Twin Cities Shopping
The Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area is serious about retail and shopping. And with no sales tax on clothing in Minnesota, shopping is twice as fun.
The first thing that comes to most people's mind when they think of shopping in the Twin Cities is the Mall of America. It is the largest mall in the US, and in the past 15 years since its opening, approximately 425 million guests have shopped there.
While an attraction of its own, the Mall of America also houses other major attractions such as the world's largest underwater aquarium, an indoor amusement park, a movie theater, and several unique features including NASCAR and flight simulator experience stores. It will take more than one trip to see inside the over 520 stores located at the Mall of America.
The nationally know Target chain of stores owes its roots to the Twin Cities. Locally-based Dayton's department store launched this new concept of a discount store in 1962. The discount concept quickly became popular launching a host of competition along the way. Today, Target stores and other discount chains are a staple in every major city and town across the US.
As far as places to shop, there are a host of retail centers, malls, and shopping districts in the Twin Cities. Each city and suburban area has their own community shopping centers and retail strips. There are also specialty shopping areas around the metro areas. In the historic northeast district, artists, galleries, and historic storefronts abound. For high fashion and boutique shopping, check out the shops near 50th & France in Edina. Affluent suburbs, Maple Grove and Woodbury, are doing their part to bolster the economy and have redefined Minnesota's shopping habits with trendy sprawling sidewalk malls.
Nicollet Mall is a landmark retail corridor in downtown Minneapolis. This mall is located on a pedestrian-only street cutting through downtown also connected by skyways so you can stay warm on rainy or cold days. Here, you'll find the distinctive two-story Target store as well as Macy's, Neiman Marcus, and other upscale stores and boutique shops.
The Minneapolis Farmers Market is available every Thursday from May to October and is a great place to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and specialty foods.
Grand Avenue in Saint Paul is a unique historic strip spanning 30 blocks from downtown Saint Paul to the Mississippi River. With tree-lined sidewalks, local character, and a host of shops and restaurants, Grand Avenue is a unique shopping experience. It's also a great place to see live music, art shows, and parades; go on a horse-drawn hay ride or sample some delectable food.
The oldest indoor mall in the US is the Southdale Center located in Edina. Anchored by JC Penney, Macy's, and Herberger's, Southdale has many restaurants, a movie theater, and over 125 other retailers. Across the street in Edina is the Galleria Mall with upscale & specialty stores such as Restoration Hardware and Tiffany & Co.
West 7th Street is a popular shopping district among antique collectors. It is one of Saint Paul's oldest neighborhoods surrounded by unique and historic architecture. The area offers several eclectic shops and a nice mix of area pubs and restaurants.