Happy New Year!

Happy New Year everyone! 2013 is finally upon us and along with a new year comes endless opportunities and possibilities. Take a moment and really think, what would you like to accomplish this year? It certainly is easy to make a resolution and forget about it by February but how about this year you stick to it! If your new goals include traveling or being more adventurous let us help by letting you know some of the great things St. Paul has to offer right here in your back yard. Just because it's cold doesn't mean the city shuts down, there are so many things still going on all winter long around here your sure to never be bored.  

The Minnesota Swarm is in full swing at the Xcel Center (located just a few blocks from the Crowne Plaza) from now until May. Catch this cutting edge sport at one of the Midwest's finest facilities. MNSwarm.com for more information and ticket sales.

January marks a very exciting time in St Paul as the Winter Carnival is in full swing starting Janury 24th and goes until February 3rd. Throughout its 125-year history, the Saint Paul Winter Carnival has been an integral part of the social fabric of Saint Paul. The carnival reaches out to the people of the Greater Saint Paul area to weave a tapestry of cultures with educational and cultural programming. This event offers something for everyone so bring the whole family and enjoy this great tradition!

On January 26 get out your long johns, hats and scarfs because the 4th Annual Beer Dabbler is here! This outdoor beer festival is one heck of a good time and is sure to please those taste buds. The festival includes more than 100 breweries sampling more than 300 beers, the festival also includes live music on two stages, an AHA/BJCP Homebrew Contest presented by Northern Brewer, The Lord Dabbler Cupawarded to the best brewery as voted on by festival-goers, Silent Disco, contests and hot food served by local gourmet food trucks. Tickets are $35 in advance or $45 at the door (if still available) –But be aware that this event  has sold out every year so don't procrastinate, get your tickets today.

Are you ready for something crazy to watch? Hold on tight because Red Bull Crashed Ice makes it way to Saint Paul for the second year in a row on January 24-26 as one of five stops around the world (yes the world! How lucky are we?). Two hundred of the toughest, fastest, ice cross downhill racers will go head-to-head through a downhill course full of mind-and-body-bending jumps, turns and slides – all against the backdrop of the historic Cathedral of Saint Paul with thousands of spectators bearing witness. Don't miss out on this spectacular mind blowing event as not many people can ever say they got to see it "live".


Don't forget, the Crowne Plaza St. Paul Riverfront hotel is just minutes away from some of Minnesota's most exciting attractions such as Minnesota Science Museum, Como Zoo, Mall of America, Target Field, and Xcel Energy Center which all offer awesome events year round!



At the Crowne Plaza we have something for everyone. No one says you have to travel far to get a little vacation so come over to St. Paul for the weekend and experience all sorts of new and exciting things.

Until next time, stay warm- Adena

Beautiful Fall

The River looks amazing with all the red, gold, and orange colors surrounding it. If you have not seen it yet make sure you do so before the wind blows all the leaves to the ground, which as we all know here in Minnesota could happen any day now. Don't let the chilly weather and the soon to be possibility of snow scare you away though, in St. Paul there is always plenty to do.

It's the last few weeks of the famous dowtown St. Paul Farmers Market open both Saturdays and Sundays and is just blocks from our hotel. If you have never been you need to check this out! It is by far one the biggest and best markets you will ever see. Think about how great your next slow cooker meal will be with fresh veggies from the market!

Follow up a weekend morning at the Farmers Market with a Fall sight seeing tour from Padelford RiverBoats. It's a unique way to not only see the color on the River but tour the beauty that is St. Paul. These tours run during the week and on the weekends. Visit Padelford Riverboats for more details.

Why not spend a chilly Saturday or Sunday afternoon learning, the new exhibit Lost Egypt will be opening at the Science Museum October 13th. This exhibit uses hands-on activities, real artifacts like a real human mummy, a recreation of real Egyptian tomb, and more to reveal how scientists use modern science and technology to uncover and understand the ancient civilization of Egypt. Sounds pretty cool to me.


Looking for some weekend family fun? Check out Zoo Boo at Como Zoo. Zoo Boo is an annual Halloween event, now in its 25th year, is Como Park Zoo and Conservatory’s largest fundraiser. Each year, the grounds of Como Zoo are transformed into a world of fairytales and fun with over 200 live costumed characters entertaining guests and interacting with children. This magical event offers families a safe trick-or-treating alternative plus many Halloween surprises.


Big Sports Fan? Check out the new play about Vince Lombardi at the MN History Theater, running now through November 4th, Thursdays-Sundays. Tickets start at only $30.00. No matter what your favorite team everyone knows the impact this man made on football today so come on over and check it out.


Don't forget, the Crowne Plaza St. Paul Riverfront hotel is just minutes away from some of Minnesota's most exciting attractions such as Minnesota Science Museum, Como Zoo, Mall of America, Target Field, and Xcel Energy Center.



Remember here at the Crowne Plaza we have something for everyone. No one says you have to travel far to get a little vacation so come over to St. Paul for the weekend and experience all sorts of new and exciting things.

Praying it doesn't snow until Thanksgiving- Adena

So much to do all the time!

Can you believe that fall is here already? The wind of this week sure proves that! Although the weather is chilly there is still plenty to do inside in St. Paul during the colder months or if you’re brave enough there’s still plenty going on outside as well. It's never a dull moment in St. Paul.

The Nice Ride bikes located right across the street from our hotel are still out and with plenty of locations city wide to drop off and pick up again, it is a great way to take in the views of the trees turing colors from all kinds of locations. They are very inexpensive to rent and a wonderful way to get outdoors still. Nice Ride MN.

Of course don’t forget that St. Paul Farmers Market is still in full swing until October with the Downtown Market open both Saturdays and Sundays and is just blocks from our hotel. If you have never been you need to check this out! It is by far one the biggest and best markets you will ever see. Think about how great your next slow cooker meal will be with fresh veggies from the market!

Why not spend a chilly Saturday or Sunday afternoon learning, the new exhibit Lost Egypt will be opening at the Science Museum October 13th. This exhibit uses hands-on activities, real artifacts like a real human mummy, a recreation of real Egyptian tomb, and more to reveal how scientists use modern science and technology to uncover and understand the ancient civilization of Egypt. Sounds pretty cool to me.

Maybe looking for something to do inside on a chilly night? Check out the Minnesota Rollergirls Derby at Roy Wilkins Auditorium. These events are not only fun to see but raise money for great causes. They donate portions of every bout to local area charaites. Visit The Roller Girls to find out more about this charitable group and view their schedule.

October is just around the corner and you know what that means! Fall beer! Good thing The Beer Dabbler just opened a brand new store right down the street from us where you can find all of the great beers St. Paul and other breweries have to offer. Don’t forget to get your tickets to the 4th Annual Beer Dabbler at the winter carnival in January. Tickets go on sale November 6.



Don't forget, the Crowne Plaza St. Paul Riverfront hotel is just minutes away from some of Minnesota's most exciting attractions such as Minnesota Science Museum, Como Zoo, Mall of America, Target Field, and Xcel Energy Center.

Remember here at the Crowne Plaza we have something for everyone. No one says you have to travel far to get a little vacation so come over to St. Paul for the weekend and experience all sorts of new and exciting things.


Enjoy your fall and all the activities that come with it. Until next time-Adena

There's still plenty of time to have fun outside

Ahh Fall is starting and you sure can feel it, well at least for a little bit. They say high temps again next week so enjoy this light sweater weather while it lasts for the next few days. The early fall season is spectacular in St Paul with tons to do still before back to school and the real cold weather settles in.

• The Great Minnesota Get Together starts in less then 1 week! For those that don’t know, it’s what we call our State Fair. The MN State Fair is a favorite past time of people of all ages from across the Midwest, with so much to do and so much to eat one day there just never seems like enough. For more information check out their website MN State Fair and for a real treat, why not plan for a whole weekend at the fair and a room with us! We have awesome rates right now, click here to find out more.

• St. Paul Farmers Market is still in full swing until October with the Downtown Market open both Saturdays and Sundays and is just blocks from our hotel. If you have never been you need to check this out! It is by far one the biggest and best markets you will ever see.

• After you’re done at the market or perhaps before, don’t forget about the Nice Ride bikes located right across the street from our hotel. They are very inexpensive to rent and a great way to tour the city and enjoy the nice weather. Nice Ride MN

• Have some Italian heritage in your family or just really enjoy Italian food like me? Come check out Benvenuti al premier Minnesota Festa Italiana! Join this great celebration at Harriet Island September 21-22 for a celebration of everything Italian including food vendors from across the state and gondola rides on the river!  

Don't forget, the Crowne Plaza St. Paul Riverfront hotel is just minutes away from some of Minnesota's most exciting attractions such as Minnesota Science Museum, Como Zoo, Mall of America, Target Field, and Xcel Energy Center.

Also, remember if you are looking for a last minute, close to home, yet far enough away getaway check out our website for great package deals! We have something for everyone. No one says you have to travel far to get a little vacation, so come over to St. Paul for the weekend and experience all sorts of new and exciting things.

These activities should keep you busy for a while! I hope you are enjoying what’s left of our summer and beginning of fall. Until next time-Adena

Summer in the City

We've been on a little bit of a blog hiatus as occupancy levels have been high and the hotel has been busy!  Since today marks the first day with a tolerable dew point in a while, here are some highlights for outdoor activities in Downtown St. Paul:

• The green bikes have arrived in St. Paul!  Minneapolis' very successful Nice Ride program crossed the river last month, and we couldn't be more thrilled that a station is right across the street from us!  Take a ride through the city or across the bridge to the luscious trails. 
• Amsterdam Bar and Hall brings us weekly FREE entertainment on Ecolab Plaza (a short stroll down Wabasha from our front door) each Friday night this summer.  Wabasha Days, starting at 4PM, features live local music, coordinated with McNally Smith College, with food and drinks to purchase. 
• Food Truck Court - do we need to explain this one?  Our favorite is Wednesday over lunch on our corner (Wabasha and Kellogg).  Look for the Twitter handle #foodtruckcourt for daily locations.
• Enjoy the mighty Mississippi River!  The Paddleford Riverboats offers a variety of reasonably priced and always fun cruises.  Minnesota Centennial Showboat promises unique entertainment whilst cruising brought to you by the University of Minnesota's Theatre Department. 
• Just blocks away, in the historic Lowertown district, you can enjoy free walking tours - space is limited and these will only be offered in Summer.

Also, don't forget, we have some great opportunities to save for your vacation:

• Have you been to see the Science Museum of Minnesota's Real Pirates?  This great (and extremely popular) exhibit runs until Labor Day, and we've teamed up with the Science Museum to offer great savings!  Click here for more information on rates and availability.
• Want more deals?  Check out our website for other packages including discounted rates, special amenities and breakfast deals.
• Did we mention that we have a pool?  Cool off in the pristine water while admiring our downtown view!

Hoping that your summer is going well and you've had a chance to check out all the wonderful things going on in our city,
Stephanie

Get Your Winter On!

This weekend marks the start of the St. Paul Winter Carnival - and we couldn't be more thrilled!  If you're a guest of ours, visiting the area, or a local, there are so many things to do this weekend!

Skating!  Yes - you can still lace up your ice skates and glide around the temporary rink by the Landmark Center.  While you're there, check out all the events going on inside when you can no longer feel your toes...

Rice Park - A beautiful park all year round; transformed with an ice wall, sculptures and music!  This mild weather makes for no snow sculptures, but a more enjoyable time walking outside!

The Beer Dabbler - A SOLD OUT event, so if you're lucky enough to have tickets, enjoy the micro brews of Minnesota!  And get your tickets for next year and look for our banner as we are official sponsors of this great event!

Eurofest  Downtown Minneapolis may be where most of the cities' dance clubs are, but that won't be true on Saturday night.  Head down to the Germanic-American Institute on Summit Ave for a day of music, games, beer and brats.  If you're over 21, stay into the night for a truly European dance party.

Orchids Galore From 10am-4pm this weekend, visit the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at the Como Zoo for the MN Orchid Society's Winter Carnival contribution.

SPWC Juried Art Show - Visit the Black Dog Cafe, warm and caffeinate yourself while looking at a selection of juried local work. 

Grande Day Parade From Smith Ave to Rice Park, the royals and commoners alike will be merrymaking and marching around our grand city!  Follow the embedded link for more specific information - there's lots of it!

And of course, if you need to rest your head after a long day of revelling, we still have limited availability!  www.cpstpaul.com or 651.292.1900

Stay Warm!
Stephanie

Some drama for the holidays!

Downtown St. Paul is gearing up for the holidays!  There are quite a few themed performances around town.  Here's what you can find within walking distance from your hotel room:

Ordway
Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella - A musical telling of the timeless fairytale, fun for the whole family. December 13 - January 1; Tickets range from $27-88 (tickets are already limited).
Sister's Christmas Catechism : The Mystery of the Magi's Gold - Called "CSI:Bethlehem," this interactive comedy show is sure to delight.  December 13 - January 1; tickets $35.

Park Square Theatre
Hot Chocolate - A heart-warming tale of a modern couple in a busy holiday season.  Now through December 18; tickets $25-58.
The Soul of Gershwin - Enjoy a variety of music from Yiddish to opera in this fan favorite musical.  December 8 - January 1; tickets $25-58.

Fitzgerald Theatre
Of Mirth and Mischief  - For all ages, this is an original production commissioned by MPR, written by Kevin Kling and directed by Peter Rothstein; with original music by Steve Kramer and performed by local artists Haley Bonar and James Diers (of Halloween, Alaska). December 16-18; tickets $29.

History Theatre
A Civil War Christmas - This epic Christmas musical incorporates folk songs, spirituals, Civil War songs, and Christmas carols to reveal a world that is simultaneously torn apart by war and held together by the hope for redemption.  Closes December 18; tickets $15-38.

Actor's Theatre of Minnesota

Fezziwig's Feast - Located on Harriet Island (just across the Wabasha Bridge from the Crowne Plaza), this telling of Dicken's Christmas Carol includes a feast of a meal!  Weekends until Christmas; tickets are $39.50 for children and $74.50 for adults.

Bob's Holiday Office Party - Think your office party is awkward?  Watch someone else's unfold, it's much more comfortable to laugh from your seat in the audience!  At Camp Bar & Cabaret, Wednesday - Sunday through New Year's Eve; tickets $24.

Bye Bye Liver, The Twin Cities Drinking Play - A local hit, back for another year.  It is 21+ and an interactive improv show at Camp Bar & Cabaret.  Playing through New Year's Eve; tickets $19.50.

Comedy Roast of Ebenezer Scrooge - A truly creative and unique take on Christmas entertainment!  Not recommended for Children!  At Camp Bar & Cabaret, weekends until Christmas and one Tuesday performance; tickets $19.

Padelford Riverboats & Minnesota Centennial Showboat
The Match Girl's Gift - In a beautiful showboat, anchored at Harriet Island, this classic Christmas story by Hans Christian Andersen comes to life.  Come early for live music!  Now through December 31st; tickets $14-18 - proceeds benefit Second Harvest Heartland and Toys for Tots. 

Theater Space Project at The Lowry Lab
Spiked! (Too!) - A sequel to last year's hit - variety show. Through December 17th.

Now go out there and get some tickets (or stay online, it's cold outside!).  Enjoy your weekend!
Stephanie