1. Cozy Cabins, Holiday Markets and Brunch with Santa at the Four Seasons

Get a cozy northern Minnesota cabin experience right in the middle of downtown Minneapolis at the Four Seasons' Nordic Village. Dine in private cabins under the glow of string lights and the skyline. These cabins aren’t your average winter huts: they’re heated and decked with holiday décor, skylights and TVs to watch favorite sporting events or a classic holiday movie. The Nordic Village is open for reservations Wednesdays through Sundays November 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024.

Check off holiday shopping from your list at their Nordic Village Market, which will host a rotating selection of toys, clothing, spices, home décor, jewelry, blankets and more. Sip on hot cider while you shop, as this market is on their rooftop and weaves in and out of the Nordic cabins. The market is open weekends in November and December (except on December 24 and 31).

Take the kids to Sunday brunch with Santa at the award-winning restaurant Mara on December 3. Enjoy a delectable brunch menu that features a rotating selection of breakfast meats and sweets like waffles and pancakes, a live-action station serving eggs made to order and an artful dessert display with a selection of mini desserts and cakes. You may even be able to get a sneak peak of Santa’s naughty or nice list. Make your reservations!

2. A Grinch-Themed Holiday Pop-Up Bar at Hotel Emery

Holiday mischief awaits...Head to The Grinch's Lair at Hotel Emery where your heart will grow three times larger with delight. Step into Whoville Wonderland, where every inch is adorned with whimsical decor, colorful lights and quirky Seussian details and sip on Grinch-inspired concoctions. Whether you're planning a night out with friends or a festive date night, this pop-up bar is the perfect place to make your holidays extra special. The Grinch's Lair is open December 1, 2023 - January 7, 2024 Thursday - Sunday.

3. The Holidays Meet Barbie at Canopy by Hilton

If you want your holiday season to be draped in pink, treat yourself to Barbie’s Dream Holiday Staycation at the Canopy by Hilton. You’ll be greeted with cake pops, champagne and you'll get your beauty sleep in a deluxe double queen room decked out in the best of Barbie complete with girl glam presents under the tree. Stream the Barbie movie during your overnight stay and enjoy a $50 credit to the hotel’s restaurant, Umbra.

4. Holiday Tea and Festive Feasts at the Nicollet Island Inn

Nicollet Island Inn: Nestled along the beautiful Mississippi River, the Nicollet Island Inn is something straight out of a Christmas movie during the holiday season. Adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations, the cozy ambiance makes the Inn a perfect place for holiday gatherings. Indulge in a splurge-worthy 2-hour holiday tea experience (November 28 and December 12). For a full festive feast, get tickets for the Feast of St. Nic on December 6. Gather your friends and enjoy a 3-course celebratory meal.

5. Celebrate the Holidays in a Window Wonderland at Windows at Marquette

Head to these two pop-up lounge events on the 50th floor of the IDS Center this holiday season. Enjoy the stunning views of downtown Minneapolis while you sip holiday-themed cocktails, savor small bites and listen to festive live music. The pop up takes place December 7 and 14 from 4 to 7pm at Windows at Marquette.

6. A Holiday Swap, Thermaculture, and Wreath Making at Hewing Hotel

Hewing Hotel is home to one of the more beautiful lobbies in Minneapolis, and it doesn't disappoint during the holiday season. Many locals make a point to go to their bar for a drink to enjoy the beautiful decorations and Nordic vibes during the weeks leading up to the holidays. This year, in addition to the beautiful space, the hotel is hosting a handful of holiday experiences from the Hewing XChange on December 3, a swap and shop experience showcasing local, socially conscious brands and makers, to a wreath making class on December 14, and guided weekly thermaculture culture experiences in the rooftop sauna.

7. Find Holiday Romance at Hyatt Centric Downtown Minneapolis

For many, the holiday season is for romance. This year, book a Holiday Romance Package at the Hyatt Centric downtown and enjoy daily breakfast for two guests, one bottle of wine per room per stay, and a 2 p.m. guaranteed late checkout. The Hyatt Centric is just blocks away from the Theater District, so make your stay even more romantic with a holiday show at one of our theaters.