St. James Hotel: Red Wing, MN, Lodging

A weekend at the historic St. James Hotel in Red Wing, MN, is a step back in time.  The landmark hotel was built in 1875, after local businessmen recognized the need for a world-class hotel in the city, which at the time was the wheat capital of the world. Located in downtown Red Wing just steps from the train depot, the hotel mixes classic style and cutting edge, offering high class amenities like flat screen TVs and wireless internet, amidst its historic Victorian design.

Each of the rooms in the historic building is uniquely designed and decorated. Rooms range from standard queen and king rooms to premium and whirlpool rooms, as well as three suites: the Ironworks Flat, an apartment-style modern suite; the Presidential Suite, a riverboat-themed room; and the Boardroom Suite, with dark walnut woodwork, leather appointments and a working fireplace. All rooms offer ultimate relaxation, with a pillow menu, plush robes, bath salts and morning papers delivered to the door.

Inside the hotel, guests can dine at one of three restaurants. The Veranda is the ideal spot for breakfast, lunch and that eventual cocktail, offering patio dining during the summer months, overlooking the Mississippi River and trains as they roll by. For breakfast, the Veranda features locally made Sturdiwheat pancakes, an area favorite since 1939. With its high-end pub atmosphere, and dark wood walls and a mahogany bar, Jimmy’s Pub on the fifth floor of the St. James is a great place for lunch, dinner or drinks. The pub features a large fireplace for those cooler months and live music on most weekends. On the lower level, The Port offers an imaginative menu. Regular offerings include smoked pheasant and wild rice soup, rabbit strudel and bison rib eye. At the antique bar, enjoy handcrafted ale or a wine off of the Port’s extensive list. As you walk back from dinner to your room make some time to walk the Hotels halls to take in the historic art and photography found throughout.

Though Red Wing offers many shops, dining and recreation activities, you won’t have to go far from the St. James. The St. James Hotel Shopping Court has three stores, a spa and a coffee shop on site. At the Levee, find men’s and women’s clothing, including Blue Willi’s brand knits. Marita’s has gifts and home accessories, and Vestiges offers unique women’s clothing, including many handmade items. After shopping, grab coffee at Clara’s or relax at Refined Skin Medi-Spa.

Watch the St. James Hotel website for seasonal packages such as Valentine’s Day, Ski Packages, and Ride the Rails Packages – with each offering a combination of the St. James’ premium accommodations and local attractions which are sure to keep you and your companions in good spirits.

When to Go:
The St. James offers rest, relaxation and adventure year round. Plan a spa getaway in Red Wing, MN in the spring or romantic weekend year round. Visit in the fall for views of the fall leaves, and a visit to nearby wineries. In the winter, plan a visit to nearby Welch Village Ski & Snowboard Area. When You’re There:
From theatre and dinning, hiking and biking, shopping and boating to wine tours, there’s a variety of things to make your ideal Red Wing getaway.

Getting There:
Red Wing is about an hour south of the Twin Cities along Hwy 61. For added adventure, take the train. Amtrak’s Empire Builder runs daily between the Twin Cities and Red Wing, as well as other Midwest cities, and stops just steps from the hotel. Be sure to check the schedule carefully – the train is known to run late, so it’s best for a weekend adventure that doesn’t require a prompt return home.

Sources Cited: