Toss Us a Line
Contact Waters Edge
Visit Us on the Edge of the Lake
Whether you have a question about our curated essentials, a partnership inquiry, or just need a local trail recommendation, we’re here to help.
Phone: (218) 663-7021
Current Hours
Sundays – Thursdays: 9:00am – 5:30pm
Fridays & Saturdays: 9:00am – 6:30pm
Open Daily, Year-Round
Closed on Thanksgiving & Christmas. Hours are “ishy.” 9ish.. 5:30ish…
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We know that navigating the North Shore often comes with a few questions about the details. From our pet-friendly policies to the benefits of tax-free shopping, we’ve gathered the most common inquiries here to help you prepare for your next journey to the North Shore.
How far is the store from…?
We are located right on Highway 61 in Tofte, MN. Here are the estimated travel times and distances to help you plan your journey:
| From | Miles Away | Kilo-meters Away | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lutsen | 8 miles | 13 km | 10 mins |
| Grand Marais | 28 miles | 45 km | 35 mins |
| Duluth | 82 miles | 132 km | 1 hour, 30 mins |
| Ely | 85 miles | 137 km | 1 hour, 45 mins |
| Thunder Bay | 115 miles | 185 km | 2 hours, 15 mins |
Are you pet-friendly?
Absolutely. Four-legged explorers are warmly welcomed at WatersEdge! We only ask that your companions are leashed, clean, and dry to help us protect our luxury apparel and handcrafted goods.
Do you sell locally made items?
Handcrafted soul is at our core. We are proud to feature a curated selection of items from North Shore makers. Ask our team to point you toward our local inventory, which includes:
- Art & Books: Curated Northwoods titles and local artwork.
- Home Goods: Hand-poured candles and unique ornaments.
- Games: Handcrafted cribbage boards.
- Mementos: Stickers, magnets, and postcards to remember the shore.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes. A WatersEdge gift card is the perfect way to share the North Shore experience. They are available in-store in any denomination and never expire. Give us a call to purchase one today! We can hold it in-store or send it by mail to you or the receiver.
Do you offer a locals discount?
We love our neighbors. We offer a 10% discount on most goods for our local community members. Consignment items and select jewelry pieces are excluded.
Do you offer a military or student discount?
While we don’t have a formal military or student discount, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional value year-round. We believe in the old-school tradition of making sure everyone leaves with a smile and a great deal.
Do you offer shipping or online orders?
Because our inventory of local art and premium apparel changes with the seasons, we focus on the in-person shopping experience. However, if you saw something in the shop and couldn’t fit it in your suitcase, give us a call! We are often happy to arrange shipping for our guests when possible.
For locals, we are happy to work on special orders for items from any brand we carry — just allow at least 2-4 weeks for shipping and receiving.
Is there parking for larger vehicles or trailers?
Yes. We have accessible parking directly in front of the store on Highway 61 that can accommodate most standard vehicles, though larger campers or trailers may find it easier to park at the nearby Tofte Town Park and walk over to visit us!
Is there tax on clothing in Minnesota?
One of the best reasons to shop the shore is the Minnesota tax advantage. We do not charge sales tax on clothing or certain food items. If you’re visiting from out of state or crossing the border from Canada, this is the perfect opportunity to clear out your closet and stock up on premium layers and technical gear without the extra expense at the register.
Do you carry swimwear for the lake or resort pools?
Yes. Whether you are a brave soul planning a dip in Lake Superior or just looking for a suit for the resort pool or sauna, we carry swimwear options for men and women. Since swimwear falls under apparel, these items are tax-free in Minnesota — making us a perfect stop if you realized you left your suit on the drying rack at home.
Do you have clothing and gear for children?
We sure do. While our dedicated Kids’ Corner is intentionally small and carefully curated, it is packed with essentials for the littlest explorers (infants and toddlers through youth). We stock:
- Toys & Books: A handpicked selection of high-quality toys and Northwoods-themed books to keep them engaged during your journey.
- Apparel & Backpacks: Durable layers, sun-protective gear, seasonal staples, and the perfect back-to-school bag (that’s also suited for adventure).
- Footwear: Sturdy options for a day hike and the water.
The Essentials
From technical layers designed for a Lake Superior gale to luxury sweaters styled for a sunset dinner, we provide the staples for every North Shore moment. Find outfitting for the whole family and the trip-savers you can’t leave home without.
The Best Brands
We don’t just stock our shelves. We build partnerships with trusted brands. Discover our curated roster of leaders in sustainability and local North Shore artisans, all of whom share our commitment to durability and ethical craftsmanship.
The Legacy
Step back into 1938 and discover the story of a Tofte landmark. From the repurposed bridge beam in our roof to eighty years of operating on “North Shore time,” learn how we became the local landmark we are today.
