The Westin Minneapolis

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building housing the Westin Minneapolis was previously the Farmers & Mechanics Bank building dating back to 1941. Inside, the hotel still showcases some historic relics from the bank such as a marble staircase and wood carvings, but the space is contemporary and grand, with modern furnishings and up-to-date amenities. The three-story lobby is a beehive of activity and serves as a meeting spot for both guests and local businesspeople. The ambience is both relaxed and formal. The space, called the BANK, is also a restaurant and features multiple spots for gathering, either at tables or in lounge settings with comfy sofas and chairs. A circular bar is right in the middle of the action, and the check-in desk is in the back. There's also a dining room for quieter meals, as well as smaller rooms for more private meetings. The Wine Vault features the bank's original safe. During the week, most guests are business-minded, but families and couples come in on weekends. 

The upscale Westin Minneapolis is situated in downtown Minneapolis, in the heart of the business district, with numerous corporate offices nearby. It's also connected to the Skyway System -- the city’s signature climate-controlled walkway that connects businesses, shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. Attractions within a half-mile of the hotel include the Minneapolis Convention Center, Target Center, the State Theater, and Orchestra Hall. Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts are about a mile and a half away. The hotel also is well positioned for public transport, and the tram to the Mall of America is a block away. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is about 11 miles away, a 30-minute drive.

Because the building is historic, guest rooms vary in shape and size; many are spacious, but some may be considered to be on the small, or at least the awkward, side. All feature Westin's Heavenly Beds topped with white down comforters and multiple pillows. Lounge chairs and sofas and flat-screen TVs are provided for relaxing, and there's a desk and ergonomic chair for those needing to work. Unfortunately, only Starwood members get free Wi-Fi in guest rooms. Colors are Westin's typical neutral earth tones, and some may consider the rooms to be bland. A mini-fridge adds convenience, as does a coffeemaker with Starbucks coffee. Safes, hairdryers, and irons and ironing boards also are provided. Westin's Heavenly Bath includes a steam shower, White Tea bath amenities, large towels, and robes. Grand Suites add soaking tubs. Maintenance is excellent, and baths are sparkling clean with shiny fixtures. 

The historic Westin Minneapolis is a popular business hotel because of its prime location in the business district and its numerous features designed to facilitate meetings and productivity. The large business center has several tables for gatherings, as well as computers and printers for guests to use. The Banker's Boardroom is a classy space with floor-to-ceiling windows allowing views of the city streets; there are also three private boardrooms, and seven other flexible meeting spaces. But the hotel is not all about business. Guests can arrange massage treatments in their rooms, and the stainless steel heated indoor pool is suitable for lap swimming. A whirlpool is adjacent, and there are three lounge chairs for relaxing poolside. In addition to the 24/7 fitness center, the hotel also has a gear-lending program so guests can work out in their rooms. Breakfast is served in BANK, and guests can choose the buffet or a la carte, both for a fee. Westin's Sleep Well Menu, delivered via room service, features foods and beverages that are said to help induce sleep, and there's a children's version as well. Dog guests are welcomed and can even get their own Heavenly Beds.