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Top 24 Hotels Near Minneapolis Convention Center
1301 Second Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55403
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Downtown Minneapolis by IHG
From Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Downtown Minneapolis by IHG, Minneapolis Convention Center is a comfortable walk away, a feature that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
Complimentary coffee stations at Holiday Inn Express provide small courtesy details that show care and help guests settle comfortably. Suites include expanded seating, sofa beds, and multiple desks, creating adaptable setups for families or groups traveling together. Breakfast rooms stocked with cereals, fruit, and coffee ensure families and professionals enjoy straightforward morning routines.
Meeting facilities, breakfast service, and Wi-Fi connect with fitness rooms and pools, covering professional and leisure priorities.
Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown
This easy route to Minneapolis Convention Center from Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown lets guests enjoy a bit of Minneapolis before their event.
Open lobbies at Hilton Garden Inn use natural light and clear sightlines, ensuring guests find reception and orientation points effortlessly. Guest rooms include televisions, sofa seating, and blackout drapes, supporting both evening relaxation and restful sleep for guests. Indoor pools with spa tubs, lounge chairs, and towel service create relaxing shared zones that help guests recharge comfortably.
Concierge services, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pools, Wi-Fi, and fitness studios simplify travel while enhancing everyday balance.
Hotel Ivy a Luxury Collection Hotel, Minneapolis
From Hotel Ivy a Luxury Collection Hotel, Minneapolis, the pleasant walk to Minneapolis Convention Center offers a change of pace.
Guests entering The Luxury Collection encounter concierge service paired with open layouts, ensuring clarity and confidence instantly. Suites highlight premium toiletries, plush robes, and rainfall showers, refreshing guests with spa-inspired details in every visit. In the executive lounge, breakfast service, quiet seating, and concierge staff simplify daily routines with dependable support.
With executive lounges, curated dining, wellness spas, and rooftop terraces, travelers enjoy a dependable mix of indulgence daily.
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown
From DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown, Minneapolis Convention Center is an easy walk away, a feature that gives guests more control over their schedule.
With mobile-focused check-in and keyless entry, DoubleTree accelerates access, turning arrival into the first step in relaxation. Suites with wet bars support small-scale hosting or simple meal preparation, giving flexibility to guests during social or longer stays. Bars feature happy hour specials and local cocktails, giving arrivals a casual setting to relax and connect with evening energy.
Free Wi-Fi, buffet breakfast, valet parking, shuttle desks, and fitness centers sustain clarity, reliability, and premium convenience.
W Minneapolis - The Foshay
The hotel's sensible placement ensures Minneapolis Convention Center is a brief ride away, underscoring its suitability for event-focused travel.
W Hotels activates Living Rooms with music programming in the evenings, turning arrivals into easy meetups before dinners or ticketed events. Every guest room balances streaming-capable TVs, fast Wi-Fi, and a workstation, letting you move easily between entertainment and focused tasks. Rooftop pools activate evenings with DJs, cocktails, and light shows, blending relaxation with entertainment in one shared environment.
With meeting spaces, rooftop pools, laundry, and complimentary Wi-Fi, guests balance work tasks, recovery time, and reliable connectivity.
Elliot Park Hotel Autograph Collection
The quick ride from Elliot Park Hotel Autograph Collection to Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis means guests have a reliable way to arrive promptly.
Autograph Collection highlights cultural storytelling with local art and curated displays, offering guests orientation to place. Suites supply rainfall showers, stocked toiletries, and plush towels, refreshing guests with spa-inspired routines each stay. In the meeting rooms, flexible layouts, AV setups, and ergonomic seating support productivity and convenience for professional gatherings.
Amenities include pet-friendly rooms, cocktail bars, breakfast buffets, and business spaces, ensuring productivity and convenience.
Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites
The hotel offers a strategic position, with Minneapolis Convention Center a brief ride away, allowing guests to be near the action without being in it.
Best Western guides luggage flow with clear lanes and visible carts, reducing friction as travelers transition from curbside to keys and elevators. Every suite highlights an expanded seating cluster and a dedicated workspace, enabling calm huddles without returning to lobby areas. Indoor pools at select hotels join loungers and towel service, offering low-effort recovery time that fits around evening arrivals or early starts.
From breakfast corners, Wi-Fi, printers, and ride pickup guidance, mornings convert plans into action while routes and confirmations finalize.
Emery Autograph Collection Hotel
Within Minneapolis, Emery Autograph Collection Hotel is a short drive from Minneapolis Convention Center, a detail that delivers a simple solution for daily travel.
Guests at Autograph Collection enjoy beverage stations in lobbies, reliable rituals that ease transitions and reduce stress. Each guest room presents smart TVs, coffee makers, and plush bedding, providing convenience and reliable comfort throughout visits. The library lounge with curated books, cultural art, and soft lighting creates reflective spaces that inspire enrichment and comfort.
Guests benefit from dining outlets, outdoor pools, Wi-Fi, and meeting facilities, finding reliable amenities that ease daily routines.
Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown
This accessible ride to Minneapolis Convention Center allows Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown to serve as a calm starting point before a quick trip to the event.
Lobby coffee and tea stations at Residence Inn showcase attentiveness, helping guests feel cared for while transitioning into their stay. Guest rooms include storage closets, drawer units, and luggage benches, keeping personal items organized and easy to access at all times. Business lounges with shared desks, Wi-Fi connectivity, and quiet corners allow travelers to remain productive in comfortable settings.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, valet parking, hot breakfast, outdoor pools, and fitness centers provide flexible options for both work and leisure.
The Marquette Hotel Curio Collection by Hilton
Within Minneapolis, The Marquette Hotel Curio Collection by Hilton is a brief trip from Minneapolis Convention Center, which provides a simple solution for daily travel.
Curio begins arrivals with visible lounge spaces and curated art displays, shaping clear orientation and introducing a boutique tone. Suites offer premium bedding, separate lounge areas, and blackout drapes, combining restful environments with functional layouts. Bars feature signature cocktails, light snacks, and comfortable seating, shaping spaces for evening connection and relaxation.
Outdoor pools, gyms, Wi-Fi access, meeting spaces, and in-room dining together shape stays that are flexible and stress-free.
The Chambers Hotel
The journey from The Chambers Hotel to Minneapolis Convention Center is a quick ride, a benefit that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
The Chambers Hotel often offers a polished arrival with courteous doorman support, elegant interiors, and complimentary lobby courtesies. Rooms may provide refined interiors, premium bedding, and bathrooms with polished finishes that create a sophisticated guest retreat. Property amenities often provide elegant restaurants, spa-inspired services, and stylish lounges designed for a luxury orientation.
A stay typically highlights plush bedding, spa-style services, cocktail lounges, and Wi-Fi, blending indulgence with balanced daily routines.
Hyatt Place Minneapolis Downtown
Because Hyatt Place Minneapolis Downtown is a short drive from Minneapolis Convention Center, guests can decide on the travel method that best suits their needs.
Design features like statement lighting and open layouts at Hyatt Place reinforce consistency and make arrivals feel intentional. Each guest room supplies coffee stations, mini-fridges, and ample outlets, giving guests the tools to keep routines running smoothly. Pools combining indoor access, loungers, and towel stations give travelers leisure zones to recharge and enjoy downtime together.
On-site dining, fitness centers, and indoor pools pair with Wi-Fi and meeting spaces, ensuring routines are easy to maintain daily.
Hotel Indigo Minneapolis Downtown by IHG
The hotel's location is well-suited for transit, with Minneapolis Convention Center a brief ride away, contributing to a more organized and less frantic visit.
Hotel Indigo’s complimentary coffee or tea service creates courtesy moments that ease transitions and reinforce consistent brand care. Suites contain sofa beds, expanded seating, and multiple TVs, supporting groups or families with comfortable and adaptable layouts. Lobby areas styled with vibrant art, long tables, and eclectic seating create hubs for casual conversation and orientation points.
Fitness centers, breakfast setups, and Wi-Fi combine with pools and parking, providing dependable amenities that simplify routines.
The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown
For a stay that provides travel flexibility, The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown is a brief ride from Minneapolis Convention Center, making it a versatile option for travelers.
Royal Sonesta uses focal art and statement fixtures at entry to mark a sense of place, while circulation paths keep queues orderly and smooth. Every guest room supplies a hair dryer, iron and board, and quality towels, reducing packing lists while keeping routines intact. Breakfast counters place coffee and tea taps beside grab-and-go items, so early departures can fuel up and keep to tight itineraries.
For families, Wi-Fi, pools, and on-site dining pair with laundry service, keeping energy up and packing lists down throughout trips.
Minneapolis Marriott City Center
In Minneapolis, Minneapolis Marriott City Center is situated a quick ride from Minneapolis Convention Center, a position that makes travel easy.
Mobile check-in with digital key lets Marriott guests skip traditional lines entirely, streamlining the entry process for repeat travelers. Each guest room offers plush bedding, digital climate control, and smart TVs, creating a blend of comfort, relaxation, and convenience. The fitness room contains treadmills, weight racks, and stretching zones, keeping routines intact so guests feel balanced during travel.
Breakfast buffets, structured parking, and concierge support align with fitness and Wi-Fi, ensuring routines are simple to maintain.
Hyatt Centric Downtown Minneapolis
For a trip to Minneapolis, Hyatt Centric Downtown Minneapolis's location a brief trip from Minneapolis Convention Center is a fundamental part of its practical appeal.
Hyatt Centric blends check-in lines with nearby seating, allowing companions to wait comfortably and regroup while keeping sightlines clear. Every guest room includes a rainfall shower, spacious vanity, and soft towels, creating reliable refreshment and easy morning resets for guests. The lobby provides curated communal zones, accessible outlets, and ambient music, ensuring orientation ease and comfort during transitions.
Wi-Fi connectivity, updated fitness centers, curated pet amenities, and functional meeting rooms deliver reliable support and balanced guest routines.
Cambria Hotel Minneapolis Downtown
At Cambria Hotel Minneapolis Downtown, being a short ride from Minneapolis Convention Center is a practical aspect that simplifies event-day travel.
Cambria keeps signage minimal but functional, pairing wayfinding with staff presence so guests reach rooms, venues, or bars without hesitation. Guest rooms combine PURE bath amenities, plush towels, and ample lighting, ensuring polished, invigorating starts that elevate daily rhythm. The bar at Cambria offers regional drafts, craft cocktails, and comfortable stools, shaping inviting spaces that ease transitions into evenings.
For families, marketplace snacks, shuttle options, fitness center, and Wi-Fi create inclusive, active, convenient, and digitally intuitive stays.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown
The hotel's location is optimized for a quick commute, with Minneapolis Convention Center a quick trip away, ensuring guests can maximize their time.
Fairfield Inn orients the lobby core so reception, a grab-and-go Corner Market, and outlet-rich seating sit in one sightline for fast first moves. Each guest room features plush bedding, quiet HVAC systems, and blackout shades, ensuring consistent sleep quality that prepares guests for tomorrow. Lobby lounges contain couches, flexible chairs, and communal tables, serving as gathering hubs where social connection feels effortless.
Amenities like hot breakfast, self-parking, fitness equipment, and market snacks provide dependable conveniences that reduce travel stress.
The Westin Minneapolis
Within Minneapolis, The Westin Minneapolis is a quick trip from Minneapolis Convention Center, a fact that lets the hotel to feel both convenient and accessible.
Westin greets arrivals with infused water stations and wellness-focused touches, small rituals that ease transitions and reinforce care. Each guest room features ergonomic chairs, task lighting, and Wi-Fi, making work simple while preserving comfort across visits. Guests enjoying the spa encounter aromatherapy suites, massages, and saunas, rituals that deliver restorative balance and relaxation.
Amenities include meeting rooms, breakfast buffets, free Wi-Fi, and fitness areas, providing productivity and balance for every guest.
Rand Tower Hotel Minneapolis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
From the lobby of Rand Tower Hotel Minneapolis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Minneapolis Convention Center is a brief ride for an easy commute, simplifying the visit.
Guests entering Tribute Portfolio encounter polished counters, floral accents, and seating clusters, ensuring arrivals remain comfortable. Suites provide marble bathrooms, rainfall showers, and spa-quality toiletries, creating indulgent rituals that refresh guests consistently. Guests at the outdoor pool encounter loungers, towel service, and shaded seating, dependable details that create relaxation spaces daily.
Amenities such as cultural lounges, rooftop terraces, breakfast buffets, and fitness centers provide wellness and enrichment daily.
Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis / Downtown
A defining feature of the Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis / Downtown experience in Minneapolis is the quick ride to Minneapolis Convention Center, which adds a layer of predictability to the trip.
Weekday On the Run breakfast bags at Hampton Inn add grab-and-go simplicity, supporting travelers who need efficiency during early mornings. All guest rooms contain ergonomic workstations, strong Wi-Fi, and multiple outlets, ensuring business travelers stay focused on the road. Lobby seating clusters with sofas, small tables, and armchairs provide pause points where families can regroup comfortably on arrival.
Complimentary breakfast, EV charging, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and business centers create seamless balance for modern travelers.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown
The benefit of a quick drive to Minneapolis Convention Center makes Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
Convenient lobby markets at Embassy Suites position snacks beside reception, removing travel stress while emphasizing courtesy-driven care. Guest rooms contain ergonomic desks, charging hubs, and fast internet, helping business travelers maintain focus without leaving the suite. Lobbies with sofa clusters and community tables provide versatile gathering points, supporting both social and functional needs.
Valet parking, business lounges, hot breakfast, free internet, and fitness studios ensure everyday routines remain seamless and dependable.
The Lofton Hotel Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Guests at The Lofton Hotel Tapestry Collection by Hilton can enjoy the short drive to Minneapolis Convention Center as a defining perk of their stay.
Infused water paired with sofa groupings in Tapestry receptions creates a dual gesture of refreshment and regrouping utility for guests. Rooms come with modern toiletries and plush linens, offering tactile comfort that enhances the sense of care from the moment guests arrive. Fitness centers opening into lounge zones help guests move seamlessly from exercise into relaxation in shared space rhythm.
Dining outlets, breakfast buffets, rooftop pools, complimentary Wi-Fi, and meeting facilities keep stays smooth and reliable.
AC Hotel by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown
This easy drive to Minneapolis Convention Center helps AC Hotel by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown guests become like they are part of the local Minneapolis scene without a major commute.
Guests find social energy at the AC Lounge within AC Hotels, where cocktails, tapas, and comfortable seating create dependable evening routines. Every suite emphasizes platform beds, plush linens, and quiet HVAC systems, ensuring restful conditions that guests can rely on consistently. AC Kitchen breakfast rooms present cereals, croissants, and fruit with coffee, reinforcing dependable rituals that reduce planning stress daily.
With complimentary Wi-Fi, AC Kitchen meats and cheeses, AC Lounge cocktails, and meeting space, travelers experience balance across routines.
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Minneapolis Convention Center Local Area Guide
The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) is the largest event facility in the Upper Midwest, a massive 1.6 million-square-foot complex distinguished by its four iconic copper domes. Located in the southern section of downtown Minneapolis, this venue serves as a major hub for international trade shows, corporate conventions, and large-scale consumer events like the Twin Cities Auto Show. The center is famously integrated into the Minneapolis Skyway System, a climate-controlled network of pedestrian bridges that connects the exhibit halls to hotels, dining, and corporate offices without ever exposing attendees to the elements. Visitors will find a facility designed for volume, featuring a sprawling ground-level layout that minimizes vertical travel but maximizes walking distances between the auditoriums and the exhibit halls. For delegates and exhibitors, the experience here is defined by this indoor connectivity; you can effectively live, work, and dine for days without stepping outside. This guide is designed to help you navigate this "indoor city," from finding the underground parking ramps to locating the best local brews just a skyway walk away.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Minneapolis Convention Center (Minneapolis, MN)
The MCC is situated on 2nd Avenue South, anchoring the Loring Park neighborhood at the southern edge of the downtown grid. The "neighborhood" is a blend of green space, historic architecture, and the modern corporate towers that define the skyline. Access is primarily via I-35W or I-94, both of which feed directly into the downtown exits that lead to the convention center’s parking ramps. The nearest major travel hub is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), located about 20 minutes south, which is renowned for its efficiency and direct light rail connection to downtown. While the streets outside are wide and navigable, the true pedestrian artery is the Skyway System on the second level, which links the venue to the core of the city including Nicollet Mall and the warehouse district. Parking is abundant in the connected Plaza Parking Ramp and nearby surface lots, but the entire district operates heavily on cashless payment systems and apps like SpotHero. The area feels safe and bustling during the day, though the activity shifts north toward the theater district and sports arenas in the evenings.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Minneapolis Convention Center
Accommodation strategy here is simple: if you want to avoid the weather, you must stay in a "Skyway-connected" hotel. The Hilton Minneapolis, Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, and Millennium Minneapolis are the "Big Three" directly linked to the convention center, allowing attendees to commute from their rooms to the show floor in slippers if they choose. These properties are optimized for conventions, offering large lobbies for networking and direct access to the climate-controlled bridges. For a slightly different vibe, the Hotel Ivy and the W Minneapolis at the Foshay are just a short Skyway walk away, offering luxury amenities within the same connected grid. Budget-conscious attendees might look to the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, which is the closest hotel to the venue but offers a more streamlined service model. Staying outside the Skyway grid in the North Loop or Uptown is an option for those who prefer nightlife over convenience, but it requires a daily rideshare commute. Booking a connected hotel is the single best way to ensure a stress-free trip, especially during the unpredictable winter months.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-St. Paul Intl (MSP) · 20 min drive.
- Park in the underground Plaza Ramp.
- Nicollet Mall · 10 min Skyway walk.
- Orchestra Hall or Minneapolis Institute of Art.
- Craft Bar & Lounge or Lobby.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your first session, as the walk from the Plaza Parking Ramp to the main exhibit halls can be longer than expected. If you are driving, enter the underground ramp from 2nd Avenue South or 12th Street South to park directly beneath the facility. For those taking rideshare, ensure your driver drops you off at the designated zone on 2nd Avenue South to avoid the congestion of the main hotel entrances. Once inside, follow the color-coded signage to your specific hall, as the building stretches for nearly four city blocks.
During the Event
The MCC is a linear facility, so navigating from Hall A to the Auditorium requires a significant walk along the sweeping main concourse. Utilize the internal escalators to reach the Skyway level for food options if the lines at the main level concessions are too long. Lunch can be found at the Mill City Grill or the Craft Bar & Lounge, but wandering into the Skyway system opens up dozens of fast-casual options within a five-minute walk. If you need a quiet place to work, the seating areas near the "Seasons" food court or the upper-level balconies offer a respite from the trade show noise.
Post-Event & Departure
When the exhibit hall closes, the flow of attendees splits between the Skyway system and the street-level exits. If you are heading to dinner on Nicollet Mall, stay indoors and follow the Skyway signs to avoid traffic signals and weather. Rideshare pickups can be crowded at the main entrance, so walking to the nearby Hilton or Hyatt lobby to request a ride often results in a faster pickup. Be aware that some Skyway links close earlier than others, so check the hours if you plan on a late return to a connected hotel.
Things to Do Near MCC
Walkable
Loring Park
Located directly across the street from the convention center, Loring Park is the "Central Park" of Minneapolis. It features a large pond, winding walking paths, and a garden of the seasons that offers a peaceful escape from the convention floor. In the winter, the park hosts the Holidazzle festival, while summer brings art fairs and movies in the park. It is the quickest way to get fresh air and see green space without leaving the immediate vicinity of the venue. The park connects to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden via a pedestrian bridge over the highway.
Willow St · 0.2 miOrchestra Hall
Situated just a block away and connected via Skyway, Orchestra Hall is the home of the Grammy Award-winning Minnesota Orchestra. The venue's modern, cube-like architecture is striking, and the acoustics are world-renowned for their clarity and warmth. Even if you don't catch a full symphony performance, the lobby often hosts smaller events and is worth a quick walkthrough. It represents the high cultural standard of the city right next door to the business district. It is a sophisticated option for an evening out that is easily accessible on foot.
11th St S · 0.3 mi5–15 Minutes Away
U.S. Bank Stadium
Home to the Minnesota Vikings, this massive, angular stadium is an architectural marvel located on the east side of downtown. While technically reachable via a long Skyway walk, it is a quick light rail or rideshare trip from the convention center. Visitors can take guided tours to see the locker rooms and the massive pivoting glass doors that define the building's aesthetic. It hosts major concerts and events year-round, serving as a key anchor of the city's sports scene. The surrounding Downtown East park is a great spot for pre-event gathering.
Chicago Ave · 1.0 miMinneapolis Institute of Art
Just south of the convention center, "Mia" is a world-class art museum that is famously free to the public. It houses a massive collection spanning 5,000 years of history, including impressive Asian art and European masterpieces. The museum's proximity makes it an easy cultural excursion for attendees with a few free hours in their schedule. The building itself is a blend of historic and modern architecture, set within a charming residential neighborhood. It offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere perfect for recharging.
3rd Ave S · 1.2 miBeyond the Event: If you have a free evening, the North Loop neighborhood offers trendy dining and boutiques in converted warehouses about 10 minutes away. The Mall of America is accessible via light rail, offering massive retail therapy and an indoor theme park. Historic Fort Snelling provides a look into the region's past near the airport.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near MCC
Inside & Adjacent
Craft Bar & Lounge
Perched on the balcony overlooking the main lobby, the Craft Bar & Lounge is the premier on-site spot for networking and relaxation. It features a rotating tap list of Minnesota's finest craft beers alongside a menu of flatbreads, sliders, and salads. The location offers a bird's-eye view of the arrival area, making it an excellent meeting point for colleagues. It provides a more upscale atmosphere than the standard concession stands on the floor. It is the best place to unwind without leaving the building.
On site · Main LobbyMill City Grill
Located along the South Concourse, Mill City Grill serves as the primary food court option for hungry attendees. The menu covers the basics with grilled chicken sandwiches, burgers, and made-to-order items that go beyond pre-packaged sandwiches. It is designed for speed, helping to move thousands of delegates through lunch during short program breaks. Seating is available nearby, though it fills up quickly during peak hours. It is a reliable, convenient choice for a hot meal.
On site · Main ConcourseNearby Gathering Spots
Brit's Pub
A short Skyway walk away, Brit's Pub is a Minneapolis institution famous for its massive rooftop lawn bowling green. The interior features cozy fireplaces and dark wood, while the roof offers a lively outdoor social scene in the warmer months. The menu focuses on British staples like fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and scotch eggs. It is a favorite for large groups and post-convention happy hours due to its ample space. The view of the skyline from the lawn is a highlight of the city.
Nicollet Mall · 0.4 miThe Local
Located near Brit's on Nicollet Mall, The Local is an expansive Irish pub known for pouring the most Jameson whiskey in the world. It features varied seating areas, including private nooks and a massive main bar, catering to both intimate meetings and rowdy celebrations. The menu offers hearty Irish-American fare that is perfect for a comforting dinner after a long day. It connects directly to the Skyway, making it easily accessible regardless of the weather. The "Big Ginger" is their signature drink and a local favorite.
Nicollet Mall · 0.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Manny's Steakhouse
Located in the W Hotel at the Foshay Tower, Manny's is widely considered one of the best steakhouses in the country. It serves massive, dry-aged cuts of beef and family-style sides in a high-energy, unapologetically masculine dining room. It is the ultimate venue for closing a deal or hosting a high-stakes client dinner. The service is impeccable, and the roving meat cart allows you to choose your specific cut. Reservations are absolutely mandatory for this popular spot.
Marquette Ave · 0.6 miHell's Kitchen
Despite the name, this is an employee-owned restaurant famous for its unique, localized American comfort food. Located in an underground lair, it features a famous Bloody Mary bar and live music on weekends. The menu includes wild rice porridge, lemon ricotta hotcakes, and bison burgers, offering a distinct taste of Minnesota. It is a fun, quirky spot that breaks the mold of the typical corporate dinner. It is also a fantastic breakfast option before the convention starts.
S 9th St · 0.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- The Skyway System connects 80 blocks; follow signs to avoid getting lost.
- Most parking ramps operate cashless; use apps like SpotHero to book.
- Skyway hours vary by building; generally open M-F until 6pm.
- Dining options on the Skyway level are mostly lunch-only.
- Winter coats are optional if you stay in a connected hotel.
Weather & Seasons at MCC
- Winter: December through February is brutally cold, with highs often staying below freezing and frequent snow. The Skyway connection is not just a convenience; it is a necessity for comfort. Pack layers, but rely on the indoor network to move between your hotel and the venue.
- Spring & early summer: March through May is a thaw period, often bringing rain and fluctuating temperatures in the 50s and 60s. The city begins to open up, but the Skyway remains the most reliable path for business attire. It is a great time to visit museums without the summer crowds.
- Mid-summer: June through August is warm and pleasant, with highs in the 80s and plenty of sunshine. The city embraces the outdoors, with patios and parks full of activity. You can comfortably walk outside to dinner, though the Skyway offers an air-conditioned alternative.
- Fall season: September through November brings cool, crisp weather with highs in the 50s and 60s. It is arguably the most beautiful time to visit, with fall colors in Loring Park. A light jacket is sufficient for evening walks to dinner.
- Rain & snow: Snow is a guarantee in winter, often impacting travel logistics at the airport. Rain is most common in late spring and early summer. The convention center's design minimizes weather impact, ensuring events run smoothly regardless of the forecast.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Conventions / Trade Shows.
- Neighborhood: Downtown / Loring Park.
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP).
- Parking: Plaza Ramp (Connected).
- Walkable district: Nicollet Mall.
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Target (Nicollet Mall).
- Pharmacy: CVS (Nicollet Mall).
- Urgent care: Hennepin Healthcare Clinic.
- Downtime: Loring Park.
- Pro tip: Stay Skyway connected.