A Fabulous Friday in Minneapolis

Before I share about my Fabulous Friday in Minneapolis, let me start with some fun facts. First, Minnesota is home to 10,000 lakes, the largest mall in the United States and some very famous Twin Cities. Secondly, many will never forget that Minneapolis was home to the singer, songwriter, producer, musician, an actor: Prince - the one & only.

Now, how did this trip come about? My BFF is a Prince fanatic! For her birthday, she wanted to experience Paisley Park; the extraordinary estate and production complex of Prince Rogers Nelson. She invited me come along. Plans were put into action and we would soon be on our way.

Prince Store in MSP Airport

Planning is everything.

Tickets for the Paisley Park tour were purchased about 6-8 weeks out. Since the package we wanted wasn't available during her actual birthday weekend, we opted for a few weeks after. Although quite pricey, I would soon learn the value of it. This tour would become one of the best museum experiences ever. So much, that I committed an entire blog about it. If you'd like to read more, please click on the post.

A weekend in Minneapolis

It's the weekend baby.

My friend traveled the night before and stayed close to the airport. Upon arrival the next morning, my Fabulous Friday in Minneapolis started. Within minutes, I managed to take the shuttle to the hotel, met my friend, secured the luggage and walked about 10 minutes to the Mall of America. Now understand, this mall is huge. Not only is it the largest in the U.S., I've read its the 12th largest mall in the world. Considering I've been to the Dubai Mall, MoA was not too overwhelming. Although I definitely understand how it could be for others. It's not small by any means.

Walking to the Mall of America

Enjoying adventures in Mall of America.

In MoA, the Fabulous Friday started by engaging in some adventure with FlyOver Canada and FlyOver America; a ride that simulates flying over landmarks and scenery throughout Canada and the US. Because a large group arrived shortly after us, we were able to experience both adventures for the price of one. Favor!! It was different and very enjoyable.

Nickelodeon Universe®, the nation's largest indoor theme park in MoA

SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker - all handcrafted in Italy

After the ride and a little bit of shopping... emphasizing little since we both had carry-on's, we indulged in happy hour at Cowboy Jack's. The food and service was simply amazing. How can one not enjoy $4 and $5 food/drink specials? A great meal for a fraction of the cost.

Happy Hour Special at Cowboy Jack's

In the heart of the city.

Arriving at the Loews Hotel

After Happy Hour, we were ready for the nightlife. We left the mall, retrieved our luggage and took Uber to our next stop - downtown Minneapolis.

Just so you know, I'm not big on using upscale hotels unless traveling with the hubby and its a special occasion. Especially not for a weekend getaway with the BFF. However, it's all about the cost and I'm always open to a good deal. Upon planning this getaway, I came across a special. As a result, the upscale hotel was much cheaper than a standard mid-price one. Where you ask? The Loews. We soon approached this luxury hotel located in the heart of the city. Crazy right? What a Fabulous Friday. The view from the room was phenomenal!

View of Target Center from the hotel room

Upon check-in, I was told our room had been upgraded. And most importantly, for no additional cost. The new room was higher up which supposedly had better scenic views. We would soon see.

While entering the hotel room I thought, "Boy, they weren't kidding." A real "ah-ha" moment. Although the room was not super luxurious, who could deny the view? It made all the difference. It was phenomenal! Both the Target Center Arena and Target Field (home of the Minnesota Twins), were in direct view. If only the Twins had a home game that night. Bummer!

View of Target Field from the hotel room

After relaxing for a quick moment, we soon realized there were no solid plans for later. I quickly researched things to do. Viola! The Minneapolis Comedy Festival with George Lopez, DL Hughley and Cedric the Entertainer was that night and tickets were still available. The first show had already started, but there was time to make the second one. With exactly one hour to get dressed, the challenge was on. Good news, the venue was less than 10 minutes away walking. Yessssss!

We made it with a few minutes to spare.

The State Theatre was literally a hop, skip and a jump away. Talk about happy. We actually arrived with minutes to spare; only to find out the show was starting late. Imagine that! No biggie. That gave us an opportunity to get in the concessions line, of which the wait time became an eternity. The theater lights would flash with a warning but the lines would barely move. Just the thought of one bartender to accommodate the line of at least 20 guests is still baffling. Keeping in mind, there were two separate lines and this was the case for both. Not sure if things were different downstairs but upstairs, it was a long wait.

Side note: I later learned this venue is quite historic with significant meaning. Opening in 1921, State Theatre was considered the most technologically advanced and elaborate of its time. Pretty impressive.

Inside the State Theatre

Regardless of the long concession lines, the show was a blast. Starting with George and ending with Cedric, the laughter did not stop. Kudos to all three comedians as it made for a great night out. Leaving the theater, I could see the city was truly alive. The bars and lounges were plentiful. The weather was nice. Many people were hanging out in the streets, having a good time. Love this type of vibe. There was much more to offer than anticipated.

In short, I've been sleeping on the Twin Cities. This won't be my last time. There will be more Fabulous Friday nights in Minneapolis.