Nicollet Island Inn

Imagine a secluded oasis located on a picturesque island in the middle of the great Mississippi River. The Nicollet Island Inn is not just a place to sleep, but a carefully restored historic landmark in the heart of Minneapolis. The building, constructed in 1893, once served as a factory and today invites guests to immerse themselves in an old-world atmosphere in the modern-day USA.

This boutique hotel enchants its visitors with unique interiors where antique details meet modern comfort. Inside, original stained glass windows, carved wood, and even a glass elevator with an authentic operator's seat have been preserved. Stunning views of the river surface, green parks, and the futuristic skyline of the metropolis open up from the windows of the 23 cozy rooms.

Thanks to its unique location and limestone architecture, the hotel regularly appears on lists of the most romantic places in the country according to publications like New York Times and Conde Nast Traveler. It is the perfect starting point for those who want to explore the historic flour milling district while enjoying the peace and quiet of the riverbank.

To clarify booking details or plan a private event, you can contact the hotel administration through the communication channels listed below.

A visit to the Nicollet Island Inn offers many ways to enjoy your time. You can stay in one of the elegant rooms to wake up to the sound of the river every morning, or simply stop by for dinner. The hotel's restaurant is rightfully considered one of the most romantic spots in the city: its seasonal menu featuring local ingredients and panoramic views of the Mississippi create a unique atmosphere.

Be sure to head up to Nic’s bar on the top floor. Here you can spend an evening enjoying signature cocktails and live music performed by talented vocalists. If you crave quiet, take a stroll around the hotel grounds to see historic details such as the 150-year-old bar decorated with stained glass and intricate carvings.

For those interested in architecture, viewing the limestone facade and walking across the bridges connecting the island to the shore will be a great addition to your itinerary. In the warmer months, it's pleasant to spend time on the terraced patio, which was once a coal bunker and has now been transformed into a cozy open-air relaxation area.

Reaching this secluded corner on the Mississippi River is easy. The Nicollet Island Inn is located at 95 Merriam St, right across from the heart of the city. If you are in downtown, a walk to the island takes only 5–10 minutes via the famous Stone Arch Bridge or the De La Salle Bridge. From iconic landmarks like the Guthrie Theater or Target Center, you can reach it on foot in 10–15 minutes.

For those who prefer public transport, Metro Transit buses run regularly toward East River Road. You can also always use taxi services or popular ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft — a trip from Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP) takes about 20–25 minutes via I-94.

Parking is available on-site and near the hotel for those traveling by car. The island is perfectly suited for walking, so after leaving your car, you can enjoy exploring the surrounding parks and historic embankments.

The building that houses the hotel today was constructed in 1893 for the Island Sash & Door company. The island on which it stands was named after the prominent cartographer Joseph Nicollet, who was the first to map the upper Mississippi in the 1830s. Interestingly, less than a year after construction, the building miraculously survived the "worst fire in city history," which destroyed most other structures on the island.

In the early 20th century, when Minneapolis became the world's flour milling capital, the factory building became an important part of the industrial landscape. However, over time it fell into decline until in 1913 the Salvation Army took it under its wing, turning it into a men's shelter for nearly six decades.

A new life for the historic monument began in the late 1970s when the Department of Parks and Recreation conducted a large-scale renovation. The exterior of cut limestone, rare for an era of widespread brick construction, was carefully preserved. During the work, the industrial facade was complemented by welcoming double-hung windows, and the former loading dock was transformed into a bright glass-enclosed terrace overlooking the river.

Usually, soaking up the hotel's atmosphere and exploring its surroundings takes about 1 to 3 hours if your goal is an exquisite lunch at the restaurant or a cocktail at Nic's bar with a river view. This is enough time to appreciate the interiors and take a few photos against the backdrop of the Mississippi.

For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the historic charm of this place, staying for 1–2 nights would be the ideal option. This allows for a leisurely stroll across the entire Nicollet Island, a visit to nearby museums, and a chance to enjoy the famous brunch without rushing back to the city noise.

The hotel welcomes guests 24/7, but the restaurant and bar have their own hours of operation. Please note that the dining facilities are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

• Wednesday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday: 09:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Sunday: 09:00 AM – 8:00 PM

It is recommended to book tables in advance, especially for the famous Sunday brunches.

While Nicollet Island itself feels like a quiet harbor, it is in close proximity to many entertainment centers and parks. Exploring the surroundings will help you get to know Minnesota better and diversify your vacation with active entertainment.