The best book, hobby & craft shops in Minneapolis

“From Qur'an and hadith to poetry, children's picks, and cookbooks, Rabata Cultural Center & Bookshop curates a wide range of Islamic titles, including Daybreak Press favorites and Ribaat textbooks. They also host classes and community events, so you can learn, connect, and leave with a book you actually finish.”

From the Roseville newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Most Wanted Comics is a Twin Cities spot for deep back-issue dives, especially silver and bronze age, plus a weekly lineup of moderns with pull lists to keep you current. Plus Pokémon and other TCGs, vintage and modern action figures, and staff who buy comics, cards, and vintage toys if you’re thinning the herd.”

From the Savage newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Whether your happy place is haunted houses, far-off galaxies, or quests with suspiciously talkative swords, Other Skies Weird Fiction curates horror, science fiction, and fantasy that actually surprises.”

From the Maplewood newsletter, September 11, 2026

“NerdinOut-Inver Grove Heights is a 7,000-square-foot playground of new releases and back issues, action figures, retro and modern video games, trading cards, and anime merch. They also buy, sell, and trade, so bring those closet treasures and level up your collection.”

From the Cottage Grove newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“If you need a thoughtful sacramental gift or something uplifting for your own shelf, Divine Inspirations Books and Gifts has you covered with devotional aids, children's books, teaching supplies, and more.”

From the Richfield newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Compact and well loved, SubText Books packs a smart mix of adult and kids titles into a space that’s easy to browse, and the staff actually listens, then hands you the book you didn’t know you needed. Perfect for quick inspiration or a full-blown TBR refresh.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 2, 2026

“XIA Books & Café centers Asian American voices with a thoughtful selection that leans local, from beloved Hmong memoirs to fresh AAPI kids’ reads. Grab an iced Thai tea, split a banh mi, maybe a sushi roll, then discover your next neighbor-recommended page turner.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Story Line Books is the kind of indie spot that makes St. Paul feel like a small town again, with staff picks, book clubs, and author events that get you reading beyond your comfort zone. Bonus points for their delightfully deep trains section, from kids' titles to serious railroad history.”

“If your idea of a perfect evening is rolling dice, flipping through back issues, and arguing about which run is canon, Source Comics & Games delivers. Over 10,000 square feet, a giant game room, new arrivals daily, and a free pull service make it a reliable neighborhood hang.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 12, 2026

“From LEGO sets and Ravensburger puzzles to Squishmallows, Schleich creatures, and STEM toys, Legacy Toys nails that tricky mix of wow and actually-useful. It’s the move for last-minute birthday magic, boredom busters, or bribery-level gummy treats, all sorted by age, interest, and favorite fandoms.”

From the Roseville newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Whether you're chasing this week's must-reads or building out a collection, Hot Comics and Collectibles is a trusty Richfield haunt for comic books plus related collectibles, including toys and action figures. Easy place to lose track of time... and maybe justify just one more figure.”

From the Richfield newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Ramsey County Library - Roseville is the spot when you want more than a good novel... think e-books and audiobooks, LinkedIn Learning, step-by-step craft videos, Consumer Reports, and 90+ languages with Transparent Language. Kids and teens score VOX Books, decodable reads, AniMondays, and virtual gaming, too.”

From the Shoreview newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Whether you’re hunting key-issue comics, vintage action figures, or retro consoles, NerdinOut in Coon Rapids is stuffed with the good stuff. They buy, sell, and trade comics, cards from Pokémon to Magic, plus anime merch and both retro and modern video games... perfect for a quick nostalgia hit this week.”

From the Coon Rapids newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Whether your week needs a reset or a nudge forward, Unity North Spiritual Center, right here in Coon Rapids, brings a positive, practical, progressive approach to spirituality with welcoming Sunday services, a prayer team ready to hold your requests, youth and family programs, an active book study, and a bookstore for…”

From the Coon Rapids newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Pathway Books at Christ Presbyterian Church is a freshly remodeled nook to pause, pick up a curated Bible, devotional, or kids’ read, and snag meaningful gifts. Settle into the new seating to meet, study, or simply linger... a small, quiet reset right here in Edina.”

From the Edina newsletter, September 19, 2026

“The Thinking Spot is a cozy indie bookstore where science runs the show, with curated reads for grownups and kids plus STEM toys, puzzles, and gifts that make curiosity feel fun. Pop in this week and let your brain pick the next rabbit hole.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Wild Rumpus Books blends beloved staff picks and new arrivals with Wild Happenings like book clubs and weekly storytime, so every age finds something to love. fm, and educators can plug into their Book Fairs and school author visits.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Next Chapter Booksellers is St. Paul’s indie hub for staff-picked gems, author visits, and lively book clubs. This week, catch William Kent Krueger on 8/24 or drop into the Romance Book Club on 8/27, then leave with a book you swear you’ll start tonight.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Moon Palace Books is the indie shop that keeps Minneapolis reading, with shelves that jump from buzzy new releases to small-press surprises and staff picks you actually want to follow. Swing by this week, let your TBR balloon a little, then claim you planned it all along.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Excelsior Bay Books is a family-run spot where new titles share shelf space with charming cards, puzzles, gifts, and the kind of stuffed animals kids refuse to leave without. When you want a thoughtful pick and a quick card in one stop, this nearby bookstore keeps it easy.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Seedlings Gifts & Books is the easy win around the lake when you need something meaningful, from Bibles and devotionals like Jesus Calling to Willow Tree figurines, crosses, rosaries, and sacrament or sympathy gifts. Swing by this week for a thoughtful pick that actually feels personal, not last-minute.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Acorn Bookshop is St. Paul's newest woman-owned indie, rooted in women's voices, community and change, with shelves that feel curated by a friend who knows your taste. fm, or email for special orders when your TBR gets oddly specific.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Tucked near Cottage Grove, Comma, a Bookshop is that cozy, clean spot with inviting shelves curated with old favorites, crisp new releases, and all-time classics. The vibe is slow-browse and neighborly, perfect for when your TBR pile needs a refresh and a little serendipity.”

From the Edina newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Part apothecary, part crystal cave, part book nook, Jewelweed curates herbal remedies, aromatherapy, tarot and oracle decks, and books on healing that actually feel helpful. This week, pop in for intuitive gift boxes, cacao and tea, plus classes and workshops that make self-care feel like a plan, not a Pinterest board.”

From the Chanhassen newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Need a fresh set of reeds, a last-minute method book, or a rental sax that actually plays in tune? Groth Music Company is the Twin Cities’ full-line standby for instruments, sheet music, accessories, rentals and expert repairs, plus lessons if you’re finally committing to that practice plan.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Whether your collection lives on the turntable or in the car stereo, Cheapo Records has new LPs on Friday, deep bins of used vinyl and CDs, cassettes for the nostalgics, plus 1000s of posters, T-shirts, and listening gear. Hit the Blaine spot this week and treat your ears.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Whether you're chasing pointy, high-octane tone or just need your trusty axe dialed in, The Shred Den hooks you up with new BC Rich and Dean guitars, setups, and lessons that keep you shredding. Gift cards exist for that bandmate who never returns gear.”

From the Chanhassen newsletter, August 7, 2026

“First Star Music Studios turns half-forgotten guitars and shower singers into actual musicians, with private lessons for voice, piano, guitar, drums, ukulele and more, in your home or online. This week, lean on Al, who’s been teaching since 1961, and let him fix that stubborn instrument while you learn.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 8, 2026

“If your idea of self-care is a graphite-neck groove, Planet Bass is Maple Grove’s spot for high-end, boutique basses and gear, featuring beauties from Modulus, Fodera, Alembic, MTD, Roscoe, Zon, and Elrick. Pop in this week, try a few, then pretend you didn’t just find your forever low end.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Big Sky Hobby is the spot for RC flyers and drivers, stocking trainer planes, brushless trucks, plenty of parts, and even CAD/3D printing services when you need that just-right bracket or fix. Pop in this week and get your next backyard shakedown or Nokomis speed run dialed.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Anchor Paper Express is the local go-to for specialty and everyday papers, envelopes, and packaging, plus custom cutting, quick turnaround, and no minimums. Working on DIY invites or a print project this week?”

From the Plymouth newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain for decorative paper, crafting supplies & quirky gifts, plus custom stationery.”

“Family-owned All Strings Attached keeps violins, violas, cellos and basses sounding their best with expert service, rentals and sales, plus a deep bench of strings, bows, cases and sheet music. Check them out this week, especially if you play bass... they have the largest bass shop in Minnesota.”

From the Brooklyn Park newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Need yarn inspiration that actually sticks? Amazing Threads keeps Maple Grove makers busy with a huge selection of fibers plus a steady calendar of classes, clubs, and trunk shows, including WIPs help, learn to knit sessions, and a crochet tee class, with a 24/7 online shop to keep the momentum going.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Klash Drums is the chill, local spot for kits and percussion whether you’re just learning or already gigging. They offer drum lessons, repairs, and trade-ins on used gear, so you can level up your setup before the next basement practice.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“If your stash is looking blah, Sew Trendy MN has the good stuff... vibrant Kaffe Fassett and Tula Pink, Ruby Star, Moda and Riley Blake, plus precuts, widebacks, minky kits, bundles, patterns and notions. Slide in this week, spark a quilt you actually want to finish.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Chain of music stores buying, selling & trading instruments, sound equipment & accessories.”

“Eclipse Music packs a huge stompbox selection from classics to boutique oddities, plus G&L guitars, amps, and pedalboard essentials like cables, power, and MIDI. A low-key spot for Woodbury players chasing new tones this week, and the kind of gear that keeps band practice interesting.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Branch of a chain selling guitars and other instruments, amps, and music equipment.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“3 Kittens Needle Arts has what your next project needs, from needlepoint canvases and threads to self-finishing items, books, and notions, plus classes, trunk shows, and finishing help. Stop in this week, pick a canvas that sparks joy, then settle in for a cozy stitch session.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Whether you sling spells or roll d20s, pop into The Gathering Emporium this week, Brooklyn Park’s new spot built on great games and zero gatekeeping. Magic is the heartbeat, with welcoming tables for D&D, Warhammer, One Piece, weekly Commander and drafts, plus snacks that actually slap.”

From the Coon Rapids newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain music shop offering guitars, amplifiers, keyboards, and other instruments, plus rentals.”

“Chain of music stores buying, selling & trading instruments, sound equipment & accessories.”

“Whether your crew is into all kinds of games, deep-dive RPGs, brain-busting puzzles, collectible card games, or even premium kites for those Arbor Lakes breezes, Grey Duck Games & Toys keeps it all stocked and playable. Their huge game room and events make trying something new ridiculously easy.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, September 19, 2026

“If your studio shelf is looking sparse, Minnesota Clay Co has everything from porcelain, stoneware, and raku clays to Amaco and Mayco glazes, Mudtools and Giffin Grip gadgets, Skutt or Paragon kilns, plus Brent and Shimpo wheels. Perfect excuse to start that project you keep sketching... this week.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Got a sticky horn, sulking violin, or a kid eyeing clarinet? Cadenza Music handles repairs for woodwinds, brass, orchestral strings, and fretted instruments, plus lessons, leasing, and Cadenza Kids classes, so you can get tuned up and back to making noise in St. Paul this week.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Fret buzz, high action, or tone blahs ruining your week? Scott Vogel Guitars does precise set-ups, clean repairs, tasteful refinishing, clever mods, and custom electric builds so your electric, acoustic, or bass plays the way it should before that Maple Grove basement jam or backyard set.”

From the Coon Rapids newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Ready to shake up your routine? Modern Day Music is the nearby hub for instruments, lessons, rentals, and repairs in West St. Paul.”

From the Lakeville newsletter, August 13, 2026

“SR Harris Fabric Brooklyn Park is a 30,000-square-foot warehouse of temptation to kick off that project this week, with fashion fabrics, home décor bolts, quilting cottons, plus foam and batting for that couch refresh. Wander a bit, touch it all, and watch inspiration ambush you on aisle twelve.”

From the Chanhassen newsletter, August 13, 2026