Minnesota’s technological roots run deep—from pioneering supercomputer development during World War II to early contributions to the internet through the University of Minnesota’s gopher protocol. Today, the Twin Cities (Minneapolis and St. Paul) boast a thriving tech sector encompassing fields like medtech, fintech, artificial intelligence, and agricultural technology. This region is also home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, including 3M, Best Buy, U.S. Bancorp, UnitedHealth Group, and Target, creating a vibrant hub for business travelers.
Work-Life Balance & Seasonal Perks
Those visiting the Twin Cities for business will find a culture that values work-life balance, embracing its four distinct seasons. Summer sees professionals working remotely from parks and patios, while winter brings a unique commute: cross-country skiing or fat biking on local trails. A network of skyways—another Minnesota innovation—connects buildings in both downtown areas, shielding pedestrians from harsh weather.
Where to Stay
Minneapolis
- Four Seasons Minneapolis: (245 Hennepin Ave., 612-895-5700) — For luxury accommodations and a high-end atmosphere, this five-star hotel is a top choice. Its rooftop boasts Nordic-inspired saunas and private dining spaces.
- The LaSalle Hotel: (300 N. Washington Ave., 651-468-0400) — Situated in the trendy North Loop, this boutique hotel provides meeting rooms, a rooftop bar, and stunning skyline views.
- Hotel Ivy, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Minneapolis: (201 S. 11th St., 612-746-4600) — Combining historic charm with modern amenities, this hotel in a 1929 landmark building offers convenient skyway access and proximity to cultural attractions.
St. Paul
- The Wilder Building, Tapestry Collection by Hilton: (26 E. Exchange St., 651-222-0848) — Housed in a renovated convent, this quirky boutique hotel offers unique church-themed meeting spaces and networking amenities.
- The Radisson Hotel, St. Paul Downtown: (350 Market St., 651-292-9292) — A historic hotel near sports arenas and theaters, offering a lively atmosphere popular with convention-goers and locals.
- COCO Coworking: (1400 Van Buren St NE, Suite 200, and 400 S. 4th St., Suite 401) — Offering meeting and event areas, private offices, and resources for various budgets.
Coworking Spaces & Cafés
- The Coven: (Five Twin Cities locations) — This franchise, founded in 2018, caters to women, nonbinary, and transgender members, providing coworking areas, meeting rooms, and community events.
- Life Time Fitness: (Multiple locations) — Combining smart workspaces with fitness facility access, offering a unique healthy living concept.
- WeWork: (Two Minneapolis locations) — Convenient locations for those with existing WeWork memberships.
- Workbox: (801 S. Marquette Ave., Suite 200, 612-488-0644) — An industrial-chic space with a rooftop terrace, fitness center, and skyway access.
- DogWatch Coffee: (Multiple locations) — Known for its tech-worker-friendly atmosphere, this café chain provides plentiful outlets and Wi-Fi.
- Caribou Coffee: (Multiple locations) — A popular alternative to Starbucks, offering both casual coworking and gathering spaces.
- The Buttered Up: (213 Fourth St., St. Paul, 651-493-4694) — A combination of coffee shop, restaurant, bar, pinball arcade, and art gallery.
- Dog Days of Bike Farm: (4208 S. 28th Ave., Minneapolis, 612-353-4222) — A cozy micro-roaster with an Up North theme.
- Whittier Café: (111 E. 26th St., Minneapolis, 612-460-7739) — A charming café focused on community beauty and serenity.
- Owamni: (420 S. First St., Minneapolis, 612-444-1846) — Award-winning Indigenous restaurant that recently announced relocation to the Guthrie Theater in 2026.
- Manny’s Steakhouse: (825 Marquette Ave., Minneapolis, 612-339-9900) — A top-rated steakhouse popular with executives and visiting celebrities.
- Matt’s Bar: (3500 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-722-7072) — The ultimate spot for a classic Jucy Lucy.
The Twin Cities offer a unique blend of technological innovation, a strong work-life balance, and an array of amenities for business travelers seeking a productive and enjoyable experience. The region’s thriving coworking spaces, diverse cafes, and renowned restaurants provide ample opportunities for networking, collaboration, and relaxation, making it a compelling destination for both work and leisure.
