Nicollet Island Inn, Minneapolis

Nicollet Island Inn - A historic riverside inn with chef-crafted dining and private event spaces

Located on Nicollet Island in the Mississippi River, this 3-star Minneapolis hotel occupies a restored 19th-century building featuring original architectural details like stained glass windows and hand-carved woodwork. The property houses an award-winning restaurant specializing in classic American cuisine, from steaks and seafood to seasonal tasting menus, served in an elegantly chandeliered main dining room. Nic's Bar offers craft cocktails, micro-brews, and small-batch spirits in a space adorned with 150-year-old carved maiden heads. Guest rooms provide views of either the city, park, or river, equipped with Egyptian cotton sheets, Pharmacopia bath products, and work spaces. The hotel sits 0.5 miles from the Upper St. Anthony Lock and Dam and Water Power Park, with downtown Minneapolis just across the Hennepin Avenue bridge.

Pros

Original historic features preserved throughout, including a vintage glass-enclosed elevator with operator's seat

Prime riverside location offering scenic outdoor dining on the garden patio

Rare and allocated bourbon collection available at Nic's Bar

Multiple private dining spaces for events up to 100 guests

Cons

12.5 miles distance from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport

No rooms available with more than one bed