Minneapolis Marriott West: Your Dream St. Louis Park Getaway!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we’re diving headfirst into the Minneapolis Marriott West, a.k.a. Your Dream St. Louis Park Getaway! (their words, not mine, though I’m starting to buy it…). I’ve spent some time there, soaked up the vibes, and…well, let’s just say things weren't always picture-perfect. Gotta keep it real, right? Get ready for the unvarnished truth, the good, the bad, and the totally-could-have-been-better.
First Impressions (and the Elevator Saga)
Okay, so the dream part… let's temper that optimism just a smidge. The exterior is… well, it's a Marriott. Solid. Dependable. Maybe a little…beige? Don’t get me wrong, it’s not ugly, but it doesn’t scream "adventure!" or "artistic expression!" The lobby, however, is quite spacious and welcoming. Check-in was a breeze thanks to the Contactless check-in/out – a win in these germ-conscious times. And the staff? Super friendly, always a plus.
But here's where the cracks in the dream began to show. The elevator situation. Oh, the elevator situation! During peak hours, the wait times? Brutal. Seriously, you could age a year waiting for a ride up or down. This is a BIG deal, especially if you're on a high floor ("High floor" is a room feature – good luck getting there efficiently!). And if you're someone who needs Accessibility options? Pray you get a room near a working lift. Frustration levels were high (pun slightly intended).
Rooms: Cozy, But With a Few Quirks
Once I finally made it to the room, the feeling immediately shifted. I'm pretty sure I had a Non-smoking room, maybe a High floor one. The Air conditioning worked like a charm (praise be!), and the Blackout curtains were a godsend. I'm a light sleeper, and they delivered. I also loved the Coffee/tea maker – morning caffeine is essential for, well, everything. They provide Free bottled water, which I always appreciate.
Now for the quirks. While the room was clean (thanks to the Daily housekeeping), it wasn't sparkling. Think "tidied," rather than "gleaming." I'm pretty sure I saw a rogue hair in the bathroom, which, let's be honest, is a total buzzkill. The Bathroom had a Bathtub and was generally fine (adequate), but the water pressure was…meh. Also, a few more outlets near the bed (Socket near the bed) would be greatly appreciated, because reaching behind the furniture for a charger in the middle of the night is no fun!
Dining, Glorious Dining (and Some Disappointments)
Alright, now for the fun stuff! The Restaurants are a mixed bag. Let’s start with the good. The on-site restaurant (they have multiples!) has a decent Breakfast [buffet]. Omelet station? YES! (Though, be prepared for a wait, sometimes. Again, elevator-style wait). They also offered a Western breakfast. The Coffee shop was a lifesaver for that morning caffeine fix and small bites. The Poolside bar? Pure bliss (more on that later). The Happy hour was definitely happy, with surprisingly good deals and a lively atmosphere.
Now, for the "could be better" part. The Desserts in restaurant were a bit… underwhelming. And the late-night Room service [24-hour]? The food was decent, but the presentation was…well, let's just say it didn't scream Michelin star.
The Pool with a View (and My Moment of Zen)
Okay, forget everything I just said. The Swimming pool [outdoor] is where it's at. This is the real star of the show. The Pool with view? Absolutely breathtaking. They have a Poolside bar which is also part of the experience. I spent a truly perfect afternoon – sun streaming, a book in hand, a cocktail (or two) from the bar, and the feeling of absolute, utter relaxation. It was worth every single slightly inconvenient thing that came before it. That…was the dream right there. I can even feel my blood pressure returning to normal just thinking about it.
Relaxation Station: The Spa and Beyond
The Spa and Sauna (and Steamroom) area are also a major draw. I didn't indulge in the full spa experience (I’m more of a "self-care on a budget" kind of person), but I did peek in. They offer Massage, Body scrub, and Body wrap options, so if you're in the mood for some serious pampering, this is definitely the place to go. They had a Foot bath – which, even just thinking about it is relaxing
There's also a Fitness center with all the usual equipment. I didn’t work out much (pool time!), but it seemed well appointed.
Cleanliness and Safety: Mostly Reassuring, but…
I always check this section like a hawk. The Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Staff trained in safety protocol helped to put my mind at ease, especially these days.
Wheelchair accessibility is generally good, with Facilities for disabled guests noted. Accessibility is important, and that is great to see.
For the Kids (and Those Traveling With Them)
If you’re traveling with kids, the Minneapolis Marriott West gets major points for being Family/child friendly. There are Kids facilities and even a Babysitting service. My experience was solo, but the hotel seemed set up to handle families comfortably.
Internet & Tech Stuff: Pretty Standard
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! That is excellent. I spent a lot of time connected (Laptop workspace!). I didn’t use the Internet access – LAN, but it’s available. They also offer Meetings capabilities and Audio-visual equipment for special events if you're there for business.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Extras
The hotel offers a ton of Services and conveniences, like Laundry service, Dry cleaning, Daily housekeeping, and a Concierge. They even have a Convenience store for those last-minute essentials. Car park [free of charge] is a massive win.
Things to Do: Beyond the Hotel Walls
I didn’t spend a huge amount of time exploring the area, but the hotel is in St. Louis Park. It's a good location with a lot of things to do.
The Verdict?
The Minneapolis Marriott West is not a perfect hotel. The elevator situation can be a pain, and a few things lack a certain polish. However, the pool, the friendly staff, and the convenient location make it a solid choice. If you're looking for a comfortable stay with some fantastic amenities, especially that amazing pool, and are willing to overlook a few minor hiccups, this is a perfectly acceptable choice.
My "Dream" Takeaway:
The best part? That feeling. I can describe the details, but the feeling, the sensation of my own personal spa day that I created on the pool deck – It was the best part. And that, my friends, is why the Minneapolis Marriott West is still a great option.
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Ready to escape the everyday? Craving a relaxing getaway with a stunning pool, top-notch dining, and friendly service? Then book your stay at the Minneapolis Marriott West today! We offer Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, Wheelchair accessible facilities, and a wide range of amenities to make your stay unforgettable. Enjoy our pool with a view, indulge in our spa, or explore the vibrant St. Louis Park area. With our commitment to Cleanliness and safety, Cashless payment service and Safe dining setup, you can relax and recharge with peace of mind. Don’t miss out on our special offers and book your Dream St. Louis Park Getaway now! Click here to Reserve Your Stay!
(Pro Tip: Check for deals! Prices fluctuate, and you might be able to snag a truly excellent rate.)
Unlock Your Dream Retirement in Cluj-Napoca: Pension Casa Gia Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn’t your grandma’s itinerary. We're going to the Minneapolis Marriott West in Saint Louis Park, and it’s going to be a chaotic, glorious mess. This is my life, captured in hotel-room-sized chunks. Prepare yourselves.
Minneapolis Marriott West: A Messy, Glorious Odyssey
Day 1: Arrival. Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Parking Garage.
- 1:00 PM - Arrival & Initial Panic: Landed at MSP (Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport) – which, for the record, always feels like a giant IKEA. Navigated the rental car gauntlet, which is a real-life version of The Hunger Games, but with more sedans and less Katniss Everdeen. Managed to not accidentally drive into a snowbank (it's April, but Minnesota doesn't care). Finally, finally, arrived at the Marriott West. First impression? Beige. All the beige. My soul craves color, dammit! The parking garage felt like a labyrinth built by a sadist, but hey, I'm parked. Small victories.
- 2:00 PM - Check-In and Room Revelation: Check-in was… uneventful. Which is good, I guess? The front desk clerk was pleasant, if a little too enthusiastic about the hotel's complimentary water bottles. Got to the room. It's… fine. Standard hotel room. Beige, but with a slightly brighter beige accent wall. The view? A… utility shed. Sigh. Okay. Let's embrace the beige. Think of it as a blank canvas. A canvas for… existential dread? No, no! Positive vibes!
- 3:00 PM - The Quest for Caffeine: Coffee situation in the room is… dire. Instant. Instant coffee. The horror! Scouring the hotel for the good stuff. Found a sad little Starbucks in the lobby. Overpriced, but necessary. Took a seat in the lobby, got an intense urge to judge everybody walking by.
- 4:00 PM - The First Taste of Freedom (and an Omen?): Ventured out. Saint Louis Park is… well, it’s a suburb. Went for a walk, maybe a mile. The air smells like freshly cut grass and the vague promise of a Minnesota summer. Saw a squirrel. The squirrel stared at me. I stared back. We judged each other. I decided to call this my “pre-dinner walk.”
- 6:00 PM - Dinner at the Hotel Restaurant ("The Grille" – Really?): Decided to eat at the hotel restaurant, mostly because I was too lazy to drive anywhere. The menu was… predictable. Ordered a burger. It was… fine. Bland, even. The waiter was clearly overworked. Tip generously, because empathy is important.
- 7:30 PM - The Hotel Pool Debacle: Decided to hit the hotel pool. It looked… inviting. Walked in. It was… loud. Kids. So many kids. The water smelled of chlorine and disappointment. Turned around. Decided to embrace the beige of the room. Watched some mindless TV. Contemplated the meaning of life while staring at the utility shed.
- 9:00 PM - The Bed Conundrum: The bed is calling me. Must. Sleep. Praying the pillows are fluffy. Praying the sheets aren’t scratchy. Praying I don’t wake up with a crick in my neck. Amen.
Day 2: Culture Shock and Culinary Contemplation.
- 7:00 AM - Breakfast and Betrayal: Breakfast. The hotel breakfast buffet. Oh, the humanity. Stale pastries, rubbery eggs, questionable bacon. Took a coffee. I’m going to call it “coffee.” Ate a single sad blueberry muffin. Went back to my room.
- 8:00 AM - The Mall of America… Let's Not: Okay, originally, I had planned to go to the Mall of America. Which, in hindsight, was a mistake. The sheer volume of humanity scared me off. I’m not sure I have the emotional capacity. It’s a sensory overload. I have a feeling I’d end up curled up in a ball, sobbing, by the Lego store. So, instead… changed plans.
- 10:00 AM - A Road Trip Decided enough of the hotel! I drove. Drove and drove and drove until… I got bored with driving and stopped. I found a small, unassuming coffee shop. It had character. It was the antidote to the beige.
- 12:00 PM - Lunch at a Local Gem: The coffee shop owner recommended a deli around the corner. It was perfection. The kind of place that makes sandwiches the size of your head. Order the Reuben. Trust me. Eat it. Then, nap.
- 2:00 PM - The Art Institute (Maybe): Found myself in the general vicinity of the Walker Art Center. Should I go? Is art even my thing? The idea of staring intently at abstract paintings for hours fills me with a vague sense of dread, and a very strong urge to head back to the hotel!
- 4:00 PM - The Room of Doom (and Relaxation): Back at the Marriott. Debated the pool again. Decided against it. Watched the TV instead. Found that old movie I enjoy I love and can watch 5 times.
- 6:00 PM - Dinner Part 2 (Maybe More Interesting?): Still not motivated to leave the hotel. Contemplated ordering room service. Room service? The ultimate act of surrender to my own laziness.
- 8:00 PM - The Questionable Hotel Bar: Went down to the bar. Because, why not? The bartender was friendly, the beer was cold. Talked to a traveling salesman. The conversation was… interesting. He recommended a local brewery. Decided against the local brewery. Back to my room.
- 9:00 PM - Journaling? (or, Attempting to Process the Day): Trying to write in my journal. But all I'm writing about is how much I hate journaling. And the beige. The endless, oppressive beige.
Day 3: Departure (Thank God). Or, How I Survived.
- 7:00 AM - Repeat Breakfast Debacle: Okay, one more trip to that breakfast buffet. Maybe the eggs won’t be quite as rubbery this time. Nope. They were.
- 9:00 AM - Final Utility Shed Stare: Packed. Looked out at the utility shed one last time. Said a silent goodbye.
- 10:00 AM - Checkout and Escape: Checked out. Avoided the water bottle. Escaped.
- 11:00 AM - Final Coffee Run: One last desperate attempt to cleanse the taste of the hotel coffee. Found a drive-through.
- 12:00 PM - Airport Odyssey: Navigated the airport.
- 1:00 PM - Finally! Bye, Saint Louis Park. Bye, Marriott West. Maybe, just maybe, I'll remember this trip fondly. Or, at least, I’ll remember the beige. And the rubbery eggs. And the fact that I’m pretty sure I saw a squirrel judge me.
Minneapolis Marriott West: Your Dream St. Louis Park Getaway! ...Maybe? FAQ (Because Let's Be Real, Planning is HAAARD)
Okay, so is this place actually *good*? Like, should I book it? Spill the tea!
Alright, alright, let's get real. The Minneapolis Marriott West...it's complicated. Look, it's not the Ritz. It's not the Four Seasons. But it *is* solid. It's like...a reliable friend. The one you know you can call at 2 AM when you're having a meltdown, and they'll show up with a box of tissues and maybe some questionable snacks. It's clean, the staff largely tries their best (and sometimes *succeeds*!), and the location is pretty darn convenient. If you're expecting a *perfect* getaway? Maybe temper expectations. If you're expecting a decent place to crash, with a pool, and a generally pleasant experience? Yeah, you're probably good. Personally, I'd recommend a lower floor (less elevator drama, trust me).
What's the vibe? Is it all suits and serious business?
Oh honey, it depends. It definitely leans towards the business traveler during the week. Think…slightly stressed professionals in khakis. You'll see a lot of them glued to their phones, pacing the lobby, and muttering about quarterly reports. Weekends? It's a whole different story! Families with screaming kids, couples on mini-vacations, the occasional bachelorette party (good luck with that, ladies!), and maybe a few confused tourists wandering around. The pool area can be a bit of a zoo on weekends...which is its own kind of entertainment, really. Remember, bring your patience. And possibly earplugs.
The rooms...are they *actually* nice? Or am I gonna feel like I'm in a hospital room?
Okay, the rooms. They're…fine. Really, *fine*. They're not the kind of rooms you’ll immediately Instagram and brag about. Think…functionally decorated. Clean. Comfortable beds. Sometimes a slightly wonky TV. The bathrooms are…standard. The water pressure *can* be a bit of a gamble. (I swear one time it dribbled out of the shower head like a sad little tear stream. I almost cried with it.) But, and this is key, they are *clean*. And after a long day tripping around, that matters a *lot*. Just maybe bring your own extra fluffy towels, just in case. And check the air con. It’s not always the most cooperative.
Food! Restaurants! What's the story?
Okay, let's talk food. The hotel restaurant is… well, convenient. The food is generally edible, though don't expect Michelin-star quality. The breakfast buffet is a solid bet (hello, scrambled eggs!), but it can get crowded. One time I saw a guy literally take a whole *stack* of sausage, and I just… I sat there in silent judgment, contemplating humanity. Outside the hotel, you have options! St. Louis Park has a decent selection of restaurants – everything from casual diners (hello, delicious pancakes!) to slightly nicer dining. Check out reviews! Seriously, *read the reviews*. They're your friends. (Unless they're terrible, then they're your enemies.)
Can you swim? Is the pool any good, or is it just a glorified puddle?
The pool…ah, the pool. It's a decent size, really. Indoor/outdoor, which is a win! The water is generally pretty clean. BUT…the pool can get CROWDED. Especially on weekends. Prepare for potential chaos. I've seen kids launching themselves into the water from the edge, screaming with unrestrained joy. I’ve also seen adults doing laps with grim determination. Bring your own towel; hotel towels can be a bit…thin. And maybe some earplugs, just in case.
Parking: What's the deal with parking? I hate hidden fees!
Okay, parking. It's a big one. Here's the deal, *it depends*. I believe it's included in your stay, which is a major plus. Confirm this with your booking! If not, check the latest rates, they change. Just be aware! Always factor in those pesky extra costs when budgeting. Because nobody likes a parking ticket...or a surprise charge on their bill!
Is there a fitness center? And is it worth it?
Yes, there's a fitness center! Now, let’s be realistic. It's not the *best* gym you've ever seen. There's the usual suspects: treadmills, weights, elliptical machines. It's functional. It will do the job if you need to burn off all those breakfast buffet calories. (And let's be honest, who *doesn't* need to do that?) Don’t go expecting a super-fancy, state-of-the-art facility. Just accept the gym-ness. Embrace it.
How's the location? Is it close to anything fun?
The location is a definite *pro*. St. Louis Park is pretty well-situated. You're close to a lot of things. You are close to the West End. It’s a shopping mecca, if that's your jam! The hotel is also near the highway, which makes getting around the Twin Cities pretty doable. Downtown Minneapolis is a bit of a drive, but definitely accessible. Make sure you look at a map before you go and consider traffic - because Minneapolis traffic can be, to put it mildly, *a pain*. But the location is generally good. Consider it. Really think about it.
Were there ever any crazy moments? Hotel stories? (Come on, spill the tea!)
Okay, fine. One time… I was stuck in the elevator. For, like, fifteen minutes. It was the one with the slightly flickering lights. I was alone. It felt like an eternity. Honestly, I almost started hyperventilating. I imagined all sorts of terrible things. Then, finally, the doors creaked open, and I stumbled out, a sweaty, slightly terrified mess. The lobby receptionist just smiled and said, "Happens sometimes." *Sometimes?!* Anyway, just…be prepared for potential elevator incidents. Otherwise, nothing too wild. Depends on your definition of "wild", I suppose...
World Of Lodging
