The first thing you should know when shopping in St. Louis Park and Golden Valley: The area is home to unique boutiques, whether you’re looking for souvenirs, outdoor gear or one-of-a-kind pieces. The second thing you should know: Minnesota doesn’t charge sales tax on clothing. Happy shopping!
‘Sota Swag
If you’re looking for some merch that screams Minnesota (in an elegant, understated way, of course), Sota Clothing Co. in St. Louis Park checks all the boxes. Created by Minnesota native Spencer Johnson, Sota offers everything from hoodies to hats to drinkware and artwork, many of which feature the brand’s signature design of two crossed oars accompanied by the state outline.
Get Your Gear Here
Whether you’re in need of some outdoor gear to use during your stay or some memorabilia to take home, Hoigaard’s in St. Louis Park has you covered. A Minnesota staple for more than 120 years, Hoigaard’s has all the equipment you need for snow sports, water sports, hiking, biking and skating. And they don’t just sell gear, either. They also offer several services to get you prepped for your adventures, such as ski and snowboard tune-ups, bike services and a rental program.
A Local Legend
No shopping outing in our area would be complete without checking out the Art of Adam Turman. Turman lives in St. Louis Park and has his studio in Golden Valley. He really is Minnesotan through and through — he creates masterful prints, clothing, drinking glasses, coasters and even face masks that feature some of Minnesota’s most beloved, iconic characters and landscapes. His murals can also be found all around the Twin Cities. All of his merchandise is available online and at his booth each year at the Minnesota State Fair. Plus, this holiday season he has a pop-up show at the Mall of America!
Welcome, Women
Empowering women is what Judith McGrann & Friends in St. Louis Park is all about. For over 35 years, this boutique has offered women’s clothing, accessories, jewelry, gifts and other surprises, with collections that change seasonally. Every piece in the store is carefully selected with consideration for a variety of prices and body types in mind, so there truly is something for everyone.
Lavish for Less
If you fancy designer brands and mega discounts, Opitz Outlet in St. Louis Park was made for you. A premier outlet in the area for more than 20 years, Opitz always offers 70% off standard retail prices. Plus, without any sales tax on clothing, this is an opportunity that shopaholics won’t be able to pass up.
Throwback Vibes
For a quirky, retro shopping experience, head to Down In The Valley in Golden Valley. An indie record store where you can buy the latest vinyl records and CDs, Down In The Valley also sells movies, books, magazines, clothing, artwork, action figures and toys, barware, home accessories and a variety of glass pieces made by glassblowers from around the country. The store also features great vibes and awesome people.
Or drop by SolSta Records in St. Louis Park – another cool indie shop that buys and sells new and vintage vinyl records.
Go Green
Lost in the Forrest, located at The Shops at West End, is a super cool plant shop that sells common and rare houseplants, as well as plant-related gifts and everything you need to turn your home into an indoor jungle.
Shine Bright Like a Diamond
Continental Diamond in St. Louis Park pairs laidback vibes and a relaxing non-stuffy atmosphere with one-of-a-kind jewelry. And because its staff doesn’t work on commission, you can enjoy a stress-free shopping experience. With everything from bracelets, necklaces and earrings to engagement rings and high-end timepieces, you’ll likely find something special.
For a woman-owned jewelry store, head to Max’s in St. Louis Park. The shop features an eclectic collection of jewelry pieces handcrafted by artisan designers as well as handblown glass pieces. It’s also a great place to satisfy your sweet tooth — it has an extensive selection of chocolate treats.
Sweets, Treats, Chocolate Eats
Gourmet chocolates. Whimsical, imaginative names. Great gifts. Droolin’ Moose in St. Louis Park has it all. Our favorite chocolates include Happy Campers, Busy Beavers, Moosetachios and Squirrel Bait. They all live up to the name and will leave you drooling for more.
Game, Set, Match!
Michael Lynne’s Tennis & Pickleball Shop is the largest independent racquet shop in the Midwest and one of the largest in the country. In business since 1990, they were once named the Racquet Sports Industry Magazine’s Pro/Specialty Retailer of the Year. In addition to all things tennis, the store also features a 42-foot-long pickleball wall, where you can shop a wide selection of paddles, plus balls, accessories, bags and footwear from numerous major manufacturers.
Gaga for Gifts
For more gifts, make a stop at Patina in Golden Valley. As the best gift shop in town, Patina offers cute trinkets, exciting toys and games, home goods, beauty products, jewelry and more. The shop prides itself on its inspiring, ever-changing environment and affordable prices, and it can only be found in Minnesota.
Ifs, Ands or Bundts
For a shopping outing with a side of history, check out Nordic Ware Factory Store in St. Louis Park. As the inventors of the Bundt pan, Nordic Ware has been crafting kitchenware and baking tools for 75 years. The Factory Store offers Bundt pans, bakeware, kitchenware, grilling accessories and so much more. They even have cooking demos and classes at the store — check the website for more information.
