An old barn in the heart of Wisconsin’s Lake County has grown into a new life. Roost Mercantile is a unique store that fills every corner of a huge barn with amazing items. The mercantile is home to some wonderful and unique vendors and it’s one-stop shopping for those who love discovering fun and unusual local finds. Here’s why Roost Mercantile is worth discovering.

Roost Mercantile is located in Pewaukee, an area of the state that was settled by Europeans in the 1840s before Wisconsin was even a state. From the earliest days, this was farm country, with settlers building a new life on the land. It was filled with farmsteads and home to many classic Wisconsin barns.

As any longtime local will tell you, Pewaukee has changed a lot. Its proximity to Milwaukee and its abundance of outdoor lake beauty have made this place a hot destination for people who want to enjoy outdoor recreation and some great shopping and dining. Some of the old farmsteads have been transformed into new developments and businesses.

Roost Mercantile is a store that any visitor should put on their must-visit list. It's housed in a large barn and provides an amazing shopping experience.

The business was created in 2015 by artist Kristine Wright, who wanted to establish a place where other artists can sell their goods.

Today the mercantile has grown to more than 50 vendors, selling a huge variety of local, antique, and upcycled products.

Shoppers can find items like handmade hats and scarves, natural soy wax candles, barbecue sauce, Wisconsin farm antiques, custom metal art, supplies for backyard chickens, handcrafted jewelry, and more. Be prepared to come across some unexpected finds!

The business has expanded into the Coop, a separate building across the parking lot that sells a variety of home décor, handmade soaps and bath bombs, and a variety of unique and vintage finds. The business is open Tuesday-Sunday and it often holds special events. See the latest shopping information here.

Roost Mercantile is not the only amazing business you’ll find in a Wisconsin barn - another barn is home to one of Wisconsin’s best wineries.