More proof that I actually leave the city! Head West! Visit these fun and funky spots west of 494. I can only imagine the trip via streetcar, click here to read the history.

Leipold’s Gifts & Antiques  Their yahoo site says they carry lamp parts, which they do – and I mean all kinds of lamp parts:  cords, shades, plugs, and harps. But they have lots of other weird, cool stuff. 239 Water Street, Excelsior

Patisserie Margo Super yummy pastries where I’d never expect them. Of course, Margo was a pastry chef at the fabled 510 Groveland and Blackforest, so we shouldn’t be surprised! 284 Water Street, Excelsior

Minnetonka Music  My brother-in-law, Tim Berry, buys his musical gear here—all the endorsement I need! 250 Water Street, Excelsior

Artworks Art and Frames Fantastic children’s art supplies. 345 Water Street, Excelsior

Historic Excelsior Mill:   D.B. & Company sells yummy, European Soaps and Provisions stocks beautiful dishes, linens, and other housewares.  320 Water Street, Excelsior

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres 501 West 78th Street, Chanhassen / Old Log Theater 5185 Meadville Street
Greenwood. Theatre tickets always make great gifts!

The Sampler:  Where I bought my first Kaffe Fassett fabric after a show at the MIA. Quilters are collaborators, thus don’t be surprised by their extensive directory of other quilt/fabric shops  It’s like Target telling you where the Walmart is. How cool is that? 551 West 78th Street, Chanhassen

Tonka Cycle and Ski  All your bike and board needs and premier boot fitting. Plus they partner with Full Cycle outreach program, which offers free bikes to homeless and at-risk youth. 16 Shady Oak Road South, Hopkins

Shakopee Trading Post & Gallery Stunning sterling silver and turquoise jewelry, blankets, gifts, beadwork. 723 1st Avenue West, Shakopee

Market Hill Fine Fairy Houses & Accessories for Your Fairy Garden. Perfect accessories for all those fairy houses around lake Nokomis or your own backyard. Seriously. 11905 Market Avenue, Cologne