Last spring, when I purchased tickets to Jersey Boys at the Orpheum for my husband, I wasn’t looking for a tradition; I was looking for a birthday gift.

He is absolutely impossible to shop for because he doesn’t want anything, so instead of more “stuff,” I got him tickets to a show I knew he’d enjoy. Then, I put my planning hat on and called Mom to watch the girls. Sitter…check. What if I made reservations at his favorite restaurant? Manny’s Steakhouse…check.

The planning was fun, in part, because I kept the entire thing a surprise. The day before our date, I was online investigating the best places to park downtown when I came across a room package at Le Meridian Chambers Hotel (which is directly across the street from the theater) and it included VALET parking for theatergoers. Parking and accommodations…check. Another call to Mom for a reservation at the Grandma Inn, and DONE!

The next day, Operation Staycation was in full force. We had drinks at the W Hotel, dined at Manny’s (thanks again Jaque and Isaac for the awesome service) and watched one of the best theater productions that, to this day, gives me chills it was so good. Following the show, we headed back to the Chambers where we listened to a live jazz trio and enjoyed grown-up beverages and uninterrupted conversation.

What started out as a birthday gift turned out to be one of the best vacations ever. The city we know and love (and work in, too) looks different to us now. We’ve since become proud Hennepin Theatre Trust season ticket holders. I can’t wait for Les Mis this December, he’s excited for American Idiot, and the girls and Grandma are getting The Lion King for Christmas. Whether it’s as a couple or as a family, we’re well on our way to a new tradition. Thank you, Minneapolis!