Racket
I’m a contributing writer (and photographer) for Twin Cities-based Racket, the only major alternative news/culture outlet in Minnesota.
4 Niche Twin Cities Shops That’ve Survived and Thrived
Despite decades of shifting economic headwinds, these treasured and highly specialized spots refuse to disappear.
By Michael Wellvang
December 11, 2024
It’s a question asked of more than a few niche storefronts around Minneapolis and St. Paul: Huh, hasn’t that place been around forever?
These local businesses provide more than just shelves full of goods, many of which are available cheaper and easier via retail behemoths like Amazon. They’ve persevered through the decades because they’ve become invaluable givers of advice, meeting places for likeminded folks, and entry points into the industries they serve—throwback institutions, unbothered by trends and tech.
But seriously: How are they still open? We asked four of ‘em.