Businesses We’d Love to See Take Over Rochester’s At Home Location

Recently there was a article reporting that the now-vacant At Home building in south Rochester has been sold, and it’s getting people talking.

According to the Post Bulletin, St. Cloud-based Coborn’s Inc. paid $4.8 million for the former At Home store. The land deal even lists “Grocery Store” under the state’s description of the purchase, which is part of why so many people on the Spotted in Rochester Facebook page had feelings about it.

Yes, Coborn’s owns several grocery brands like Coborn’s, Cashwise, Hornbacher’s and Marketplace Foods, but they also own several non-grocery businesses like Caribou Coffee and Ace Hardware stores. So right now, what ends up in that big space is wide open.

There was an overwhelming amount of people saying we don't need another grocery store when the article was published. I don't disagree. But, that brings up the question, what SHOULD take over that building?

I'll start with my pick. In true Rochester fashion, how about we get a second location for one of our busiest stores? Costco!! 

A South Costco just makes sense. It would ease the chaos at the north store and, bonus, be much closer to my house. I see no downside here.

REI:

This one is my husband’s top choice, no hesitation. While outdoor shopping has definitely improved with places like Scheels and Sierra, having an REI right here would still be a big win for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Also See: 10 Longtime Closed Rochester Businesses We Still Miss

Ikea:

Not going to lie, having an Ikea that close would be dangerous! Way too close. Way too tempting. But having an IKEA in Rochester would be incredibly cool, and let’s be honest, it would probably be packed nonstop.

Dave and Busters:

When I tossed this question out on Facebook, Dave and Buster’s came up almost immediately. Rochester could always use more indoor options for families, especially in the colder months, and this feels like one that would draw crowds from day one.

Indoor Waterpark:

Now this would be fun. An indoor waterpark would feel like a mini getaway without leaving town, perfect for brutally cold winter days and those sticky, humid summer ones too.

People on our Facebook page had some other great ideas too. Suggestions ranged from Mayo using the space for imaging, to a new YMCA, a League-scale bar and grill with pool, darts, and bowling, or even small shops and antiques with food stands or a farmer’s market.

Clearly, Rochester has plenty of opinions, and the possibilities for that space are wide open. So what would you like to see move in?

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