When you’re looking for a great walkable downtown area to shop for souvenirs during your Gull Lake stay, Nisswa’s main street is your best bet. With a fun variety of shops, including bookstores, sporting goods, clothing, and more, downtown Nisswa is an easy place to spend a pleasant afternoon browsing. Though you’ll find a lot of nice things there, one shop stands out as easily the most fun: Zaiser’s!
Eclectic and Fun
Zaiser’s has been serving Nisswa since 1947 and prides itself on offering a selection of unique gift items that you won’t find elsewhere in town, nor in the big box stores. If you like to choose souvenirs that will entertain, or get a laugh, then stop at Zaiser’s for something much better than a boring old postcard or shot glass. They’ve got a hilarious collection of socks, gorgeous handmade aprons, and an incredible selection of hot sauce. They also carry a good selection of locally made items, along with clothes, mugs, magnets, and toys for kids. Be warned: Zaiser’s does advertise on their front window that their store is “PG-13,” due to the amount of curse words you will find on some of the items, always in a funny context. So, if you find those things offensive, you may want to steer clear.
Zaiser’s prides itself on supporting other great Minnesota businesses, so you know you’ll always be able to get something quality here. They make a point of purchasing from companies that treat their employees well, source their materials fairly, and support humanitarian causes. Additionally, Zaiser’s is a women-led, LGBTQ-friendly business, so if you’re looking for your people during your Gull Lake stay, head to Zaiser’s!
If you need a new pair of shoes during your stay, and you’re particular to certain brands, Zaiser’s may also be able to help you out on that front. They carry some of the best outdoor brands around, including Birkenstock and Keen, so your next new pair of summer walking shoes might just be waiting for you there!
Nearby on Nisswa’s Main Street
Since Zaiser’s is right on Main Street, you’ll find a variety of other great shops right nearby for your browsing enjoyment. Check out Turtle Town across the street, for an amazing selection of books, puzzles, and games; half the store is devoted to children’s items, so it’s the perfect place to head with a kid who loves to read. Once you get hungry and thirsty after all your shopping, head to Rafferty’s Pizza or the Big Axe Brewing Company for a place to sit down and relax and enjoy some quality local food and beverages.
Have fun shopping in Nisswa!