When was the last time you sat down at a real old-fashioned soda fountain, ordered a hand-dipped milkshake, and enjoyed the atmosphere of a small-town drugstore?
In Cross Plains, Tennessee, there's a place where that experience is still part of everyday life.
Welcome to Thomas Drugs, a historic hometown pharmacy with a traditional soda fountain, nostalgic ice cream treats, and more than a century of local history.
Unlike restaurants designed to imitate the past, Thomas Drugs is a working pharmacy that has preserved an important part of small-town American culture.
From its checkered floors and vintage soda fountain counter to the antique red benches outside, this charming destination offers visitors a glimpse of a simpler era.
Whether you're craving a classic milkshake, looking for a unique lunch stop, or exploring Tennessee's hidden gems, Thomas Drugs deserves a place on your itinerary.
A Historic Tennessee Pharmacy With More Than a Century of History
Thomas Drugs has been part of the Cross Plains community since the early 1900s.
Its historic building dates to 1915, and the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
For generations, pharmacies like Thomas Drugs were much more than places to pick up prescriptions.
They were important gathering spots where neighbors stopped to talk, catch up on local news, and enjoy refreshments at the soda fountain.
Before modern fast-food restaurants became common, drugstore soda fountains were popular destinations for everything from ice cream sundaes to sandwiches and fountain drinks.
Thomas Drugs continues that tradition.
Today, it combines the services of a neighborhood pharmacy with the nostalgic experience of a genuine soda fountain.
That combination makes it especially memorable for visitors who appreciate local history and businesses that have remained part of their communities for generations.
Step Inside an Authentic Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain
One of the biggest attractions at Thomas Drugs is its soda fountain.
The interior has the kind of character that's difficult to recreate.
Visitors can admire the checkered flooring, traditional counter, and vintage atmosphere while enjoying a sweet treat or casual meal.
Outside, the antique red benches provide another charming detail.
They're a perfect place to sit for a few minutes, enjoy the small-town surroundings, and watch the activity along the street.
What makes Thomas Drugs special isn't simply the décor.
It's the fact that this is still a functioning hometown business.
The soda fountain isn't just a historical display. It's a place where customers can actually order traditional treats and enjoy an experience that has become increasingly rare.
Old-Fashioned Milkshakes and Specialty Shakes
If you're visiting Thomas Drugs for the first time, a milkshake is a wonderful place to start.
Old-fashioned milkshakes are one of the classic treats associated with traditional soda fountains.
Unlike modern dessert drinks piled high with elaborate toppings, a traditional milkshake focuses on the combination of ice cream and milk blended into a smooth, creamy treat.
Thomas Drugs offers classic milkshakes along with specialty shake options.
The flavors and selections may vary, so check the current menu when ordering.
Whether you prefer a familiar favorite or something a little different, enjoying a milkshake at the historic counter is part of the fun.
Banana Splits, Sundaes, and Brownie A La Mode
Milkshakes aren't the only sweet treats available at Thomas Drugs.
The soda fountain also offers several classic ice cream desserts.
Banana Splits
A traditional banana split is one of the most recognizable American soda fountain desserts, combining a banana with ice cream and sweet toppings.
Ice Cream Sundaes
For something a little simpler, an ice cream sundae offers the familiar combination of hand-dipped ice cream and delicious toppings.
Brownie A La Mode
Chocolate lovers may enjoy a brownie served with ice cream for a rich, comforting dessert.
Hand-Dipped Ice Cream
Thomas Drugs has featured Purity Ice Cream, a longtime Tennessee ice cream brand.
For visitors who prefer a straightforward treat, a scoop or two of hand-dipped ice cream is a classic choice.
These desserts make Thomas Drugs an appealing stop for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys nostalgic food experiences.
Try a Classic Ice Cream Soda or Float
One of the most interesting parts of visiting a traditional soda fountain is the opportunity to order drinks that aren't commonly found at modern restaurants.
Thomas Drugs has featured several old-fashioned fountain favorites.
Root Beer Floats
A classic combination of root beer and vanilla ice cream, creating a creamy, fizzy treat.
Coke Floats
Another nostalgic favorite made by combining Coca-Cola with ice cream.
Ice Cream Sodas
Traditional ice cream sodas combine ice cream with flavored syrup and carbonated water.
Egg Creams
Despite the name, a traditional egg cream contains neither eggs nor cream.
This old-fashioned fountain drink is typically made with milk, flavored syrup, and seltzer water.
It's an especially interesting choice if you enjoy trying beverages with a bit of history behind them.
These drinks are part of what makes an authentic soda fountain different from an ordinary ice cream shop.
Fresh Lemonade and Salty Lemonade
Thomas Drugs also offers traditional lemonade drinks.
Fresh Lemonade is a refreshing choice, particularly during Tennessee's warmer months.
One more unusual option is Salty Lemonade.
The combination of tart lemon flavor and a touch of salt creates a different taste from standard sweet lemonade.
For visitors who enjoy trying regional specialties or old-fashioned fountain drinks, it's worth asking about.
Stop in for a Small-Town Lunch
Although Thomas Drugs is known for its soda fountain treats, visitors can also stop in for lunch during the week.
This makes the pharmacy a convenient destination for a casual midday outing.
Rather than making a quick stop for ice cream, you can enjoy lunch and follow it with a traditional soda fountain dessert.
The lunch menu and daily availability may change, so it's a good idea to ask about current selections.
Reported Lunch Hours:
Monday through Friday, 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM.
Lunch is not listed as a regular Saturday service.
If you're planning your visit around a meal, arriving during the weekday lunch window is important.
Browse the Gifts and Discover a Piece of Local History
Thomas Drugs offers more than prescriptions and ice cream.
Visitors can also browse gift items and merchandise inside the store.
This adds another reason to explore the pharmacy rather than simply stopping for a quick dessert.
The combination of a working pharmacy, gift shopping, and traditional soda fountain gives Thomas Drugs its distinctive character.
It's the type of place where several generations of customers may have their own memories of stopping by for a treat.
For travelers who enjoy discovering authentic small-town businesses, that sense of history is part of the attraction.
Explore the Charming Town of Cross Plains
Thomas Drugs is located in Cross Plains, a small community in Robertson County, Tennessee.
Cross Plains is one of the oldest communities in the county and has a rich local history.
Its rural surroundings, historic buildings, and slower pace make it an appealing destination for travelers who enjoy exploring Tennessee beyond the larger cities.
A visit to Thomas Drugs can be part of a relaxing drive through Middle Tennessee.
Rather than rushing between major attractions, spend some time appreciating the community and its small-town atmosphere.
If you enjoy photographing historic storefronts, visiting locally owned businesses, and discovering places with interesting stories, Cross Plains is worth exploring.
Make Thomas Drugs Part of a Tennessee Day Trip
One of the best ways to enjoy Thomas Drugs is to build a leisurely outing around the experience.
Start by exploring Cross Plains and its historic surroundings.
Then stop at Thomas Drugs during the soda fountain's serving hours.
Order lunch if you're visiting on a weekday, or choose a milkshake, banana split, float, or another classic treat.
Afterward, take a few minutes to enjoy the atmosphere and browse the gifts inside.
If you're traveling through Robertson County, you can also explore nearby communities and enjoy the countryside.
The most important thing is to plan around the soda fountain's hours, which are different from the pharmacy's general business hours.
The Best Time to Visit Thomas Drugs
Thomas Drugs is a year-round destination, but the timing of your visit makes a difference.
Weekday Mornings
A good option if you want to stop for a fountain drink or ice cream after the soda fountain opens.
Weekday Lunch
The best time to visit if you'd like to enjoy lunch and dessert during the same stop.
Weekday Afternoons
A relaxing time to stop for a milkshake, sundae, or old-fashioned float.
Saturday Mornings
An option for visitors who can't make it during the week, although Saturday service ends at noon.
Because the soda fountain operates on a limited schedule, it's worth checking the hours before making a special trip.
Plan Your Visit to Thomas Drugs
Destination: Thomas Drugs
Location: Cross Plains, Tennessee
Type: Historic Pharmacy, Traditional Soda Fountain, Lunch Counter, and Gift Shop
Reported Pharmacy Hours:
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Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Saturday: 8:00 AM – Noon
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Sunday: Closed
Reported Soda Fountain Hours:
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Monday through Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Saturday: 8:00 AM – Noon
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Sunday: Closed
Reported Lunch Hours:
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Monday through Friday: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
These hours are based on the supplied business information and should be confirmed before a special trip.
Popular Soda Fountain Treats:
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Old-Fashioned Milkshakes
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Specialty Shakes
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Banana Splits
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Brownie A La Mode
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Ice Cream Sundaes
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Hand-Dipped Purity Ice Cream
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Ice Cream Sodas
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Coke Floats
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Root Beer Floats
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Fresh Lemonade
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Salty Lemonade
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Egg Creams
Other Offerings: Weekday lunch, pharmacy services, and gifts.
Best For: Nostalgic outings, ice cream lovers, families, small-town day trips, historic businesses, and travelers who enjoy discovering unusual Tennessee destinations.
Recommended Visit Length: Approximately 30–60 minutes, or longer if you're stopping for lunch.
Helpful Visitor Tips:
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Check the soda fountain's hours rather than relying only on the pharmacy's opening hours
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Visit during the weekday lunch window if you'd like a meal
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Try a traditional milkshake, banana split, or root beer float
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Ask about current ice cream flavors and specialty shakes
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Consider trying an old-fashioned egg cream if you've never had one
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Browse the gifts and merchandise inside the pharmacy
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Take time to appreciate the historic building and soda fountain
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Allow time to explore the surrounding town
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Confirm current hours before making a long drive
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Remember that the pharmacy and soda fountain are closed on Sundays
Why Thomas Drugs Belongs on Your Tennessee Bucket List
Tennessee has plenty of ice cream shops and restaurants, but authentic old-fashioned soda fountains are becoming harder to find.
Thomas Drugs offers something different.
It's a place where visitors can step inside a working hometown pharmacy, admire a historic setting, and enjoy the same kinds of treats that generations of Americans have loved.
From creamy milkshakes and banana splits to traditional ice cream sodas and floats, the menu celebrates a style of dining that has become increasingly uncommon.
And because Thomas Drugs is still part of the Cross Plains community, the experience feels authentic rather than staged.
Whether you're exploring Robertson County, planning a nostalgic family outing, or searching for a unique place to stop for dessert, Thomas Drugs is a memorable addition to a Tennessee adventure.
Discover More Unique Places in Tennessee!
Love discovering old-fashioned soda fountains, locally owned restaurants, historic landmarks, charming small towns, and unusual attractions?
"The Ultimate Tennessee Bucket List" helps you discover incredible places to eat, shop, stay, and explore throughout Tennessee.
From hidden restaurants and nostalgic businesses to beautiful waterfalls, scenic drives, and unique overnight stays, it's filled with inspiration for your next adventure.