The centrally-located Westin Edina Galleria is a great destination for out-of-towners searching for an upscale hotel experience and for locals looking to book a staycation. “One thing that the Westin Edina Galleria focuses on is being the gathering place for both the local community, and for sophisticated travelers, so we try to offer unique experiences that are different from a standard hotel experience,” says marketing manager, Elizabeth Watters.
There are a number of ways the hotel does this. Its lobby bar, Prelude, starts off as a relaxing breakfast spot serving coffee, pastries and other grab-and-go items, but at night, it opens to a full-service lively bar with an incredible list of spirits, wines, and signature cocktails. “We also have live music from local legends on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights," she says.
The indoor heated saltwater pool is a hidden gem, and there’s a full fitness center too. “We partner with Peloton and TRX, so we have some of those staples for anybody who’s fitness-minded. Our club lounge is also available to that certain level of Marriott Envoy guests, or people can purchase it to upgrade their stay.”
Since the hotel is connected to the Galleria Mall – which has an underground walkway so guests can avoid the cold weather during wintertime – there are plenty of shopping and dining options. The Southdale Mall is also across the street, and just down the road is 50th and France, where high-end stores and dining options can be found in abundance.
“The hotel is also close to the lakes and other popular destinations such as the Mall of America,” says Elizabeth. “For out-of-towners, the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport is less than 10 miles away, and complimentary parking makes it super easy when they arrive.”
Being centrally located also means convenience for guests who may be attending a wedding or other celebration at the hotel, which hosts many events, both small and large, throughout the year. In addition to various-sized meeting rooms, there are two ballrooms that allow the hotel to host parties with as many as 300 people.
“Our banquet team has been here for many years and offers very attentive and personalized service,” she says. “All of the banquet and catering food is prepared by McCormick & Schmick’s, so it's an elevated experience.”
The Westin Edina Galleria is also an enjoyable destination for both guests and locals due to its creative and unique experiences. “From December to February, we have Winter Village, which is inspired by a winter ski village in the Swiss Alps,” says Elizabeth. “We completely transform the lobby check-in area and bar, and then in our courtyard, there’s the chalet, where people can experience various dining options such as signature cheeses and chocolate fondue.”
In March, the upscale lobby turns into a botanical extravaganza. “We partner with the Galleria when they do their flower show with Bachman's, and in addition to the big lobby display, we do a botanical cocktail menu at Prelude that rotates every year with different cocktails.”
In the warmer months, people can take part in Summer House. “It’s a nautical-themed getaway where you trade the beach for the lake and experience coastal American foods, summertime cocktails, and fun events like movies on the lawn and Clicquot and Claws,” she says. “By doing this, we’re promoting the Land of 10,000 Lakes as a destination, while also elevating it a little bit to align with our brand.”
Edina Weekend Wonders is another exclusive offering. “These are customized experiences that we promote as a way for travelers to experience the best that Minneapolis and Minnesota has to offer. Our team handles the booking process, which makes it a seamless process for our guests.” Some of these Weekend Wonders include a tour of Paisley Park (Prince’s former home and studio), personalized styling experience, Prelude Reserve Collection testing, an arboretum tour and hot air balloon rides over the river. For kids, the curated indoor camping experience or s’mores by the bonfire are always a popular treat.
The rooms themselves are modern and relaxing with lots of gray and a hint of navy tones. When it’s time to call it a night, fall asleep in one of their signature Westin Heavenly beds.
“We pride ourselves in providing authentic hospitality experiences with an unparalleled location. With best-in-class service and unique offerings, we create a memorable experience for each guest.”
To book a visit, staycation or celebration, go to Marriott.com/en-us/Hotels/mspwi-the-westin-edina-galleria/overview or Edinaweekendwonders.com.
3201 Galleria | 952-567-5000
“We pride ourselves in providing authentic hospitality experiences with an unparalleled location."