I recently had the opportunity to rediscover my own backyard (thanks to Meet Minneapolis) with a fun staycation in Minneapolis. We stayed at the Renaissance Hotel at The Depot and it was such a fun experience because it’s been ages since I’ve stayed overnight in downtown Minneapolis. It was also my first time staying at The Depot! Keep on reading to find out why you should book a staycation here!
Location
Located right Downtown Minneapolis, The Depot is perfectly positioned just minutes away from a few of my favorite Minneapolis neighborhoods. Just a block away from the river, step outside of the hotel for a walk along the Stone Arch Bridge, or stroll through the Mill Ruins Park or Gold Medal Park. It’s also a short drive over the bridge into Northeast Minneapolis, where you can grab some libations and delicious cheese at Surdyk’s or shop local at I Like You Minneapolis. Lastly, drive right down Washington Ave and you’ll hit the trendy North Loop neighborhood, where you have plenty of options for a late night drink or brunch in the morning!
Safety Precautions
With Covid, I know it’s been hard for some people to travel or even feel safe traveling. The Depot is actually home to two hotels, The Renaissance (where I stayed) and the Residence Inn. Both are connected and doing several measures to keep you feeling safe. There is only one check in point to each hotel, limitations in public spaces, 6 feet markings on the floor, and also no cleaning service during your stay. They serve you a pre packaged breakfast that you are able to take to go or eat in your room. They even go as far as putting individual coverings over the remote. Finally, the staff was wonderful should you have any questions or concerns!
Amenities
Originally built as a train station over a century ago, The guest rooms offer a mix of both historic or modern style. My room was very spacious complete with a wine fridge, modern bathroom, plush bedding, and tech features that made it easy to stay charged and plugged in as much as I wanted to. There was a beautifully tiled rainfall shower complete with AVEDA products that was the cherry on top! They also have a nice sized gym and pool that is open for hotel guests as well. Some parts of the hotel are closed currently due to a few renovations and due to COVID, but if you have the chance to explore the whole hotel, you will find a mix of modern furniture and vintage artifacts amongst the most beautiful wallpaper!
Milwaukee Road
Inside the Renaissance is Milwaukee Road, the hotel’s restaurant and bar. It was a favorite part of mine at the hotel as I could simply whisk away to the bar, grab a cocktail, and slip away back to my room. They are serving a limited menu right now, but it still has plenty of options to fulfill your appetite! We headed down for a couple of cocktails and ordered a few snacks to enjoy in our room. I loved the cozy and intimate setting, and it felt as if I was out for a night on the town, but without all of the hassle. They had a nice selection of wine and local craft beers as well as a few options for crafted cocktails too. I went with the blueberry lemon drop and it was wonderful!
Discover a new neighborhood or local business
My final reason pertains to not only staying at the Renaissance at the Depot but it also pertains to booking a staycation in your city in general! I always love any chance to escape the 4 walls of my apartment for a mini getaway because I get to re-explore a favorite neighborhood! The city is constantly changing and evolving, so if it’s been awhile since your last staycation now is the time! You never know what new local boutique, brewery, or restaurant you could stumble upon that will be your new favorite. In this instance, I was able to try a new (new to me) restaurant, Nolo’s Kitchen, for a little breakfast in bed and it was divine! During my one night away, I was able to try a few new things, all while supporting local businesses.
I had such a great experience with my staycation that I’m already looking into booking my next one soon! Meet Minneapolis is a great resource and they are sharing a ton of deals with local restaurants and hotels to create your own special staycation! Check our their website here for more information.
This is awesome. I live in the Area and have never been to any of these places. Will definitely be considering a staycation! Thanks.