Luxury Hotels Establish the Twin Cities as a Choice Destination

The Twin Cities has become a mecca of luxury hotels. Now more than ever planners have their pick of fabulous meeting and event space accompanied by the most exquisite of guest rooms.

Classic St. Paul
Downtown St. Paul is home to Minnesota’s classic luxury hotel – The Saint Paul Hotel.  Built in 1910, the hotel maintains its historic European charm and elegance. With fine dining, exceptional service and gracious accommodations, The Saint Paul Hotel continues to be a sought-out event destination.  Less than two years away from its centennial anniversary, the hotel is in store for a grand celebration in 2010.

Transforming Minneapolis
The recent boom in the building and renovation of hotels in downtown Minneapolis has brought particular attention to how the Twin Cities has grown as a destination for those with fine taste.

In 2001 The Depot Minneapolis marked a trend in the conversion of historical buildings into hotels in downtown Minneapolis. The former Milwaukee Road Depot was transformed into a complex including a Renaissance by Marriott, a Residence Inn by Marriott, an indoor water park, a full service bar and restaurant, a variety of unique banquet and meeting spaces, heated underground parking, and an enclosed, seasonal ice skating rink. It is now an anchor of the Minneapolis riverfront.

In the cultural heart of the city, across from the Orpheum Theatre, Chambers is located in two landmark revival buildings. The country’s first luxury art hotel, Chambers features over 200 pieces of original contemporary art work from the private collection of the hotel’s owner Ralph Burnet. It is the sister hotel to New York's famed Chambers Hotel, bespeaking creativity, elegance and intimacy.

Positioned next to Orchestra Hall, Hotel Ivy incorporates the historic Ivy Tower. This elegant hotel was designed to project the spacious comfort of a private residence, offering an exceptional experience with state-of-the-art amenities, imported fine Italian linens and custom furnishings.

Transformed from Minneapolis’ historic Farmers & Mechanics Bank building, The Westin Minneapolis is another of the recent historic renovations in Minneapolis. Originally built in 1941, the landmark features the original 34-foot vaulted bank lobby and marble staircase. The hotel is a seamless integration of contemporary convenience and historic significance.

The Graves 601 Hotel, Minnesota’s first AAA Four-Diamond Hotel, stands as the pinnacle of the new Block E entertainment complex. The flagship hotel of the Graves Hospitality Corporation – and the first to be branded with the Graves name – the Graves 601 Hotel Minneapolis provides an unparalleled environment of sophisticated modern luxury.

Opening in August, W Minneapolis – The Foshay, brings new life to Minneapolis’ famous Foshay tower, the only skyscraper listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As part of the renovation, the original arcade ceiling in the main entryway has been refurbished, as has the original mahogany in the boardroom, which is now a bar and restaurant.

Also opening in August is The Hotel Minneapolis – a Doubletree Hotel, to be located in the historic Midland Building. The hotel is being anticipated as bringing affordable style to downtown Minneapolis. Planners and guests can look forward to high-tech facilities in a comfortable, welcoming environment.

Just across the river,  the Radisson University Hotel welcomes guests on the University of Minnesota campus.  Comfortable in its place at the center of the action, the hotel can host events of up to 1,200 in fine style.  

Suburban Gems
The Twin Cities’ best hotels aren’t contained to the city proper. Near the airport and the Mall of America, sits the recently renovated Crowne Plaza Bloomington. Defined with fresh contemporary style, the Crowne Plaza is prepared to pamper its guests with a host of unexpected amenities, including a unique ladies-only floor designed for female business travelers.

Known for being attached to the Water Park of America, the Radisson Hotel Bloomington is much more than just a destination for fun. The distinct environment, deluxe accommodations and prime location make the Radisson Hotel Bloomington a true playground for adults.

Casinos with Style
Elegance is just as important as gaming at Treasure Island Resort + Casino, which is home to fabulous ballrooms and award-winning chefs.  In August, Treasure Island will open two additional hotel wings and a new 30,000 square-foot event center, greatly expanding its convention and event options.

Shooting Star Casino, Hotel + Event Center also offers luxury amongst its entertainment options. Its beautiful event space and new Sereniitee spa are sure to leave guests feeling pampered.