Shopping

Shopping Destinations in Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a city that thrives on creativity, diversity, and innovation, and its shopping scene is no exception. From bustling markets and quirky boutiques to upscale malls and specialty stores, Minneapolis offers a unique shopping experience that reflects the city’s eclectic spirit. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind vintage finds, seeking the latest in fashion, or looking to bring home a piece of Minnesota craftsmanship, Minneapolis has something for every shopper. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 24 shopping destinations in the city, each offering its own blend of charm, history, and irresistible goods.

Overview of the Shopping Scene

Minneapolis is a shopper’s dream, with a mix of high-end retailers, independent boutiques, and vibrant markets that cater to all tastes and budgets. The city’s shopping landscape is shaped by its diverse cultural influences, from Scandinavian design to Native American artistry, and you’ll find an array of unique items that reflect the local heritage. Whether you’re strolling through the historic streets of downtown or exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Uptown and North Loop, Minneapolis invites you to discover its many treasures.

Key Shopping Districts

Nicollet Mall

Address: Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Overview: As the heart of downtown Minneapolis, Nicollet Mall is a pedestrian-friendly avenue lined with department stores, boutiques, and dining options.
History: Established in the 1960s as one of the first pedestrian malls in the country, Nicollet Mall has long been a central hub for shopping and entertainment in Minneapolis.
What to Buy: Fashion, accessories, home décor, and gourmet foods.
Unique Features: The mall is also home to the iconic “Mary Tyler Moore” statue and a variety of public art installations, making it a cultural hotspot as well as a shopping destination.

Mall of America

Address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425
Overview: The largest shopping mall in the United States, Mall of America is more than just a shopping destination—it’s an entertainment complex.
History: Opened in 1992, the Mall of America attracts millions of visitors each year with its vast array of stores, attractions, and dining options.
What to Buy: Everything from fashion to electronics, toys, and souvenirs.
Unique Features: In addition to over 500 stores, the mall features an indoor amusement park (Nickelodeon Universe), an aquarium, and countless dining options. It’s a destination in itself, offering something for everyone.

Uptown

Address: Hennepin Ave and Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Overview: A trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant arts scene, Uptown offers a mix of independent boutiques, vintage shops, and chic eateries.
History: Uptown has long been a cultural hub in Minneapolis, evolving over the decades into a hotspot for fashion, art, and nightlife.
What to Buy: Vintage clothing, local art, and unique home goods.
Unique Features: Uptown is known for its artistic vibe, with many shops featuring works by local artists. The neighborhood is also home to the iconic Uptown Theatre and the annual Uptown Art Fair.

North Loop

Address: Washington Ave N and 2nd St N, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Overview: The North Loop, also known as the Warehouse District, is one of the city’s most fashionable neighborhoods, offering a mix of high-end boutiques, hip restaurants, and art galleries.
History: Once an industrial area, the North Loop has transformed into a trendy neighborhood that retains much of its historic charm with its brick warehouses and cobblestone streets.
What to Buy: Designer clothing, artisanal goods, and gourmet foods.
Unique Features: The North Loop is known for its blend of old and new, with modern boutiques housed in historic buildings. It’s a great place to discover emerging designers and unique products.

Northeast Arts District

Address: Central Ave NE and Broadway St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Overview: A creative haven, the Northeast Arts District is home to numerous artist studios, galleries, and independent shops.
History: The district has been a hub for artists since the early 20th century, and today it’s one of the largest arts districts in the country.
What to Buy: Original artwork, handmade jewelry, and locally crafted goods.
Unique Features: The Northeast Arts District is the place to go for one-of-a-kind items, with many shops offering unique, handmade products. The district also hosts the annual Art-A-Whirl, the largest open studio tour in the U.S.

Featured Shops and Local Businesses

MartinPatrick3

Address: 212 3rd Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Overview: A luxury men’s boutique offering clothing, home furnishings, and gifts.
History: Established in 2008, MartinPatrick3 has become a go-to destination for stylish men looking for high-quality, unique products.
What to Buy: Designer clothing, luxury grooming products, and custom furnishings.
Unique Features: The store offers personal styling services and has an in-house tailor, making it a one-stop shop for the discerning gentleman.

Ingebretsen’s

Address: 1601 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Overview: A Scandinavian market and gift shop offering traditional Nordic products.
History: Founded in 1921, Ingebretsen’s has been a cornerstone of the Scandinavian community in Minneapolis for over a century.
What to Buy: Scandinavian foods, crafts, and holiday decorations.
Unique Features: Ingebretsen’s is famous for its selection of traditional Scandinavian goods, from lutefisk and lefse to Norwegian sweaters and hand-carved wooden items.

Cliché

Address: 2403 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55405
Overview: A boutique offering clothing and accessories by local and independent designers.
History: Cliché opened in 2004 and has since become a hub for local fashion in Minneapolis.
What to Buy: Trendy clothing, handmade jewelry, and unique accessories.
Unique Features: The boutique frequently hosts fashion shows and events showcasing the work of local designers, making it a great place to discover new talent.

Hunt & Gather

Address: 4944 Xerxes Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55410
Overview: A vintage store filled with eclectic finds, from antiques to retro clothing.
History: Hunt & Gather has been a treasure trove for vintage lovers since 2003.
What to Buy: Vintage furniture, retro clothing, and quirky collectibles.
Unique Features: The store’s whimsical decor and ever-changing inventory make each visit an adventure. It’s a must-visit for anyone with a love of the unusual and unique.

Golden Fig Fine Foods

Address: 790 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Overview: A specialty food store offering locally made products.
History: Golden Fig has been a favorite among foodies since it opened in 2004, offering a carefully curated selection of local and artisanal foods.
What to Buy: Handmade chocolates, local honey, and gourmet pantry staples.
Unique Features: The store emphasizes sustainability and supports local farmers and producers. It’s a great place to find unique gifts or ingredients for a special meal.

Local Delicacies and Specialty Products

Minnesota State Fair

Address: 1265 Snelling Ave N, St Paul, MN 55108
Overview: The Minnesota State Fair is an annual event featuring a variety of local foods, from cheese curds to deep-fried delights.
What to Buy: Local foods like Sweet Martha’s Cookies, cheese curds, and honey ice cream.
Where to Find Them: Available during the state fair, held in late August to early September.
Unique Features: The fair is a celebration of Minnesota’s agricultural heritage, with an emphasis on local foods and traditional fair favorites.

Midtown Global Market

Address: 920 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Overview: An international marketplace offering a wide range of foods and products from around the world.
What to Buy: International foods, handmade crafts, and unique gifts.
Where to Find Them: Located in the Midtown Exchange building, a hub for diverse communities.
Unique Features: The market is home to over 45 vendors representing cultures from around the world, making it a one-stop shop for global flavors and products.

St. Paul Farmers’ Market

Address: 290 E 5th St, St Paul, MN 55101
Overview: A year-round farmers’ market offering fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal products.
What to Buy: Local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Where to Find Them: Located in downtown St. Paul, the market is open on weekends year-round.
Unique Features: The market has been a staple in the community for over 150 years, offering a wide range of locally sourced products.

Sustainable and Ethical Shopping

Fair Anita

Address: 210 N 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Overview: A social enterprise offering ethically made jewelry and accessories by female artisans.
Sustainability: Fair Anita is committed to fair trade practices, working with female artisans around the world to create beautiful, sustainable products.
What to Buy: Ethically made jewelry, bags, and accessories.
Unique Features: The store’s mission is to empower women through economic opportunities, making each purchase meaningful.

Patagonia St. Paul

Address: 1648 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Overview: An outdoor apparel store known for its commitment to environmental sustainability.
Sustainability: Patagonia is a leader in sustainable business practices, offering products made from recycled materials and supporting environmental causes.
What to Buy: Outdoor clothing, gear, and accessories.
Unique Features: The store offers a repair service to extend the life of its products, promoting a culture of sustainability and responsible consumption.

Navigational Tips

Getting Around:
Most of the shopping districts in Minneapolis are easily accessible by public transport, with the Metro Transit bus and light rail systems offering convenient routes. For those driving, parking is generally available, though it can be limited in popular areas like Uptown and the North Loop.

Safety Tips:
While Minneapolis is generally safe for shoppers, it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Final Thoughts

Minneapolis offers a shopping experience that is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From bustling markets to high-end boutiques, there’s something for every shopper in the City of Lakes. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, unique local crafts, or sustainable products, Minneapolis invites you to explore its many shopping treasures. So grab your shopping bag and discover the rich tapestry of goods that await you in this vibrant city.