INN & OUT: MINNEAPOLIS, MN
If you’ve ever noticed the cleanliness of America’s midwest cities, Minneapolis is on par!
Here are some of my favorite things to do in the Twin cities:
RESTAURANTS:
Manny’s Steakhouse: One of Zagat’s Top 10 Steakhouses in the US, there is no way you can walk away from this place hungry, in fact… you’re more likely walking out with leftovers, so go easy! I attempted to get the ‘Manny’s Burger’ just to be modest once eating alone, joke was on me! FYI: Everything comes out a half step on the rare side so if you like medium rare, order medium.
Monte Carlo’s: Established in 1906 and maintains much of its charm… so much so if you order an Old Fashioned with your lunch or dinner it will be your grandfathers style! Order a steak or some oysters… but ensure you get some time at that classic bar.
Matt’s Bar: You’re not coming here for the aesthetics… this is a classic midwest dive. It’s the legendary ‘Juicy Lucy’ cheese-stuffed burger you want. Matt’s argues it is the originator of this delicious masterpiece.
HOTELS:
The ‘W’ Foshay Building: You’ve probably seen or stayed at a W Hotel at some point. They’re generally nice hotels where one can use their Marriott Bonvoy points or status to get a room, but this one is history. Built by Wilbur Foshay in 1929, it was the tallest building in the midwest for 48 years and its rooms capture the Art Deco charm. It also doesn’t suck that Manny’s Steakhouse is right on the bottom floor!
Tip: Go check out the Foshay Observation Deck & Museum on weekends.
Emery, Autograph Collection: Located in the original Midland Building (circa 1906), this hotel’s lobby and common area had me in awe preserving its architectural charm with stunning marble columns. The best part, its also a Marriott Bonvoy so you can use / earn points while staying in a unique piece of history. The restaurant and coffee bar were quite nice and convenient, too!
ACTIVITIES:
Target Field: Baseball fan or not… I thoroughly enjoyed seeing a game here. The midwest crowds are some of the best in sports supporting their team through up’s & down’s but its that wonderful backdrop of Minnepolis’ skyline reflecting a sunset that got me.
First Ave: Doesn’t matter who the act is… go to a show here. It’s celebrated as one of the longest running independently owned and operated music venues in the United States going back to 1970 (originally a Greyhound Bus depot built in 1937). Ike & Tina Turner, U2, B.B. King and The Ramones have donned this stage but none more epic than Prince who made this his regular venue and setting of ‘Purple Rain.’ So yeah, see a show here!
Cheers, gents!
By, Brian McAleer
CEO & Co-Founder
Gent Life
