Gift Guide: For the Stockings in Downtown Rochester, Minnesota
Gift Guide: For the Stockings in Downtown Rochester, MN
Small gifts often pack the biggest smiles — especially when they’re thoughtfully picked and locally sourced. If you’re looking to fill stockings with fun, meaningful treats this season, Downtown Rochester has you covered. From gourmet sweets to collectible figurines, snackable joys to Minnesota-themed trinkets, here are five stocking-friendly items that make a big impression without needing a big budget.
1. Seasonal Chocolates from The Chocolate Oasis
Why it’s a great pick: Who doesn’t appreciate a little chocolate hide-away surprise in their stocking? The Chocolate Oasis features a variety of handcrafted chocolates, truffles and boxed confections — the kind of treat that feels both indulgent and accessible.
Gift idea: Choose a small gift box of seasonal chocolates, wrap with a festive ribbon and tuck a note that says “Sweet wishes for you.”
Location & Hours: Chocolate Oasis
101 1st Ave SW (Subway Level, Marriott area), Rochester, MN 55902
Monday-Thursday 9:00AM-3:30PM; Friday 9:00AM-3:00PM
2. Figurines from Midwest Shores
Why it’s special: A small figurine can be a charming stocking stuffer — whether it’s a whimsical animal, a crystal-themed carving, or a mini collectible. Midwest Shores stock includes unique carvings, mini figurines and eclectic gifts.
Gift idea: Select a mini figurine that suits the recipient’s interests (animal, fantasy, quirky décor) and include a little tag: “For your shelf or desk — smile every time you glance at it.”
Location & Hours: Midwest Shores Co.
20 2nd Ave SW (inside Kahler Grand, Downtown Rochester MN)
Store hours very
3. Bag of Popcorn from Carroll’s Corn
Why it stands out: Gourmet popcorn is bite-sized joy and a perfect stocking filler. Carroll’s Corn in Downtown Rochester offers fresh popcorn in a range of flavors — fun, shareable and snack-friendly.
Gift idea: Pick a festive flavor or mix; wrap it in a clear bag + ribbon and include a note: “Pop into something fun!”
Location & Hours: Carroll's Corn
20 2nd Ave SW (Subway Level), Rochester, MN 55902.
Monday-Thursday 7:00AM-5:30PM; Friday 7:00AM-4:30PM
4. Minnesota-Themed Gifts from U of M Bookstores Rochester
Why you’ll love it: For a small but meaningful gift, Minnesota-themed items are perfect stocking stuffers — think key chains, mugs, notecards or small spirit-gear items. The U of M Bookstores in Rochester carries such gifts.
Gift idea: Choose a Minnesota-inspired mug, keychain or notecard set; add a ribbon and slip it into the stocking with the note: “A little Minnesota love for you.”
Location & Hours: U of M Bookstores
150 Broadway Ave S, Suite 200 (Skyway Level), Rochester, MN 55904
Monday-Friday 10:00AM–6:00PM
5. Gift Card to MOKA Coffee
Why it completes the guide: A little experience or treat gift always fits nicely in a stocking — and a gift card to a beloved local coffee shop is both practical and thoughtful. MOKA in Peace Plaza offers cozy vibes and excellent drinks in Downtown Rochester.
Gift card sale! From November 28-December 2, and again from December 19-December 25, enjoy discounts on the purchase of a MOKA gift card.
Gift idea: Grab a MOKA gift card, tuck it into a holiday card and include: “Coffee on me!"
Location & Hours: MOKA
18 1st St SW (Street Level, Peace Plaza), Rochester, MN 55902
Monday-Friday 6:00AM-3:00PM; Saturday-Sunday 7:00AM-3:00PM
Wrap It Up Downtown
Stocking stuffers don’t have to be afterthoughts — when chosen thoughtfully from Downtown Rochester, they become little gestures of appreciation and joy. Each of the businesses above offers something unique, and by shopping local you support the vitality of our Downtown community. Fill those stockings with care, local love and a little extra warmth this holiday season!
