Downtown Minneapolis is usually a grid of glass, steel, and a lot of wind. You walk through the Skyway, grab a quick coffee, and mostly try to avoid the cold. But then there’s the Elliot Park neighborhood. It’s one of the oldest pockets of the city, and honestly, it feels different. Right in the middle of it sits the Elliot Park Hotel Minneapolis, part of the Marriott Autograph Collection.
Most people think "boutique" is just a fancy word for "small rooms and expensive water." That’s the first thing they get wrong here. This place isn't trying to be a sleek, impersonal skyscraper. It’s trying to be hygge.
If you aren't familiar with the term, hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is that Danish concept of coziness and soulfulness. Think flickering candles, warm wood, and the kind of lighting that makes everyone look better. At the Elliot Park Hotel, this isn't just a marketing buzzword; it’s basically the entire personality of the building.
The Vibe Check: Why It’s Not Your Typical Marriott
When you walk into most upscale hotels, you’re greeted by a massive, intimidating marble desk. Not here. The check-in desk is tucked away under a floating staircase. It’s discreet. The lobby feels more like a wealthy friend’s living room, centered around a massive fireplace that actually gets used.
The hotel opened in 2018 as part of the Kraus-Anderson block redevelopment. It was a big deal because it helped bridge the gap between the corporate core of downtown and the historic residential feel of Elliot Park.
What the Rooms Are Actually Like
Forget those cookie-cutter hotel rooms that smell like industrial carpet cleaner. The 168 rooms here are deeply residential. We're talking:
- Barn doors for the bathrooms (which actually saves a ton of space).
- Key ledges by the door for your wallet and phone—a small touch, but it makes you feel less like a nomad.
- Illy espresso machines instead of those questionable plastic drip brewers.
- Stearns & Foster mattresses that are arguably better than what most of us have at home.
The aesthetic is very "Scandinavian Modern." Lots of natural light, soft grays, and wood tones. It’s quiet. Like, surprisingly quiet for being a few blocks from a stadium.
Tavola: More Than Just a "Hotel Restaurant"
Usually, hotel restaurants are where you go when you’re too tired to look at Yelp. Tavola Italian Kitchen + Bar, located right on the ground floor, is the exception. It’s a destination for locals, which is always the ultimate litmus test for a hotel eatery.
The focus is Tuscan-inspired comfort food. They have a wood-fired oven that puts out some of the best pizza in the East Town area. But the real flex is the wine list. They have over 50 wines by the glass. If you visit on a Wednesday, they usually do 25% off all bottles.
Pro tip: If you aren't feeling pasta, walk about twenty feet outside the back door. You’ll hit Finnegans Brew Co. The hotel actually has a partnership with them, and guests often get access to the "Brewer’s Den," which is a private club-style space inside the brewery. It’s a very "Minneapolis" way to spend an evening.
The Location Trap
Here is another thing people get wrong: they think the hotel is "too far" from the action.
Wrong.
You are literally:
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- 0.3 miles from The Armory (the best concert venue in the city).
- 0.5 miles from U.S. Bank Stadium. If you’re here for a Vikings game or a massive stadium tour, you can skip the $80 Uber surge and just walk.
- 0.8 miles from the Minneapolis Convention Center.
The neighborhood itself, Elliot Park, was once known as "Swede Park" back in the late 1800s. It’s a mix of historic brownstones and brand-new glass apartments. It feels lived-in. You’ll see people walking dogs and heading to the local clinic, not just tourists with lanyards.
What to Watch Out For
No place is perfect. If you’re driving, be prepared for the parking situation. Valet is the standard here, and it’s currently running around $54 for an overnight stay. That’s downtown prices for you. Some guests have also mentioned that because the hotel is pet-friendly (which is great if you have a dog), you might occasionally hear a neighbor’s pup if they aren't used to hotel life.
Also, the "open" bathroom concepts in some of the suites—using those sliding barn doors—look amazing, but they don't offer the same soundproofing as a traditional heavy door. Just something to keep in mind if you’re sharing a room with someone you aren't that close with yet.
Real Talk: Is It Worth the Price?
Rates typically swing between $180 and $400 depending on if there’s a home game or a massive convention in town.
Compared to the hyper-modern hotels in the North Loop or the historic grandeur of the Foshay, the Elliot Park Hotel Minneapolis carves out a middle ground. It’s for the traveler who wants luxury but hates the "look at me" energy of high-end boutiques. It’s understated.
Actionable Insights for Your Stay
If you decide to book, do these three things to actually get your money's worth:
- Use the Alexa: Every room has an Echo device synced to the hotel service. Don't call the front desk for towels; just ask Alexa. It’s faster.
- Visit the 3rd Floor Gym: It’s better than the average "treadmill in a closet" setup. It has a Smith machine and enough free weights to actually get a workout in.
- Walk to the Guthrie: Even if you aren't seeing a play, the "Endless Bridge" at the Guthrie Theater is less than a mile away and offers the best free view of the Mississippi River in the city.
This isn't just a place to crash. It’s a way to experience the "New Minneapolis"—a city that’s leaning into its Nordic roots while still being a major metro hub. Whether you're here for a game or a business trip, the goal is the same: find a little hygge in the middle of the North.
To make the most of your trip, check the U.S. Bank Stadium schedule before booking. If there is a major concert or Vikings home game, the neighborhood transforms into a massive party, which is great for energy but tough for those looking for a silent retreat. Booking on a "dark" night at the stadium often secures you a much lower rate and a more peaceful experience at Tavola.