Our Story

A Family Tradition

The General Store of Minnetonka is a locally owned and operated family business that was started in 1984. At the General Store of Minnetonka, we provide our customers with an incredible shopping experience of more than 15,000 square feet of an unparalleled selection of home décor, special gifts and old time classics.

Over the years the General Store of Minnetonka has changed with the times, but we maintain the specialized service of an old time General Store. If you ask one of our friendly employees to locate an item, for an opinion on an outfit from our clothing boutique, or request an item that is out of stock, you will get the personalized service you could only experience during the early 1900’s at your corner General Store.

The General Store of Minnetonka is a Minnesota Gift Store destination that you’ll just have to see to believe. Make it part of your next visit to the Twin Cities!

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"During the brisk autumn of October 1984, we opened the General Store of Minnetonka. This was the culmination of hard work and talent from local artisans from around Minnesota. From day one, my family has helped get this dream of mine off the ground!

In the year 2000 we transformed our 9,000 square foot store into a 20,000 square foot shopping wonderland, complete with a Café that serves deli style lunch and made-to-order breakfast! It was then that my children officially joined my husband, sister and myself in this truly family run business!

Speaking of family… over the years we have had the great pleasure of working with so many great staff members that seem more like family, than employees.

A Few Fun Facts:

My sister has worked with me since day one.  Love you Liz!

In the 70's my dad and brother built the original wood structure of the building that still houses much of the General Store of Minnetonka. Back then they used recycled lumber and bricks from Minneapolis - green, before that was a thing!

We have the great pleasure of having my mom, Gloria, join us a couple of days a week, to greet our wonderful customers!

We’ve always been known for our incredible selection of gifts and goods in endless variety, which includes handmade goods from local talent.  As a matter of fact, some of the very same artisans we started with back in 1984 have evolved their products with the times and are still selling great goods today!"

- Gail Bollis, Owner & Founder