in the metal canister that they're mixed in (proper protocol dictates that you then pour them into a regular cup to drink). If shakes aren't your thing, they've also got malts, chocolate and vanilla sodas, banana splits and sundaes.

Before you indulge your soda fountain cravings, there are a few things you need to know. Wiles-Smith is incredibly old-school, which means that they only take cash and checks. The hours are also a little limited – they’re only open until mid-afternoon most days. If it’s after 4 p.m., your delicious milkshake will have to wait until the next day.

Go there:

Wiles-Smith Drugstore

1635 Union Avenue
Memphis, TN 38104
(901) 278-6416