Minnesota Meetings + Events Winter 2025 by Greenspring Media

SUBURBAN SOPHISTICATION

A SWEET Spot for Meetings!

Welcome to Westopolis – the closest neighbor to downtown Minneapolis with an impressive collection of venues to accommodate all your needs.

We’ll help you create the perfect meeting or event.

• Unique venues

• Room blocks

• Off-site entertainment

• Meeting incentives

• Transportation grant

• Free parking

• And more! Our services are always complimentary.

Pretty sweet, right?!

BY JULIE KENDRICK

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

» LAST YEAR, GREENSPRING MEDIA—the publisher of the Meetings + Events portfolio of print and digital products—held its holiday party at Forgotten Star Brewing Co. in Fridley, home to one of Minnesota’s many outdoor curling rinks. My team, perhaps improbably, rallied to take the Greenspring Media curling title and hoist the championship trophy. I say “improbably” because we were pretty much stinking up the ice—or at least I was—until the last few rounds, when we miraculously improved and took the lead. Minnesota and the rest of the Upper Midwest do not disappoint when it comes to wintertime activities. Having grown up in Wisconsin, I spent part of my childhood in the far northern town of Minocqua and got my snowmobile license at age 12. If you had seen me zooming about on frozen lakes and through the woods back then, you likely would have questioned the wisdom of the state letting 12-year-olds drive snowmobiles. Ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, and downhill skiing were also part of my life.

But there is no need for you to live vicariously through my childhood. All these activities are available to groups gathering in Minnesota during winter—in the Twin Cities and outstate. If you are unsure how to organize a group winter activity, Four Seasons Curling Club in Blaine, and St. Paul Curling Club and Frogtown Curling Club in St. Paul, can teach you how to take out your colleague’s stone; Jasper Guide Services in Mound will take you ice fishing; multiple companies in Ely and around the Twin Cities offer dogsledding excursions; and Grand View Lodge, Spa, and Golf Resort in Nisswa will set you up for a memorable dinner in a heated igloo-shaped enclosure. Read this issue’s Trend Report for more ideas on winter activities in the state.

Although my young life was filled with multiple cold-weather endeavors, today I stick mostly to occasional cross-country skiing—I focus now on what I enjoy most. You can do the same with your groups and embrace wintertime in the North Star State.

TODD R. BERGER Senior Editor tberger@greenspring.com

meetingsmags.com/minnesota

PRESIDENT TAMMY GALVIN

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – NATIONAL SALES JENNIFER MAX 612-371-5892 | JMAX@GREENSPRING.COM

GROUP EDITOR KATELYN BLOOMQUIST

SENIOR EDITOR TODD R. BERGER

MANAGING EDITOR AMANDA CHRISTENSEN

ASSOCIATE EDITOR LINDEN M. BAYLISS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR TED ROSSITER

ART DIRECTORS MICAH EDEL, TONY WAGNER

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR DEIDRA ANDERSON

ADVERTISING COORDINATORS

SYDNEY KELL, ELLIANNA RADOVICH

SALES + MARKETING SPECIALIST TAUSHA MARTINSON-BRIGHT

DIRECTOR OF EVENTS + MARKETING MEGHAN GESS

EVENT + OFFICE MANAGER RICK KRUEGER

MARKETING + COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST JOSH BREMSETH

SPONSORSHIP, PARTNERSHIPS + EVENT SPECIALIST ELISABETH WULF

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS KATHIE GORECKI

ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE AUSTIN SCHMELZLE

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR GERI WILSON

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER CINDY FISH

REPRINTS

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meetingsmags.com/minnesota meetingsmags

James Ave. S., Suite 152, Bloomington, MN 55431 Phone 612-371-5800 Fax 612-371-5801

HOUR MEDIA CEO STEFAN WANCZYK PRESIDENT JOHN BALARDO

The pages between the covers of this magazine (except for any inserted material) are made from wood fiber that was procured from forests that are sustainably managed to remain healthy, productive, and biologically diverse.

From left: Group Editor Katelyn Bloomquist, Senior Editor Mary Subialka, Senior Editor Todd Berger, and Creative Director Ted Rossiter stand triumphant with their curling trophy.

Introducing Westopolis

Two western suburbs of Minneapolis offer planners a cosmopolitan feel—plus free parking

BY TODD R. BERGER

Since 2017, Discover St. Louis Park has served as the destination marketing organization for St. Louis Park and Golden Valley, two suburbs just west of Minneapolis. In October, the organization rebranded itself as Westopolis, a moniker Becky Bakken, CEO of Westopolis, says seems only natural. “We have been referring to ourselves as ‘just west of Minneapolis’ since the beginnings of our organization,” she says. “Our role is to cut through the clutter and to stand out in the fray. The mashup of the words ‘west’ and ‘Minneapolis’ gives us an edge to do that.”

A big selling feature for planners considering the Westopolis area is The Shops at West End in St. Louis Park, a vast, vibrant, walkable shopping and entertainment district with major hotels, free parking, and excellent restaurants.

VIBE: “When we survey visitors who have spent some time here, they say it has this energy and this feel that they don’t always associate with a suburb,” says Bakken, highlighting the area’s cosmopolitan vibe. “We are the closest neighbor to Minneapolis. We’re closer to downtown than parts of Minneapolis.”

TRANSPORTATION: All major airlines serve Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, and it is a hub for Delta Air Lines and Sun Country Airlines. The airport is about 15 miles from both St. Louis Park and Golden Valley via major freeways. Several of the Westopolis hotels have airport shuttles, and there are also private shuttles available, as well as Uber, Lyft, and taxis. Multiple car rental companies serve the airport.

HOTELS: Nine hotels are within walking distance of The Shops at West End, with 1,500 total guest rooms between them. The DoubleTree by Hilton Minneapolis–Park Place and the Minneapolis Marriott West have the largest event spaces, both with capacity for up to 500. The AC Hotel Minneapolis West End, SpringHill Suites Minneapolis West/St. Louis Park, and Homewood Suites by Hilton Minneapolis–Saint Louis Park at West End have smaller conference rooms.

VENUES: The Metropolitan Ballroom & Clubroom in Golden Valley is Westopolis’ largest event space, with room for up to 1,000 attendees. D’Amico Catering operates the venue. The eclectic Warehouse

Winery in St. Louis Park holds 200 standing, and the West End Conference Center—also in St. Louis Park—is a bright, airy space for groups of up to 75.

RESTAURANTS: Bunny’s Bar & Grill— a St. Louis Park favorite—serves pan -fried walleye and deep -fried cheese curds. Golden Valley’s Schuller’s Tavern favors burgers, wings, and salads, and offers catering. Park Tavern in St. Louis Park plates everything from deep -fried dill pickle chips to ribs, with space for 200— plus 20 bowling lanes.

MUST-SEES & -DOS: Golden Valley’s modern Brookview Golf & Lawn Bowling’s Bassett Creek Room seats 250 theater- style, and Brookview offers golfing in the warmer months and cross - country skiing in winter. Theodore Wirth Regional Park—75% of which is in Golden Valley—also has miles of trails for outdoor pursuits. The Shops at West End is convenient for group dinners, high - end retail therapy, and taking attendees to the movies.

westopolis.org

Excelsior Boulevard at Grand Way in St. Louis Park

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square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

sales@renminneapolis.com MEETINGS AND EVENTS your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space,

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Make your next Minneapolis event

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor guestrooms and 600 parking

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and guestrooms and 600 parking spaces

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and on-site parking.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS Make your next Minneapolis event Extraordinary

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Over 70,000

MEETINGS

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AND EVENTS

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Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

Over 70,000 square feet of intriguing indoor and outdoor event space, 335 guestrooms and 600 parking spaces on-site.

612.375.1700 | Marriott.com/MSPDD sales@renminneapolis.com

Huddle on the Pitch

Allianz Field in St. Paul is the newest sports stadium in the Twin Cities, opening in 2019 as the home field for the MLS Minnesota United FC men’s soccer team. Sitting in the Midway neighborhood in between downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul, Allianz Field has multiple upscale venues. The Bavarianstyle Grand Casino Brew Hall favors long oak tables and benches, has 96 beers on tap, and seats 150. The openair Roof Deck has views of the playing field and scoreboard, room for 250 standing, and is ideal for networking events. The three largest venues—each with a capacity of 1,000-plus—are The Concourse, with a 360-degree field view; The Great Lawn, a 52,000-square-foot urban park just north of the stadium; and The Pitch, which gives attendees the chance to step onto the same field as the Minnesota pro players, MLS All-Stars, and the U.S. National Team. You also might arrange a penalty kick shootout with your attendees. –Todd R. Berger

mnufc.com

CUTTING-EDGE TEAM BUILDING

For a whole lot of exciting, lumberjackesque fun, book a private session (four to 25 people) or large group event (25-plus) at FlannelJax’s St. Paul, also in the Midway neighborhood. Its adrenaline-filled activities include ax-throwing, one- or two-person crosscut sawing of a log, and hammering nails with a hatchet in a game of “Thump the Stump.” FlannelJax’s St. Paul has event specialists on staff to aid you in event planning and to arrange catering and drink packages. –Todd R. Berger

ﬂanneljaxs.com/st-paul

The Grand Casino Brew Hall at Allianz Field in St. Paul

PERSONALIZED SIPS FOR SWAG & GIFTS

» GIVING AWAY cool swag and thoughtful gifts creates a lasting impression and treats attendees or team members to something special. Today, options for these go far beyond the traditional company shirt or hat to customized food and drink.

Jones Soda Co. based in Seattle, Washington, is an easy go-to for craft sodas with custom labels. Any image and wording planners want can appear on the bottles, and there is a range of timeless Jones flavors to choose from, like berry lemon ade, root beer, and green apple. These items provide a fun way to stand out, and the company can even create custom flavors if the order size satisfies requirements.

Sommsation is an online wine market place based in West Chester, Pennsyl vania, that features over 50 independent wineries and also offers sommelier-led tasting experiences. This year, it launched a new, useful service called The Gift List, a concierge-based offering that automates gift giving and is centered on high-quality, limited-production wines. ing to gift might simply contact the Som msation concierge, complete the gifting template, and return it with payment— Sommsation then chooses a wine gift based on criteria, encloses a personal ized message, and ensures delivery by the specified date.

jonessoda.com |

Meet in Minneapolis

Minneapolis wows planners with urban amenities and community charm

BY KATHERINE LAWLESS

» WHEN IT COMES to hosting events, Minneapolis sets itself apart as a host city. The city earned its stellar reputation by successfully hosting large-scale events, including Taylor Swift’s sold-out Eras Tour last year, which set new records for event attendance and hotel occupancy. With a population of around half a million and several Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the city or nearby, Minneapolis combines the infrastructure and variety of an urban center with the approachable charm of the Midwest, thanks to many venues’ dedication to partnership with local brands and makers.

“Minneapolis is a standout meeting and events destination for three key reasons: accessibility, affordability, and versatility,” says Christy Loy, Meet Minneapolis senior vice president of destination sales. Loy notes that throughout her career, meeting and event partners have often cited these factors as the reason they choose to host in Minneapolis and why they return year after year.

“Versatility is our secret weapon,” she continues, explaining that large events can take over the city while smaller-scale events fold in nicely with the urban and sophisticated residential lifestyle that is a staple of Minneapolis. “Attendees here can experience the best food, art, culture, sports, live music, and outdoor adventures in the U.S., all within a mile of their hotel or convention venue,” says Loy. “Our attendees continually express that Minneapolis is a city of too much to do!”

Minneapolis is built for convenience, and its transportation options make it easy to navigate. The Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is widely regarded as one of the most liked airline hubs in the

country, and is located less than a half hour from downtown by car or Metro Transit light-rail. The light-rail system connects key locations in the Metro area, including the airport, Mall of America, downtown St. Paul, the University of Minnesota, and popular neighborhoods. Attendees also might make use of the city’s skyway system to get around downtown. It is a 9 1/2-mile network of enclosed walkways that links buildings throughout the area, ensuring that inclement weather does not interfere with plans. The skyway links many downtown venues and hotels.

“There is a saying here that ‘everything is 15 minutes away,’ which is true most of the time,” says Kara Sherman, director of catering for Hotel Ivy, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Minneapolis. “Also, our downtown area is quite walkable yearround despite the weather. The skyway system not only provides function, but it also provides a communal experience for attendees while offering points of interest and entertainment as well.”

One of the city’s most comprehensive and capable spots for hosting grand

Minneapolis thrives for gatherings year-round, including in winter.

2 CONVENTION CENTERS

RIVER’S EDGE CONVENTION CENTER - Offers more than 150,000 sq. ft. overall, complete with ﬂexible pre-function space + over 60,000 sq. ft. of continuous exhibit space THE PARK EVENT CENTER - Offers 15,000 sq. ft. of ballroom space with 3,000 sq. ft. that can be used for pre-function space

gatherings is the Minneapolis Convention Center, a sprawling facility with over a million square feet of space designed to host conferences, expos, and other large-scale events. This year alone, the convention center hosted the American Physical Society March Meeting and the U.S. Olympic Team Trials–Gymnastics, among others.

For the Olympic trials, the center’s events team created a memorable attendee experience by allowing the festivities to spill out onto the sidewalks and streets of downtown. “That week included incredible work from [sports commission] Minnesota Sports and Events, including four blocks of a Parisienne-themed market on Nicollet Mall and a Fan Zone outside Target Center, complete with gymnastics activations, music, food, and photo opportunities for fans of all ages,” says Loy.

GATHER AT THE GAME

The Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area is one of the few metropolitan areas in the country that boasts a professional team from the MLB, NFL, NBA, and NHL.

In addition, the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Minnesota Frost hockey team has brought a new generation of Minnesota sports fans into the fold, attracting even more business downtown, although they play their games at Xcel Energy Center across the Mississippi River in St. Paul. Minnesota fans cheer on their favorite teams in top-notch sporting venues that double as hosts for concerts, conferences, showcases, and many other types of gatherings. This enthusiasm for the state’s sports teams makes athletic centers in Minneapolis even more attractive to event planners and attendees; they

are able to host larger and more sophisticated events each year. The largest sports arena in Minneapolis is U.S. Bank Stadium, a towering glass-roofed NFL stadium in the heart of downtown that hosted the 2018 Super Bowl and more recently, Mortensen Construction’s 70th anniversary and Ecolab’s 100th anniversary celebrations in its spaces.

“An NFL football stadium as a backdrop is an incredibly unique setting for any type of event,” says Ann Dunne, assistant general manager for U.S. Bank Stadium. “Our team can provide assistance in securing tours of U.S. Bank Stadium and appearances from the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders, Skol Line [a drum corps], Vikings legends, and even Viktor, the Vikings’ mascot. Some planners choose to lean in on the football theme, where others are

Clockwise from above: The 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials–Gymnastics used several Minneapolis venues, including Target Center; Nicollet Mall downtown is a transit-only and pedestrian zone; The Minneapolis Convention Center has over 1 million square feet of space.

searching for an elevated experience to impress their guests in our luxury spaces.”

Target Field and Target Center are named for the retail giant headquartered just a few blocks away. Target Field is home to MLB’s Minnesota Twins and has sweeping views of the downtown skyline, as well as flexible spaces that range from outdoor concourses and club-level suites to the stadium’s luxurious Legends Club. Plus, its catering menu includes selections from Kramarczuk’s Sausage Co., walleye fingers, wild rice, and beers from several craft breweries.

Nearby, Target Center hosts the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves, plus the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx. This stadium provides a similarly impressive setup for both sporting and nonsporting events. And no matter the size of your gathering, Target Center has you covered. The arena’s modern lighting, acoustics, and adaptable seating arrangements accommodate everything from concerts and large conferences to intimate meetings and private receptions.

CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

Those looking for upscale ambience with a local touch can turn to Minneapolis’

distinctive hotels, each of which offers a personalized approach to every event. In Minneapolis’ North Loop neighborhood, the boutique Hewing Hotel partners with regional sculptors to create custom ice sculptures of company logos, and it can host sauna experiences on its rooftop. The nearby Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis’s high-end accommodations and light-filled meeting spaces are further elevated by its on-site restaurant Mara, helmed by famed Minneapolis chef Gavin Kaysen. Hotel Ivy has an intimate style complemented by a lauded on-site spa and its own private skyway, easily linking attendees to the rest of the city’s offerings. Dedicated to finding creative partnerships with Minnesota makers, Hotel Ivy has included custom wood notebooks, leather coasters, and even a personalized craft cocktail from a local distillery into its events.

Minneapolis is also known for its arts and cultural experiences, and there is no better way to immerse attendees in the flavor of the city than to host an event in one of its many acclaimed educational and historic venues. The McNamara Alumni Center—a modern architectural

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis is Minnesota’s only Forbes Five-Star hotel; Above: Ecolab of St. Paul celebrated its 100th birthday at U.S. Bank Stadium last year.

marvel— and the Minneapolis Institute of Art are event spaces that double as artistic experiences. For theater lovers, the Orpheum Theatre and Guthrie Theater bring an elegance ideal for evening events, while the Weisman Art Museum and Walker Art Center allow guests to peruse the works of modern artists. Other venues, like the Machine Shop and the Glass House, cater to event planners looking to host in converted industrial spaces with a contemporary aesthetic and that perfectly illustrate Minneapolis’ storied milling past and modern flair.

“Minneapolis’ food scene has flourished in popularity and diversity over the past few years,” says Heidi Sohn, senior director of sales at the Hewing Hotel.

“The city, especially the North Loop community, now boasts a wealth of new and award-winning restaurants, offering some of the finest dining options in Minneapolis. Meeting planners frequently choose the Hewing Hotel due to its prime location within walking distance of these culinary hot spots, as well as nearby shopping and major venues for sports and special events.” North Loop eateries like Bar La Grassa, Thr3 Jack, and Spoon and Stable are popular picks for group dinners. Beyond North Loop, Minneapolis boasts many restaurants that perfectly blend local character with hosting capabilities, ideal for meetings, events, and dinners for out-of-town attendees. With walkable neighborhoods

full of dining and meeting spots, it is easy to find a place to connect over a meal in the city, no matter what your style is. Aster Cafe, located along the scenic Mississippi River in Northeast Minneapolis, is beloved for its warm, vintage atmosphere, perfect for social receptions. Brit’s Pub downtown accommodates up to 500 guests and brings a touch of British charm to the city with its classic pub fare and rooftop bocce ball lawn. Elegant Loring Park dining spots like Cafe and Bar Lurcat and Murray’s provide sophisticated private dining experiences for large groups. For a unique and culturally enriching experience, Owamni by The Sioux Chef showcases Indigenous cuisine with an intimate capacity for 60 guests along the historic Mississippi riverfront.

glasshousemn.com guthrietheater.org hennepinarts.org hewinghotel.com thehotelivy.com machineshopmpls.com minneapolis.org mlb.com/twins/ballpark new.artsmia.org targetcenter.com usbankstadium.com walkerart.org wam.umn.edu

The elegant Andrews Ballroom at the Hewing Hotel hosts up to 250; Right: Event & Venue Marketing Conference attendees mingle at U.S. Bank Stadium; Below: Hotel Ivy can host events in its connected skyway.

Come together in a place where big ideas meet big fun in Bloomington. Within the Twin Cities metro area, Bloomington is home to the world-famous Mall of America, featuring more than 500 retail shops and amazing attractions like Nickelodeon Universe, Sea Life at Mall of America, and FlyOver America. Over 50 restaurants at Mall of America provide endless options for groups, along with global cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs at Bloomington hotels.

Groups of all sizes can choose from 49 Bloomington hotels within minutes of top attractions and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Get around with ease, as several hotels offer free shuttle service to the airport and Mall of America, and Bloomington is well-connected to Minneapolis and St. Paul via lightrail. Find all the space you need bundled with group dining and entertainment that will inspire great communication and camaraderie.

i n you r ow n backyar d

With 45+ hotels, unique team-building opportunities, group dining options and, of course, built-in entertainment at Mall of America®, it’s good to gather in Bloomington! Plan your next event with us in the heart of the Twin Cities metro area. Get started at BloomingtonMN.org/Meetings

A Warm(ish) Winter Welcome

From all-outdoor fun to indoor activities, a dash of Minnesota winter spruces up events

BY LIANNA MATT MCLERNON

» WINTER IN MINNESOTA is famous, often fascinating those from warmer climates who have never experienced it. And while it is true that the season often comes with extra chilly temperatures and the need to bundle up, it also means you can give your attendees exciting, memorable experiences they might not find anywhere else. For planners who have a full day of work, activities like evening carriage rides can be a special treat. If you have more time available during the day, ice fishing and curling can bond teams.

Whatever constraints your event has, there is a seasonal activity that can give your attendees the magic of winter without any of the downside. As Daniele Villa, Visit Duluth’s president of sales and operations, says, “You can enjoy the good part of

winter. [As planners and attendees,] you don’t have to get up at 5 a.m. snow blowing. Everything’s all set for you to enjoy [the season]. And when you’re done, you get to sit by the bonfire and have a glass of wine.”

If you have limited time to shop around, consider working with Minnesota’s convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) and resorts to plan your winter gathering. Villa is quick to point to Visit Duluth’s complimentary concierge planning services, as well as financial incentives. Plus, Duluth’s location close to picturesque natural areas means urban resources with winter fun only minutes away. It is a duality that Rochester shares, according to Shawn Fagan, executive director of the Rochester Downtown Alliance. “Our extensive skyway and subway [tunnel] system lets

you explore much of downtown without needing to bundle up,” he says, noting the systems also connect with several hotels.

The Grand View Lodge, Spa, and Golf Resort in Nisswa offers lodging, two dozen meeting space options, and activities including carriage rides and igloostyle dining, where attendees eat together in translucent and insulated igloo-shaped enclosures. While these kinds of dining structures are often for six to eight—see B’s On The River in Watertown or Duke’s on 7 in Minnetonka—Grand View Lodge circumvents this limitation by positioning its igloo-shaped enclosures close to larger private dining spaces.

For planners looking to add some adrenaline to the agenda, Grand View Lodge also has Sherp all-terrain vehicle rides.

PHOTO Visit Duluth/David Schauer

“It’s a four-wheeler on steroids,” explains Kelli Wawro, director of catering at Grand View Lodge. “It climbs snow hills, it goes on the ice, and what’s great is that it will break through the ice—and it floats. We had a group here last year, and some of them had never seen ice or snow before. To pile them into the Sherp and go for this ride was pretty amazing.”

Other resorts that pair event space and winter include Giants Ridge in Biwabik (downhill skiing and fat biking), the Gunflint Lodge in Grand Marais (guided snowmobile tours), Breezy Point Resort (horse-drawn hayrides and snowshoeing), and McQuoid’s Inn near Lake Mille Lacs in the city of Isle (guided snowmobiling and ice fishing). And this is just scratching the surface of the winter fun to be had.

Complimentary meeting planning services provided

Over 20 venues and 19 incredible hotels to choose from including the four-star Omni Viking Lakes Hotel

Home of Twin Cities Premium Outlets® and ﬁve minutes from Mall of America®

Duluth’s Bentleyville “Tour of Lights” event during the holidays

Continued from page 17

Ice fishing and curling are iconic Minnesota activities that often get a bad rap for being cold, but they are not always as bone-chilling as they might sound. Jasper Guide Services on Lake Minnetonka (based in Mound) sets up roomy ice houses heated to 70 degrees inside and outfitted with tech that allows everyone to see the fish swimming below the surface. The indoor Frogtown Curling Club in St. Paul has a warm lobby just steps away from the temperature-controlled rink.

For many years, Jasper Guide Services has been the sole partner for Minnesotabased Oakmont Capital Services and its national company networking event. “People spread out across a group of five or six ice houses and move among the houses

to meet new people and catch up with old friends—and there are some games, too,” says Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President Daryn Lecy.

As for curling at Frogtown Curling Club in St. Paul, also indoors, Andersen Corp. Engineering Manager Nate Leland says when he brought a group there it felt like “something everyone could enjoy.” He adds, “The atmosphere is very relaxed and fun, [but you are still] able to weave in some strategy and competition.”

“Three hours went by in a heartbeat,” says Tyler Leonard, area manager at Baker Hughes (headquartered in Houston, Texas). He chose Frogtown Curling Club because of its capacity, flexibility, and commitment to fun. But while the St. Paul curling club is

beloved, it’s not the only Twin Cities curling spot available for icy good times.

Ruth Ann Setter, senior accountant at John A. Knutson & Co. in Rogers, loved working with Four Seasons Curling Club in Blaine, a Twin Cities suburb. “The communication from beginning to end was exceptional, the Curlers Lounge and catering were just what we needed, and the curling event itself was so much fun,” she says.

For snow-filled activities, Minnesota has an infinite number of snowshoeing and cross-country ski trails, but group options such as tubing and dogsledding might bring a little more excitement into the meeting itinerary. Tubing adds a rush of adrenaline without the workout. Twin Cities favorites include

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT) Grand View Lodge, Spa, and Golf Resort; Nate Leland; Grand View Lodge, Spa, and Golf Resort

Clockwise from above left: Group snowmobiling near Brainerd; Competing at St. Paul’s Frogtown Curling Club; Igloo-style dining at Grand View Lodge, Spa, and Golf Resort

Douglas F. Bryant Winter Recreation Area’s 10-story hill in Maple Grove and Buck Hill in Burnsville, which also has its Buck ’54 Bar & Grill for attendees to unwind at. Both spots have chair lifts and towropes to bring attendees to the top of the hill, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing options

Dogsledding has a hub around the small town of Ely (two hours north of Duluth) including White Wilderness Sled Dog Adventures, Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge, and Chilly Dogs Sled Dog Trips. A bit closer to the cities, Silent Run Adventures is in Monticello, about 45 minutes northwest of Minneapolis. At Silent Run Adventures, groups begin by meeting its Siberian huskies and learning about the breed and the sport of mushing (dogsledding). Its dogsledding trail is about 1 mile long, and groups can take plenty of photos along the way.

Even if your main event is not near these providers, businesses such as the Minneapolis-based GetKnit Events can help. GetKnit has 20-plus premade private event itineraries—including ice climbing and on-ice fish fries—but it also creates custom trips that can take attendees throughout the state.

“What we suggest, to create a nice and well-balanced experience, is to be bold enough to steer away from those corporate norms and really highlight some local partners,” says Nick Blake, president of GetKnit Events. No matter which winter excursions you choose, groups will find plenty of excitement and variety throughout the North Star State.

buckhill.com downtownrochestermn.com fourseasonscurlingclub.com frogtowncurling.org getknitevents.com grandviewlodge.com jasperservices.com silentrunadventuresllc.com threeriversparks.org visitduluth.com

The Suburbs Are Divine

These wide-open spaces outside the big cities are great picks for meeting planners

BY JULIE KENDRICK

Edina, a first-ring suburb with plenty of hotels and restaurants

While city centers receive plenty of attention when it is time to plan meetings, outlying suburbs of metropolitan corridors often have new and exciting gathering spots at the ready. Frequently within 10 or 15 miles from the heart of downtown, suburban venues provide fresh spaces for attendees and creative options for planners.

Planner Hana Chughtai of Hana April Inc., a creative agency in Eden Prairie specializing in luxury design experiences across the globe, explains the appeal of suburban locations. She says, “Many are easily accessible via major highways, streamlining travel for attendees and enhancing overall participation,” adding that these outlying locations might even have the peace and quiet needed for greater productivity. “The quieter environment of the suburbs creates fewer distractions, fostering better focus and engagement during meetings or presentations,” she says. “Plus, they often boast nearby scenic landscapes and natural spaces, creating a more relaxed atmosphere that can enhance networking and creativity.”

Kalsey Beach, president at St. Louis Park’s Do Good Events, agrees with Chughtai, and talks up the many options surrounding Minneapolis and St. Paul. “We are spoiled in the Twin Cities by incredible suburban locations that have easy access to downtown, stress-free parking, beautiful meeting rooms, high-end guest rooms, unique amenities, and great hospitality,” she says. Citing the many planner-friendly options available for gatherings in the Twin Cities suburbs of Bloomington, Eagan, Edina, Maple Grove, and Wayzata, Beach notes, “It is really about finding the right fit for your event’s mission and vibe, and also what will provide attendees with the best experience. I often say that one way to get attendees to events is to remove hurdles, and for some events and audiences, that means keeping your location in the suburbs.”

BLOSSOMING BLOOMINGTON

The fourth-largest city in Minnesota, the suburb of Bloomington is perched on the banks of the Minnesota River and known for being home to the nation’s largest enclosed shopping center, the four-level Mall of America. This top destination includes an indoor amusement park, aquarium, 13-screen movie theater, 500 retail stores, and more than 50 restaurants and bars. According to Andrea Naab, senior director of corporate and retail events at Richfield-based electronics retailer Best Buy, Bloomington is an ideal suburban location for business meetings. “Our team hosts several meetings annually in Bloomington, and we find it to be a vibrant hub that offers the perfect blend of convenience and entertainment,” she says. The city also has large hotels to accommodate meetings. Adjoining the Mall of America is the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, with 19,000 square feet of meeting space. The Radisson Blu Mall of America has 14 meeting rooms and two ballrooms, with 26,300 square feet of meeting space. Nearby is InterContinental Minneapolis–St. Paul Airport, the only hotel directly connected to the airport, which contains 30,000 square feet of meeting space.

In Naab’s view, a commitment to innovation sets Bloomington apart. “The city is constantly evolving, with new and exciting venues and entertainment options debuting regularly, greatly enhancing the experience for out-of-state visitors,” she says. “The abundance of shopping and diverse recreational activities nearby is a significant draw, allowing attendees to enjoy a dynamic mix of leisure and business without having to venture far—when you also factor in the easy airport access that makes travel seamless, Bloomington truly stands out as an ideal destination for meetings and events.”

Bloomington’s Mall of America

ENJOYABLE EAGAN

Brent Cory, president and CEO of Enjoy Eagan, describes the suburb as a vibrant, accessible, and versatile destination for hosting events. Situated south of St. Paul on the southern bank of the Minnesota River, the city of Eagan is a centrally located option. “We combine the convenience of a metropolitan hub with the charm of a suburban community,” Cory says. Eagan is a five- to 10-minute drive from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and Mall of America, and just 15 to 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. When it comes to hosting groups, the city has you covered, with 19 hotels and 2,024 guest rooms.

Cory says that Eagan has impressive meeting spaces perfect for events of all sizes. He points to the Eagan Community Center, which can host up to 350 people in its event spaces and has beautiful views of Eagan Central Park, as well as access to nearby trails. Sports- and luxury-minded attendees might enjoy the Nordic-inspired architecture of the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel, which is near the Twin Cities Orthopedics (TCO) Performance Center and TCO Stadium, the world headquarters and training facility of the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings. The hotel was designed with meetings in mind, and features 35,000 square feet of venue space and cutting-edge technology.

And do not forget food and fun, Cory says. “We have many amazing restaurants that have beautiful meeting spaces, such as Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar, Union 32 Craft House, and plenty more. For team-building experiences, we recommend going to Chip’s Pickleball Club for fun and competition.”

ELEGANT EDINA

Just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Minneapolis, Edina is a first-ring suburb that prides itself on high-end shopping and dining, along with abundant parks and recreational facilities. It is home to the nation’s first indoor mall, Southdale Center, which has undergone a major renovation to bring in a new slate of world-class brands, including Burberry, Rolex, Coach, Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, and Gucci.

Galleria Edina, another luxury shopping space in the suburb, is just blocks away, with stores including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., David Yurman, Tumi, and Eileen Fisher. There is also a connected hotel, The Westin Edina Galleria. With 9,100 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, 225 guest rooms, six suites, and free parking, it is a preferred venue for meetings in the suburb.

Naab says in addition to providing plenty of shopping opportunities and lodging options, Edina has many memorable and engaging choices for group activities. She sings the praises of Puttshack, an upscale, tech-infused minigolf experience with a location at Southdale Center. “It is a must-visit venue if you have not experienced it yet,” Naab says. “With its unique blend of minigolf and interactive surprises, your group is guaranteed to have a blast while sharing plenty of laughs.” The venue features private dining areas and group packages.

PHOTOS (FROM LEFT) Jon Ekstrom, Explore Edina, Hotel Landing, Experience Maple Grove

TCO Stadium in Eagan

Centennial Lakes Park in Edina

MARVELOUS MAPLE GROVE

As the city that dubs itself the “Restaurant Capital of Minnesota,” Maple Grove is expectedly full of excellent group dining options. Here, planners can choose from among nearly 150 restaurants, including familyowned businesses, chains, and hidden gems. “For the right size meeting group, Maple Grove is the logical choice,” says Anne Anderson, general manager of Experience Maple Grove. “Due to our dining and entertainment options, we have the second-largest retail footprint in the state, second only to Mall of America, and it is accompanied by a beautiful park system.”

WAYZATA WOWS

The city touts itself as a retail and cultural center in the northwest region of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, and is ready to accommodate guests with more than 1,000 hotel rooms at 10 hotel properties. While its hotels cater to meeting groups up to 150, the Rush Creek Golf Club can accommodate up to 300 attendees. For team-building time, Pints & Paddle is a 10-court pickleball facility that has become a popular venue for corporate meetings and events.

“We are a growing suburb that is a safe and protected city in which to live, work, and visit,” Anderson says. “Thoughtful planning by our city and property developers has allowed the city to shine when it comes to easy access and navigation throughout the community.” Maple Grove is also easy to access from other parts of the metro area, conveniently located along Interstate 94 and just 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and 40 minutes from downtown St. Paul.

In the state with 10,000 lakes (and then some), there are many lakeside villages to explore. But there is one that is especially popular among western suburbanites—Wayzata, which calls itself “The Jewel of Lake Minnetonka.” Taylor Stille, marketing manager at Wayzata’s Hotel Landing, says, “We are a lakeside community known for a blend of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and vibrant culture.” She notes that its picturesque

setting gives meeting planners a refreshing alternative to the urban landscape, with abundant outdoor and lakefront spaces.

Hotel Landing has 92 rooms and suites, as well as 4,200 square feet of versatile function space. “Designed for a range of gatherings, from corporate board meetings to elegant social events, our meeting spaces offer seamless, customized setups to enhance productivity and atmosphere,” Stille says. “For larger groups, we can offer expansive gatherings on the Great Lawn.” This outdoor garden venue accommodates up to 400 attendees and provides over 12,000 square feet of space.

There are plenty of dining options throughout Wayzata, both at Hotel Landing and nearby. “Wayzata is a haven for food lovers, boasting many unique restaurants, all within walking distance of the hotel,” Stille says. In addition to the hotel’s restaurant—Ninetwentyfive—which can accommodate groups of up to 140, there is the lakeside 6Smith, with five private dining spaces, including a rooftop; the coastal-inspired C ōV Wayzata, with lake views and private dining space that accommodates 30 people standing; and the classic Gianni’s Steakhouse, which has a 36-seat dining space with a dedicated entrance and private bar, as well as its Wine Room that seats 30.

bloomingtonmn.org eaganmn.com experiencemaplegrove.com exploreedina.com wayzatachamber.com

Rush Creek Golf Club in Maple Grove

Wayzata’s Hotel Landing

FOUR SEASONS EARNS MICHELIN KEY

The Michelin Guide released its second list of Michelin Key hotels in early September, which includes Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis. The Michelin Key designation honors hotel architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, good value, and significant contributions to the guest experience in a particular setting. The Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, which received a one-key rating for the first time, Michelin describes as “a very special stay.” The five-star hotel is the only hotel in the state to receive a Michelin Key. Its second-floor ballroom has room for 600, and in the warmer months its Riva Plaza on the fourth floor fits 350 for outdoor gatherings with impressive views of towering Minneapolis skyscrapers. fourseasons.com/minneapolis

Two Hotels for Mankato

» TWO NEW HOTELS ARE COMING to downtown Mankato after the Mankato City Council approved the projects in the middle of October. The City Center Hotel and the Landmark Center have both been torn down to make way for the hotels, which will be built on the sites and branded Element by Westin and AC Hotel by Marriott. Construction has begun, and both hotels are scheduled to open in 2026.

ac-hotels.marriott.com | element-hotels.marriott.com

MSP Airport Tops Again

Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP) earned the No. 1 ranking among mega airports in the J.D. Power “2024 North America Airport Satisfaction Survey,” which was released in mid-September. The mega airports category designates those that serve 33 million or more passengers per year. The airport also earned the highest customer-satisfaction ratings for each of the seven criteria that form the basis of the overall award, including ease of travel through the airport; level of trust with the airport; terminal facilities; airport staff; departure/to-airport experience; food, beverage, and retail; and arrival/from-airport experience. MSP has ranked No. 1 in the survey two of the last three years. “Our purpose is to provide exceptional experiences so Minnesota thrives, and this prestigious recognition demonstrates that we are delivering for our travelers,” says Brian Ryks, CEO and executive director of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP

metroairports.org

BLOOMINGTON CVB RECOGNIZED

» DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL awarded Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism with the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) designation. Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for the city. This is a reaccreditation for the organization, which was first awarded the DMAP designation in 2013.

The accreditation program requires a destination organization to successfully comply with several standards for performance. The standards cover nearly all aspects related to the management and marketing of destination organizations, including governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, destination development, and research.

“Our DMAP reaccreditation comes in the midst of a very exciting time for our organization,” says Bonnie Carlson, president and CEO of Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism. “The designation signifies our commitment to excellence in the tourism industry and reaffirms our mission of inspiring travel to Bloomington.” bloomingtonmn.org E ASY TO G ET T O , H ARD TO L EAVE 320-763-0102 | explore alex.com

Conveniently located between Minneapolis-St. Paul and Fargo, North Dakota, Alexandria is the perfect place to host any event. Whether a small brainstorming retreat at a lakeside resort, a team-building outing exploring a beautiful park or fascinating museum, or a large event with amenities for hundreds of guests, Alexandria offers hospitality and an experience like no other. Leave attendees saying “Wow!” Let Explore Alexandria assist by matching a planner’s needs with a perfectly curated and unforgettable experience. Reach out today to begin! Visit us online at explorealex.com, email info@explorealex.com, or call 320-763-0102.

Bloomington’s Mall of America

Visit Greater ST. CLOUD

Planning an event can be a lot to manage, but when hosting in Greater St. Cloud, there is help at a planner’s fingertips. Visit Greater St. Cloud is ready to assist with everything needed to create a memorable experience—and best of all, its services are completely free. Whether it’s a corporate conference, a large convention, or a special event, the team makes the planning process easy.

Located along the scenic Mississippi River, Greater St. Cloud is the perfect mix of small-town charm with the amenities of a bustling city. It’s easily accessible, so attendees from all over can get to the area with ease. Once they arrive, they will be welcomed by vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making their stay enjoyable well beyond attending the event.

Greater St. Cloud is brimming with activities to entertain attendees and adds that extra touch to any event. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are endless options like kayaking on the Mississippi River, hiking Quarry Park, or biking the scenic Beaver Islands Trail. If attendees prefer to relax, they can enjoy yoga at Shanti Yoga followed by a serene visit to the Bella Vita Salt Caves.

Looking to add a fun, competitive twist? St. Cloud’s downtown Mural Crawl is perfect for team building. Or, let Visit Greater St. Cloud organize a custom 5K run or walk. For something truly unique, the team can arrange experiences like ax throwing or escape rooms to break the ice and boost engagement.

Live entertainment in Greater St. Cloud is top-notch, offering plenty of opportunities for attendees to unwind after a day of meetings. From concerts at The Ledge Amphitheater to classic shows at the historic Paramount Theatre, there’s always something happening. For those who love nightlife, the historic downtown is packed with lively bars, eclectic shops, and delicious restaurants where attendees can network and relax.

Greater St. Cloud has venues to fit events of all sizes. For large conventions, the River’s Edge Convention Center is ideal. Located downtown with stunning views of the Mississippi River, it boasts 150,000 square feet of flexible space and can accommodate up to 10,000 attendees. For midsize gatherings, The Park Event Center in nearby Waite Park offers 15,000 square feet of event space, plus two connected hotels and a restaurant

on-site, making it an all-in-one option. For a more intimate setting, Greater St. Cloud has charming spaces like the Stearns History Museum, the elegant Regency Venue, and additional flexible options at universities. These distinctive venues are perfect for adding flair to any gathering while providing exceptional service.

Visit Greater St. Cloud can simplify one of the most daunting tasks—securing hotel room blocks. It takes care of gathering availability and rates from area hotels, allowing planners to choose the best fit for attendees. Whether a planner needs everyone in one location or spread across several hotels, the team can coordinate it. Once selected, room blocks are set up under the event’s name, and Visit Greater St. Cloud can even provide booking links for attendees to easily reserve rooms at special rates.

What truly sets Greater St. Cloud apart is the commitment of the team at Visit Greater St. Cloud to go above and beyond. Its breadth of complimentary services extend beyond venue selection and room blocks; it can provide welcome tables, registration assistance, custom itineraries, and coordination of shuttles to transport attendees between venues. As the event date approaches, the team

is ready to help with extras like welcome bags, name badges, and even signage—from design to printing.

The dedicated team at Visit Greater St. Cloud acts as an extension of a planning committee. It’s not just there to provide information—it’s genuinely invested in making the event a success. When planners work with this team, they tap into local expertise and a passion for showcasing everything this vibrant region has to offer.

Working with Visit Greater St. Cloud takes the stress out of planning. Its complimentary services allow planners to focus on what really matters—creating an unforgettable experience for attendees. Whether it’s coordinating a custom activity, setting up seamless registration, or simply making sure everyone has a great time, Visit Greater St. Cloud has it covered.

So, if a planner is looking for a destination that can deliver a memorable event without breaking the bank, look no further. Greater St. Cloud is ready to welcome attendees, and with Visit Greater St. Cloud assisting, planners can rest easy knowing the event is in expert hands. Reach out today and let the award-winning team help turn vision into reality.

Festive Cheer for MPI Minnesota

The Meetings Professionals International (MPI) Minnesota Chapter’s Holiday Celebration & Silent Auction transformed the Courtyard Edina Bloomington into a whimsical Candy Land-themed wonderland on Nov. 20 in Bloomington. The event brought together nearly 100 meeting and event professionals from across the region, creating an afternoon filled with festive cheer, networking, and a shared passion for the meetings and events industry. Highlights included a coffee and hot chocolate station featuring flavored syrups, candy toppings, and whipped cream—perfectly paired with setups depicting Candy Land’s Lollipop Woods and Gumdrop Pass, courtesy of Event Lab of Eden Prairie. A standout feature of the event was the silent auction, where attendees bid on 75 unique items, including hotel stays, dinners, and curated gift baskets.

1. Brenda Probasco, Clinton Greenebaum, Elizabeth Sherry, and Matthew Sherry 2. Pink Peppermint signature cocktail 3. Savannah Fargen and Nicole Palkowitsch 4. Brenna Wood and Allie Lea 5. Shawn Petersen, Elizabeth Sherry, Brenda Probasco, Matthew Sherry, Jessica Derrick-Elavsky, Collin O’Brien, Katie Langland, Jenny Ng, Kari Hemp, and Brenna Wood 6. Katie Langland and Kari Hemp 7. Peppermint Twist Holiday Basket donated by D’Amico Catering 8. Amanda LaHay, Andrew Kohls, and Cathy Aaseng

VISIT DULUTH

YOUR MEETING

DULUTH TODAY & STAY TO RECHARGE

DESTINATION

Looking for a location that will provide the “wow” factor for your next corporate meeting or retreat? Duluth offers more than just a productive setting—it also provides an inspiring backdrop of natural beauty and a vibrant culture, making the city an ideal destination for business and pleasure.

Recently named by CNN as a “Best Town to Visit,” recognized on Travel + Leisure’s list of “25 Best Beaches in the USA,” and named on TripSavvy’s list of “10 Places Food Lovers Should Visit in 2023,” Duluth is a host city that seamlessly blends business with pleasure for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy outdoor adventures on land and water or explore unique local shops—there is no shortage of ways to unwind. You can also explore the city’s breweries, cozy coffee shops, and renowned restaurants,

which provide the perfect spots to recharge after your meeting.

Located just a short drive from major Midwest cities, Duluth is an accessible and stress-free destination for corporate and association events. The city offers a range of lodging options with no attrition fees, as well as personalized, free concierge services from Visit Duluth to ensure your team stays refreshed and inspired throughout your visit. With access to 275,000 square feet of exposition space, 11 flag and boutique hotels, and 1,600 rooms within walking distance of the convention center and area attractions—Duluth is the perfect place for your meeting. Don’t just schedule your meeting in Duluth—make it a trip to remember. Take the time to stay longer, unwind, and recharge in this superior destination on the shores of Lake Superior.

The Prolific Pivoter

From honeybee videos to quickly staged events for Gov. Tim Walz, Dale Kivimaki has a knack for creative solutions

BY TODD R. BERGER

Roseville native Dale Kivimaki, president of Minneapolis’ Freestyle Productions, is schooled in the art of the pivot. He has demonstrated this on countless occasions throughout his career, such as a few years back when a client in Puerto Rico wanted to bring Freestyle’s large-pixel LED screens into a ballroom, a move Kivimaki knew would not look as good due to the pixelation attendees would see. He quickly found an area provider for a smaller-pixel screen, and all was then well with the client and attendees.

Another adaptation developed close to home.

“We were doing the Minnesota Ag & Food Summit Hosted by AgriGrowth at the Minneapolis Convention Center on Nov. 7,” he shares, “and in the middle of that, we received text messages from a woman we worked with on the Harris-Walz campaign saying they were going to have an event for Gov. Tim Walz to welcome him home [after the election] the next day.” Kivimaki and his team worked quickly to not only finish work on the agriculture summit, but also plan and execute Gov. Walz’s appearance—his first public remarks following the election—in the Eagan High School auditorium. Both events went off without a hitch.

Freestyle Productions will handle some or all sound, lights, video, stages, and decor for more than 100 events this year, ranging from corporate and nonprofit gatherings to fairs and festivals. Kivimaki’s focus is always on his event-planner partners.

“When we are working with a new client, we find out first what they need and what they are trying to achieve,” Kivimaki explains, “and then we come back to them later with CAD drawings and sketches of what we would like to put in the ballroom at the Hilton Minneapolis, the Armory, The Depot Minneapolis, or the North End Event Center at the Minnesota State Fair, for example. Our job is really to make the experience the best we can for attendees with the money we have available.”

But even with Kivimaki’s considerable skill for visual spectacles, it is the finding of creative solutions to almost any situation that gets him excited. At the Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul, for example, he notes, “At the University of Minnesota Bee Lab booth, the beekeeper comes in and takes the top off the beehive, and we set up a camera above that zooms in on the bees, so people who are watching can see what is going on. It’s a really cool demonstration.”

FREE ASSISTANCE FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT

WE’LL MAKE PLANNING YOUR NEXT EVENT EASY, FROM FREE SERVICES TO VENUES THAT WILL IMPRESS YOUR ATTENDEES. WE HAVE 7 DEDICATED STAFF MEMBERS READY TO HELP PLAN AND EXECUTE A MEMORABLE EVENT IN GREATER ST. CLOUD!

RIVER’S EDGE CONVENTION CENTER

With 150,000 square feet overall and more than 60,000 continuous, River’s Edge Convention Center is a multi-use facility that’s perfect for events, shows, meetings, conventions and more!

THE PARK EVENT CENTER

With 15,000 square feet of ﬂexible space, 2 attached hotels, and a restaurant onsite The Park is equipped with the services and amenities desired to host events of all sizes.

HOLIDAY INN AND SUITES

Newly rennovated, the Holiday Inn and Suites is the largest full service hotel in Greater St. Cloud. Offering 12 meeting/event rooms with a combined total of 25,800 sq. ft., 250 rooms, several pools, and multiple rec areas.

A new generation MEETING places. of

Discover exceptonal meetngs at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel in Eagan, Minnesota. With 35,000 square feet of versatle space, state-of-the-art AV technology, and tailored planning, we redefne the event experience. Elevate your occasion with distnctve experiences, and explore our four restaurant and bar optons, including Kyndred Hearth, where James Beard award-winning chef Ann Kim turns familiar favorites into culinary masterpieces. Guests can also unwind at Idlewild Spa and enjoy a Nordic spa experience. Book now to turn your meetngs into lastng memories.