Fun Travels Across the United States

MINNESOTA

News
Minneapolis
Saint Paul
Shakope

NEWS (Cities & Towns Follow the News)

What's New in Minneapolis? Plenty

5 Cocktail Spots to Try in Minneapolis

Check Out The Grand Hotel in Minneapolis

Fogo de Chao in Minneapolis Is Internationally Renowned for Its Excellent Meats

The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel and My Hotel Rocks, LLC, Announce Strategic Partnership, Offering Hotel Guests Access to High-quality Acoustic Guitars

MINNEAPOLIS

What to See & Do

If you like to bike stargaze, kayak, swim, hike, cross country ski, shop, fish, see a play -- or much, much more - plan a vacation in Miunneapolis. With more than 85 miles of dedicated city bike trails, 81 miles of on-street bikeways and one of the first bike share programs, Nice Ride Minnesota, Minneapolis was named Best Biking City in the U.S. by Bike Score. Here, there are 22 lakes, 180 parks, 50 miles of paths and the Mississippi running through downtown in a green environment - perfect for outdoor events, a morning run, or having a meal at a sidewalk cafe.

What’s New in Minneapolis: Head North This Spring

While many are spring-break bound, Minneapolis proves you don’t have to head south to have fun. Enjoy the upcoming spring with events, exhibits and eats found in this Meet Minneapolis leisure travel round-up.

Attractions and Event News

First Avenue Celebrates 50 Years
The legendary First Avenue announced its golden anniversary kick-off weekend, April 2 – 5, with a series of concerts. It’s one of the longest running, independently owned and operated music venues in the United States. More events and shows will be announced throughout the anniversary year at the club made famous by Prince. first-avenue.com/

Gavin Kaysen’s Synergy Series Chef Dialogues at American Swedish Institute (ASI)
The Dialogue portion of the Synergy Chef Series will be held at ASI, highlighting renowned chef’s stories in an intimate conversation with audience Q&A. Chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo speak on April 23 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Additional talks: Chefs Michael Solomonov on July 16, Thomas Keller, Sept. 24 and Missy Robbins on Dec. 3. Tickets are free, but seating is limited. Dinner tickets for separate evening events with visiting chefs at Spoon & Stable, as well as the Bar & Lounge Experience, benefit the World Central Kitchen. thesynergyseries.com/

Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is First U.S. Museum to Present ‘Safe Passage’ in New Exhibit
Ai Weiwei’s eye-catching installation, “Safe Passage,” where thousands of refugees’ lifejackets encircle the columns on the front of the museum, will draw you into Mia’s marbled walls where you will want to stay to experience special exhibit, “When Home Won’t Let You Stay,” through May 24, highlighting art and migration in stories of home and the difficult journey of migrants. new.artsmia.org/when-home-wont-let-you-stay-art-and-migration/

Sauna Village in Tangletown Neighborhood
The corner of Nicollet and 47th has become the south Minneapolis neighborhood’s center for wood-fired rejuvenation, ice bath chasers, connection and quite respite. A collection of varying sizes of wood-fired saunas are available for 90-minute sessions. Reservations and bathing suits required. stokeyard.com/saunavillage

In the Land of Prince, Murals Abound
If you cannot get enough of the Purple One, or likenesses of him, Minneapolis will not disappoint. A new, 16-by-24-foot Prince mural is towering over the tram level of Terminal 1 at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport through January 2021. Titled, “I Would Die 4 U,” the mural was previously seen at Weisman Art Museum in Minneapolis and the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle. <

Dining News

New: Unleashed: Hounds and Hops is Minneapolis, and Minnesota’s First Dog Bar
Two-thirds off-leash play area, one-third bar and eating area where you and your best friend can watch the fun from behind sound-proof glass. This bar that’s gone to the dogs requires you to register your pup, and serves beer, wine and (of course) hotdogs. i

Minneapolis/Saint Paul Restaurants, Chefs Named James Beard Foundation Awards Semi-finalists
Numerous nominations again place area chefs and dining in the top tier of the food world. Finalists and winners will be named later this spring. jamesbeard.org/blog/the-2020-james-beard-award-semifinalists

Best New Restaurant: Demi

Outstanding Bar Program: Colita

Outstanding Restaurant: Restaurant Alma

Outstanding Chef: Gavin Kaysen, Spoon and Stable

Outstanding Pastry Chef: Diane Moua, Spoon and Stable

Rising Star Chef of the Year: Rikki Giambruno, Hyacinth (Saint Paul)

Best Chef (Midwest): Hai Truong, Ngon Vietnamese Bistro, Saint Paul; Steven Brown, Tilia, Minneapolis; Daniel del Prado, Martina, Minneapolis; Jamie Malone, Grand Café, Minneapolis; and Christina Nguyen, Hai Hai, Minneapolis

New: Mill Valley Market at Theodore Wirth Park’s Trailhead
Owners of Mill Valley Kitchen (St. Louis Park) and downtown Minneapolis’ Mercy will open the new counter-service spot serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with grab and go options for the skiers, fat tire bikers and all others at this popular regional park in mid-March. loppet.org/stories/2020/02/mill-valley-market-to-open-at-the-trailhead-soon/

New - Vegan: Reverie Café + Bar in Powderhorn Park Neighborhood
This cozy, vegan spot is open in a new neighborhood after closing in their previous location in 2017. Offering entirely scratch-made, plant-based food, there’s also a full coffee bar, 20 tap lines serving local brews, ciders, kombucha and switchel, and a carefully curated wine list. reveriempls.com/

Taproom and Bar News

New: The Cocktail Room at 18th & Central - Now Serving MSP International Airport
The latest spot at MSP that gives travelers a taste of Minneapolis is showcasing exclusive spirits, liqueurs and cocktails from must-visit local distillery, Tattersall, accompanied by small bites and surprises on tap. If you simply cannot leave the airport to explore the city, be sure to sample a taste of Northeast Minneapolis. mspairport.com/airport/eat-shop-relax/cocktail-room-18th-and-central

Popular Girl Scout Cookie Drink Pairings at Urban Forage
The Lake Street bar known for cider, wine and mead made with foraged fruits pairs its beverages with the season’s biggest charitable food item: Girl Scout Cookies. Lemonades, Shortbreads, Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies and Caramel DeLites are for sale with the naturally gluten-free beverages in the kid-friendly tap room (cookies not gluten free, naturally). urbanforagewinery.com

For more information about what to see, do and eat in Minneapolis, visit www.minneapolis.org.

ABOUT MEET MINNEAPOLIS

Meet Minneapolis is a private, not-for-profit, member-based association. It actively promotes and sells the Minneapolis area as a destination for conventions and meetings, works to maximize the visitor experience and markets the city as a desirable tourist destination to maximize the economic benefit to the greater Minneapolis area. Meet Minneapolis is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) of Destinations International.

Dining News

New: Jun Szechuan Kitchen & Bar
The ever-growing North Loop has added a Chinese restaurant. Serving dishes from dim sum to Dan Dan noodles, street foods like Green Papaya Salad and Spicy Cucumbers, and spicy house specialties like Chong Qing Spicy Chicken and San Jiao Beef (bring the extinguisher—these dishes are hot, hot, hot). The cocktail menu is sizzling, too. junnorthloop.com/

New: Sushi Train
Technology at meal time? Like what you’ll find in Tokyo, this new Nicollet spot offers “conveyor service.” Every plate that passes by you has an embedded RFID chip that enables the restaurant to monitor how long food is on display and alerting chefs when a refresh is needed. sushitrainusa.com/

New: Graze Provisions & Libations
Minneapolis’ North Loop neighborhood welcomes its first food hall. Two levels, two bars and gaming space invite you to hang out. Their curated collection of counter-service spots includes empanadas with Minnesota twists, customizable bowls of soul food, mouth-watering Maryland-style pit beef and more. Plus, there’s an early-open coffee and pastry window for the dog-walking neighbors. grazenorthloop.com

New: Thr3 Jack
This restaurant and indoor golf simulator opened Oct. 7 in the new Nordic development in the ever-popular North Loop. Six golf simulators let patrons try the links at Pebble Beach and Whistling Straits or select from several target-based games and long-drive concepts while tasting elevated twists on bar food, classic comfort foods and craft cocktails or beer. thr3jack.com

Kieran’s Kitchen Northeast Adds Breakfast
Whether grabbing Dogwood coffee and fresh pastries at 7 a.m. or ordering breakfast starting at 8 a.m., everything locals love about Kieran’s Kitchen is available morning until night. This café, market and bar is known for its locally sourced ingredients, especially those from within the Food Building, like pork from Red Table Meat Company, freshly baked bread and stone-milled flour from Baker’s Field Flour & Bread and cheese from Alemar Cheese Company. kieranskitchen.com/

Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge, Now Through Oct. 20
Enjoy the best vegan dishes all over the Minneapolis/Saint Paul area and vote for your favorites, then post pictures on social media for a chance to win prizes. Some of the restaurants include: Barbette, Red Stag Supperclub and Tiny Diner. exploreveg.org/events/twin-cities-vegan-chef-challenge-2019/

Attractions News

Royal Foundry’s New Cycle Speedway
This British-themed craft distillery will give you a workout to go with your spirits in the only spot in the country offering this form of bike racing. Bicycles without brakes or multiple gears are raced on a 70-90-meter dirt track by teams of two or four people. D0hi8bTm4OHyxTDJc6>royalfoundrycraftspirits.com/cycle-speedway

U.S. Bank Stadium Sensory-Inclusive Room
Newly minted as a LEED Platinum-certified professional sports stadium, the home of the Minnesota Vikings cares for people and the planet: a new sensory-inclusive room is available to fans with autism, Down Syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia and other conditions that require a calm, quiet place at times during the raucous and fun football games. usbankstadium.com

Valleyfair Now a Certified Autism Center™
Staff at the amusement park completed sensory disorder training that allows them to better communicate and engage with guests with sensory needs, as well as their family members. Training also addressed safety concerns and protocols. Now accredited as a Certified Autism Center™, Valleyfair offers a sensory and quiet room, sensory friendly entertainment at PEANUTS™ Showplace and gluten-free food options among its accommodations that make it a welcoming spot for all families. valleyfair.com

Canada Goose Cold Room
The new Mall of America store sells trendy, down parkas with a test-run in a -13 degrees Fahrenheit cold room, where you can make sure it’s really warm enough for you. canadagoose.com

‘Prince: Before the Rain’ at Minnesota History Center
View captivating images of Prince taken by Minneapolis photographer Allen Beaulieu from the late 1970s into the early 1980s. This exhibit charting the musician’s progression from rising star to superstar runs through May 3, 2020. mnhs.org/historycenter/activities/museum/prince-before-the-rain

For more information about what to see, do and eat in Minneapolis, visit www.minneapolis.org.

ABOUT MEET MINNEAPOLIS

Meet Minneapolis is a private, not-for-profit, member-based association. It actively promotes and sells the Minneapolis area as a destination for conventions and meetings, works to maximize the visitor experience and markets the city as a desirable tourist destination to maximize the economic benefit to the greater Minneapolis area. Meet Minneapolis is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) of Destinations International. For more information go to web site MeetMinneapolisPR@Minneapolis.org

Nice Ride Season Begins

Nice Ride is ushering in a historic bike riding season with more stations and hubs than ever before and, in just a few weeks, 500 pedal-assist e-bikes. During the 2018 riding season, Nice Ride riders, including visitors, pedaled more than 1,096,565 miles, and have offset up to 800,000 pounds of carbon from entering the atmosphere. Nice Ride has been operating since 2010 in Minneapolis seasonally, and is one of the biggest bike-share programs in the nation.

The Vikings Begin at American Swedish Institute

One of the most significant exhibitions ever presented by American Swedish Institute (ASI), The Vikings Begin goes on view through Oct. 27. This Midwest premiere is an extraordinary new exhibition of early-Viking boat grave artifacts from Sweden’s Uppsala University, on their first tour outside of Scandinavia. Visit ASImn.org for more details.

Mall of America® Officially a Certified Autism Center

Mall of America® and Nickelodeon Universe, the seven-acre theme park inside the mall, are now officially recognized as Certified Autism Centers, granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. A first in Minnesota, the certification means that visitors and families with children who have autism and other sensory disorders can enjoy the best possible experience that caters to their needs. To earn the designation, 80 percent or more of the guest-facing staff had to complete the autism sensitivity and awareness training. Among other requirements, sensory guides for each ride to better prepare guests on what to expect when they arrive were created.

For more information about what to see, do and eat in Minneapolis, visit www.minneapolis.org.

Bell Museum

The Bell Museum, Minnesota’s official natural history museum, opened a new $79.2 million facility this month that features a brand-new planetarium, “Touch & See Lab,” and a wooly mammoth that’s sure to be an Insta hit. www.bellmuseum.umn.edu/

‘Somalis + Minnesota’ Exhibit at Minnesota History Center

Minnesota is home to the largest population of Somalis in the United States. Created in partnership with the Somali Museum of Minnesota (the only museum of its kind) and told through immersive settings, artifacts, photos and first-hand accounts, the exhibit includes the story of Somali immigrants, their arrival in their newly adopted home of Minnesota, and the successes and struggles they have faced. www.mnhs.org/media/kits/somalis-minnesota

Minnesota Vikings Museum and State-of-the-Art Training Facility

The Minnesota Vikings recently moved into their new headquarters and performance center. Included as part of their new home is the Minnesota Vikings Museum, which showcases rarely seen Vikings memorabilia and artifacts celebrating the team’s history. It will open to the general public on Aug. 17; tickets are available for $20 ($5 for children 14 and under) and can be purchased here. Fans hoping for an early look can gain access with their reserved training camp tickets.

Minneapolis Water Taxi

Minneapolis Water Taxi, which exclusively operates in Northeast Minneapolis on the Mississippi River north of Saint Anthony Falls from Boom Island, began taking passengers for rides on the scenic route this summer. The solar-powered vessel takes two to six passengers on one-hour rides and is, despite the name, a pleasure cruise charter open to all ages. Reservations are required. mplswatertaxi.com/

Flanneljax Axe Throwing

Explore your inner lumberjack at the newest entertainment option in the area. Urban axe throwing, cross-cut sawing, log rolling and “thump the stump” games will test your skill and give you a reason to wear plaid in the summer. Walk-ins are welcome but subject to availability. flanneljaxs.com/

Trapeze Champagne Bar

From classic to artisanal and cult to natural producers, enjoy bubbles (some of which have been sourced directly from sparkling and Champagne houses) in a bar focused on a collection of sparkling wines. Open Thursdays – Saturdays from 5 p.m. to midnight, the new bar and event space is located next to Barbette in Uptown. www.barbette.com/trapeze/

Finnegan’s Market

Finnegan’s Brewery opened its first taproom in March, after 18 years of brewing and donating all proceeds to feed the hungry. Now, the Finnegan’s Market is open on Fridays through Sept. 28 in their East Town facility next to the soon-to-open Elliot Park Hotel. Games, food, drinks and locally made wares and produce are available for sale. finnegans.org/market/

Events and happenings

For more information about what to see and do in Minneapolis, visit www.minneapolis.org.

Minnesota: A Destination for Biking

Minnesota stands out on the national biking scene. Thanks to 18 officially designated Bicycle Friendly Communities and 73 Bicycle Friendly Businesses, Minnesota is ranked the No. 2 bike-friendly state in the country by the League of American Bicyclists. In recent years, the state's also been recognized as the "Best Trails State" by American Trails (2010), and Minneapolis is regularly ranked as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country (currently No.1 according to Forbes and No. 3 per Bicycling magazine).

Even the American Automobile Association (AAA) supports biking in Minnesota, recently introducing statewide coverage to members whose bicycle has become disabled or inoperable. With more than 4,000 miles of paved trails, endless biking routes, and one of the nation's largest bike share programs, Minnesota offers excellent options for all kinds of cyclists. Bicycling has a positive impact on the state, including benefits to individuals, communities, the environment and the economy, generating more than $1 billion in expenditures throughout the state.

Pedal Minnesota
Pedal Minnesota is a coalition of state agencies and private organizations that support the Pedal Minnesota initiative, encouraging people to get on bikes more often in Minnesota. Initiated by Explore Minnesota, the state's tourism promotion office, the partnership includes the Minnesota departments of Health, Transportation and Natural Resources, the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, the Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota, and sponsorship by HealthPartners.

The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel & Its Historic Ice Skating Rink Honored By Fodor’s Travel as a Top 10 Rink in the U.S. -- and now Celebrating with Special “Ice Skating Package”

The landmark Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel has been recognized by the leading Fodor’s Travel magazine as having one of the nation’s best ice skating rinks. The Depot’s ice rink is located indoors within The Depot Pavilion -- the historic train shed of the Victorian-era former train station, which is now a luxury hotel. At #9 in Fodor’s Travel’s “Best Ice Rinks in the U.S.” line-up, the rink within The Depot Pavilion is in exceptional company, including the iconic Rockefeller Center rink in New York City, the National Gallery of Art skating rink in Washington, DC, and the rink at the legendary Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego. For the entire list, visit www.fodors.com/news/photos/15-best-ice-skating-rinks-in-the-us#!9-the-depot-rink.

To celebrate, The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel is offering an ice skating overnight package from $159 per room per night.

The Ice Skating Package includes:

·         4 passes to the indoor ice skating rink within The Depot Pavilion

·         Deluxe guestroom accommodations

·         On-premises parking

·         Access to The Depot’s Fitness Center

·         Reservation Link:  <www.thedepotminneapolis.com/view-specials.php?id=32

The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, situated in an historic area of Minneapolis near the storied Mississippi River, is owned and operated by CSM Lodging, a division of CSM Corporation. A decade ago, CSM Corporation saved and restored the historic 19th Century train depot building, converting it into a first-rate, full service hotel with exceptional event and public space within The Depot Pavilion – the train station’s original train shed. The highly successful restoration launched a historic movement in this region of Minneapolis. The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel is the flagship property within CSM Lodging’s nationwide collection of hotels.

About The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel

Designed to enhance the enjoyment of traveling, the full-service The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel treats you to the history and unique architecture of a 19th century train depot. All the Renaissance guest rooms are detailed with comfortable and stylish furniture and luxurious bedding reflecting a modern take on historic charm.

Steeped in timeless charm, The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel is the perfect locale for your next getaway, business trip, or social function. We look forward to your next visit with us! For more information and for reservations, visit www.thedepotminneapolis.com  To become a fan on Facebook, visit www.facebook.com/thedepotminneapolis, or follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/depotmpls

More Suggestions:

Walk across the 'mighty' Mississippi River on the historic Stone Arch Bridge. It's a pedestrian walkway connecting the old Minneapolis (famous for its milling history) to the new Minneapolis - with glass and steel skyscrapers and sometimes called the 'first city of the west.'

Go shopping - From Nicollet Mall, the main street of shopping in downtown Minneapolis, take a clean and green ride on light rail transit (LRT) to the famous Mall of America. This is the largest retail and entertainment complex in the United States. It boasts 520 stores, dozens of restaurants, nightclubs, a theme park and an aqwuarium - all under ONE roof. Best of all, there is NO SALES TAX on clothing and shoes in the entire state.

Springtime Beauty -- Have your photo taken with a 1,200-pound cherry; the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture that's the centerpiece of the 11-acre Minneapolis Sculpture Garden featuring works by international contemporary artists.

Museum Hopping -- Minneapolis is a culture capital with over 50 museums. Visit 'starchitect' designed buildings like the Guthrie Theater, the Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Central Library, the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and the Children's Theatre Company.

Theaters -- Nearly 100 professional theater companies and more theater seats per capita are found here than any other city outside NYC. At the Hennepin Theatre District, enjoy concerts and Broadway shows in historic settings.

Love Baseball & Other Sports? -- Then visit the 'greenest' ballpark in the United States. Target Field is home to Major League Baseball's Minnesota Twins and is situated in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. Other professional sporting events that an be seen here include National Football League's Minnesota Vikings; Nationl Basketball Association's Minnesota Timberwolves; National Hocket League's Minnesota Wild; and Women's National Basketball Association's Minnesota Lynx. Why is it called the 'greenest' ballpark in the U.S.? The U.S. Green Building Council awarded Target Field LEED Silver Certification. LEED provides a set of standards for the environmentally sustainable design, construction and opertion of buildings and neighborhoods.

Scenic Byway Exploration -- You don't have to leave the city to explore a National Scenic Byway because the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway is the longest, continuous system of public urban parkways in the U.S. at 52 miles! You'll find lovely parks, trails, lakes and parways surrounding Minneapolis, including the urban 'Chain of Lakes,' Minnehaha Falls, Mississippi River and more.

Love Music? -- Voted the #2 Best City For Music, this is the hometown of musicians including Bob Dylan, the Replacements, Soul Asylum, Semisobic, Price and more.

Midtown Bike Station Opened 

Whether they need an extra tube or an extra shot of espresso, Twin Cities bicyclists will now have an oasis to enjoy as they ride the Midtown Greenway.   Freewheel Bike in conjunction with the Midtown Greenway Coalition, City of Minneapolis, and Allina Hospitals and Clinics will operate the Midtown Bike Station along the trail’s second phase.        

The Station is the fruit of a long conjunctive effort between Freewheel, the hospital, the city, and the Coalition to offer commuters and recreational riders a stop in the center of Minneapolis.  “It’s a place to stop for on-the-spot repairs, bike rentals, even order a favorite drink from the barista,” said Kevin Ishaug, owner of Freewheel Bikes.     

The Midtown Bike Station offers memberships and membership will have its privileges.    Members get discounts on parts, repairs, accessories and valet parking. “The Station has a hundred or so parking spots for bicycles, and rather than stop and lock up your bike, you can hand it over and the staff will hang it up and watch it for you,” Ishaug said.             

However, membership isn’t required, and all riders are able to use the center.   Cyclists can meet for group rides, learn how to fix their bikes, and attend a spinning class.   Unlike traditional bike shops, the Center will be open during peak commuting hours. Riders will find an open door early in the morning on their way in to work and, in the evening, a shop ready to help them out as they head home.   “The ride home can seem like a long haul,” Ishaug said, “so why not have a comfortable stop on the way?”          

The Midtown Bike Station is located next to the renovated Sears building now owned by Allina Hospitals and Clinics.  The station was made possible by a federal grant plus capital investment by Freewheel Bikes, Allina Hospitals, and the Midtown Greenway Coalition.

CSM Lodging’s Kip’s Irish Pub Places in Top 5 Restaurants in St. Louis Park (Minneapolis), MN, on TripAdvisor

CSM Lodging, a division of CSM Corporation, announced that the company’s acclaimed restaurant, Kip’s Irish Pub, has placed in the Top 5 restaurants on TripAdvisor® within its market, St. Louis Park, in the Minneapolis metropolitan area. Kip’s Irish Pub placed at #5 out of 60 restaurants rated in the market. Kips was aided by glowing consumer comments about the restaurant’s outstanding service, beverages and cuisine. Known by locals as an authentic Irish pub, Kip’s opened in 2006 and is located in the Minneapolis Marriott West Hotel at 9970 Wayzata Boulevard in St. Louis Park.

In addition to Kip’s superb pub fare and endless list of beverages – starting with Irish brewed beer, Irish Whiskey and Irish Coffee, the Pub offers customers a number of amenities and features that makes it truly unique in the Minneapolis market, including free WiFi, 7 HD big screen TVs, and one of the metro area’s great restaurant patios featuring comfortable lounge furniture and a gas firepit. For group events and meetings, Kip’s offers three private dining rooms.

Kip’s gets it legendary name from Kip Finnegan, a lost Irish soul who with his father’s help found his way from Ireland to Minnesota. Here he discovered the love of his life – a lass named Molly, and his life’s calling as the keeper of a pub where all could come and raise a glass to celebrate life, spread good cheer, enjoy a great meal and warm hospitality.

TripAdvisor® is the world's largest online travel community, enabling consumers to plan trips based on input from fellow travelers. TripAdvisor offers advice from actual travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features with seamless links to booking tools. TripAdvisor-branded sites experience more than 50 million unique visitors each month and over 60 million reviews and opinions, available for the review of the global traveling public.

Where to Eat

Fogo de Chao Is Internationally Renowned for Its Excellent Meats

Minneapolis-Saint Paul diners will enjoy the flavors of southern Brazil with the the internationally renowned steakhouse Fogo de Chao. A traditional churrascaria featuring perfectly seasoned meats, authentic gaucho chefs and impeccable service, the restaurant will is a downtown Minneapolis landmark with its blazing fire visible to passers-by. Located at 645 Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis.

For more information, call 612-338-1344.

Where to Stay

The Grand Hotel: 

Located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, The Grand Hotel is surrounded by delicious restaurants and numerous entertainment and retail options. Their complimentary bicycle program allows their guests to explore the city free of charge during the day and the SIX15 Room allows guests to enjoy delicious meals and cocktails in the warmth of their hotel by night. If the weather is too cold for a bicycle ride around the city, guests have complimentary access to the LifeTime Athletic Club as well as access to a yoga mat in each room.

Address: 615 2nd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone Number: (612) 288-8888
Website: www.grandhotelminneapolis.com

The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel and My Hotel Rocks, LLC, Announce Strategic Partnership, Offering Hotel Guests Access to High-quality Acoustic Guitars 

The landmark Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel and My Hotel Rocks, LLC, have announced a strategic partnership to offer hotel guests use of high-quality acoustic guitars for rent on-site or as part of their room package. The partnership allows The Depot Renaissance to build on the Renaissance Hotels’ brand strategy, which highlights music and entertainment as part of their RLife Live events. The program officially launches this month and the cost to rent a guitar is just $25 for guests of The Depot and its Stone Arch Bar & Lounge.

The idea originated with My Hotel Rocks founder Dave Musolf, a self-described road warrior/guitar hack who often found himself sitting in his hotel rooms wishing he had his guitar to noodle on. "I asked everywhere I went, and no hotel ever had a guitar,” said Mr. Musolf. “I knew there were a few hipster boutique hotels that had them, but as a business traveler working a loyalty program, these weren't really an option. Minneapolis has such an amazing music scene and The Depot supported this idea right away. It's a perfect fit!" 

My Hotel Rocks is currently using Ovation guitars in the $550-$650 (Celebrity) range as part of this program. Each guitar has built-in tuners, and can be plugged into a mobile device/headphones supporting the wide range of guitar and music apps available online. Ovation Celebrity guitars are plastic-backed and extremely durable. 

"Hotels are actually the perfect spot for guitar players of any skill to practice and learn,” stated Musolf. “YouTube is chock full of channels and uploads of just about every popular song ever written. I wanted to offer a guitar that appeals to players of all levels while keeping it affordable for the hotels to maintain enough inventory. Ovation guitars offer that unique mix of quality and durability in an acoustic guitar." Other guitar brands are also available. Robert Payne continued with, "We look forward to our guests bringing their My Hotel Rocks guitar into our hotel’s Stone Arch Bar for an unplugged session.”

A common concern is about potential noise issues within the hotel. Through a variety of tests, however, the mid/shallow body acoustic guitar ranks below noise levels of parties, TVs, music/radios, and even conversation and phone use as a potential noise issue. "Most guitarists I know are super respectful and I don't envision hardly any issues with noise,” concluded Musolf. “In fact, The Depot Renaissance has a number of guests who travel with their own guitar, and they've never had a noise complaint related to this.”

The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, situated in an historic area of Minneapolis near the storied Mississippi River, is owned and operated by CSM Lodging, a division of CSM Corporation. A decade ago, CSM Corporation saved and restored the historic 19th Century train depot building, converting it into a first-rate, full service hotel with exceptional event and public space within The Depot Pavilion – the train station’s original train shed. The highly successful restoration launched a historic movement in this region of Minneapolis. The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel is the flagship property within CSM Lodging’s nationwide collection of hotels.

About My Hotel Rocks, LLC. 

Founded in 2013 by David Musolf, the company mission is to allow guitar players of all skill levels to seek out and find hotels that can offer them a guitar while they are on the road. By providing a turnkey service for hotels that helps drive room nights, on-site sales plus super-charge the hotel's cool factor, the company hopes to add hotels in every major market so that guitar players have the ability to enjoy themselves and enhance their ability where ever they go.  www.myhotelrocks.com

About The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel

Designed to enhance the enjoyment of traveling, the full-service The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel treats you to the history and unique architecture of a 19th century train depot. All the Renaissance guest rooms are detailed with comfortable and stylish furniture and luxurious bedding reflecting a modern take on historic charm.

Steeped in timeless charm, The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel is the perfect locale for your next getaway, business trip, or social function. We look forward to your next visit with us! For more information and for reservations, visit www.thedepotminneapolis.com
  About CSM Lodging

CSM Lodging, a division of CSM Corporation, acquires, develops and manages quality hospitality real estate investments within select markets across the United States. The company is known for their business ethos of treating their customers and associates with integrity and respect, and for their commitment to the future of the communities in which they live and work.

In 1994, CSM purchased its first hotel in St. Paul, Minnesota. By the end of 2002, CSM had opened 29 hotels and developed a presence in Minneapolis, Portland, Denver, Boston, Detroit, Seattle and Naples. Today, CSM Lodging manages 38 hotels nationwide and continues to achieve awards in design, openings, quality, sales excellence, marketing and revenue management. CSM Lodging is part of the CSM Corporation family of companies, founded in 1976, which has engaged in the acquisition, development, leasing, management and ownership of quality real estate assets. The extensive portfolio includes retail, office & industrial, multi-family residential, and hotel properties across the United States.

NOTE: Downtown Minneapolis also offers more than 6000 hotel rooms all within walking distance of shops, restaurants, theaters and more.

For more information contact the Meet Minneapolis Convention & Visitors Association, 250 Marquette Avenue, Suite 1300, Minneapolis, MN 55401; 1-800-445-7412 or go to web site minneapolis.org.

SAINT PAUL

About Visit Saint Paul

Visit Saint Paul, formerly the Saint Paul Convention & Visitors Authority, was founded in 1927 as the Saint Paul Convention and Visitors Bureau, making it one of the oldest destination marketing organizations in the United States. The mission of the organization is to generate economic growth for Saint Paul by effectively marketing the RiverCentre campus, Saint Paul and the region as a preferred convention and tourism destination. Visit Saint Paul oversees management of the Saint Paul RiverCentre Convention Center, the Legendary Roy Wilkins Auditorium, the RiverCentre Parking Ramp, and the Pedestrian Connection which connects the Convention Center and Xcel Energy Center to the downtown skyway system.

Saint Paul Named 'Best Romantic N. American Getaway' by 10Best and USA Today

Saint Paul has been named "Best Romantic N. American Getaway" by 10best a division of USA Today Travel. The capital of Minnesota beat competing cities that include Naples, FL, Savannah, GA and Santa Fe, NM for the recognition.

Described by the publication as "the smaller, quieter and, many say, the more sophisticated of the Twin Cities," the publication notes couples "love it for its diverse romantic offerings, like leisurely paddle- wheeler rides along the Mississippi, beer tastings, ice skating and a thriving performance arts scene."

The Saint Paul Hotel, recently named to Travel + Leisure's 'Top 500 World's Best Hotels of 2014' list, is a popular choice for couples looking for romance because of its trademark style, sophistication and old world charm.

SHAKOPE

What to See & Do

Renegade Roller Coaster at Valleyfair

Twists, turns, speed and the Old West are top features of Renegade – a new world-class wooden roller coaster at Valleyfair. Guests experience a two minute adventurous ride including a never-before-experienced twisting first drop, a low-to-the-ground high-speed S-turn and a high-speed station fly-by.

Renegade Fact Sheet

Track Length: 3,113 feet
Lift Height: 104 feet
Ride Duration: Approximately two minutes
Maximum Speed: 52 mph
Capacity: 850 riders per hour
Total Number of Turns: 19
Total Number of Crossovers: 10
Total Number of Supports: 505
Special Features: Never before experienced twisting first drop
Low to the ground high speed S-turn
High speed station fly-by
Fun Fact: The song “Renegade” was a 1979 hit for American rock band Styx.
Cowboy Slang: Cowboy Slang that best describes Valleyfair’s new ride Renegade:
Renegade is fine as cream gravy (top notch)
Renegade is tall hog at the trough (superior, (outstanding)
For an American Coaster Enthusiast, riding Renegade is like lickin’ butter off a knife (something that’s easy)
Construction of Renegade is two whoops and a holler (not far away)

Valleyfair is located at One Valleyfair Drive, Shakopee, Minnesota 55379. For more information, call 1.800.FUN.RIDE


Home | New Jersey Books | Outdoor Tips | Travels | Product Reviews | Holidays | Contact Us

All information and photography © 2007-2011 Arline Zatz. All rights reserved. Contact us if reprint permission is needed.