As with many of the nation’s other major cities, Minneapolis is experiencing a revitalization of its urban core neighborhoods, with younger, more affluent residents, business owners, and consumers flocking to older, once-distressed sections of town. New amenities available in places to live, work, shop, and entertain add to the momentum of revitalization of these spots.
In Minneapolis, the erstwhile Mill District has kept its name though the style of living has changed. The newest change in living there is the 183-room Canopy by Hilton, located in the Mill District. The lifestyle hotel is locally inspired, with nightly good tastings and other events planned. It is part of a development that includes retail and residential units.
The hotel development by Hilton, in collaboration with Sherman Associates and DLR Group, is the first Hilton hotel in Minneapolis. It combines the old with the new.
“The original structure is an example of the kind of large-scale commercial and industrial buildings that were being constructed around the turn-of-the-century,” said DLR Group Principal Ed Wilms, AIA. “Converting it has really been a labor of love.”
Situated in the former Advance Thresher/Emerson-Newton Implement Company, the century-old building now includes a new hotel connecting guests to downtown Minneapolis. Close to the Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, and the new U.S. Bank Stadium, hotel guests are also near the temperature-controlled Skyway system and the light rail. Mall of America, University of Minnesota campus, downtown St. Paul, and other popular areas are easily accessible.
Every hotel guest room has a canopy above the bed, foam topper on each bed, a 55-inch TV, a coffee machine, a workspace and free WiFi. The hotel’s interior has heavy timbers, exposed wood ceilings, and a central atrium, filling the space with daylight.
Each morning an artisanal breakfast is available, featuring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, or, if on the go, guests can choose a “Break Fast Bag” delivered to their room. Complimentary Canopy bikes enable guests to explore, and guests can enjoy a workout at the 24-hour fitness center.
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