Starwood Preferred Guest - Minneapolis-area General Discussion Thread (Where to stay?, etc?) [Master Thread]

Need some advice. I'm considering taking a new job with a company that has offices in Bloomington and Minnetonka, MN. I'd have to spend every other week there. Can anyone recommend Starwood properties that will be convenient for me?

Well....seeing that you are from Chicago, I would recommend the W there in Chicago.

There is a Sheraton in Minnetonka. That should be evry convenient for you when in Minnetonka.

There are many convenient, non-SPG properties in Bloomington.

I would not stay at the 4 Points St. Paul. The 4 Points Minneapolis is pretty nice for a 4 Points.

I conducted a search but could not find much. I have styaed at the Sheraton West... not impressed, and not convenient. Anyone have a trip report on the Four Points on Industrial? Should I chance it or just go to Hilton. I know there are a couple nice Hiltons. I have to stay for 9 nights.

Thanks for your help!

MSP does not offer much for *wood properties. I prefer the MSP downtown Hilton, a large, traditional property with a nice club room.

TF

Four Points Metrodome is regularly available through Priceline for $28.

I prefer the 4-points on Hamline to the one on Industrial. On my most recent stay there (at a relatively low rate), I was upgraded to a rather large suite, given a coupon for breakfast buffet, and 3-4 coupons for free drinks at the bar. In addition to the points, there was an amenity (chips, cookies, water, etc.) waiting for me in the room. This was my first stay at this hotel and a very pleasant one. I did not try the restaurant there, but there is a Chevys across the street which one can easily walk to. I have been upgraded to a suite at the one on Industrial as well and it was a usual stay at a 4-points. There is only so much I expect from a room/service at a 4-points.

The one on Industrial is vastly superior to the one off of University.

Just got an email...triple starpoints for stays completed between March 16, 2004 and June 30, 2004. There's no verbage in the email that this is targeted, but it could be.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Enjoy Triple Starpoints® at the new Sheraton Bloomington Hotel, Minneapolis South. There's a new place to stay in the Twin Cities, complete with Sweet Sleeper® beds in every guestroom and all the Sheraton amenities you'd expect. And when you stay by June 30, 2004, you'll earn triple Starpoints. Sheraton Bloomington Hotel is just minutes from both the Mall of America and the airport. So book today and get the most out of your stay in the Twin Cities.</font>

Lurker...is this targeted or is registration required?

no registration required -- i was staying in the hotel from april to may and got triple points automatically....was actually wondering why it was popping up until i saw it in the spg.com promotion pages

I stayed at this hotel on May 31st. The stay has posted, but not the triple points.

Has anyone stayed here....any reviews?? I am staying here for business this week. Thanks.

I just stayed there last week for one night on business....the staff was outstanding!!! Very warm greeting, and recognized my platinum status and upgraded me to a club level room. The hotel was spotless! The club room has complimentary wine and beer and appetizers, that were pretty nice. The breakfast was a bit on the scarce side but more than acceptable. They have high speed internet access for $10.60/day.All together, I was VERY pleased with my stay...oh yeah and as an added bonus, they give platinum members a $5 gift certificate to be used anywhere in the hotel, I thought that was a nice touch.

I like the Sheraton Minnetonka very much. As bsdstone says, the staff is great. Rooms are clean and well kept. Pretty large indoor pool. Club level has club lounge which has PC with high speed (free). I think the $5 coupon is extended to non-Plats as well. I got one as a lowly gold. Nice property.

Pretty much same feedback as two posts above: Great staff, full PLAT recognition. I have stayed there for a good few weeks around April/May '04 timeframe, just after its conversion from Radisson. I have only ended up in a "standard" room once, when they were really oversold. Otherwise, they were very consistent with suite and club level upgrades.

I have stayed there for a good few weeks around April/May '04 timeframe, just after its conversion from Radisson.
That would be the new one in Bloomington? Yeah, heard good things about it too.

Folks, the original question was about the Sheraton in Minnetonka (which was a Radisson many years ago), and not the Sheraton in Bloomington.

Yes, and bsdstone and I were both commenting on Sheraton Minnetonka. :)

By the way, much as I like the hotel, the restaurant there is not very good. Would avoid it and eat elsewhere.

Yes, and bsdstone and I were both commenting on Sheraton Minnetonka. :)

... while I obviously confused my bearings (South vs. West) and made comments about Sheraton Bloomington (aka "Minneapolis South"). I have actually never stayed at the Minnetonka propoerty. Sorry about the confusion.

so now im confused!!! Has everyone been ranting and raving about Minnetonka or Bloomington...its weird on sheraton's website it says this "Located just outside downtown Minneapolis, the new Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel features an impressive twin-atrium atmosphere." Is it new???

so now im confused!!! Has everyone been ranting and raving about Minnetonka or Bloomington...its weird on sheraton's website it says this "Located just outside downtown Minneapolis, the new Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel features an impressive twin-atrium atmosphere." Is it new???

Don't be confused. The Sheraton Minneapolis West (Minnetonka) is NOT new. The description is correct. bsdstone and choptliva were talking about the hotel you will be staying in -- the Minnetonka one. It is nice.
Hope this helps.

Hi,
Stayed at this property a few times before and was usually very satisfied. Last time was a year ago, and at that time they had no high speed internet in the rooms (just one machine in the lounge). Need to be in the area in the near future. Does anyone have recent experience there and can tell me whether they have put HSIA in the rooms yet?
Many thanks!
Chop

In March/April 2004 they had it in their club rooms (new at that time), but I am not sure about standard rooms. I recommend calling the hotel desk to inquire.

In March/April 2004 they had it in their club rooms (new at that time), but I am not sure about standard rooms. I recommend calling the hotel desk to inquire.

Thanks, CanoeHead :)

I stay there semi-frequently. There is now wired HSIA avaliable in all rooms for $10.60 per night. Up until recently it was somewhat slow but they seem to have upgraded/fixed the problem, it works fine now.

Thanks much!

As a Platinum Starwood member with over 100 nights and 47 stays, I could have received one of the biggest slaps in the face yet. Upon checking into the Bloomington Sheraton tonight (a Sunday), a hotel in which I’ve spent 90+ nights, I was told that they wouldn’t be able to upgrade me to a club level room. When talking to the clerk behind the desk he claimed that there were new rules and that I couldn’t be upgraded. On a Sunday night with the parking lot practically empty I was sent to the old tower of the hotel. But because my Platinum status still gives me access to the club level lounge, I spent the evening with the Lounge attendant Barbara, who is awesome, watching the final episode of ‘Six Feet Under’, and only saw one other person walk by on the entire floor.

This is sad how the hotel treats a person who has spent more time in their hotel than in his own home this year.

I guess this is the Sheraton Promise!!!!! :td: :td: :td: :mad:

As a Platinum Starwood member with over 100 nights and 47 stays, I could have received one of the biggest slaps in the face yet. Upon checking into the Bloomington Sheraton tonight (a Sunday), a hotel in which I’ve spent 90+ nights, I was told that they wouldn’t be able to upgrade me to a club level room. When talking to the clerk behind the desk he claimed that there were new rules and that I couldn’t be upgraded. On a Sunday night with the parking lot practically empty I was sent to the old tower of the hotel. But because my Platinum status still gives me access to the club level lounge, . ..

This is sad how the hotel treats a person who has spent more time in their hotel than in his own home this year.

I guess this is the Sheraton Promise!!!!! :td: :td: :td: :mad:


Welcome to FT! I'm curious, what are the "new rules" that have been implemented? Perhaps you should contact the general manager on Monday (if you are staying there longer) and ask why you weren't upgraded and get a clarification of the rules?

As a Platinum Starwood member with over 100 nights and 47 stays, I could have received one of the biggest slaps in the face yet.
Yah, I think you have a right to be upset, but should really escalate as this is more of a matter of speaking with the right level of management. That being said, get the front desk person's name and have a candid conversation with the GM about your disappointment in how their front desk staff is not aware of SPG terms and conditions. Offer this as an opportunity to reinforce the value of SPG guests, particulary those of the platinum shade :D.

If he doesn't bite, some escalation to corporate is in order as they are clearly in violation of their franchise agreement. Let us know how it goes.

That's odd - I was upgraded last night and I'm on the Club Floor. There was no question at all when I checked in.

I suspect there may be more to this story. There have been times that I couldn't be upgraded, but this hotel always seems to be busy and they have told me at check in if they couldn't. They didn't seem to have a problem giving you access to the lounge, so they did acknowledge you as a Platinum. And I've learned a long time ago that just because a large parking lot looks empty it doesn't mean that the few suites and Club floor rooms are also empty.

I concur with the others - ask to speak to the GM and tell him the clerk's name that checked you in.

i stay there all the time and am always upgraded to a "deluxe" room...not a suite but it's fine for my purposes. the staff there is EXCEEDINGLY friendly (though not the most competent bunch i have run across). but, they definitely try and that matters a lot.

the hotel's GM (mark faubert, i believe...pronounced "faux-bear") is proactive. i am sure a conversation with him would fix the matter. you can also call the front desk and leave him a voicemail.

if a conversation with the GM doesn't fix matters (i would be highly surprised by this result), i would: 1) check-in, 2) go to your un-upgraded room, 3) go onto spg.com to check if there are suites (assuming spg.com is functioning (a big "if")), and 4) call corporate services. that should also fix your problem.

as a side note for people that don't want to use Search, the hotel has a nice gym and the executive club hours are quite impressive. again, every member of the staff is over-the-top friendly. this property has become my hotel of choice in the minneapolis area, although you can't go wrong with the one in minnetonka either.

unfortunately, i have moved much of my september business to hyatt since i got a lame 500 series promotion (double stays...after i already qualified for 2006 platinum).

unfortunately, i have moved much of my september business to hyatt since i got a lame 500 series promotion (double stays...after i already qualified for 2006 platinum).

I am in exactly the same situation. Starwood should either dangle lifetime status (like Hyatt) or carryover excess nights/stays to the next year (like Hilton, if I recall correctly).

I am in exactly the same situation. Starwood should either dangle lifetime status (like Hyatt) or carryover excess nights/stays to the next year (like Hilton, if I recall correctly).

i actually rarely move business from starwood but FFN is too good to pass up. and, i have so many starwood stays this year...too many, in fact.

all things equal, i prefer starwood. even when all things not equal, i usually pick starwood.

Sounds like a classic time to invoke the Sheraton Service Promise...

I feel for the OP and understand why he/she feels upset. Especially on a Sunday, which sucks to be travelling, but regardless, what Service Promise? Guaranteed upgrades because you walked out into the parking lot and it was empty?

The hotel doesn't guarantee anyone an upgrade regardless of plat status. It's first come, first serve as I understood it?

Maybe a group came in and booked all club level rooms for a convention that came in on bus from the airport and got a great rate?

I don't get the "new rules" statement. Did the OP specifically ask what the new rule was and get it documented?

there's a real easy way to do some investigation. simply go onto spg.com. if club level rooms/suites (non-select suites) are available for your whole stay, then i would immediately call the platinum concierge.

having stayed at this property extensively over the past few months, i do know that they are packed all the time. and, while the hotel might have been 99% empty on the night you checked in, you have to make sure there are upgraded rooms available for your whole stay. the hotel isn't going to put you in a better room and then ask you to move.

so, yes, the capacity of the parking lot on a particular night is pretty irrelevant.

Out of the half dozen front desk clerks I've worked with at this property, only one was somewhat incompetent and gave me a lie about room availability out of more than 15 check-ins here. I found out about the lie when I returned after finding the south-tower room unacceptable and another desk clerk checked me into a deluxe north-tower room immediately w/o even asking.

I've been upgraded once to the club room level (7th floor) out of the 15 stays I've had there, and was offered another time for a jacuzzi suite (but refused since all I really wanted to do that night was crashing into the bed at midnight). Knowing how packed the hotel is all the time after these many stays, I've accepted as the norm. However, blatantly telling Plats. that they no long offer to even "attempt" to upgrade Plats, is simply unfathomable and clear violation of the T&C of the SPG program. Like others have said, I would confirm with management about this supposely new rule before I take it seriously and go up the chain within SPG.

What you were told was a bunch of hooey. My best friend is one of the Platinum supervisors, and I can assure you he is not told me of any so-called policy changes.

My best friend is one of the Platinum supervisors

good friend to have. ;)

did you get a good targeted promotion? :D

I stayed here a couple of months ago and was moved to the club floor without asking. Sounds like you just got a bad CSR.

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/050831/315690.html?.v=1

Press Release Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Landmark Hotel in Minneapolis Joins Starwood's Prestigious Luxury Collection
Wednesday August 31, 3:39 pm ET
The IVY Hotel + Residences Will Add a New Luxury Experience to the Vibrant Minneapolis Downtown Market

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 31, 2005--Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT - News) announces a long-term agreement with The IVY Hotel + Residences, a luxury mixed-use development with historic origin, to join Starwood's prestigious Luxury Collection portfolio of hotels and resorts. The IVY Hotel + Residences, a Luxury Collection Hotel, will be built to include three distinct structures - a high-rise residential tower and a mid-rise hotel tower - surrounding the ten-story historic IVY Tower landmark as the centerpiece of the project. Featuring 136 guest rooms and suites and 88 luxury residences, the development will also include a destination restaurant, 4,000 square feet of meeting space, a 17,000-square-foot resort-quality spa and wellness center, and upscale retail space. The development is scheduled for completion in spring 2007.

"The IVY Hotel + Residences marks The Luxury Collection's entry into the Midwestern United States and will be a perfect compliment to our existing Luxury Collection hotels, which are renowned for their distinctive landmark hotels, considered some of the finest in the world," stated Stephen Alden, senior vice president of The Luxury Collection. "This hotel will offer outstanding accommodations, spa services and is located in one of the most dynamic growth markets in the United States."

"Redefining luxury, The IVY Hotel + Residences will offer a new level of hospitality experience to the many executives and visitors to the elite Minneapolis corporate headquarters such as American Express and Target, as well as the Minneapolis Convention Center," according to Paul Wischermann, president of Wischermann Partners, a Minneapolis-based hospitality consulting and hotel management firm involved in several Twin Cities hotel development projects. "The historic significance of the IVY Tower + Residences will lend character, distinction and a timeless quality to the project's positioning and design while marking the rebirth of one of Minneapolis' most important and treasured historic landmarks."

The IVY Hotel + Residences will be situated in the heart of the city's vibrant downtown section, steps away from Orchestra Hall, Nicollet Mall, and will integrate Minneapolis' skyway system and provide convenient climate-controlled access to the Minneapolis Convention Center and all of the city's downtown connected buildings. The historic IVY Tower will provide the signature experience for Minneapolis hotel guests, where the majority of the luxury guest suites will be located. The solid, masculine character of the "little tower" will be balanced with plush furnishings, elegant fabrics and classic art pieces to create a true luxury experience for guests. All guest rooms will feature distinctive bathrooms with separate rain forest showers and oversized soaking bathtubs and 42-inch flat-screen panel televisions.

The IVY Tower will host a first floor restaurant, which expands into the garden level, the hotel lobby and lounge, and a three-story atrium. The second level introduces the spa and wellness facility spanning an entire floor throughout all three towers. The third level features state-of-the-art meeting space, business center and access to the convention center. The residential and hotel components will occupy the fourth level and up.

To sophisticated travelers worldwide, The Luxury Collection delivers the finest hotel experiences through their unparalleled attention to their guests' needs and preferences, their exceptional and distinctive properties and seamless integration of the customs, culture and environment of each property's locale.



Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

This is a good addition to the *wood family as Minneapolis/St. Paul is not the best market for them . . . particularly since Le Meridien location downtown is not going to be part of the family :(
Does anyone know where the Ivy is located?

Finally a decent (hopefully) Starwood hotel in Minneapolis...

This is a good addition to the *wood family as Minneapolis/St. Paul is not the best market for them . . . particularly since Le Meridien location downtown is not going to be part of the family :(
Does anyone know where the Ivy is located?

I believe that it is downtown, near the convention center possibly...

I believe that it is downtown, near the convention center possibly...

11th street and 2nd Avenue. Too far from the river for me. (Rather near to the Hyatt Regency.)

Just returned from a one night stay at this hotel. Was upgraded to 7th floor Club Level. Executive Lounge was nice - note: the lounge attendant said that there is a 2 limit drink limit and they don't have the ability to sell you more that you have to go downstairs to the main bar. I don't have a problem with that. Food was very good - steak tips in pastry, crab cakes, cheese/fruit/veggies, cookies.

The actual room was ok. I was at the end of the hallway next to the EMPTY Executive suite. The furnishings appeared to have been pulled out of about 10 different hotel rooms and thrown into mine - none of the furniture matched, none of the lamps matched but it all appeared to be decent quality stuff. The room was large. My only complaints are that too much light came in around the doorway at night and the inability to adjust the temperature in the room beyong about a 5 degree range. It apparently is some type of centralized heating/cooling system and while there was a thermostat, the temp doesn't change a whole lot in the room.

The work out area is nice AND completely empty at 5:30 p.m., which I found to be very unusual - but not complaining. The hotel feels a lot more like a 4 Points than a Sheraton to me.

Just completed a three-night stay. I was upgraded to the SPG Preferred Guest Floor (4th). I did not have a "Club Level" room behind the glass doors on the 4th floor. I don't know if the rooms are any different there.

My room was a bit run-down. The wall around the bed looked like it had some type of permanent stain around it - it was pretty gross. The desk chair fabric had a huge rip in it. Centralized heating/cooling system - it had a winter/summer mode and then high/med/low. In addition there was a heater in the bathroom that was running full blast when I checked in and there was no on/off switch. I had to call front desk to get someone to come up and turn it off.

The food in the club lounge is ok - nothing spectacular, but not bad. There is still a computer in the club lounge but you have to pry up the attendant in order to use it. Free wine is still there. In addition, I received two free bottles of water in my room each day.

BTW the hotel advertises a computer survey that you must complete during your stay (within 24 hours of your date of checkout) in order to receive 500 points. You must use their computer system in order to complete the survey, otherwise the link won't show up. I'm chasing the points now because the stay posted but not the survey points.

I posted regarding the Bloomington property also, and both of these properties feel more like 4 Points properties instead of Sheratons.

i think there are other EXTENSIVE threads on the minneapolis starwood properties. i have lived in them for the better part of the last five months and have written quite a bit.

all you need to know (or almost all you need to know) is that these are not properties where you would ever want to vacation. they are business person hotels and their sole purpose in life is a crash pad between meetings, dinners, etc. in a word, the properties are "serviceable."

having said that, for the most part the staffs at each property are very, very nice. i've had a few rotten apples, but they are far and few between.

the managers at each property are great. ahmed at minnetonka is great and andreas and max at the one in bloomington are top notch.

Just completed a three-night stay. I was upgraded to the SPG Preferred Guest Floor (4th). I did not have a "Club Level" room behind the glass doors on the 4th floor. I don't know if the rooms are any different there.

BTW the hotel advertises a computer survey that you must complete during your stay (within 24 hours of your date of checkout) in order to receive 500 points. You must use their computer system in order to complete the survey, otherwise the link won't show up. I'm chasing the points now because the stay posted but not the survey points.

I posted regarding the Bloomington property also, and both of these properties feel more like 4 Points properties instead of Sheratons.

1) there is no difference in front of or behind the glass. if you got your bottles of water, there is no difference.

2) the hotel recently lossed the person that takes care of posting the points for these surveys. but, they have the list of names and are going to take care of it. i also emailed ahmed about the survey points and he is on it.

3) i disagree. i think this is solidly a sheraton. it is MUCH better than the four points minneapolis. no comparison whatsoever. you wouldn't see a club like this at the four points. and, although i have never used it, there is a nice pool and hot tub. the four points also gives only one small bottle of water even when it is a suite with two people listed in the room. (are we supposed to share that tiny bottle of water?) no, this is definitely a sheraton and correctly branded.

3) i disagree. i think this is solidly a sheraton. it is MUCH better than the four points minneapolis. no comparison whatsoever. you wouldn't see a club like this at the four points. and, although i have never used it, there is a nice pool and hot tub. the four points also gives only one small bottle of water even when it is a suite with two people listed in the room. (are we supposed to share that tiny bottle of water?) no, this is definitely a sheraton and correctly branded.

On the latter we can agree to disagree and I do recognize that Starwood apparently agrees with you, for now. :eek: I've never stayed in the four points minneapolis but I have stayed at a few other Four Points including but not limited to the NYC Chelsea and Four Points Huntsville and Four Points Tuscaloosa. Both had rooms that were better equipped and in better condition than these Sheratons. Both the Huntsville and Tuscaloosa locations have club lounges with decent food. The size of the bottle of water is the same for me but yes, I did get two instead of one in the Minneapoolis Sheratons. I would prefer the 4 Points designation because then we'd get free internet access in our rooms. ;)

The furnishings appeared to have been pulled out of about 10 different hotel rooms and thrown into mine - none of the furniture matched, none of the lamps matched but it all appeared to be decent quality stuff. The room was large.

The hotel feels a lot more like a 4 Points than a Sheraton to me.

LOL - I'm sure the management of the hotel won't like this comment - the rooms in the smaller tower were renovated within the last six months. All the rooms have the same decor - it may a bit eclectic to some, but at least it doesn't look like a cookie cutter Marriott room.

I strongly disagree with your Four Points comment though - it is definitely a Sheraton - and a big, busy one at that.

LOL - I'm sure the management of the hotel won't like this comment - the rooms in the smaller tower were renovated within the last six months. All the rooms have the same decor - it may a bit eclectic to some, but at least it doesn't look like a cookie cutter Marriott room.

I strongly disagree with your Four Points comment though - it is definitely a Sheraton - and a big, busy one at that.

I might be expecting more out of Sheraton's than others. I've always expected Sheraton's to be of a higher quality and offer more facility-wise than Four Points. Although, I think that my experience with Four Points has been much more positive than others have had. If it's the sheer number of rooms, I will concede that this should be branded a Sheraton. :)

I actually liked the room and the quality of the furnishings - I see where the designer was trying to go, but I don't think that they quite pulled it off. :D

but at least it doesn't look like a cookie cutter Marriott room.


Mariott's cookie cutter is cutting better cookies these days.

http://www.experiencemarriott.com/en/select_version.htm

I strongly disagree with your Four Points comment though - it is definitely a Sheraton - and a big, busy one at that.

i agree. definitely deserved of the sheraton moniker. the pool, the hot tub, the gym, the lounge (with great hours and decent victuals) etc. all give the hotel the sheraton branding. i couldn't imagine this hotel being a four points.

What is the closest Starwood property that is located close to the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul?

Is it difficult getting in, parking and out of the area for hockey games?

Starwood-aside, are there hotels within walking distance of the Xcel Center?

One last question, are scalper abundant for Minnesota Wild games and are they generally ignored by the police?

Thanks for any info.

there are literally scads of threads on starwood's minneapolis properties. please do a Search and pose your queries in the most applicable <<existing>> thread.

there are literally scads of threads on starwood's minneapolis properties. please do a Search and pose your queries in the most applicable <<existing>> thread.

Yes, I did do a search and did not find anything about the location relative to the Xcel Energy Center.

Before jumping in with your answer, did you even read my specific question? Not sure why people insist on patrolling threads.

What is the closest Starwood property that is located close to the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul?

SPG.com allows you to search for hotels by distance from a given location. Using that and/or mapquest would answer this question.

Using Expedia.com or checking the websites of major hotel chains would tell you all you need to know about hotels in downtown St. Paul.

I'm still trying to figure out what parking and scalper questions have to do with Starwood.

I'm still trying to figure out what parking and scalper questions have to do with Starwood.

Absolutely nothing to do with Starwood, except I'm hoping that someone with local knowledge of the hotels in the area would also know the ins and outs of logistics and ticket availability environment. Parking is very relevant as if it is difficult to get in and out of the area and expensive to park, may forgo my Starwood stay for the sake of convenience.

Similar to many, many other discussions on this forum about local restaurants, attractions, transportation, climate etc. not directly related to Starwood but revolve around a trip.

For example, here in Ottawa, the Westin and Sheraton are not close to the Corel Centre at all, but you end up driving to the arena regardless of where you stay so there's not advantage to staying at a close non-Starwood property. If the game is sold out, don't worry, there's always a bunch of scalpers outside and police generally turn a blind eye.

On the other side of things, I've learned from these forums that even though many San Francisco Giant games are sold out, very easy to get tickets at face value.

Yes, I did do a search and did not find anything about the location relative to the Xcel Energy Center.

Before jumping in with your answer, did you even read my specific question? Not sure why people insist on patrolling threads.

:rolleyes:

i did. your query is still applicable to existing threads. no need to start a whole new thread when, in essence, your question is about minneapolis-based starwood properties.

i think there is an existing thread even titled as such (i.e., "minneapolis based starwood properties"). what a wonderful place to pose the question (in the form of a reply): "by the way, are any of these extensively discussed properties near the Xcel Energy Center?"

I believe it's Fourpoints St. Paul Capitol.
I stayed at the hotel last weekend, and went to see figure skating competition at Xcel Energy Center.
A taxi ride (5 minutes) was about $8 between Fourpoints and Xcel Energy Ceter at night.

Hope that helps.

I believe it's Fourpoints St. Paul Capitol.
I stayed at the hotel last weekend, and went to see figure skating competition at Xcel Energy Center.
A taxi ride (5 minutes) was about $8 between Fourpoints and Xcel Energy Ceter at night.

Hope that helps.

Hopefully, the stay is before October 31st when this particular property will no longer be a Four Points or a participant in Starwood Preferred Guest.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Hopefully, the stay is before October 31st when this particular property will no longer be a Four Points or a participant in Starwood Preferred Guest.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Actually I believe after 10/31 it wont even be a hotel (it is going to be leveled to become a Super Target, one of my clients is doing the design work).

To answer the OP...MSP is definitely in need of more SPG properties. I would recommend the Four Points on Industrial Blvd (even if the capitol one is still open, there is a reason it is going away!!! Not the greatest property). The one on Industrial is quite nice (I spend about 2 weeks a month in MSP on business).

On the tickets, I would recommend buy legit. They are pretty sharp in MSP and I wouldnt risk it.

Starwood-aside, are there hotels within walking distance of the Xcel Center?

Regular visitor to this area. The Starwood offerings in the MSP area are kind of a bummer. Was just at the Sheraton in Bloomington (former Radisson South) and the first stay - Plaza tower offer large rooms with nice furnishings. The second stay was in the Minnesota suite - one of the largest I'm seen at a Starwood - and again, nice furnishings. This is not super close to the Xcel Center - not even all that close to MSP, but was not a bad drive in the am to the airport.

If you want to step outside of Starwood, which I believe is completely acceptable in this area, the Saint Paul hotel is FANTASTIC. Stay there every year with family and it's great. The St. Paul Grill in on the main floor is top notch as well. It is within walking distance to the center, on a lovely little plaza across from the world-class Orway theatre.

Have a great time!

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/051214/20051214005527.html?.v=1

Press Release Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Sheraton Minneapolis Midtown Opens It Doors
Wednesday December 14, 11:14 am ET
$190 Million Master Development First to Open Sheraton Prototype Design Hotel

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 14, 2005--Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT - News) and Ryan Companies US, Inc. announce the opening of the first Sheraton prototype design hotel in Minneapolis, MN.

The 136-room Sheraton Minneapolis Midtown is located in the emerging master development of Midtown Exchange, a $190 million unique mixed-use redevelopment led by Ryan Companies that includes office space, residential units and the Midtown Global Market. Midtown Exchange also houses Allina Commons, the headquarters for Minnesota's largest not-for-profit healthcare provider, Allina Hospitals & Clinics. The hotel, connected via sky walk to Abbott Northwestern and Children's hospitals, is owned by Ryan Companies and managed by Wischermann Partners.

"We are thrilled to celebrate the opening of this hotel in such an important market as Minneapolis. This specially-designed hotel is indeed perfect fit for Midtown Exchange and is just the type of development we had in mind for the Sheraton prototype design," said Joe Gelchion, senior vice president, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. "To actually see and feel all of the great work and planning that our Sheraton design team has put in to this outstanding first hotel gives us a huge sense of pride and confidence in the success of our prototype program."

"The Sheraton Minneapolis Midtown will serve this market very well with its smart and efficient design and its energetic interior," said Collin Barr, vice president of development, Ryan Companies. "We are so pleased to have the Sheraton name associated with our project as the perfect compliment and an important component to the entire development."

Midtown Exchange, formerly a Sears retail and catalog warehouse, was built in 1928 and is on the national Register of Historic Places. The redevelopment carefully followed the historic preservation guidelines.

The Sheraton Minneapolis Midtown features urban architecture with a 19th century American park design boasting vibrant public areas. All guest rooms are graced with Sheraton's signature Sweet Sleeper(SM)Bed which includes a plush top mattress, down pillows, crisp sheets, and duvets in rich, solid colors with a simple patterned design. Guest rooms also feature an expansive 12-foot work area; LCD televisions; oversized bathrooms with double-frosted glass doors at entry and frameless glass shower stalls. Other guest services will include the Sheraton Club Level with upgraded room amenities and an exclusive Club Lounge. One and two bedroom suites offer a warm fireplace and oversized soaking tub and/or wet bar.

Specializing in full service upscale development, Starwood has brought extensive innovation and energy to its bold expansion for the Sheraton and Westin brand in developing prototypes that are two premium products of the same quality as core brands Sheraton and Westin. Both of these full service prototype designs are ideally suited for secondary and tertiary suburban markets.


Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

I passed the hotel yesterday. I hope the hotel does well, it's in an area undergoing re-development and is in a decent location for me to visit some family in the area.

Now that I move, a legitimate SPG property opens in MSP. And Le Meridianin a few months. I beg and beg for 5 years, I leave, and presto! :)

Great news as I'll be doing monthly trips to MSP in 2006 and will be nice to have another choice with SPG, and as others have mentioned I'd like to see the local area continue to improve. :)

Has anyone stayed here yet? I have a reservation for the middle of March and was curious how it was.

I stayed there last month for two nights when I couldn't get into the Sheraton Bloomington and I don't care for the Four Points. I thought it would be nice to have another alternative in the city.

Check in was terrible - the clerk didn't know what to do and literally couldn't operate the computer. They were on the phone to someone a few times asking how to do something, then finally asked if they could come and help. No help came. Not only was I frustrated, but so were the half dozen people behind me. The whole time a phone kept ringing and ringing adding to the experience. Finally I got a key and went to my room. Apparently I still wasn't checked in as it took another 30 minutes before I could make a call on my phone. (They told me I wasn't checked in when I called downstairs.)

The next day I came back to my room at 6:30pm to find it hadn't been made. I called downstairs and was told they couldn't get it to it for a least an hour, but did offer to move me, which I accepted. I got a similar room down the hall.

They next day I didn't have a bill under my door so I stopped by the desk and asked to speak to the GM to share my experiences. It was late morning, so I assumed he'd be there. I was told he wasn't available, but if I called back after 11 PM (!) he'd be available since he was on the midnight shift this week!

The property is new and good-looking, and the people are nice but I really feel none of them have a clue as to how to do their jobs. It has potential once they get their staff properly trained. And get the GM working days so he can monitor what they're doing.

When I called to ask if they had free parking I was told they did "at the moment", but they were working on that. I was given the same answer about free internet and a pet fee. I hope they don't work too fast at it.

We stayed at this hotel a few weekends ago and had no real complaints (other than getting the smallest room on the floor and having trouble figuring out how to operating the rollup window blind.) They seemed to be rather stretched on staff -- the guy who checked us in at 11pm or so was still on duty 12 hours later.

One final observation -- for some reason, they weren't (and still don't seem to be) in the system for award stays, so I had to have a phone rep contact the hotel directly to book my stay.

That's true about the award stays. I had to do the same thing a couple of days ago. Also, I tried to get a suite with award points and starwood showed all suites sold out (even for a paid stay). A call to the hotel directly said they had all sorts of suites available.

...One final observation -- for some reason, they weren't (and still don't seem to be) in the system for award stays, so I had to have a phone rep contact the hotel directly to book my stay.

...That's true about the award stays. I had to do the same thing a couple of days ago...

Guys...I can usually fix this kind of thing. ;) They probably do not have the award rate plan status set correctly.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Guys...I can usually fix this kind of thing.

awww, don't be so modest. you can usually fix everything. ;)

Guys...I can usually fix this kind of thing. ;) They probably do not have the award rate plan status set correctly.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I have emailed youm with my reservation number.

Thanks William

I have emailed youm with my reservation number.

Thanks William

Thanks. Once the hotel fixes the status set on the SPG2 rate plan, I'll see if I can change it over to an award rate plan instead of RACK.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Hi -

I stayed at the Sheraton Minneapolis at the end of March for some NCAA tournament games. It was a last minute choice to go as it depended on the results from games the week before.

I knew virtually nothing about Minneapolis and had never been there so I booked first through the SPG site selecting the Sheraton property for points but mostly because in the "Local Area" section, the Metrodome was listed as being 0.1 miles away from the hotel. That is nowhere close to accurate as the Dome is at least 3 miles away and not walkable by any stretch of the imagination. When I checked late last week the distance listing was still wrong although I had written to seek a correction for future visitors. For me personally this was an inconvenience as most of the activities I was in town for were geared around the Dome and the Nicollett Mall area (where ALL of the other hotels are located I came to find out). Probably ran about $50 in extra cab charges.

My other issue is that the property is very nice and still smelled "new" but the location is not that great. I understand there is a hospital nearby so if you are there for that reason then you are fine, but you are pretty isolated otherwise especially w/out a car. And cabs are expensive. The immediate neighbors were a transit stop, a KFC and 2 big liquor stores. There was no desire to take a walk around the neighborhood.

Other than that, the staff was exceptionally friendly and helpful. As a SPG Gold they gave me a Preferred floor (3rd out of 4 floors total) and what I presume to be an Executive King room and Club floor access - fine for me. But - the club doesn't have service on the weekends so, when I asked when the club would be open, they apologized and gave me a continental breakfast and an appetizer coupon for both days of my stay for use in the lobby bar/restaurant.

The fitness room was pretty good with a decent selection of machines and equipment. The indoor pool looked clean, but I didn't use it. It was a little on the small side for exercise purposes.

They did offer a shuttle to the hospitals and also within a 5 mile radius of the hotel but it was much faster just to order a cab to get around - or drive.

This was my first visit to Minneapolis and had a great time but would have liked to have been in a more central location. But the place itself is very nice as far as standard Sheratons go and the staff is extremely friendly (like all other locals that I met) and helpful even though it is true that there are still definitely a few hiccups in the actual service in some aspects (weekend food service and front desk issues). If you are there during the week on business; know the area; and have your own transportation - then I think this place is fine. But for a leisure visitor - you are far better off in the areas by the Dome, the Nicollet Mall or the Target Center.

That is one huge downside to the Midtown Sheraton. Its in one of the worst areas of Minneapolis. It looks nice inside, but you can't do much walking around after dark.

Aren't they targeting the area for revitalization and *wood just wanted to be in there early? I remember driving past before it was opened and was surprised to see its location.

Aren't they targeting the area for revitalization and *wood just wanted to be in there early? I remember driving past before it was opened and was surprised to see its location.
Well, the area is bad. Notoriously bad. I don't see "revitalization" happening for many years. They need to pretty much destroy the area and start over. Minneapolis hasn't been that safe lately (afew random shootings in the last month getting alot of notice in the press) and that area is especially bad.

I just stayed at the Sheraton Minneapolis Midtown for the first time. I usually stay at the Sheraton Bloomington on my frequent business trips to MSP, but thought I'd give this a try.

My bottom line take: I'd stay there again in a heartbeat.

The rooms are new, flat-screen TVs in every room are cool, Internet is free, and the Club Level breakfast (on 4) includes fresh fruit and other niceties. The decor in each room is more W-like than Sheraton-like, in my mind -- an amoire instead of a closet, and small double-doors to get into the bathroom (on the downside, the tub/shower enclosure is a bit small and the wrap-around curtain that goes up to the ceiling for the tub/shower encourages claustrophobia -- but I don't plan to be in there more than once a day, anyway).

By comparison, the Sheraton Bloomington is a bit worn and has little character. Plus, as a convention hotel, it is frequently difficult to book a stay there as a business guest without having to pay much higher rates than normal due to the convention room blocks.

While the Sheraton Midtown is in a bad area of MSP, a few blocks away on East Lake are some excellent restaurants (on the other side of 35W) and a very trendy neighborhood in, as some would say, "transition."

^ to the Sheraton Midtown.

As a resident of that neighborhood for 12 years, I assure you...it's really not so dangerous! Lake Street, in fact, IS undergoing a revitalization thanks, in large part, to projects like the old Sears site (where the Sheraton is located), Mercado Central, and others.

The area is populated with a diverse mix of middle-income and lower-income people who care about their neighborhood. The city and area developers are making significant improvements, with new retail and restaurants moving into the area, too.

Now, to be clear, this Sheraton is NOT next to downtown Minneapolis, Nicollet Mall or the Metrodome. You'd probably want to hop a bus or take a cab to those locations. I'd probably choose to stay at this location only if I had business there, was visiting Abbott Northwestern Hospital or was visiting family/friends in south Mpls.

All that said, visit that Sheraton with confidence that you are safe...because you are!

i checked in late last night and left this morning, so didn't have much of a "stay." i do have the following thoughts....

checked in and received no recognition of platinum status, an amenity was not offered, and i was not upgraded.

i booked the "Romance Package" but no one at the hotel could determine what it included.

i ordered room service via a hang tag for 7:00-7:15 AM. after two phone calls, it was finally delivered at 7:32 AM. the toast was warm, not toasted.

when i needed to check out a few minutes before 8 AM, there was one person behind the desk and also answering the phones. there was a line. she couldn't talk to customers because she was also answering the phones.

the property was nice. customer service was abysmal.

The problem with the staff issue in Minneapolis is that the unemployment rate is extremely low there. The May 2006 rate is just 3.4% for Minneapolis (3.1% for the surrounding county) vs. 4.6% for the USA.

It's hard to get ANYONE competent to work in Minneapolis as a porter or front desk clerk even at a relatively good wage since there are so many better job opportunities available.

Any more recent experience with the Sheraton Midtown? Have they worked out the kinks? I have a 5-night stay scheduled there around Christmas. Got a great rate of $85 per night during the few days it was available on spg.com.

A couple of months ago the Sheraton Bloomington Minneapolis hotel started offering a non-advertised business package, whereby for an extra charge of $30 per night one could add a host of benefits to their booking, including no-charge internet and coupons for discounts and amenities, plus 2000 bonus starpoints per stay. This package has since been added to the list of property specific promotions available on the SPG website.

The big draw for me was the promise of bonus starpoints. I have since added a business package on three separate stays in June of this year, but have yet to see any bonus points post. Clearly I will need to chase these down with the hotel directly.

Question: Has anyone else taken advantage of this promotion and actually had their bonus points post?

Thanks,

SG

Not me. I have a pre-negotiated rate that just went up to $159 :( and I guess I'm okay with it. The Sheraton Bloomington has an amazing staff and they make you feel at home.

Snow Goose I am about to visit this hotel and was considering adding this package. However, wondered if you have yet received your bonus points?

No points yet, but I fully expect to receive them. I have not put in a missing point request with the hotel, but I intend to speak about it with them in person this week when I am next at the hotel.

There are some really great staff at this hotel. My upgrade experience has been annoyingly spotty, but then I often arrive rather late in the evening. In 40 odd stays I have never received a suite, and only get a club floor room 50% of the time. I don't think the hotel tries enough in that area (considering I am a frequent stay Plat), and if it wasn't for the fantastic staff and conveniant location for my needs I would have sworn of this property long ago.

SG

Any recent stays at this property? I'm considering a stay here next month.

I stayed at the property in June 2007 because my normal Starwood haunts were sold out and the booking was done on short notice (same day). Overall, I was disappointed. I bought a club level room and found it to be small, fairly spartan and oddly designed. Some might think of it as a mini-W, but I wouldn't make any such comparison. It didn't feel hip at all, just oddly designed. I found myself searching for basic features.

Service was pretty bad as other posters have noted and there was no discernable platinum recognition. I WOULD go back, but only in a pinch. Given the price point of this property, I would either stay at the Westin or the Sheraton Bloomington in the future assuming availability existed.

SG

I stayed at the property in June 2007 because my normal Starwood haunts were sold out and the booking was done on short notice (same day). Overall, I was disappointed. I bought a club level room and found it to be small, fairly spartan and oddly designed. Some might think of it as a mini-W, but I wouldn't make any such comparison. It didn't feel hip at all, just oddly designed. I found myself searching for basic features.

Service was pretty bad as other posters have noted and there was no discernable platinum recognition. I WOULD go back, but only in a pinch. Given the price point of this property, I would either stay at the Westin or the Sheraton Bloomington in the future assuming availability existed.

you must have not visited the gym/pool. i think they have a great facility (given that it is a hotel). i like this property for its nice new beds, plasma TVs, 100+ TV channels, etc.

service is pretty hit or miss as is platinum recognition. i think the front desk personnel is not trained well. i thought the staff at the bar/restaurant were nice.

you must have not visited the gym/pool. i think they have a great facility (given that it is a hotel). i like this property for its nice new beds, plasma TVs, 100+ TV channels, etc.

service is pretty hit or miss as is platinum recognition. i think the front desk personnel is not trained well. i thought the staff at the bar/restaurant were nice.

You are correct... I did not use the pool or fitness facilities. I arrived after midnight and departed by 7:30 a.m. and paid a rate of $269. Granted, I was thankful for the room given the high occupancy rate.

Given my limited time at this property, my exeperinece may have certainly been skewed.

SG

I'm just completing a quick one-night stay here. It's a fine hotel, I'd say. I received plat recognition at check in, but no upgrade. The staff was very nice. The room is in great shape. I especially like the flat screen TV and funky bathroom with the french doors. One of the nicer Sheraton bathrooms I've ever seen. The room is small, but I have a nice view of downtown.

As stated earlier, downtown is a ways away. I arrived here from the airport via the light-rail and a quick bus transfer (the #21 bus going westbound, from the Lake Street light rail station), figuring that was cheaper than a cab. Actually, the public transit connection worked very well, though I realize that isn't for everyone. I'd stay here again, though the Westin Minneapolis is my preferred MSP choice.

I stayed here 4x last February and March for a total of 7 nights, and got some vague upgrades--to "Deluxe Club", which from what I could tell is a VERY slightly larger room, and possibly upgraded bathroom amenities.
Pros:
1) AMAZING variety of authentic food choices next door at the International Marketplace--Vietnamese, Mexican, Middle Eastern, American, almost anything you could think of. Good lunch specials, and very reasonable at dinner.
2) Great, reasonably-priced liquor store about 1/2 block away. ;)
3) Bus transit station in front of the hotel. A 5-10 minute bus ride to the light rail, then a 10-12 minute ride to the airport.
4) Really nice fitness facility.
5) Several excellent Mexican and other Latino restaurants within a 5-minute walk.
6) My breakfast, ordered in the morning, came almost immediately. And it was good: French Toast with walnut honey butter. Yum!

Cons:
1) Sketchy staff training--or lots of turnover--create a staff where few seem to know what's going on.
2) Neighborhood (and I live here in South Mpls!) isn't perfect, though to be honest unless you're trying to buy drugs it shouldn't affect you at all. (really!)

My question: Has anyone received a Plat Upgrade to the Suite here? It seems like nobody's ever been upgraded much here......anyway, this Suite is listed in the reservations choices online:
1 King/
Deluxe Suite Non-Smoking, Sweet Sleeper Bed, Den With Wet Bar, Gas Fireplace, 32 Inch Flat Screen LCD TV

Thanks!

Actually, the public transit connection worked very well, though I realize that isn't for everyone.

Speaking of "not for everyone," I love the hotel's location next to the Midtown Greenway. While I may be among the few guests ever to bicycle up to the registration desk (judging from the manager's momentary confusion), I'm sure that joggers also appreciate the easy two-mile run over to Uptown.

Not that the downtown Westin, or future aloft, are much further from recreation; the aloft will directly front the new riverfront park just east of the Guthrie. Foundation work on that block seems to have started.

I'm just completing a quick one-night stay here. It's a fine hotel, I'd say. I received plat recognition at check in, but no upgrade. The staff was very nice. The room is in great shape. I especially like the flat screen TV and funky bathroom with the french doors. One of the nicer Sheraton bathrooms I've ever seen. The room is small, but I have a nice view of downtown.

As stated earlier, downtown is a ways away. I arrived here from the airport via the light-rail and a quick bus transfer (the #21 bus going westbound, from the Lake Street light rail station), figuring that was cheaper than a cab. Actually, the public transit connection worked very well, though I realize that isn't for everyone. I'd stay here again, though the Westin Minneapolis is my preferred MSP choice.

I have to agree with everything you say. As a Gold, I asked for and cheerfully was given an upgrade to a Club Floor room (even though it is not an entitlement for Golds). Although the Club is closed on weekends, you get a coupon for a free hot breakfast (buffet was $12.95 on the menu) and a free hot appetizer (between 5-8 PM) in the restaurant. I had a breaded shrimp appetizer (menu price was $9.95). Not bad considering I paid just $85 a night for a 3-night stay.

The hotel also has its own shuttle van that will take you anywhere for free within a 5-mile radius (including downtown and the light-rail station) between 5 AM and 10:30 PM. If you want to get to the hotel late at night, the Metro Transit Center is located adjacent to the hotel and the Metro bus runs 24 hours a day.

In my club-level room, Wi-Fi Internet and local calls are FREE. That's not your typical Sheraton in my experience. Interestingly, the hotel has BOTH Coke and Pepsi vending machines and charges just $1.00 a can - not your typical hotel rip-off pricing. It also has a small "pantry" next to the front desk.

The property is immaculately clean and well kept up. The hotel has the full line of Shine by Bliss products. All staff members were polite, although a few seemed a bit inexperienced. All in all, a very pleasant experience. The ONLY downside is the neighborhood. But the hotel makes it easy for you to get around even if you don't have a car.

It is a bit of an adventurous location... I actually would call it quite centrally located to the cities, but not downtown. Transitional area, mostly pretty safe these days.

I would note a major plus to the location not previously mentioned: the Midtown Market is directly behind it, in fact you may not even need to leave the building. This is the redevelopment of a former Sears building, which now houses no less than 20 ethnic restaurants and grocery. For me, it would be a dream dinner spot after a long day of work in a rental car. Unfortunately, I live here.

I
My question: Has anyone received a Plat Upgrade to the Suite here? It seems like nobody's ever been upgraded much here......anyway, this Suite is listed in the reservations choices online:
1 King/
Deluxe Suite Non-Smoking, Sweet Sleeper Bed, Den With Wet Bar, Gas Fireplace, 32 Inch Flat Screen LCD TV

Thanks!

Well I can answer my own question: Yes, they do give that Suite out to Plats as upgrades! We paid $139/night in late September, not the best weekend rate for this place, and were upgraded to the suite with the fireplace, leather furniture and plasma TV in both the living room and the bedroom. I think it bumps up against the back wall of the Club Lounge, though there may be one more room in between. A really nice room, but I think there is only one in the property?? Not sure.
Anyway, I must say, it's SO much easier for me when I have family in town for them to stay here. If you live in South Mpls, it's great because to visit/pick up a guest staying there, you don't have to drive either 1) Downtown and deal with parking or 2) on the freeway to the soulless mall area down by I-494.

While staying at the Sheraton Bloomington this past week I went to dinner at Southdale Mall - a couple of miles from the hotel. Across the street at another smaller, high end mall called the Galleria I saw a large building going up. I was very surprised to see Westin signs on the cranes. I just did a quick search on westin.com and found the Westin Edina Galleria. (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1799)

I can't wait for it to open giving me a Westin option in the area. The renderings look great, and given it's location it'll be the only hotel in the Bloomington area that has some real restaurants and other amenties that you can get to without a car. I stay at the Sheraton Bloomington fairly often and it's getting very tired and the staff seem to have lost their spark.

I also saw info on a new aloft (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3074) opening downtown while searching as well.

Minneapolis is beginning to look like Starwood central!

I also saw info on a new aloft (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3074) opening downtown while searching as well.

Minneapolis is beginning to look like Starwood central!

Don't forget the new W in the Foshay Tower and the Ivy Hotel (an LC property) a few blocks away. That's three Starwoods opening downtown this summer. After the initial rush of the RNC, I wonder how pricing will settle at the upper end properties.

I have now stayed at the Midtown Sheraton in Mpls about 6 times as a Plat, and got the suite 2x. So there is no guarantee about getting it--there's only one. But is is a nice room. All the other rooms are simply nice, standard Sheraton rooms with Sweet Sleeper beds, etc.
Gym is nice with good, new equipment.

As most of the recommendations are a tad older:
which of the two would be better - as I need to go to MSP this week and plan to spend three nights - arriving late on Thursday - meetings on Friday - distance to either property is not relevant - and then have Saturday for some look around the area - yes it is wrong time of the year - before going back miday on Sunday.
Best in terms of facility / plat recognition

TYIA

Cheers

Thomas

I was there 2 weeks ago from Thurs PM to Sat AM and received a Junior Suite with a sitting area, big desk, and 2 tvs with HD channels. Nice place, nice shower.

As most of the recommendations are a tad older:
which of the two would be better - as I need to go to MSP this week and plan to spend three nights - arriving late on Thursday - meetings on Friday - distance to either property is not relevant - and then have Saturday for some look around the area - yes it is wrong time of the year - before going back miday on Sunday. Best in terms of facility / plat recognition

I'd give the edge to the Westin Minneapolis. More upgrade potential, but no executive club. Plat recognition is the same at both properties, but remember there is only one suite at the Sheraton. Period. You are right in the middle of downtown with the Westin and have indoor SkyWay access to nearly all of downtown. The Midtown is not in a great area and there is not much to "look around" at in that location, unless you are into ethnic foods at the market next door. But they do have an executive club. If it's not open, you can still get coupons for breakfast and evening appetisers.

I'd give the edge to the Westin Minneapolis. More upgrade potential, but no executive club. Plat recognition is the same at both properties, but remember there is only one suite at the Sheraton. Period. You are right in the middle of downtown with the Westin and have indoor SkyWay access to nearly all of downtown. The Midtown is not in a great area and there is not much to "look around" at in that location, unless you are into ethnic foods at the market next door. But they do have an executive club. If it's not open, you can still get coupons for breakfast and evening appetisers.

Thanks DCbob,
now after checking prices I made a reservation at the Sheraton as they had a 3 for 2 deal - costing $ 278 for the three nights I needed vs $ 537 = 179/night at the Westin. Seemed hard to justify the price difference.

Cheers

Thomas

Thanks DCbob,
now after checking prices I made a reservation at the Sheraton as they had a 3 for 2 deal - costing $ 278 for the three nights I needed vs $ 537 = 179/night at the Westin. Seemed hard to justify the price difference.

Cheers

Thomas
I happen to live near the "bad area" that the Sheraton is in. It's not great, no, but I've stayed there at least 10x and, in driving to and from the parking lot, taking the bus out front (directly to light rail, then directly to the airport--PM me for details--it's about $2 and 35 minutes total), walking to and from the International Marketplace next door in the beautifully redone Art-Deco Sears building, and even (!) to the liquor store across the street.... nothing has ever happened to me--in fact, I don't think I've ever been approached for money, etc.
But here IS what happens in that neighborhood: If you are looking for drugs or are in a gang, you might have some problems. If you're not, there are thousands of people who enjoy the neighborhood's edgy charms--in fact, I would prefer to eat at the Int'l Marketplace over downtown any day--but that is just me. Plenty of thousands would never step foot in my neighborhood.
It really depends what kind of experience you're looking for--do you like interesting ethnic foods (authentic Mexican, Middle Eastern, etc, but less "atmosphere", for less than $10 per person)? Shopping some interesting, funky smallish shops? Only a few bars/nightlife? Then Midtown it is.
Do you like fusion cuisine or huge steaks, with amazing interior design and Valet Parking--and want to spend $30-50 per person check? Or Applebee's, Hard Rock Cafe, Macy's, Barnes and Noble (i.e., recognizable chain stores) etc? Bars/clubs/dancing? Then downtown is better for you.
Of course a bus/taxi/car is about 15/5/5 minutes between the two.

Has anyone stayed at the new Hotel Ivy? And if you are platinum, how was the experience? Were you upgraded to a suite or larger room?
Thanks!

Has anyone stayed at the new Hotel Ivy? And if you are platinum, how was the experience? Were you upgraded to a suite or larger room?
Thanks!

Take a look at this thread:
The Ivy (LC) Minneapolis [Master Thread] (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=817990&highlight=ivy)

If you have any further questions ask away.

The new aloft is opening 5 Sep (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/preferredguest/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3074), right after the RNC. Category 4, with advertised rates of $159-$199. The Westin is often cheaper and has the same category -- for a location in the middle of downtown, restaurant, suite upgrades, etc. Maybe they'll come down on the rates eventually?

Update: well, looks like it opened early (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=854381).

Just stayed at the Sheraton Bloomington South on 8/8. Yikes, a relic from the 1970's!!!! One of the oldest Sheraton's I've seen in a long time. Huge hulking concrete block architecture, ugly gold swirly carpet and flocked wallpaper.

My room was in the shorter tower, and quite large (I'm Platinum)....but had an old musty smell. The carpet was scrunched up in 2 places, so you had to be careful not to trip over it (almost looked like there were cords running under the carpet).

Bathroom was small, furniture and lamps were really dated (again 1970's decor).

Room service was quick and fairly tasty.

Room rate was $103, so pretty cheap.....

Do yourself a favor and stay at the new Hilton Bloomington nearby.....just opened in January, and WAY NICER property......

Just stayed at the Sheraton Bloomington South on 8/8. Yikes, a relic from the 1970's!!!! One of the oldest Sheraton's I've seen in a long time. Huge hulking concrete block architecture, ugly gold swirly carpet and flocked wallpaper.

My room was in the shorter tower, and quite large (I'm Platinum)....but had an old musty smell. The carpet was scrunched up in 2 places, so you had to be careful not to trip over it (almost looked like there were cords running under the carpet).

Bathroom was small, furniture and lamps were really dated (again 1970's decor).

Room service was quick and fairly tasty.

Room rate was $103, so pretty cheap.....

Do yourself a favor and stay at the new Hilton Bloomington nearby.....just opened in January, and WAY NICER property......

Or better yet stay at the Westin Minneapolis at the LTO rate of $99 per night. Hurry before the rate is gone.

Are there any other business travelers used to Westins & Ws who are considering staying in the new aloft just to get the 4x bonus points? Will I be regretting the decision as I enter as European youth hostel environment with cheap IKEA furniture, economy A/C, and no restaurant.

Are there any other business travelers used to Westins & Ws who are considering staying in the new aloft just to get the 4x bonus points? Will I be regretting the decision as I enter as European youth hostel environment with cheap IKEA furniture, economy A/C, and no restaurant.

My next stay will be at the W Minneapolis. Aloft hotels are just a cheap no frills budget version of W hotels. No thanks, aloft. I will stick to the real thing - W Hotels. If it were quadruple stays or nights, I might change my mind if I needed to requalify as a Plat.

Just stayed at the Sheraton Bloomington South on 8/8. Yikes, a relic from the 1970's!!!! One of the oldest Sheraton's I've seen in a long time. Huge hulking concrete block architecture, ugly gold swirly carpet and flocked wallpaper.

[snip]

Do yourself a favor and stay at the new Hilton Bloomington nearby.....just opened in January, and WAY NICER property......

Ever since I drove by it a few months ago I've been anxiously waiting for the new Westin Edina Galleria to open. It's within a mile of the Sheraton and Hilton, but has much better location than either of them. Attached to a great shopping mall and across the street from an even larger one, there's a ton of things to do and walk to - restaurants, theatres, shopping etc - things sorely lacking at the other two. And a McCormick & Shmick's sign just went up on the outside of the building.

Most importantly I won't have to drive from downtown anymore to get my Starwood points!

Which Minneapolis properties are close or convenient to light rail? I dont want to rent a car or pay for a taxi downtown so hoping to utilize light rail and perhaps a shorter cheaper taxi ride. Thanks.

Which Minneapolis properties are close or convenient to light rail? I dont want to rent a car or pay for a taxi downtown so hoping to utilize light rail and perhaps a shorter cheaper taxi ride. Thanks.

aLoft is within 3 blocks and Westin within 1.5 blocks of different Light Rail stops downtown. W and Ivy would require a short cab or bus transfer.

The Four Points on Industrial, which used to be a favorite for racking up vast quantities of Starpoints during its stackable winter promotions, is now the "Global Conextions Minneapolis Gateway Hotel." Starpoints can be spent, but not earned, there.

(Global Conextions is a Starwood subsidiary which sometimes shows up in relation to Starwood corporate-owned, but not Starwood branded, hotels like the Boston Park Plaza and Chicago Tremont House.)

I love the new Sheraton St Paul Woodbury. (Location isn't great, but it's in the vicinity of where I need to go.) Staying there this week for a mere $101/night. ^

I usually stay at least one night at the Sheraton Bloomington whenever I am in Minneapolis. Ask for the unpublished "business package" at check-in, which for an additional $30 includes:

* 2000 bonus starpoints
* complimentary HSI
* coupon for 10% off a restaurant meal or room service
* 1 free alchoholic drink coupon
* 1 free (Starbucks) coffee coupon

This hotel participates in most Starwood promotions, including the current 1000 bonus points per night and 5k after 10 nights promo. So, for a single night stay paying $159 + $30, I can net 5000 starpoints plus the other bennies listed above.

Last year with all the stacking promotions, 6k per night/stay was not uncommon.

SG

Thanks for the tip SG. I'll ask if the Sheraton St Paul has the same pkg.

MHO on MSP hotels in the downtown area are as follows:

#1 overall: IVY - fantastic rooms, AMAZING gym/spa that blows away ANY of the other SPG property in MSP. This is where you want to be if you are a regular gym user. Ask for a Grand Deluxe upgrade vs reg King room for more space and bathroom with windows. Property is Elegant yet understated, staff is lovely, but not overbearing, complimentary beverages w/ wake up call

#2/3: Westin/W toss up - W for "the scene" at the bar, trendy (boardline tacky decor), but definitely the fun hangout spot. If you like W properties, you will not be disappointed. Westin for the nice low key experience, typical of a Westin. Similar to the IVY on a lesser scale. MAKE SURE not to get an even # room UNLESS it is the end suite...otherwise you face a wall.

PM me if you want specific room #s to request for any of the properties. I travel to MSP every week and rotate between hotels depending on where my meetings are that week.

MHO on MSP hotels in the downtown area are as follows:

#1 overall: IVY - fantastic rooms, AMAZING gym/spa that blows away ANY of the other SPG property in MSP. This is where you want to be if you are a regular gym user. Ask for a Grand Deluxe upgrade vs reg King room for more space and bathroom with windows. Property is Elegant yet understated, staff is lovely, but not overbearing, complimentary beverages w/ wake up call

#2/3: Westin/W toss up - W for "the scene" at the bar, trendy (boardline tacky decor), but definitely the fun hangout spot. If you like W properties, you will not be disappointed. Westin for the nice low key experience, typical of a Westin. Similar to the IVY on a lesser scale. MAKE SURE not to get an even # room UNLESS it is the end suite...otherwise you face a wall.

PM me if you want specific room #s to request for any of the properties. I travel to MSP every week and rotate between hotels depending on where my meetings are that week.

How about some pictures? :) hint, hint ;) ;)

I would choose the Sheraton - Bloomington (great advice on the business package - thanks!) or the Westin Edina Galleria. Westin is a brand new hotel as of last fall and is very nice. I bounce between the two.

I have also stayed downtown at the Westin and that is nice as well, but very pricey.

How about some pictures? :) hint, hint ;) ;)
haha! Sure thing...I will bring my camera with me next week!

haha! Sure thing...I will bring my camera with me next week!

Thanks, pictures make me happy! Just don't take forever to post them like some people, (cough, cough) tommy777 (cough, cough) :D

The Four Points is dead. :(

Westin Edina is great......stayed there one week after opening last summer and you could still smell the paint. Had a huge corner suite....fantastic.

Stayed there again last week, and as I checked in early they didn't have a suite or even a King room......but the double bedded room was still very nice. Huge windows, gigantic bathroom with a corner shower and separate DEEP tub.

Connects direct to Galleria. Starbucks and Barnes and Noble directly across the street. Free parking in attached garage.

McCormick Schmits resturaunt off the lobby, with a happening bar scene.

MUCH better than the Sheraton in Bloomington which is realy old and tired!

Just got back from a trip to Minneapolis, and we stayed in the W Minneapolis (the old Foshay Tower). They've done phenomenal things with that building. The rooms were very nice, the 27th floor bar excellent, and with a room they give you free access to the observation deck.

Just got back from a trip to MSP and stayed at the Westin Edina Galleria (which is always my first choice and has an Exec lounge), the Westin Downtown (no Exec lounge) and the Bloomington (has an Exec lounge).

Westin Edina Galleria is the best Westin property in the MSP area by far. Haven't been to the W or the Element properties yet but I have heard they are nice.

Westin Edina Galleria has (all but 1 in the 12 times I have stayed there) upgraded me to a corner suite (which is awsome) as a Plat. Nice Exec. lounge and on site restaurant (McCormick & Schmits) which is always busy but great food & drink. Andreas - the hotel manager is a great guy and is always involved with the customer as much as he can be. Every time I have been at the hotel, he has taken the time to personally greet me and make sure that I knew I was upgraded to a suite. Very nice touch. There are a whole slough of other places to eat across the street at the Southdale Mall (Cheesecake Factory, Maggianos, etc.) and the whole area is great for shopping.

The Westin Downtown is nice and is in a good location but valet parking is $28.00 / day which puts a damper on things (IMHO).

The only reasons that I like the Sheraton in Bloomington are for the following: a. they have a swimming pool that is about the size of Texas and a hot tub about the size of Lake Michigan, b. they have an executive lounge witch is very nice for an older Sheraton, c. they have great coupons that they give Plats (have to ask for them) on the weekend with 2 free drink certs and a free continental breakfast or credit towards full breakfast, and d. they do have great availability for Plats to snag some nicer suites.

I have also stayed at the Sheraton - Woodbury when they first opened and was not impressed with them at all. Treated like crap as a Platinum upon check in, no suites available (which there were), had to beg multiple times to get a crib brought to the room, very small pool and hot tub that 2 kids could fit into. Nice Executive lounge, but didn't get to use it because it was closed on the weekend.

Since the Westins were out of my price range for a recent 1-night stay, I quite enjoyed a stay at the Sheraton Midtown. Once you're inside, the place is really quite comfortable. And in cold weather, the suites have fireplaces. On this visit I appreciated the free shuttle service to and from the Twins game.

I have a weekend stay coming up in MSP and will be hopping between the Westin and W. I will have a car as we will be taking a few sidetrips out of town, but it sounds like parking at the hotels will cost me more than the rental. Does anyone have any recommendations for cheaper options within a few blocks of these props?

I have a weekend stay coming up in MSP and will be hopping between the Westin and W. I will have a car as we will be taking a few sidetrips out of town, but it sounds like parking at the hotels will cost me more than the rental. Does anyone have any recommendations for cheaper options within a few blocks of these props?

Why not try the Westin in Edina? About 10 miles from downtown it's in a great shopping area full of restaurants and easy highway access. Rates are better than downtown, and being a suburban property parking is free.

I have a weekend stay coming up in MSP and will be hopping between the Westin and W. I will have a car as we will be taking a few sidetrips out of town, but it sounds like parking at the hotels will cost me more than the rental. Does anyone have any recommendations for cheaper options within a few blocks of these props?

The TCF ramp next to the W was $12.50/day when I was there last mont. That's about as cheap as anything close in is going to be.

I've got a four night / four stay "tour" planned for next week. Westin Minneapolis, Sheraton Bloomington, Ivy, and Bloomington again. I am really looking forward to trying out the Westin Minneapolis and Ivy for the first time. I have stayed at the Westin Edina before and agree with other reviewers that it is quite good. In this case, however, the downtown hotel prices are actually cheaper than the 'burbs.

Sheraton Bloomington needs a serious remodel, but the staff and service are generally excellent and I cannot overlook the buckets of points I earn with their business package add on.

SG

If you're in town for 3+ days, consider the Ramp-Ride-Fly program for just $3/day:
http://mplsparking.com/ramp_ride_fly.aspx

Otherwise, the same parking garages are available 24/7:
http://www.abc-ramps.com/rates.aspx

They're in the warehouse district, about six blocks' walk to the Westin or W.

Why not try the Westin in Edina? About 10 miles from downtown it's in a great shopping area full of restaurants and easy highway access. Rates are better than downtown, and being a suburban property parking is free.

We're not really looking for a suburban experience and the Westin Edina is actually more than the rates I have booked so that's a no-go, but thanks for the suggestion.

You said you were arriving for a weekend stay. Did you know street parking in most parts of downtown Minneapolis is FREE on weekends (from 6 PM on Friday through 8 AM on Monday)??

The major exception to this rule is near the Humphrey Metrodome (which is only an issue if you are staying at Aloft).

You said you were arriving for a weekend stay. Did you know street parking in most parts of downtown Minneapolis is FREE on weekends (from 6 PM on Friday through 8 AM on Monday)??

The major exception to this rule is near the Humphrey Metrodome (which is only an issue if you are staying at Aloft).

Good to know. Part of our stay falls into that window so that helps a bunch.

FYI:
I see the Westin Minneapolis (downtown) is $73/night (!) thru July 5th, then $89/99 most days in July!
Never seen it that cheap.
Am considering a Mattress Run for Free Nights, not sure yet.....

Just completed a nice weekend in Minneapolis on some great rates, including the aforementioned $73 rate at the Westin. Had two stays at the Westin split by a night at the W in the middle. Both places look great and I love how they've made old spaces new again.

Westin
Arrived for the first night after midnight. Arrival was a bit tough as many surrounding streets are torn up for construction so we sprang for the parking ramp across the street ($27) since it was so late and we just wanted to get to bed. On subsequent nights, we parked on the street for free. Received an upgrade to a large suite with a living room, dining table, large bath with shower and tub, and small bedroom with no windows (this suite is kind of enveloped by another larger suite). In the haste of getting settled and going to bed, forgot to put out the DND sign and was abruptly reminded of that when the housekeeper knocked at 8am. I'll take the blame for the DND sign, but I was a bit peeved given the newspaper was still at the base of the door and we obviously hadn't checked-out yet. Our rate for that night included breakfast at B.A.N.K., which was tasty.

For the second stay, we got upgraded to a corner renewal room, which was a lot smaller than the suite, but had windows on two sides and fancy body sprays in the shower. Requested 2 p.m. check-out from FD agent and they happily agreed, but we had more issues with housekeeping, despite putting the DND sign out. Got the first knock at 11:45 (at least we weren't sleeping this time), but they went away. About 30 minutes later, they're back again (despite DND sign still being out). Mrs. G answers and has the following interaction with a woman who appears to be some sort of housekeeping lead or supervisor based on her uniform. We'll just call her :td: to protect her identity.

:td: Are you checking out?

Mrs. G: Yes we have late check-out today.

:td: (with attitude) What time are you leaving?

Mrs. G: In about 30 minutes or so.

:td: (still with attitude) What time will that be?

Mrs. G quickly adds 30 minutes to the present time and replies. Interaction ends.

While I'll take some blame on the first stay since I didn't put out the DND sign, the blatant disregard for the DND and rude behavior on stay 2 left us a bit uneasy. I've forwarded my account to customer care and hopefully they can make some corrections with housekeeping. Otherwise, this hotel was excellent.


W Foshay
Top notch. FD agent upgraded us to a large Fantastic Suite on the top floor and then spent 5 or 10 minutes with us basically serving as our concierge. He even printed out walking directions to one of our destinations for us. The room was definitely fantastic. Large living area with great W style and a dining table for four in the corner. Nice bedroom with large bath with shower and tub. If you like W's, you'll like the Foshay. Housekeeping honored our DND sign and were very friendly when we encountered them in the hall. The valets were even helpful in our search for a place to grab some coffee. All around great stay!

I really like this place. I didn't get an upgrade (except to Club Floor) but I was alone so it didn't matter as much. I really like the Global Market next door, with among other things, ethnic restaurants. One had a North Africa theme and the chicken curry was good. I would return, especially when rates are good like this time.