By Stacy Brooks
If you love shopping, plan a getaway to Inver Grove Heights! With local retailers and easy access to the Mall of America, Twin Cities Premium Outlets, and other area shopping destinations, Inver Grove Heights is an ideal base for browsing for gifts for everyone on your list and something special for yourself. Here’s your itinerary for the perfect weekend of shopping in and around Inver Grove Heights.
Kick off your weekend by perusing local retailers in Inver Grove Heights. Gertens is best known as one of the region’s top garden centers, and it’s one of the best spots in the Twin Cities to find houseplants, gardening supplies, and lawn items. But that’s only the beginning—Gertens also has an extensive selection of gifts such as candles, mugs, puzzles, bath products, home decor, and Minnesota and garden-themed apparel. Throughout the holiday season, browse the indoor and outdoor Christmas decor, kids’ gift items, and holiday games.
Another unique local shopping option is NerdinOut, which specializes in all things nerdy, including new and vintage comics, collectibles, toys, and video, card, and board games. Whether you’re looking for superheroes, horror, Star Wars, or another fandom-themed item, you’re sure to find a memorable gift or something fun for yourself.
Pick up some sweet and savory treats at Hometown Sweets, a locally-owned ice cream, popcorn, and candy shop. Choose from gourmet popcorn in classic flavors like cheese or caramel, or try something offbeat like fruity pebbles or dill pickle popcorn. The shop also stocks locally made small-batch chocolates, nostalgic candies, gift items, and artisan dog treats.
Stop by Liz’s Tienda Vaquera for high-quality Western wear for the whole family. The shop offers an impressive selection of shirts, jeans, and boots in men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes, as well as accessories like belts and hats.
After exploring Inver Grove Heights’ local retailers, head to the Mall of America, which is only 10 miles from Inver Grove Heights. With over 520 stores and 50 restaurants, plan to spend the day taking it all in. The mall is also home to attractions for all ages, including the Nickelodeon Universe indoor theme park, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, two mini golf courses, and FlyOver America, a flight simulation experience. Some shops double as entertainment, like the immersive, two-level M&M’s store and the LEGO Store, which features play tables and larger-than-life LEGO models.
Wrap up your weekend of shopping at Twin Cities Premium Outlets, which offers over 85 stores with savings of up to 65% off. Find men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel and accessories from upscale brands like Adidas, Calvin Klein, Coach, Kate Spade, Saks Off 5th, and Nike.
In the mood for more? Inver Grove Heights is also a convenient base for exploring St. Paul’s Grand Avenue, which offers a small town vibe in an urban setting, as well as Woodbury Lakes in Woodbury, an outdoor shopping center, and Edina’s Southdale Center, the country’s first indoor regional shopping mall.
If you like deals, book a stay in Inver Grove Heights! Inver Grove Heights hotels offer excellent value and are conveniently located to the Mall of America, Twin Cities Premium Outlets, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Some hotels offer free shuttle service to the Mall of America, and other amenities include complimentary breakfast, free parking, and more.