Best Places For Halloween Costumes In Minnesota
While some have a hard time deciding what to be for Halloween, others have an exact plan. Let's face it, Halloween isn't just for kids. Adults love to dress up too and get into the spirit of the holiday. Finding a costume can be difficult if you wait until the last minute or just try and shop on a budget. However, even without a plan, there are places you can go to find a costume at a reasonable price. Check out any of these places and add some creativity into the equation for a great costume at a great price.
(credit: Amy Rea)
Ax-Man Surplus Stores
1639 University Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
(651) 646-8653
www.ax-man.com
A cult favorite in Minnesota, Ax-Man Surplus carries things you never even knew existed. Built from the purchase of overstock and leftover retail inventories, Ax-Man brings unusual and functional needs under one roof. One random Halloween idea can be made into a reality with its large selection of rare clothing, wigs and accessories. If you are still undecided about your costume, Ax-Man's selection may spark your imagination. Make sure you have a good amount of time because this place can hypnotize you into staying all day.
Twin Cities Magic & Costume
2044 Robert St.
West St. Paul, MN 55118
(651) 227-7888
www.twincitiesmagic.com
Instead of shopping at one of those pop-up shops that appear every October and charge way too much for costumes, support a local business that is open year-round. Twin Cities Magic & Costume offers costume advice and assistance throughout the year. It carries costume rentals for those who don't want to purchase and retail items for those who do. The prices are reasonable and most things are returnable if you are not satisfied. This shop also carries professional makeup and offers suggestions for the undecided. Pick up some props and special effects for your house while you're there if you really want to get in the spirit.
Photo Credit: Thinkstock
Arc's Value Village
6528 Penn Ave.
Richfield, MN 55423
(612) 861-9550
www.arcsvaluevillage.org
Arc's Value Village is one of the most popular and largest thrift stores in Minnesota. This non-profit organization runs on donations and volunteers to help raise funds for the disabled population of Minnesota. Four locations throughout the state are fully stocked with costumes and ideas for Halloween each fall. Find something funny, scary or original in the costume section or just the everyday clothing racks. The prices are extremely reasonable and daily discounts may make your purchase even cheaper. Shop often because there's new stuff every day at the Arc.
Via's Vintage
2408 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55405
(612) 374-3649
www.viasvintage.com
If you're looking for an historical outfit or some fantastic costume jewelry, Via's Vintage has a large selection of both. Vintage pieces from the 1800s all the way until the 1980s are displayed and stocked at Via's. The clothing is in remarkable shape considering how some of the items are so old. Check out the clearance section to get a discounted deal and enjoy browsing the racks. You may even find something for your everyday wardrobe while you're there.
Ragstock
1433 W. Lake St.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 823-6690
www.ragstock.com
Ragstock is a favorite vintage and costume shop with 11 locations in Minnesota. The selection of new and used clothing and accessories is packed into a small store and ready to be hunted down. Around Halloween, Ragstock features a costume section for those with an idea in mind. Others can peruse the store for sexy, scary or funny costume ideas. Check out the wigs, hats, shoes and other items that make it easy to put something together for Halloween this year.
Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for eight years. She loves covering all things Minnesota and her work can be found on Examiner.com.
