Shop the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis/St. Paul

Never mind the politics, this is the reason why anyone would want to come to the Twin Cities. We have the country's biggest mall (Mall of America), the nations first indoor mall, no sales tax on clothing, and myriad independent stores and boutiques in several chic shopping districts. Vibrant Uptown Minneapolis and chic Edina are sure to be popular with convention-goers.

• Twin Cities Shopping Malls and Shopping Districts

Local neighborhoods and retailers are also holding events to welcome RNC visitors.

Urban Junket, a Minneapolis-based company turning out beautiful leather handbags and the most stylish laptop bags is holding a sample sale with designer bags discounted 40-75%. The sale is held September 3 - 5 at Urban Junket's showroom in Minneapolis.

Il Vostro Boutique, the Edina store specializing in lesser-known but fabulous designers, has opened a location in downtown St. Paul bringing stylish European and local designers directly to convention attendees. The store is at 375 Wabasha Street.

Grand Avenue is the nearest shopping destination to downtown St. Paul. Independent clothing, jewelry and art stores are mixed in with restaurants and coffee shops. The Grand Avenue Business Association is providing red double decker London buses to take delegates to the stores. Buses depart from West Seventh street in downtown St. Paul, a short distance from the Xcel Energy Center, to Grand Avenue. The buses will be running from 31 August to 3 September, and rides are free.

While on Grand Avenue, don't miss designer pet store Don't Make Me Beg, who have political dog outfits for sale, along with organic dog treats, designer accessories and grooming services for convention pets.