Krispy Kreme Returns to Minnesota with Fridley Grand Opening

Big Crowds Expected for Opening Day

Minnesotans have waited nearly two decades for Krispy Kreme to make its return — and this week, it finally happens. The iconic doughnut chain opens its new Fridley location at 5696 University Avenue Northeast on Wednesday, November 12, marking its first Minnesota store in 17 years.

The city of Fridley is already preparing for large crowds and heavy traffic as fans line up early for those signature hot glazed doughnuts. Police will be stationed nearby to direct vehicles safely into the area, with drivers asked to enter from 57th Avenue near Caribou Coffee rather than directly off University Avenue.

To keep traffic flowing, exit routes will be right-turn-only onto 57th Avenue. Officials say no road closures are expected, but congestion is likely throughout the day.

What to Expect at the New Location

The new 12,000-square-foot space, formerly home to CVS, has been fully remodeled to serve as both a retail store and a production facility. Krispy Kreme plans to use the Fridley site as a hub to supply fresh doughnuts to other Minnesota retailers, though specific partners have not yet been announced.

Hours of operation will run from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

A Sweet Comeback for Minnesota

Krispy Kreme fans across the Twin Cities have been waiting since the chain exited the state in 2008. The buzz around this reopening shows how strong that nostalgia still is. The company’s decision to make Fridley its first stop hints at more Minnesota locations to come.

If you’re planning to visit on opening day, expect long lines, heavy traffic, and the unmistakable smell of freshly glazed doughnuts filling the air.

Local Insight

For residents in the north metro — especially near Fridley, Columbia Heights, and Spring Lake Park — this will be one of the biggest store openings of the year. The mix of excitement, limited access points, and city-led traffic management is expected to make the first few days quite busy.

Whether you’re planning to line up early or wait for the initial rush to die down, Krispy Kreme’s return is sure to be a sweet addition to Minnesota’s food scene.

If you’re following local news, business developments, or new Twin Cities openings, keep an eye on @darintheminnesotan for updates.