Ronning’s

Description

Ronning’s in International Falls is the kind of place travelers whisper about later, the store they wish they’d known about earlier in the trip. It’s a locally owned clothing store-meets-general-store that doubles as a surprisingly cozy stop for a coffee and an ice cream cone, which, if you’ve just come off Rainy Lake or a windswept trail in Voyageurs National Park, makes a world of difference. And honestly, that combination—a real selection of apparel and footwear, a wall of souvenirs, useful outdoor gear, plus treats—feels uniquely northern Minnesota.

He’ll find rugged outerwear and work-ready boots. She’ll find on-trend layers and a bunch of practical accessories that travel well. The little ones? Well, good luck steering them past the toys, candy, and novelty tees. There’s also a deep bench of local souvenirs with that small-town charm—everything from high-quality hoodies and cabin-worthy mugs to ornaments and state-themed trinkets that don’t look like they were ordered by the dozen from some big-box distribution center. It’s curated, but not fussy.

As a traveler who’s been caught unprepared by a sudden turn in the weather up here (and it turns quickly—locals don’t joke about that), I’ve ducked into Ronning’s more than once for a last-minute fleece and gloves. On one visit, I ended up chatting with a staff member who pointed me to a heavier midlayer after asking where I was headed and what I’d be doing that day. The advice landed. The midlayer has been on every cold-weather trip since. It’s that kind of place: practical help without any hard sell, the sort of service that’s increasingly rare.

What also stands out is how Ronning’s leans into northern Minnesota life. International Falls is famous for extreme winters—some call it the Icebox of the Nation—and that’s reflected in warm, reliable outerwear and boots that actually hold up when the mercury drops. Come summer, the vibe shifts to fishing-weekend gear, breathable layers, and easygoing pieces you can wear from a day on Rainy Lake to a casual dinner in town. New arrivals rotate often (you’ll notice it if you return even a few days later), so there’s a fun treasure-hunt element too.

Travelers will appreciate the amenities. The store is fully wheelchair accessible, including dedicated parking and restrooms, and there’s plentiful free parking around the building as well. Coffee is brewed on site, and ice cream is served the old-fashioned way—on a cone if you want to keep strolling, or in a dish if you’re pausing to regroup. I’ve grabbed a latte and wandered the souvenir aisles more than once, trying not to buy another sweatshirt I don’t strictly need. Usually I lose that battle. Not mad about it.

One note visitors tend to mention to me: Ronning’s is a real-deal small business, and it shows. The staff greet people, offer to help with sizes, and aim to keep things moving even during rushes. Do they get busy on summer weekends or during winter events? Yes, that can happen. But they handle it with a smile, and the wait rarely lasts long. The selection does ebb and flow with seasons—if you’re hunting for a specific size or a particular colorway of a popular jacket, it’s smart to check early in your visit or ask the floor team to peek in the back.

Beyond International Falls, Ronning’s has sister locations in a few other northern Minnesota communities, and that broader footprint helps them stock recognizable brands alongside local finds. Expect outerwear and trail-focused lines you’d wear all season, sturdy denim, dependable footwear, and little gifts that’ll actually make people smile—yes, the gnomes really do show up around the holidays, and no, you probably don’t need a third one, but for some reason they end up in the basket anyway. And if you’re the sort who likes to bring back food souvenirs, keep an eye out for gourmet popcorn and other small-batch treats that rotate through with the seasons.

Because International Falls sits right along the border, you’ll see both U.S. and Canadian visitors browsing. It lends the store a friendly crossroads energy—anglers comparing notes on the river, families pointing out sweatshirts, travelers asking about local hikes. I’ve swapped ice-fishing stories with strangers here and picked up a last-minute beanie before a sunset walk on the riverfront. That’s the unsung magic of Ronning’s: it’s useful, yes, and also a little social hub where people share trip tips without even thinking about it.

Key Features

• Multi-category shopping under one roof: clothing store, shoe store, souvenir store, coffee shop, and ice cream shop
• Apparel for men, women, and kids, including reliable outerwear for northern Minnesota weather
• Footwear for everyday wear, outdoor adventures, and work environments
• Useful accessories: hats, gloves, socks, base layers, travel-friendly bags, and cold-weather essentials
• Rotating new arrivals, especially before major seasons and local events
• Local souvenirs and International Falls apparel that actually feels gift-worthy
• On-site coffee and classic ice cream for a quick pick-me-up while you shop
• Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and parking
• Free parking options, including on-site and nearby street parking
• Tap-to-pay, credit cards, and debit cards accepted (super handy for travelers)
• In-store shopping with knowledgeable staff and quick-visit friendly layout
• Small-business service ethos with a community-first approach

Best Time to Visit

Visiting Ronning’s really depends on what your trip looks like. If you’re here in the deep winter—and International Falls earns its winter reputation—then this is a must-stop for outerwear, thermal layers, and sturdy winter boots. I’ve dropped in on subzero mornings and watched travelers upgrade to warmer gloves, then head back out grinning because they can actually feel their fingers again. If you’re coming for Icebox Days in January, swing by earlier in the day; afternoons can get lively as folks warm up with coffee and shop souvenirs between events.

Spring shoulder season is great for off-peak browsing. You’ll find transitional layers that pair well with lingering chill and early lake trips. It’s also a clever time to snag deals on end-of-season winter gear or freshen up your travel wardrobe with something lighter but still north-country practical.

Summer brings a happy crowd—families road-tripping, anglers heading out at dawn, paddlers chasing perfect lake conditions. Mornings are calmer, and you can sip a coffee while you scope out new tees and grab a comfortable pair of sandals for in-town wandering. If you’re planning a big day in Voyageurs National Park, a quick stop for sun-protective layers, caps, and snacks is a smart play. Save time by popping in early, then circle back later for ice cream after your hike or boat tour.

Fall, though—fall is a sweet spot. Crisp air, warm layers, and the slow-and-steady rhythm of locals getting ready for winter. You’ll often see fresh arrivals across sweaters, flannels, and outerwear. If you’ve ever wanted that just-right midweight jacket for bonfires and quick rain bursts, this is your moment.

How to Get There

Ronning’s is right in the heart of downtown International Falls, so it’s easy to fold into a day of exploring town or a route to the border. Most travelers arrive by car via US-53, the main north–south corridor through northern Minnesota. If you’re coming from Duluth, budget about three and a half hours depending on stops and road conditions. From Bemidji, it’s roughly a couple of hours. And from the Voyageurs National Park Rainy Lake Visitor Center, you’re looking at an easy short drive.

Flying? Falls International Airport (INL) serves the area, and many visitors connect through larger hubs before picking up a rental car. If you’re already on a Great Lakes or North Shore drive, tacking on International Falls is straightforward—highways are well-marked and traffic’s typically light outside of peak holiday weekends. If you’re crossing from Fort Frances, Ontario, there’s a border checkpoint between the two communities; check current entry requirements and give yourself a time buffer, especially during summer afternoons and long weekends.

Once you’re downtown, use your maps app to find the storefront. You’ll appreciate the no-stress parking situation: there’s on-site parking as well as free street parking nearby. Accessibility is thoughtfully considered, with a wheelchair accessible entrance and restrooms, so navigating with strollers or mobility aids is refreshingly straightforward.

Tips for Visiting

• Plan a quick visit, then expect to linger. The store layout makes it easy to dash in for a layer or a souvenir, but every time I aim for a ten-minute run, I wind up exploring new arrivals and wandering the gift section. The coffee and ice cream don’t speed things up either (in the best possible way).

• Timing matters. If your schedule is flexible, go mid-morning on weekdays for the calmest browsing. Weekend afternoons can be busier during summer and around winter celebrations. That said, staff are friendly and keep the lines moving.

• Ask for help with sizing and gear. The team knows the local climate and which layers are game changers when the wind kicks up or the temperature drops after sunset. Tell them what you’re doing—ice fishing, a day on Rainy Lake, hiking in Voyageurs—and they’ll get you sorted.

• Dress for try-ons. If you’re shopping for outerwear or boots, wear or bring socks you’d use on the trail and a midlayer you expect to pair with a jacket. It’s the simplest way to make sure your pick fits how you’ll actually wear it. And yes, try the zipper with gloves on; it’s a tiny test that saves frustration later.

• Leverage the selection for practical souvenirs. Clothing that remembers a place beats another dust-collecting trinket. Grab a soft hoodie or a beanie with a local logo; you’ll actually use it when the evening cools off. The souvenir and gift aisles are thoughtfully done, so you won’t have to settle for flimsy options.

• Keep an eye on seasonal treats. If you catch the store during a popcorn flavor drop or a candy restock, you’ll want to grab a bag for the road. I’ve turned more than one long drive home into a taste test. No regrets.

• Payment is easy. Tap-to-pay, credit, and debit are all accepted, which is a relief if you’ve been hopping between outfitters and cafes all day. It’s also handy if you’re managing a mix of personal and business trip expenses.

• Take advantage of accessibility and parking. Wheelchair accessible entrances and restrooms, plus free parking, make it simple for families, multi-generational groups, and anyone hauling gear to get in and out with minimal hassle.

• Pair your stop with nearby experiences. Before an afternoon on Rainy Lake? Swing by for sun shirts and a cap. Heading into Voyageurs? Grab a weatherproof layer, then celebrate the hike with ice cream. If you’re crossing the border, build in a buffer and shop first so you’re not rushed on the way out.

• Expect honest small-business service. If something’s out of stock in your size or color, ask about similar items. The selection changes often, and the staff will usually point you to a new arrival you might have missed.

There’s an easy promise to make here: a visit to Ronning’s will improve your day, whether you arrive for that one thing you forgot to pack, to caffeinate before a drive, or to hunt down the right souvenir for the cabin. It’s a practical, human kind of shopping—where the jackets are warm, the ice cream’s cold, the advice is grounded in the reality of northern Minnesota weather, and the door opens to a space where travelers and locals cross paths with a smile. If you’re exploring International Falls, put it on your list early. You’ll likely pass by again, and you’ll be glad you already know exactly where to go when the wind shifts or the lake trip runs long.

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