Things to do in Nisswa MN

Top things to do in Nisswa MN

For many summers growing up, I would tag along with my best friend’s family for a weekend at her cabin in Pequot Lakes, MN, and whenever I visited, we would spend a day in the neighboring town of Nisswa to shop around and eat ice cream.

I went back to the cabin a few weekends ago and had to make a trip into Nisswa to see what the town was like 15 years later. I found many of the same great shops, but found some new ones to love, too!

If you’re like me and haven’t visited Nisswa for a while, take some time to explore these fun spots! These are just a few of all the things to do in Nisswa MN!

Loide’ Oils & Vinegars

My foodie sister in law (Hey, Amber!) got me into using infused oils and vinegars when cooking. If you’ve never used these before, try them out! They literally do wonders in adding flavor to anything you’re cooking. Anyways, when I saw this place I had to stop. Dedi took me around the store as I sampled everything from rosemary olive oil to blueberry balsamic vinegar. I walked out with some toasted sesame oil to use for stir-fry, but the options here were endless. Even if you don’t buy anything, just go for the experience (although I’m sure you won’t walk out empty handed!)

Near + North

If you haven’t noticed already, I’m really into boutiques and shops that sell anything local. Out of all the shops in Nisswa, Near + North would have to be my favorite! This shop had so many fun note cards, mugs, and lake life gear – any Minnesota girl would go crazy in this place! If you have someone to buy a gift for, this would be the perfect spot.

Ardor Boutique

Another cute shop in Nisswa is Ardor Boutique. It’s girly and flirty and has tables of custom, locally made jewelry that you will actually wear (and get compliments on!) I had been eyeing the Mill City Made hats for a while on Instagram, so when I saw them in the store I couldn’t resist picking one up!

The Chocolate Ox

If Nisswa’s known for anything, it’s the Chocolate Ox candy store. This place brought back so many memories and hasn’t changed a bit since I was a kid! Ice cream, fudge, and every sour candy you can imagine is all right there. What more could you ask for??

Zaiser’s

Three words: SO. MUCH. STUFF. Zaiser’s is another spot where my friend Sarah and I would wander around when we were younger. There’s so much to look at in this store and it’s all so fun! I can’t even begin to describe the place because it’s so unique, so go check it out for yourself!

Big Axe Brewing Company

I didn’t have time to stop at the Big Axe Brewing Company (needed to get back to the cabin for some lake time!) but I usually always try a local brewery when there’s one around. Although I didn’t try the beer, the large patio was full of people and is located right by the downtown shops for those of you who are always in need of a shopping break ☺

Enjoy the lakes

The Nisswa area is surrounded by many lakes, which is the perfect place to enjoy your summers in Minnesota. One of our favorites in this area is the Whitefish chain of lakes. We are lucky to have friends who have a cabin that we can go and enjoy with them!

Pequot Lakes

Pequot Lakes, or as I call it “the town with the bobber water tower,” is a quaint little town with a few shops and restaurants of its own. It is only 10 minutes away from Nisswa and should be on your list of places to check out.

Lakes Latte

Lakes Latte is a cute little coffee shop located in Pequot Lakes. We spent some time at Lakes Latte one morning to use their wifi and get some work done (and eat some homemade scones – YUM) We loved the relaxed lake town vibe they had and of course delicious coffee and pastries.