$$Borough + Parlour Bar: American dining, just blocks from the Hewing, they are sister restuarants from the same company. Parlour is the basement bar with our favorite burger in the city, does walk-ins. Borough, right above Parlour, also has the famous burger and a whole slew of delicious American food.

$$$Spoon & Stable: For our foodies out there, Spoon & Stable is one of our favorite 'nice' restaurants. It includes all American food with a rotating menu (although the black squid spaghetti is always available and a favorite of ours). Would require reservation.

$Kramarczuk's Sausage Company: A traditional polish delish within walking distance of Nicollet Island Inn. Great spot for sandwiches and baked goods.

$Alma Cafe: Within walking distance of Nicollet Island Inn this upscale cafe has some of the best baked goods you'll find in Minneapolis (any one of Chris's favorite places to study while in medical school).

$$Hai Hai: Located in the trendy neighborhood Northeast, Hai Hai is quality asian fusion, you can't go wrong with any dish. Both Mitch and Chris agree it has the best brussel sprouts of the Twin Cities. Would require transport to get too, and parking is readily available on site.

For something convenient and inexpensive there are two adult 'food courts' that don't require reservations with a variety of food options and easy to find seating for large groups.

$Graze: In walking distance of the Hewing

$Malcolm Yards: Near UMN, parking on-site

Downtown Lakes: There are 3 lakes near downtown Minneapolis (Lake of the Isles, Lake Harriet, and Lake Bde Maka Ska) that are worth strolling around simply to see the beautiful houses of fall colors. Pair your walk with Isles Buns where you can get a delicious cinnamon bun the size of your child.

Mississippi River Walk: Just feet from either of our hotel blocks is the Mississippi River which sports outstanding walkways for miles in either direction. If you're looking for a couple mile loop you should use the stone arch bridge (where we got engaged!) and the Hennepin Ave bridge (spotted by the large grain belt sign) are crossing points. Relevant spots include Nicollet Island (where our venue is located), St. Anthony Main (brick road street with beautiful apartments) the Guthrie Theater (our preforming arts center with large suspension bridge thats free to access to the public), and Mill City Museum (ruins of an old flour factor that is now a history museum).

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: Know famously for the giant spoon-and-cherry piece, the sculpture garden hosts a number of pieces from local artists, some you can climb on! Right next door is the Walker Contemporary Art Center which will keep you busy all day.