New beginnings are in store for Crane’s Museum & Shoppes. Crane’s Country Store is looking for a new neighbor—and it could be you! The building that housed Marlene’s Restaurant and Crane’s Museum is currently available for lease or sale. 

All good stories come to an end. For more than 20 years, Marlene’s Restaurant served homestyle food that tasted like your mother’s best cooking. But due to staff shortages following the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s time to say goodbye and that means beginning an exciting new chapter. While we’re sad this chapter is over, we’re excited to welcome a new business to Williamsburg, MO. Your restaurant or retail shop could write the next story for this unique commercial property for rent or purchase! 

Please get in touch with Scott Stinson of Central Realty for more information about this retail or restaurant space for lease or purchase. Call Scott at (314) 550-6561 or email stinsons@central-realty.com.

The Story of Crane’s Country Store

Crane’s Country Store is an established tourist attraction and local gathering place. The general store opened in 1889. Later, in 1920, the Crane family moved the store to Williamsburg.  

The rich history of Crane’s Country Store runs through four generations of Crane family members. Each generation brought something new to the table. 

Joe and Marlene Crane were retired teachers. They wanted an educational space to display their family’s memorabilia collection from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Out of this wish came two endeavors: Marlene’s Restaurant and Crane’s Museum.

Collecting American History 

In addition to family heirlooms and pieces from their own life and business, the Crane family collected items from auctions in Montgomery and Callaway counties. With over 4,000 square feet of space, the museum is home to tens of thousands of cherished collectibles that take you back through time. 

Most notably, a ’27 Chevy and a Model A Ford sit proudly inside. Visitors can imagine what it would’ve been like to drive down the road in these vehicles. 

The museum houses something for everyone, including extensive arrowhead, flintlock gun and antique doll collections. Walking through the building, you’ll glimpse life before motor cars with a real-life horse carriage. 

Crane’s Museum has become a beloved tourist attraction for many!

The Next Chapter: Your Business

Capitalize on the building’s distinct character or breathe new life into the space. Unlike some commercial properties, this space can adapt to your needs. A commercial kitchen and full seating make the property perfect for a restaurant, brewery or distillery. Or with so much square footage to work with, this location can work as a unique retail or office space.

Owner David Crane says, “This is a great opportunity for any business to grow in an already established, fast-growing community. Williamsburg is a welcoming community with small-town charm.”

The building’s dining atmosphere is one-of-a-kind. The combination of food and treasures attracts history buffs, antique collectors and passing tourists. You’ll also serve the local community.  

You can integrate your business into the museum or use the space for another purpose. All antiques and memorabilia can be removed at the lessee’s or owner's request. 

Marlene’s Building & Land Parcel Specifications 

• Built in 2004
• 8,000 square feet total (4,000 sq. ft of museum alone)
• Commercial kitchen 
• Building and parcel of land can be utilized by the lessee or owner
• Additional land to the west of the building can also be utilized 
• Off-street parking spaces
• Adjacent park/outdoor seating area
• Located just off U.S. Highway 70

Property Site Plan, Interior & Exterior Views of Crane's Museum & Shoppes

Customer Demographics & Traffic

Crane’s Country Store, which sits feet from the Marlene’s Restaurant building, serves patrons from across the region and the country. 

“Due to our location right off the highway, visitors come from all over and say they feel ‘at home,’” says David. 

Williamsburg is a stopping point for many traveling to Columbia, MO, for entertainment or a Mizzou game. The town also serves those headed to the state’s capital, Jefferson City. 

The greater Williamsburg area is home to approximately 34,000 residents with an average household income of $54,000. 

Customer traffic is no issue at this location! Crane’s Country Store made over 66,000 transactions in 2023. Those customer transactions break down to more than 5,500 each month. 

“Crane’s Country Store is an established brand that brings in travelers and tourists alike and is also a regular stop for the locals,” says David. “This space for lease or purchase would be a great spot for a café, tasting room, brewhouse, retail or office space—the options are endless!”

Let’s Be Neighbors!  

Set your restaurant or business up for success in a commercial property for sale or rent that’s outfitted with a full kitchen and dining area. Use the space and equipment while you bring your unique flavor.

Not many commercial real estate properties for lease or sale come with such a rich, fun history. Weave your story into the tapestry of Crane’s Museum or make your mark with something entirely new! 

Looking for retail space near Columbia, MO? Try Williamsburg! 

Please send inquiries about leasing or buying the property to Scott Stinson of Central Realty. If you think this space is a fit for you, please call (314) 550-6561 or email stinsons@central-realty.com. 

We’d love to have you tour the property and share your vision!