Foshay Observation Deck

The skyline of Minneapolis was a different place in 1929 when the tallest building opened and held that title for 40 years. It may not be the tallest building in 2010, but it is rooted in downtown liked an old oak tree. Recently it had a rebirth and now holds a trendy nightclub, a trendy bar on the 27th floor and a trendy hotel, however the 30th floor is not so trendy... but instead transports you back to the "conspicuous consumption" era of the 1920s.

When you enter the Foshay Tower (on Marquette and 8th), held straight to the info desk of the W hotel. After handing over a chunk of cash ($8 for adults), you will get a special key card that takes you to the 30th level.


The museum is lined with old papers and letters highlighting the history of the Foshay. Hanging on the walls in 2 places is an electronic screen that will play videos outlining the past and current stories this building has had. One of the most interesting things I retained is that each floor is 4.5 inches shorter than the one beneath it. Therefore plumbing and duct work has to be offset at each level, which leads to quite an engineering feat! After wandering and reading gobs of memorabilia for a good 45 minutes, I finally climbed the final steps to the open air observation deck. And here are a few of like the 42 pictures I took....






Open Monday - Saturday from 12pm - 9pm
Open Sunday from 12pm - 6pm

Observation Deck Winter House are subject to the weather - call ahead (612-215-3700)