This weekend was Doors Open. We had missed the last couple years so I had a big list of places to see. I thought we'd drive to get to more places quickly, but Scott insisted we bike as it was easier to park.
Theo and I were ready to take some pics.
We started out at the Rand Tower.
My personal favorite Minneapolis skyscraper.
Next we got to see inside a manhole.
They had robots patrolling the sewer and a live video feed on a TV.
Then we walked over to the Dayton's Project. I really wish their food hall idea would have followed through, it's sad to see it so empty.
It's still mostly empty and I'm not sure if they know what to do with the space.
We got to go in the nooks and crannies of the old JB Hudsons space, like this the old window display.
There was a lounge or bar that was opening soon to the public.
Looks like the IDS Tower has some leaking issues.
Gaviidae Commons is still gorgeous even if mostly empty.
I wish I could have seen this place in the 90's.
Next we headed to the Grain Exchange Building. Strangely no photos were allowed in the lobby, but you could take photos in this room.
This was used up until 2008. The Minneapolis Grain Exchange is still run out of the building, but open outcry trading is no longer needed.
I wish I could have seen this room in it's heyday.
It wasn't that long ago!
We were getting hungry for lunch. While not on my list we decided along with everyone else to check out Kramarczuk's.
We watched a video about the famed deli's history and then got to check out the sausage making kitchen.
With a free sample.
A view you never get to see.
We waited in a long line to get our food, but it was worth it.
I saw that they had packzi, the Polish donut, so we had to try a couple out. The lemon custard ones were so, so good.
Back on our bikes and over to the North Loop we went.
Next we went to the Star Tribune to see their printing operations.
It's been a while since I've seen a printing press. This place is pretty cool and bound to close in the not so distant future.
Our guide seemed a little worried with the recent tariffs that the paper would go up in price come end of summer.
Is this another open tour, no, it's just our cool house.
The kids and I had leftover stuffed peppers and buttered noodles for dinner.
Meanwhile, I met up with some coworkers for dinner.
The next day we did some quick yard work.
Well, I would've done this all day, but Brooke had plans. She thinks the yard maintains itself.
Scott thought we were done with Doors Open. Not me.
I was curious what Dunwoody College of Technology was like. This was originally a school for baking. I was a little disappointed that the inside no longer matched the historic exterior. Nonetheless we got to see some cool stuff that the students were working on.
Hey, more new protected bike lanes!
Next we stopped by the Shea headquarters.
This used to be a famous bookstore and news stand.
Now it's a design firm for many local restaurants.
Then we traversed downtown to the star of the weekend.
Then we went to the tour I was most excited for, The Minneapolis Club. I've biked or drove by many times and always wanted to see the inside.
So many wonderful details.
Every room was just as cool as the next. And it was fascinating to hear the stories of it's history.
Brooke must've been speechless. It was that beautiful.
Even the elevator was special.
Was fun to know that the general public can also dine at the restaurant or bar at certain times during the week.
We'll be back for drinks.
Someday.
There was more to see on my list. Guess we'll have to get to them next year.
We picked up Meadow for a bike ride to dinner.
Her school band was having a fundraiser at Tap Society.
Meadow is so cute on her new bike even though she's ready to upgrade her unicorn helmet.
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