The McCarthy Mercantile: A Unique Sandbox for Small Businesses in the HeART of Downtown Syracuse
Nestled beneath Wildflowers Armory in downtown Syracuse, the McCarthy Mercantile is far more than just a retail space—it’s a thriving incubator for local creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Often described as a “sandbox for small businesses,” this underground marketplace has become a beloved destination for shoppers and makers alike, offering a vibrant mix of community, experimentation, and entrepreneurial spirit.
A Hidden Gem with Big Energy
Located on the corner of Salina and Fayette Streets, McCarthy Mercantile might be easy to miss at street level, but take a step downstairs and you’ll find yourself in a bustling subterranean market filled with personality and passion. Here, small business owners can test, evolve, and grow their ideas in a low-risk, high-reward environment surrounded by like-minded creatives.
Whether you’re customizing your own hand-poured candles or perfumes, browsing custom jewelry, vintage fashion, getting a skin fade or full color and cut, enjoying sweet treats and artisan teas, or locally made art, every Shop/service in the Mercantile tells a story—and many of those stories are just beginning.
A Sandbox for Innovation
What makes McCarthy Mercantile truly unique is its sandbox philosophy. For many entrepreneurs, traditional retail leases are cost-prohibitive and come with long-term commitments that can stifle early growth. At the Mercantile, vendors can experiment with their concepts, test new products, and engage directly with customers without the overwhelming overhead of a standalone storefront.
It’s a space where:
First-time business owners can get their start.
Online brands can try physical retail.
Creatives can collaborate, cross-promote, and innovate together.
This model encourages flexibility and community over competition—ideal for an ever-evolving downtown landscape.
Community-Focused and Locally Driven
The McCarthy Mercantile is more than just a market—it's a microcosm of Syracuse’s vibrant and resilient small business culture. The space regularly hosts events, pop-ups, workshops, and artist showcases that draw in locals and tourists alike. It’s a place where the city’s creative class can come together to celebrate local talent and support one another.
Shoppers aren’t just buying products—they’re directly supporting their neighbors and helping Syracuse’s entrepreneurial ecosystem flourish.
A Launchpad for Local Brands
Many businesses that got their start at McCarthy Mercantile have gone on to establish standalone locations, expand their product lines, or build robust e-commerce platforms. For these entrepreneurs, the Mercantile acts as a springboard—a place to learn, adapt, and connect with a loyal customer base before taking their next big step.
We host creative events that enhance the shopping experience and are always open to art-related programming and meet-ups!
reach out if you have any interest!
Visit, Shop, and Support the Future of Syracuse at the McCarthy Mercantile in the heART of downtown Syracuse!