Shop Like a Local at These Southern Minnesota Boutiques
Shop Like a Local at These Southern Minnesota Boutiques
By Cinnamon Janzer
From the Wisconsin border on the east to the South Dakota border on the west, southern Minnesota is home to some of the state’s most whimsical and charming boutique shopping destinations. Historic main streets from Red Wing to New Ulm to Montevideo are the places to find one-of-a-kind housewares, clothing, antiques and gifts with that special local touch.
Spend some time perusing any of these southern Minnesota shops and you’ll agree: This region has some of the best shopping in the state. The only problem? Figuring out how to get so many incredible finds back home.
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Uffda Shop, Red Wing
Red Wing's Uffda Shop is the place to find Scandinavian gifts
Uffda Shop, Red WingShopping in southern Minnesota wouldn’t be complete without a trip to an authentic Scandinavian store. Opened in 1977, the Uffda Shop is nestled right in the heart of downtown Red Wing and specializes in gifts for any occasion, not to mention some of the friendliest staff around. If you have trouble finding it, just ask for directions to the St. James Hotel—Uffda is right across the street.
- Refashion, Rochester
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Adourn, Chatfield
Chatfield's Adourn boutique is an online Esty shop come to life
Adourn, ChatfieldThis vintage and antique store is stuffed to the brim with rare finds, carefully refurbished and tastefully curated for design lovers everywhere. Adourn is located in Chatfield’s historic district and carries everything from funky furniture to handmade jewelry and so much in between.
Bonus: They also offer interior design consulting if you want to bring their look home.
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Salvage Sisters, Mankato
Salvage Sisters, Mankato
A lifestyle and furniture boutique, Salvage Sisters on Riverfront Drive carries nearly everything under the sun and looks good doing it. From home goods like must-have mugs and origami wine toppers to colorful socks and baby blankets, there’s truly something for everyone at this Mankato market.
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Guten Tag Haus, New Ulm
Downtown New Ulm looks like a winter postcard / Kyle Krenz
Guten Tag Haus, New UlmMinnesota’s most famous immigrant group may be the Scandinavians, but in the German-settled city of New Ulm, Guten Tag Haus is the most Minnesotan store in town. Step inside to find offerings like German steins and cuckoo clocks alongside German food options, and even some local New Ulm knick-knacks for good measure.
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Nessa's Naturals, Marshall
Nessa's Naturals, Marshall
Self-proclaimed "ingredient nerd" Vanessa Torke ensures that every one of the items in her custom makeup line (Best Yet Cosmetics) meets strict green and clean standards, including liquid foundation, lipstick and eyeshadow. Nessa's Naturals also stocks luxe loungewear and face and body products for the entire family — everything from beard oil to baby buttah.
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Livintage Boutique, Montevideo
Livintage Boutique, Montevideo
When taking in the southwestern Minnesota town of Montevideo, a stop at Livintage Boutique on North First Street is practically required. The shop features wares that range from home furnishings and decorations to clothes and shoes. With a focus on sharing the work of local artists and creators, you’ll find sophisticated looks that work for any style.
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Geyerman's, Pipestone
The castle-like Calumet Inn Hotel anchors historic downtown Pipestone
Geyerman's, PipestoneThis women’s clothing staple is located on Pipestone’s idyllic Main Street. Offering up everything from jackets and tops to dresses and bottoms, it’s entirely possible to fill your closet with finds from Geyerman’s Clothing Co.
Don’t live anywhere near Pipestone but love what you’ve found online? Don’t worry—they ship across the entire U.S.
Cinnamon Janzer is a freelance journalist based in Minneapolis who writes broadly about culture, business and travel. Her words have been published in National Geographic, New York magazine, The Washington Post, Fast Company, Eater and USA Today.