36 Hours: Fashion, Fun and Food in Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a city that will surprise visitors who don’t do their homework before travelling. This writer was, but pleasantly so. It turned out to be the best 36 hours I’ve ever spent traveling while transitioning into the fall season.

If you’re travelling by plane, you’re more than likely going to fly into Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), the largest and busiest airport in the five-state upper Midwest region. The most economical ground transportation into the city is the Light Rail public transit option ($1.50). Need to get there sooner? If you don’t mind the frequent stops along the way SuperShuttle ($16, one way) is your next best choice or take a taxi, which on average costs $45. –yvette caslin

W Minneapolis  – The Foshay

The historic Washington Monument-styled Foshay Tower in downtown Minneapolis is the first skyscraper west of the Mississippi. It’s been converted from an office building to a 230-room W Hotel. If you have $7,500 to splurge, then reserve the Extreme WOW Suite so you can enjoy a Bliss-filled evening.  If you aren’t afraid of heights, be sure to visit the Prohibition Room, which is an intimate, mahogany lounge on the 27^th floor, offering a splendid 360-degree view of the city.

Cocktail Recommendation: The Epiphany Martini – Grey Goose La Poir, St. Germaine elderflower liqueur, Veuve Clicquot champagne

Nicollet Mall

This urban pedestrian mall on Nicollet Avenue runs through downtown Minneapolis. It’s an upscale shopping district where you’ll find Macy’s, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5^th Outlet. It’s also home to Target, which is 145,000 square feet on two levels.

When you trek down to the core of the mall at 50 South 10th Street, the 11-story office tower constructed of salvaged terra cotta cornices will awe you. The office tower houses Target’s national headquarters.

Target Field

It’s the world-class home baseball park of the Minnesota Twins located in the Warehouse District. The 40,000 seat open-air stadium has a variety of menu choices including the scrumptious signature dish: Walleye on a stick (battered fish filet) or a Juicy Lucy burger.

MASA Restaurant

A gourmet Mexican restaurant that serves the absolute best guacamole you will find west of the Mississippi. (1070 Nicollet Avenue (Target Plaza) @ 11^th Avenue; (612) 338-6272)

Mall of America, Bloomington, Minn.

This 4.2-million-square-foot mall serves a dual purpose. It’s an entertainment complex for adults and kids. It boasts of more than 520 stores and has a seven-acre playground with more than 30 rides and attractions including a 14-screen movie theater, a NASCAR simulator, and 4,500 sea creatures at the Underwater Adventures Aquarium. You’ll find an array of stores from American Eagle, Bloomingdale’s and H&M to Sears, True Religion and Urban Outfitters. Plan to spend the entire day.