Describing itself as “the perfect mix of geek and chic,” Minneapolis’ The Commons Hotel welcomes groups with a blend mixing University of Minnesota-inspired science and tech know-how with contemporary, artistic design flourishes that leave attendees inspired to innovate.
The Noble House Hotels & Resorts-managed hotel, located on university land on the East Bank campus and under 10 minutes from downtown, invested nearly $15 million in a renovation and rebrand completed in 2013. Now the former Radisson property shines with a higher-education design flair that includes historic University of Minnesota photography, fanciful chandeliers reminiscent of atoms and molecules, light fixtures with filament bulbs and print signage playing on the use of fonts in various public spaces.
The inspiring design is also benefited by the use of reclaimed wood and jewel tones in the lobby, which creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that is complemented by a variety of comfy social spaces, such as a circular tufted leather sofa that wraps around an inviting central fireplace, serving as the welcoming focal point after guests walk in the front door.
Meeting planners who haven’t used the 304-room property in a while—it was the Ramada-branded University Hotel Minneapolis for nearly three decades—may be forgiven for being stunned at the total transformation of the hotel, which now qualifies for four stars and offers 20,000 square feet of meeting space, all on the second floor. Other meeting features of the hotel, which has a guest mix of approximately 60 percent group, include two ballrooms, 10 individual meeting rooms and two outdoor patios for receptions and other events. Groups of up to 500 can be accommodated.
“Geek chic” conferencing flairs include themed geek-chic wings, breaks that can feature games of Jenga and spelling bees and a signature Mad Scientist Break that tempts groups with “experimental treats.”
Owing to the demographic served by its U of M location, some 25 bars and restaurants are within a four-block walk of the hotel, which is surrounded by university medical facilities and connected by a variety of underground walkways. A big plus is the availability of a massive, connected $65 million university health facility available to guests, as The Commons is given an allotment of 20 passes per day.
Another location convenience is the property’s close proximity to the Metro Green Line, which serves the East Bank campus and connects to the Blue Line, traveling to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and the Mall of America.
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The Commons Hotel
612.379.8888; 800.822.6757
