Shop 'Til You Drop at 5 of Our Favorite Twin Cities/Rochester Business Districts

The words "too many places to shop" do not exist in our vocabulary. With the eclectic variety of shopping areas around the Twin Cities and Rochester, you can always find that perfect birthday gift for Mom or a beautiful wall hanging for your Springs apartment home. Here are some of our favorite local shopping districts that are certain to become your favorites too!

Grand Avenue
St. Paul

Located only blocks from downtown St. Paul, the Grand Avenue district is a throwback to the relaxed and charming ambiance of small-town shopping. The 30-block stretch is populated primarily by independent boutiques and specialty shops, some with international flavor such as Irish on Grand and Tibet Arts. Restaurants include Dixie's on Grand, a Twin Cities classic serving the finest in Southern comfort food.

Uptown Minneapolis

This unofficial neighborhood centered at the intersection of Hennepin Avenue and Lake Street is home to Calhoun Square, an urban mall with a mix of hip clothing shops like Timberland and Francesca's Collection along with specialty stores such as modern home design shop CB2. And to enhance your shopping experience, Libertine’s holds a Monday Night Mingle event on the first Monday of each month. It’s a nice way to round out your shopping with a chance to enjoy creative cocktails and free appetizers while socializing with friends and making new ones.

Midtown Global Market
Minneapolis 

Enjoy the sensory appeal of traditional public markets around the world at this unique location. Midtown Global Market was established as a place for local entrepreneurs to establish a business while celebrating the diverse heritage of area residents. More than 50 vendors are on hand with produce, specialty and prepared foods, groceries and one-of-a-kind gifts and craft items. 

St. Paul Retro Loop

If you're a fan of vintage, you won't want to miss this area. Shops like Succotash, Lula and Up Six feature the finest in mid-century clothing, furniture and home accessories. Looking for a '60s cocktail dress or fiberglass sofa? This is the place! 

Downtown Rochester

The Downtown Rochester Alliance works to maintain a strong core in order to provide a positive impact on the rest of the city. Shop at fashionable national retailers like Chico's and Talbot's as well as independent shops such as 99 Giggles and Baby Baby. Take a break at Tea Time or Caribou Coffee, or relax over lunch at City Café or Mac's. Downtown is also the site of the Rochester Farmers Market, held each Saturday from May through October.

Do you have a favorite shopping area near your Twin Cities or Rochester apartment to add to this list? Let us know in the comments!