8 Old-Timey General Stores In Minnesota

The classic general store. Where you can pick up a vacation souvenir, try local foods and beverages, purchase timeless hard candies, or just browse an assorted collection of knick-knacks. Whatever you are looking for, or not looking for, it is almost guaranteed you can find it at a general store. Minnesota, known for its deep lakes and deeper traditions, is home to some of the most charming ones around.

From the long-running Marine General Store, the oldest in the state, to the quirky General Store of Minnetonka, which started with handmade apple-head dolls, these eight old-timey general stores offer more than just goods. They offer stories, soul, and a small-town experience you will not forget.

General Store of Minnetonka

What started as a mom making Apple Head Dolls (they are exactly what they sound like) and selling them at fairs and festivals, sprouted into a general store due to the popularity of the crafts. The store has been family-owned and operated since 1984. Designed and even built by family, the General Store of Minnetonka began construction in 1977 and grew from there. The building was constructed from reclaimed materials found across the Twin Cities. The original building still stands and has evolved over the years; it now includes a café. Stop in today for any of the ever-changing items. Today, they offer Minnesota-themed and decorated clothing, books, décor, puzzles, souvenirs, candles, dish towels, cookbooks, jewelry, and holiday items.

Duquette General Store

To step into the Duquette General Store is to step back in time. Established in 1905, the general store’s initial purpose was to carry standard merchandise, from animal feed to dynamite. But it was also a place where railroad workers could stop for a hot meal and where local children could meet up and leave with a piece of candy. The current owners strive to maintain that strong sense of community. Enjoy a sandwich or ice cream from their in-house deli, and shop for anything else you might need. They currently offer gear for hunting, fishing, and camping. All summer, they have a Farmers Market every Saturday for visitors to enjoy fresh veggies, baked goods, and homemade crafts, all from local vendors.

Big Winnie Store

The Big Winnie Store is so much more than just a general store. It’s another resource for anyone staying in Bena, at the RV park and campground associated with the general store. Built in 1932, it is now federally recognized as a Historical Landmark. The history and culture have been preserved through five generations of Dahl family owners. Wake up at the campground, head to the store for a coffee or cappuccino, and stock up on groceries or any supplies you may have forgotten. Health and beauty products, hardware, automotive, and food items are kept in stock for visitors who might need them. Grab what you need and enjoy a deli sandwich before heading back to camp.

Red Lake Trading Post

Originally opened in the 1980s, the Red Lake Trading Post outgrew its modest building due to demand, and by 2019, it had moved into a new, larger facility. The tribally owned establishment is a grocery store, convenience store, laundromat, and Subway all in one. Essentials, such as healthy food, may be scarce to residents of the Red Lake Reservation, so the trading posts make sure to keep plenty in stock. The grocery store includes a bakery, deli, and fresh meat and produce sections as well. In addition to shopping for essentials, the trading post has become a hub for tribal elders to convene and socialize. To double down on their commitment to preservation and sustainability, the trading post is also equipped with electric vehicle chargers.

Ace General Store

A community-driven store with heritage-inspired goods and gear, Ace General Store wants you to feel at home while shopping there. It is actually encouraged to loiter here, engage in conversation over hot coffee, and make connections with other patrons. Visit the charming country store for apparel, kitchenware, soaps, coffees, gifts, and more. Ace General Store also hosts a summer music series. After shopping for some niche items, gather and listen to live music. Engage with fellow patrons and partake in the store’s motto, “A Gathering of Friends”. The company’s webpage also features their journal, which includes pictures from events around Excelsior, items for sale, and holidays about the town. Feel the warmth of the store through those photos.

Marine General Store

This family-owned and operated store, located in historic Marine on St Croix, is the oldest continuously operating general store in Minnesota. Constructed in 1870, the general store has seen nearly ten different owners in its entirety. At the peak of the lumber business in Marine Mills, the Marine General Store served the St Croix Valley and other surrounding lumber camps. Located on the St Croix River, they provide groceries, general merchandise, produce, deli, baked goods, and meat and dairy. Stop by the deli for their daily lunch specials. Sloppy Joes, ham and cheesy potato casserole, and tater tot hotdish are just a few of the comfort foods they serve on a rotating schedule.

Meighen General Store and House

Nestled in Historic Forestville State Park, this charming 19th-century general store and adjacent Meighen House once served as the social and commercial heart of the community. Felix Meighen opened the store around 1853, and it remained fully stocked with goods like dry goods, tools, and groceries until its closure in 1910. After decades of abandonment, the property was acquired by Minnesota’s Historical Society and is now open to visitors exploring the ghost town. The Meighen House, a classic example of 1860s rural architecture, has been stabilized and interpreted alongside the store, offering a genuine glimpse into frontier life.

Carlson Meat Shop

In 1913, William Carlson bought a meat shop in Grove City, and for the succeeding three generations, the store has been family operated. With animals purchased from local farmers, Carlson Meat Shop custom processes beef, swine, buffalo, elk, deer, and yak. They specialize in cuts, sausages, and jerky. The butcher shop aims to preserve the old-timey atmosphere, and they achieve that by displaying antique tools that were used in the slaughtering process. Stop by for custom cuts, award winning sausages and recipes used by “Billy Butch” himself.

A Blast To The Past With Minnesota’s General Stores

Practical and historical are two ways to describe a classic general store. Charming and essential also come to mind. So many general stores pride themselves on preserving the timeliness of the building and the items they carry. However, they are quick to update their inventory with the demand of the community. Next time you’re in Minnesota, treat yourself to a visit to one of these eight old-timey general stores for a unique experience that makes you almost feel transported back in time.