I've been asked so often about the balance of money and artistry as a working musician. So let's dive in.
DOWNTOWN: Best hotels for the weary traveler in Downtown Minneapolis
Hey all,
I travel a lot and have lodging/dining/entertainment recommendations for hundreds of cities. But I'm going to start with lodging in downtown Minneapolis, because I am constantly in this city for rehearsals, studio visits, flights and shows. So if you are heading to the Northland for a Broadway show, a Vikings game or to drop by that giant mall, read on.
I have slept at every hotel mentioned - most multiple times - and in viewing a comprehensive list of downtown hotels on Hotels.com, I can say with some certainty that I think I've only missed one?!? (I really gotta get home more.)
Also, I should be upfront and say I prefer a bit of an experience over a typical chain hotel (though some chain hotels are definitely on this list). I think it's a natural progression to expect a little more when you are staying for the 4000th night in your newest home away from home.
Finally, you may not wish to stay downtown when visiting Minneapolis. One reason? Parking fees. But for the sake of this list, I'm sticking to it.
My top 2 (in no particular order):
Canopy by Hilton - I like the restaurant, the vibe, the location and the sizeable rooms. Rooms have gone up in price since first staying here (as it's usually quite booked). The last time I stayed, I walked into the lobby to hear a world renowned soprano from the Met Opera in New York City!?! It was a memorable check-in. Similar to the Hewing but better in most ways.
Moxy Minneapolis Downtown - This is NOT the best hotel on the list BUT the parking is so easy (attached to an inner hotel door and never packed), the workout room is quiet and well-equipped and the rooms - even the larger suites - are cheaper than most other hotels. You are across from a Trader Joe's (a nod to my wife) and around the corner from Starbucks (Okay, that kind of fits every hotel on the list). You get a free drink upon check-in - which is at the bar - and you can sip this drink while playing Foosball in the lobby. It's really a no-frills kind of place, and I've stayed at other Moxy locations I would not recommend.
My one request to the staff - Please get a mirror in the bathroom with lights that are brighter. I'm sick of shaving my ears.
Others (Not a comprehensive list):
The Chambers Hotel - Someone more informed than I could tell you what happened here. At one point years ago, this was the high society, art-filled wunderkind. Maybe it's time just passed? It's still got a VERY central location and the price is now one of the most reasonable. But it also might not have been updated since those aforementioned glory days. Huge rooms. Odd choices.
Hyatt Centric - Interesting space. Kind of corporate if that's your thing.
Emery Hotel - Hotel is fine but is usually overpriced for what you get. Not all that memorable?
Four Seasons Hotel - The price is just not worth what you get. It is definitely 50% better than some others with regards to hospitality and amenities, but the price is often 200% more.
Radisson Red - I feel like you are staying in a Target. And that can work, but it loses it's luster after multiple stays.
Rand Tower Hotel - I had such high hopes for this one. But it really needs a makeover. That being said, the structure, history and bones are beautiful.
Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot - I've had great service here, but it's not really my style. I feel like a wedding party or periodontal conference might appreciate the decor more than I.
W Minneapolis - The Foshay - When I was younger, this was the ritzy, "go to" hotel. But now it needs an update. Much lower prices than used to be typical.
The Lofton Hotel - This is the one hotel mentioned up top that I haven't stayed at yet!
Elliot Park Hotel - Nice. Maybe it was just me, but parking lot was darker than I'd want and somewhat sketchy. Feels like this hotel is trying to spearhead an area that needs revitalization. So good on them.
Hotel Indigo - Nice hotel for a typically reasonable rate. Needs a bit of a refresh, but still worth a look.
Hotel Ivy - Remember when I talked about the Four Seasons earlier? This too is overpriced. I think it still trades on what it used to be. If you gifted me a room, I'd definitely stay.
The Westin Minneapolis - Looks like a Westin. Feels like a Westin.
The Marquette Hotel - This hotel will always have fond memories as the last chapter of a legal saga ended here for me. But it, like the Hotel Indigo, needs a refresh.
Hilton Minneapolis - Very corporate and very 1998.
Hewing Hotel - I like this hotel even though it kind of became a hipster hangout. However, the Canopy by Hilton (see above) is very similar, with larger rooms and most of the same amenities. (And it's usually lower in price.)
Element Minneapolis - It's a hotel with a small kitchen and could serve you well for longer stays or larger parties.
AC Hotel - I always have good luck with AC hotels. Not especially built for comfort and you must like a brown aesthetic.
