INGENIOUS INCENTIVES
WOW ATTENDEES WITH ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCES
GOING BIG
READY TO ROLL
MINNEAPOLIS SECURES 2028 NFL DRAFT
ROCHESTER SHOWCASES ROBUST MEETING AMENITIES
MEETINGSMAGS.COM
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FALL
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Meetings
NEIGHBORLY ST. CLOUD DELIVERS BIG FOR GROUPS
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Where strategy sessions come with scenery
Learn more at DiscoverStillwater.com MNMEFW2627-Book1.indb 1
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Contents
FAL L 20 26 /WINTER 2 02 7
16 Incentive trip to Santorini, Greece, planned by metroConnections
16 Feature //
Raise the Bar on Incentive Events BY JULIE KENDRICK
Reward and dazzle top performers in a new era of luxurious incentive travel
In Every Issue //
4 Editor’s Note 8 Meeting Notes
Reinforce your planner toolkit with inspiring ideas, pro tips, and handy products
INGENIOUS INCENTIVES
WOW ATTENDEES WITH ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCES
GOING BIG
MINNEAPOLIS SECURES 2028 NFL DRAFT
READY TO ROLL
ROCHESTER SHOWCASES ROBUST MEETING AMENITIES
M E E T I N G S M A G S . C O M //
FALL
2026
WINTER 2027
Marquee
Meetings
10 Destination
Thriving, affordable Rochester reinvents itself while remaining a haven for gatherings
26 Industry Update
Get the inside scoop on meetings and events industry news in Minnesota
On the Cover
Paramount Center for the Arts in St. Cloud
30 Snapshots
PHOTO COURTESY VISIT GREATER ST. CLOUD
Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism fetes frontline hospitality workers with its Diamond Service Awards
32 People Profile
Shaped by his passion for golf, Eric Peterson of Cragun’s Resort invigorates meetings along Gull Lake
Rochester’s Mayowood Stone Barn 10
PHOTOS (FROM ABOVE) metroConnections, Midwest Life Shots-Rochester
NEIGHBORLY ST. CLOUD DELIVERS BIG FOR GROUPS
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catering reimagined
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PHOTOS (FROM ABOVE) metroConnections, Midwest Life Shots-Rochester
crave catering brings versatile menus & flexible service to any event – available at our 40+ twin cities partner venues, or wherever you’d like to host. seasonal, thoughtfully crafted menus designed to please every palate, delivered with genuine hospitality.
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EDI TOR ’ S N OT E
» A FEW YEARS AGO, I told my dad I would soon travel to an Experience Rochester Annual Meeting at Mayo Civic Center for my job at Greenspring Media. In response, he mentioned something I had never heard him meetingsmags.com/minnesota say before: He once worked as a teller at First meetingsmags National Bank in Spring Valley, a half hour f r om R o che s t er, a f t er he got out of t he U.S. Air Force and before he started college at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in the 1950s. My dad—who since has passed away—grew up in rural Montana Township, Wisconsin, 90 miles east of Rochester, and I did not know he ever had worked in Minnesota. Today, every time I pass through the city, I think about my late dad, imagining him vibrant with his 1950s-era crew cut rolling pennies into coin sleeves on a bank counter somewhere nearby. Indeed, I have traveled to Rochester many times for events, including Experience Rochester’s Annual Meeting every year, the 2024 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference, 2024 Upper Midwest Convention and Visitors Bureau Fall Conference, and several times with my teenage son to take in shows at Mayo Civic Center’s Arena and for long-weekend escapes. I most recently went to the city in August of this year to staff a Greenspring Media Meet the Editors gathering at Mayo Civic Center and attend Thursdays Downtown, a weekly summertime street festival, with colleagues and staff from Experience Rochester. As I listened to cover versions of toe-tapping ’70s hits, I ate a shrimp roll from Bleu Duck Kitchen and a Cuban jerk pork dish courtesy of Francisco’s Restaurant. Both tasted lovely, and I was happy and content chowing down amid the hopping Rochester street scene. In addition to sampling meetings and events in Rochester, the first interview I did after I joined Greenspring Media in spring 2022 was with Bill Von Bank, Experience Rochester’s vice president of marketing and communications. The interview was for a Minnesota Meetings + Events People Profile, and, during our chat and in a couple follow-up emails, I coaxed out of Von Bank the fun fact that he bakes pies and sells them at farmers markets in southern Minnesota during the summer. The resulting piece, titled “A Slice of Rochester Pie,” remains one of my favorite articles. The dynamic, southern Minnesota hub is this issue’s featured destination, and planners would be wise to consider the history-filled, evolving city along the Zumbro River. Maybe you, too, will be happy and content there—and so will your attendees.
meetingsmags.com/minnesota PRESIDENT TAMMY GALVIN
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – NATIONAL SALES JENNIFER MAX 952-200-4878 | JMAX@GREENSPRING.COM
GROUP EDITOR DANIELLE FIELDS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF TODD R. BERGER SENIOR EDITOR LINDEN M. BAYLISS ASSOCIATE EDITORS NOAH MITCHELL, SPENCER WHITE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR TED ROSSITER ART DIRECTORS JOHN JENSEN, TONY WAGNER
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR DEIDRA ANDERSON ADVERTISING COORDINATOR SYDNEY KELL JUNIOR ADVERTISING COORDINATOR ANNIE BERWALD SALES + MARKETING SPECIALIST TAUSHA MARTINSON-BRIGHT
EVENT MANAGER RICK KRUEGER SPONSORSHIP, PARTNERSHIPS + PR MANAGER ELISABETH WULF MARKETING + COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST LUCY MULLEN
DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS KATHIE GORECKI ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE STEPHEN DIAZ AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR GERI WILSON CIRCULATION MANAGER RILEY MEYERS CIRCULATION COORDINATOR MICHELE WOLD
REPRINTS For high-quality reprints of 500 or more, call 612-371-5849 or email danderson@greenspring.com. For address changes, ordering single copies, cancellations, or general questions about your subscription, please contact customer service at 866-660-6247.
9401 James Ave. S., Suite 152, Bloomington, MN 55431 Phone 612-371-5800 Fax 612-371-5801 HOUR MEDIA CEO STEFAN WANCZYK PRESIDENT JOHN BALARDO
The pages between the covers of this magazine (except for any inserted material) are made from wood fiber that was procured from forests that are sustainably managed to remain healthy, productive, and biologically diverse.
TODD R. BERGER
Editor-in-Chief tberger@greenspring.com
Minnesota Meetings + Events is published biannually. © 2026 Greenspring Media. All rights reserved. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
PHOTO Darin Kamnetz
Meetings & Memories in Med City
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PHOTO Darin Kamnetz
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RIVER’S EDGE CONVENTION CENTER
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Modern meeting spaces, walkable downtown vibes, and built-in entertainment all come together in Greater St. Cloud without any of the big-city headaches. From versatile convention spaces tailored to your gathering to local experts ready to handle every detail, our dedicated team makes planning effortless and keeps your event running seamlessly. Premier athletic facilities and a central, easily accessible location make Greater St. Cloud the ideal choice for a successful, high-turnout sports event. We pair our competitive grade venues with a dedicated, hospitality-focused community ready to provide a warm, memorable experience for all your athletes, staff, and spectators.
RIVER’S EDGE PARK
MUNICIPAL ATHLETIC COMPLEX THE PARK EVENT CENTER
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M EETI N G N OT E S Prime Planner Resources
St. Cloud River’s Edge Convention Center
MINNESOTA MERCH
“Welcome to St. Cloud” mural downtown by Tara Aiken
Convenience & Comfort in St. Cloud Find big-city amenities with a small-town vibe in central Minnesota’s largest hub BY SPENCER WHITE
O
nce known for granite mining, Greater St. Cloud has repositioned itself as a host area for events. Its location in central Minnesota makes it convenient for attendees from Greater Minnesota, as well as those from the metro and flying into Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
VIBE: “[St. Cloud has] large-city ameniT-shirts from the Explore Minnesota online shop
ties, but it also is more of a small-town, hospitable, family-friendly sort of environment. So, there are things in St. Cloud for any age group to go and explore,” says Visit Greater St. Cloud Director of
Sales Nikki Gustafson. For groups looking to escape the crowds and noise of a big city but still wanting easy access to venues, hotels, and food options, St. Cloud is a perfect fit, she adds.
TRANSPORTATION: St. Cloud is located just off Interstate 94, U.S. Route 10, and state Route 15. Shuttle services like those from Virginia-based Groome Transportation make it easy for travelers to travel directly from MinneapolisSt. Paul International Airport to St. Cloud in about 90 minutes. HOTELS: Two full-service hotels, Courtyard by Marriott St. Cloud and Best Western Plus Kelly Inn, offer convenient venue access for planners and skyway connections to St. Cloud River’s Edge Convention Center. The third fullservice property, Holiday Inn & Suites St. Cloud, is not attached to the convention center, but it has numerous on-site amenities and perks for groups. VENUES: The city’s largest venue is
Incentive trips that feel unforgettable
metroConnections transforms recognition into a fully produced, high-impact experience, intentionally crafted, rich with immersive moments, and built to spark lasting performance long after the trip ends. Flip to page 16-18 for more information! info@metroconnections.com | 1.800.747.8687
St. Cloud River’s Edge Convention Center in downtown St. Cloud, with 60,000 square feet of meeting space. The Park Event Center, west of St. Cloud in Waite Park, offers 18,000-plus square feet of event space. There also are alternative venues like Harvester Square, across the Mississippi River from St. Cloud River’s Edge, and the St. Cloud State University campus. visitstcloud.com
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) Explore Minnesota, Visit Greater St. Cloud (2)
» N OTH I N G SAYS “Minnesota” like a loon on your cribbage deck. Explore Minnesota’s online shop offers plenty of options for attendee-pleasing Minnesotathemed gifts and apparel, including “Star of the North”-branded clothes, playing cards adorned with state landmarks, and Anthony Edwardsinspired “Bring Ya A--” apparel that evokes the NBA Minnesota Timberwolves’ 2024 playoff run. While the shop does not offer discounted bulk orders, there is no limit to the number of items you can purchase at once. exploreminnesota .com –Spencer White
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SPONSORED CONTENT
W
Duluth: The Ultimate Location for Your Board Retreat
PHOTOS Visit Duluth
hen you are planning a board retreat, the setting matters as much as the agenda. Duluth offers something rare: the backdrop of Lake Superior paired with meeting spaces that range from historic elegance to modern comfort, plus the kind of localized support that turns a good retreat into a memorable one. MEET WITH A VIEW Duluth’s meeting venues don’t just accommodate your group; they set the tone. Fitger’s Inn, housed in a converted 1880s brewery on the edge of downtown, blends historic character with Lake Superior views and easy walkability to the Fitger’s complex next door. There, you will find a bookstore, kitchen shop, and an outdoor adventure store, plus Fitger’s Brewhouse (try the wild rice burger) and The Boat Club, a finer-dining option with steaks, freshwater fish, and ocean seafood. In the heart of downtown Duluth, the Lakeview Guesthouse offers 30 rooms and one expansive suite that can be booked for a private meeting or event, along with a gathering area and deck perfect for post-meeting conversations with a view. Attendees also have access to saunas, a beautiful indoor gym, and dog-friendly amenities, including an outdoor relief area and an indoor bathing space for wetter days. WELLNESS BUILT IN A board retreat is a chance to reconnect, not just report out. Duluth also makes it easy to build wellness into the schedule.
Take your group out on Lake Superior with a stand-up paddleboard experience, an active way to build camaraderie on the water. Prefer something calmer? Book one of our Duluth-area yoga instructors for a private class along the lakeshore, a grounding way to open a morning or close out a full day of discussion, debate, and accomplishment. SUPPORT THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE Planning a board retreat from a distance is easier with a destination team in your corner. Visit Duluth’s staff knows the city and region inside and out, and the team can help planners build an itinerary that fits your board’s goals. Need a speaker for a training session? Visit Duluth can connect you with a dynamic presenter and guide you through booking for your gathering. Visit Duluth also can help you think outside the traditional meeting room, including hosting a working session right on the water aboard a boat sailing on Lake Superior. Whether you seek classic or unexpected, the Visit Duluth team helps you find the right fit for any board retreat. THE BOTTOM LINE Duluth gives boards what a retreat should deliver: a change of scenery, a chance to reconnect, and a location built to support the work. Historic or modern, active or restorative, the pieces are here, and so is a Visit Duluth team ready to help you put them together.
218-722-4011 | visitduluth.com MEETINGSMAGS.COM/MINNESOTA 9
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DE ST I NAT IO N Rochester
Thriving downtown Rochester from the banks of the Zumbro River
The Spirit of Innovation
Known as home to the prestigious Mayo Clinic, Rochester is a welcoming meeting locale along the Zumbro River BY PAMELA DITTMER MC KUEN with daily direct f lights to and from Minneapolis-St. Paul and Chicago. A network of highways, including Interstate 90, intersects the city and Olmsted County. The ethos of innovation that put Rochester on the map continues into the 21st century, with several massive development projects underway. For example, Mayo Clinic launched a $5 billion initiative to expand its downtown campus, integrating innovative patient care and advanced digital technologies, and dramatically reshaping the city’s core. Graham Park’s exhibition center, an 80,000-square-foot multiuse space, is under construction at the Olmsted County Fairgrounds; it is expected to open early next year. HEALTHCARE & BEYOND A plethora of flexible event spaces can be configured for conferences, trade shows, ceremonies, galas, and more. Healthcarerelated gatherings are a natural fit, and there are many benefits to hosting them near Rochester’s famous medical facilities. “We have world-renowned physicians who will walk across the street to give a keynote address in our hotel or convention center,” says Angie Richards, chief operating officer at Rochester-based Titan Asset Management Group, which owns and manages Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area. Rochester isn’t limited to hosting only medical conferences, however. “We also have a great following in the religious market,” says Rebecca Tesch, director of sales at Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area. “Our peak occupancy is Sunday to Thursday due to
PHOTO ab-photography.us
» ROCHESTER WAS MERELY a stop on a stagecoach line in 1863 when physician William Worrall Mayo arrived to treat wounded Union Civil War soldiers. A year later, the Winona and St. Peter Railroad came through, and as the city’s population began to swell, so did its medical needs. Dr. Mayo was joined by his sons, William and Charles, and, in 1889, they established the first permanent hospital in southern Minnesota: Saint Marys Hospital, which had 27 beds at the time of its opening. From those early days, the Mayo Clinic evolved, becoming a renowned healthcare destination and world leader in medical innovation. Rochester, a thriving and scenic hub along the Zumbro River in southern Minnesota, is today the third-largest city in the state, with a population over 120,000. It is a premier location for regional, national, and international meetings and events, says Bill Von Bank, vice president of marketing and communications at Experience Rochester. “We have an international airport,” he says. “We have great hotel variety, affordability, and space. We have a talented team that can help meeting planners create that exceptional experience, both inside and outside the venue.” Downtown Rochester, anchored by the main Mayo Clinic campus, is the compact, walkable epicenter of it all. Hotels, locally owned restaurants, shopping, and activities are connected via climate-controlled skyways and underground walkways, a comfortable cover from inclement weather. Transportation to and from the city is robust and convenient—Rochester International Airport is serviced by Delta Air Lines and American Airlines,
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Think you know Rochester? Think again. Rochester, Minnesota is quietly redefining what a meetings destination can be. It’s compact, connected, and refreshingly easy to navigate. With a vibrant downtown convention district, Minnesota’s largest ballroom, and 2,400 hotel rooms connected by skyway, Rochester delivers big-city capabilities without big-city friction.
THIS IS ROCHESTER. REALLY. experiencerochestermn.com
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DE ST I NAT IO N Rochester
Prefunction space at Mayo Civic Center; Right, from above: J. Powers at the Hilton; Rochester Event Center
MAKING IT HAPPEN Jessica and Chris Martin worked as stagehands at Mayo Civic Center before forming Alliance Event Design, a Rochester eventplanning company. It provides branding, logistics, decor, and setup customized to a client’s messaging, down to color coordination and traffic control. Among the recent trends Jessica Martin sees are client requests for quiet spaces, flexible lounge seating, charging access, and table settings. “I’m also seeing visits to [Rochester] venues and attractions, so attendees can experience the area beyond the meeting room,” she says.
Rochester’s Powers Ventures runs three distinctive event venues and a catering company to provide planners with a range of experiences: Rochester Event Center, J. Powers at the Hilton, and Mayowood Stone Barn. Rochester Event Center near Rochester International Airport is an expedient choice for groups that wish for a bit of seclusion from city buzz. There are several moderately priced hotels are near the event center. Downtown, J. Powers at the Hilton occupies the upper two floors and fifthlevel rooftop terrace at the Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area. FROM HISTORIC TO MODERN Mayowood Stone Barn is a century-old barn on the former estate of Mayo Clinic co-founder Charles Mayo. Constructed in the early 1900s for the family’s horses and carriages, the all-stone barn has since been transformed into an elegant event venue. The upper level functions as a meeting space, while the lower level is set up for dining. The adjacent blacksmith shop can serve as an additional bar or a greenroom. Two more historic icons are Bleu Duck Kitchen and The Castle Lounge & Venue. Bleu Duck Kitchen, a restaurant with event space, is in a former woolen mill built in 1900, one of the oldest remaining commercial buildings in the city. The menu features New American fare and an oyster bar. The Castle Lounge & Venue was built in 1916 as an armory for the Minnesota National Guard, later serving as a senior center. “A lot of work goes into preserving the history of Rochester, and I think it’s really awesome to see how different spaces get used,” Joseph says. “A lot of pride goes into these historical buildings.” That sense of Rochester pride infuses meetings in Med City, where planners will find a lot to like. allianceeventdesign.com
ihg.com
bleuduckkitchen.com
thekahlerhotel.com
castleincmnvenue.com
mayociviccenter.com
choicehotels.com
powersventuresmn.com
experiencerochestermn.com
rochesterartcenter.org
hilton.com
rochestercivictheatre.org
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT) Experience Rochester, Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area, Pam Dose
patient travel. Religious groups want to come on the weekend.” Other frequently served groups are educational, corporate, agricultural, government, and fraternal organizations, she adds. The downtown Mayo Civic Center is the city’s mainstay multipurpose convention and entertainment center, featuring 200,000 square feet of flexible space, including 23 customizable meeting rooms and suites, plus an arena for sporting events and concerts. The 40,000-square-foot ballroom is the largest in Minnesota, and the center also features Riverfront Plaza, an outdoor reception area. Bookending the civic center are the Rochester Art Center and the Rochester Civic Theatre, both of which can be rented. The city’s hotel stock spreads its hospitality among nearly 6,000 guest rooms and 50 properties, with price points ranging from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious. Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area is an upscale, 19-story hotel with a sophisticated vibe that opened in 2019 as part of the “Destination Medical Center” initiative. The hotel’s 264 modern guest rooms include seven spacious luxury suites with city views. Connected by skyway to Mayo Civic Center, the Hilton also has its own event spaces, including meeting rooms, two ballrooms, and a fifth-level outdoor terrace. “Rochester has world-renowned medical facilities, and from the perspective of the hotel, we want to match them in terms of elevation and exceptional service,” Richards says. Other lodging choices are The Kahler Grand Hotel, a historic landmark, and the contemporary Hotel Indigo Rochester–Mayo Clinic Area.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
DISCOVER STILLWATER
PHOTOS Discover Stillwater
W
hen it comes to planning a successful meeting, location matters, and a host city that gets people excited is essential. Perched along the St. Croix River, Stillwater brings more character to meetings, conferences, corporate retreats, and incentive events. Just 35 minutes from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, it’s remarkably easy to reach but feels a world away. The historic brick buildings, riverfront, charming shops, independent restaurants, breweries, wineries, and incredible walkability give Stillwater a character that’s hard to find. And because so much is concentrated in and around downtown, attendees can walk from their hotel to dinner, grab a coffee between sessions, browse Main Street, or take in the river without ever getting back in a car. That makes Stillwater especially well-suited for groups that want to connect beyond the conference room and experience the location. Whether you are planning a corporate retreat, an executive session, a board meeting, an association conference, a franchise gathering, an incentive trip, or a team-building event, Stillwater features a variety of venues and lodging options to fit your needs. From intimate meeting spaces to full-service conference facilities, Stillwater offers planners flexible options backed by exceptional hospitality. What truly sets Stillwater apart is the opportunity to blend productive meetings with memorable experiences. Start the day with a strategy session, spend the afternoon exploring the historic downtown, enjoy a river cruise, visit area wineries and
breweries, or gather for dinner overlooking the St. Croix River. These authentic experiences help planners and attendees build even stronger connections while creating long-lasting impressions. One-of-a-kind Stillwater experiences like a river cruise, wine tasting, brewery visit, trolley ride, boutique shopping, or teambuilding adventure turn a meeting or event into a warm memory, and put smiles on the faces of planners and their attendees. Stillwater also offers numerous meeting venues and accommodations, from intimate spaces perfect for executive retreats and board meetings to larger facilities designed for conferences and corporate gatherings. Planners have a partner in Discover Stillwater, with complimentary assistance connecting groups with lodging, venues, area experiences, and meeting itinerary ideas. There’s also an added reason to bring your meeting here: the Stillwater Meetings & Events Incentive Program. Eligible groups can earn up to $2,500 toward meeting-related expenses, making an already appealing host city even more valuable. For planners, Stillwater delivers the essentials. For attendees, it delivers something better: a host city they will enjoy. Come for the meeting. Stay for the river, the food, the history, the people, and the feeling that you have gotten away without really going far. If you are looking for a host city that combines convenience, charm, walkability, scenery, and unforgettable experiences, it is time to discover why more planners are choosing Stillwater for their meetings and events. Bring your gathering to Stillwater, where business comes with a view.
651-351-1717 | discoverstillwater.com MEETINGSMAGS.COM/MINNESOTA 13
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Visit Greater St. Cloud 320-202-6712 | visitstcloud.com/meet
PHOTOS Visit Greater St. Cloud
P
lanning a standout conference or convention shouldn’t feel like an uphill battle against gridlock traffic, outrageous parking fees, and cookie-cutter venues. Visit Greater St. Cloud helps meeting planners blaze a new trail, offering a host city that delivers high-impact, stress-free events. Centrally located in the heart of Minnesota, the region pairs top-tier facilities with Greater St. Cloud warmth. Experience all the perks of a major host city minus the big-city headaches. From versatile facilities to area experts ready to handle every detail, St. Cloud has you covered. Whether you are hosting a company retreat, a multiday trade show, or a regional convention, the St. Cloud area features modern spaces built to fit your vision. Right on the banks of the Mississippi, the St. Cloud River’s Edge Convention Center serves as the city’s main meeting facility. It features 150,000 square feet overall, including flexible prefunction space with 60,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space. Designed for versatility, River’s Edge easily adapts to events of any size. It is conveniently connected to two major hotels and sits just steps away from St. Cloud’s vibrant downtown.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
PHOTOS Visit Greater St. Cloud
Just minutes away in Waite Park, The Park Event Center offers another all-in-one option for planners. With over 15,000 square feet of versatile meeting space and room for 1,000 attendees, it connects directly to the Residence Inn by Marriott St. Cloud, Hilton Garden Inn St. Cloud, and Maverick’s Steak & Cocktails. Planners enjoy weather-proof convenience, outstanding full-service catering, and innovative menu options. Whether hosting downtown or in Waite Park, Greater St. Cloud pairs flexible meeting spaces with accessible regional entertainment. Attendees at River’s Edge can explore a walkable city core filled with historic pubs, locally owned boutiques, live music venues, and theaters. Meanwhile, meetings and events at The Park Event Center sit just minutes from retail at Crossroads Center and area dining icons like Anton’s Restaurant, known for its riverfront charm and group banquets. When off the clock, attendees can regroup in nature at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve, stroll through Munsinger Clemens Gardens, or hit the area golf courses. Best of all, you don’t have to plan alone. The Visit Greater St. Cloud team acts as an extension of your staff every step of the way. Before your event even begins, the team assists with everything from lodging and transportation to custom itineraries and attendance promotion. To build buzz, the team provides tools like destination maps, welcome bags, and marketing support. Once you’re on-site, Visit Greater St. Cloud manages day-of details, including registration, venue signage, and interactive event technology to ensure a flawless kickoff. Let’s bring your vision to life. Connect with the Visit Greater St. Cloud team today at visitstcloud.com to submit your request for proposal and start building an unforgettable meeting or event experience.
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Land O’Lakes Dairy Foods incentive trip to Cancun, Mexico, in April
RAISE THE BAR on Incentive E vent s D
uring the early days of incentive travel, many companies offered relatively straightforward trips to Las Vegas or Hawaii, and its top performers largely were thrilled by the opportunity. But times have changed, and so have attendee expectations and planner priorities. Today, schedules are more full than ever, and companies are asking an incentive trip winner (and likely a plus one) to go on a vacation that wasn’t planned with this in mind. And it is not a friends or family vacation— it is with their work colleagues. With today’s two-career couples and jam-packed calendars, a big ask like that must deliver a top-tier experience, one that will have participants sharing tales from the trip long after they get back to the office. The goal is that those who missed out will want to redouble their efforts and productivity to earn the reward next year, and those who went will do whatever it takes to win again. “Incentive travel is ultimately about the stories people bring home,” says Jim Bendt, co-owner of Pique Travel Design, a boutique luxury travel agency in Excelsior that specializes in customdesigned incentive and retreat programs. “We want everyone to be
talking about the sunrise yoga session or describing flying over that gorgeous reef six months later.” We live in a world where “face time” often happens over a Microsoft Teams call and where artificial intelligence (AI) plays an increasingly large role. Incentive travel stands in stark contrast to the modern, digital-first world. Carrie Hanrahan, director of business travel at Travel Leaders based in Plymouth, shares that sentiment. “Companies market in-person [meetings and trips] as authentic, high-trust experiences that can’t be replicated by a screen,” she says. “It’s the people who make the event happen, and the gathering together makes it special.”
Building Anticipation A high-level incentive trip is the perfect vehicle to pump people up for a communications campaign. Makenzie Cunningham, a senior program manager at Burnsville-based event-services company metroConnections, highlights the importance of setting an exciting tone from the get-go. “Our team was involved in coordinating an eight-day incentive trip to Athens and Santorini, Greece, for
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT) Debbie Friedman-Hueller (2), Pique Travel Design, Lisa Myers
Participants and clients now demand more than ever, and meeting planners are ready for the challenge By Julie Kendrick
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Lounge setup in Scotland for Nutra Blend incentive trip participants
top salespeople and executives,” she says. “At the very beginning, we focused on building anticipation and making the destination feel aspirational for qualifiers.” Cunningham says an enticing communications plan was a key part of hyping up the experience. “We created and distributed pretrip promotional emails, along with a curated pretrip mailer and gift package, to market the destination and keep the trip top of mind throughout the qualification period,” she says. “Once winners were announced, we sent a second pretrip mailer that included a customized agenda, program guide, travel information, luggage tags, and other important program details to help participants feel prepared and excited before they arrived.” That ability to capture mindshare is another crucial part of a successful incentive experience, Cunningham says, noting metroConnections crafts recognition that feels personal, emotional, and unforgettable. “We design every moment with intention, weaving company values and performers’ achievements into a narrative that builds anticipation and delivers genuine impact,” she says. “From those early communications to the surprise reveals or thoughtfully produced celebrations, our team honors top performers in ways that feel meaningful, memorable, and worthy of the effort it took to earn the trip.”
Hang gliding near Interlachen, Switzerland, organized by Infrared Partners DMC Group
Pique Travel Design-planned incentive trip yoga session at the Xunantunich archaeological site in Belize for Life Time Inc.
“INCENTIVE TRAVEL IS ULTIMATELY ABOUT THE STORIES PEOPLE BRING HOME.” –Jim Bendt, Co-Owner, Pique Travel Design
Personalized Adventures High expectations extend to the locales where trips take place. As part of the recent study “Investigating the Power of Incentive Travel Across Generations” by the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) and Maritz, findings indicate that Generation Z, more than any other age group, prizes incentive travel as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” and they’re drawn to novelty and experiential value. Lisa Myers, managing partner at Infrared Partners DMC Group in Minneapolis, agrees: “Clients look for new places to go and for experiences attendees couldn’t do on their own, like private tours, personalized experiences, and dining with locals,” she says. “Destinations like Africa, New Zealand, Fiji, and Asia fulfill this desire for groups who have the time and budget.” Bendt recently ran two incentive trips in his favorite destination, Belize, which he says has a fraction of the incentive visitors that places like Costa Rica or Mexico do. That smaller footprint is a benefit for today’s incentive travelers. “You feel the difference when you arrive,” he says. “Belize is smaller, less developed, and far less crowded, so it feels like you’re discovering something.” One Belize Pique Travel Design incentive trip for Life Time Inc. of Chanhassen, was a rainforest wellness retreat held for the fitness company’s leading instructors at eco-resort Chaa Creek near San Ignacio. “Chaa Creek gave us the perfect setting,” Bendt says. “We needed to craft everything in alignment with their brand’s healthy lifestyle focus, so we created experiences, not
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Infrared Partners DMC Groupplanned trip in Switzerland
“THE ATMOSPHERE WAS UNFORGETTABLE—EQUAL PARTS ELEGANT, IMMERSIVE, AND DEEPLY PERSONAL.” –Debbie Friedman-Hueller, senior manager of sales acceleration and strategic initiatives, Nutra Blend/Land O’Lakes Inc.
just activities anyone could book online.” Bendt notes one of the most memorable of these was a private sunrise yoga session at Xunantunich, one of Belize’s most significant Mayan archaeological sites. “Organizing it required permits, special staffing, private transportation, and the cooperation of local officials, but no one in the group will ever forget that day,” he says. The takeaway for these clients were experiences that were “luxurious, but unmistakably Belizean,” Bendt says. “That distinction is important. When companies invest in an incentive trip, they don’t want their employees to feel as though they could be at the same resort anywhere in the world. They look for more than luxury—they want meaningful luxury. What participants remember is the access, the sense of place, and the stories they couldn’t have experienced on their own.”
It’s the Little Things Choosing a locale and venue are vital first steps in planning, but no incentive trip is complete without the little touches that make participants feel special. “Beyond the larger program elements, I identify smaller enhancements that have an impact on the experience,” says Debbie Friedman-Hueller, senior manager of sales acceleration and strategic initiatives for Nutra Blend, a Land O’Lakes Inc. company based in Neosho, Missouri. She plans events for both companies. “Whether it is professional photography and videography, locally inspired welcome gifts, elevated transportation experiences, or memorable closing moments, I look for ways to surprise attendees and create lasting emotional connections.” She was able to deliver that perfect touch during a recent incentive trip for Nutra Blend at Cameron House Resort on Loch Lomond in Scotland. The weeklong retreat is one of the company’s flagship relationship-building programs, held for 240 top livestock and poultry producers, company executives, strategic vendor partners, and spouses. “From the very beginning, we challenged ourselves to create something that could only happen in Scotland—and only happen because of Nutra Blend,” she says.
Perhaps the most unforgettable small touch during that incentive trip was when custom-fit traditional Scottish attire was delivered to participants’ rooms in advance of a grand dinner in a castle. Friedman-Hueller explains how she pulled it off: “During the registration process, we collected sizing information, so each gentleman received a kilt tailored to his measurements, while each woman received a coordinating tartan sash and traditional brooch. We also arranged for professional kilt fitters and dressing instructions on-site, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and confident wearing the attire.” Dressed in their full Scottish regalia, they were transported to historic Stirling Castle for a private dinner event. “As each couple entered the castle’s magnificent Great Hall, a traditional town crier announced their arrival and a ceremonial trumpeter heralded them before taking their seats for dinner,” FriedmanHueller says. “The atmosphere was unforgettable—equal parts elegant, immersive, and deeply personal. The evening concluded with a traditional [military] Beating Retreat ceremony as guests departed the castle grounds and returned to their waiting transfers, creating a truly cinematic ending to one of the most memorable nights of the program.” chaacreek.com infraredpartners.com metroconnections.com nutrablend.com piquetravel.com travelleadersnetwork.com
PHOTOS (FROM ABOVE LEFT) Lisa Myers, metroConnections
Santorini, Greece, one of the locales of a metroConnections-planned incentive trip
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EPIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS 70,000+ square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space paired with 335 guest rooms and convenient on-site parking, all gathered beneath one historic roof.
E M A I L S A L E S @ T H E D E P O T M I N N E A P O L I S . C O M T O F I N D Y O U R S PA C E
RENAISSANCE MINNEAPOLIS HOTEL, THE DEPOT 2 2 5 3 R D AV E S , M I N N E A P O L I S M N 5 5 4 0 1 | T 6 1 2 . 3 7 5 .1 7 0 0 | M A R R I O T T. C O M / M S P D D
Fall Into Extraordinary Events
PHOTOS (FROM ABOVE LEFT) Lisa Myers, metroConnections
As the leaves turn, discover a meeting destination designed to inspire. The Confluence Hotel blends sophisticated event spaces, resort-style amenities, and the beauty of autumn in historic Hastings, creating memorable retreats and conferences.
confluencehotel.com/fall Hastings, MN | 651-432-0202 MEETINGSMAGS.COM/MINNESOTA 19
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SPONSORED CONTENT
VISIT GRAND RAPIDS 612-940-9373 | visitgrandrapids.com
PHOTOS Visit Grand Rapids
G
rand Rapids is the perfect place for small- to medium-size group events, meetings, or conferences. The splendor of the outdoors is enhanced by the great natural scenery and recreation opportunities. If you are looking for an in-town group facility where attendees can stay at multiple properties close to area shops and attractions, in-town trails, and restaurants, Grand Rapids is perfect. Or maybe an off-the-beatenpath location with access to the entire facility, including on-site amenities like a restaurant, bar, and golf course, is the right match for you—Grand Rapids has that, too. Grand Rapids’ north-central Minnesota location is close enough to be convenient, but far enough away to provide an escape from the hustle. Visit Grand Rapids offers services for meeting and event planners. These services include putting together welcome bags for attendees, arranging group room blocks with a custom URL to add to registration materials, assisting with booking off-site tours, coordinating shopping and dining events, and securing entertainment. Amanda Templin, group tourism and community engagement manager for Visit Grand Rapids, is available to help you move forward with bringing your group to the area. Amanda can be reached via email at amanda@visitgrandrapids.com or with a phone call to 612-940-9373. For more information on the Grand Rapids area please visit the Visit Grand Rapids website: visitgrandrapids.com/groups-events-conference-venue.
MEET. STAY. GATHER
Sign up for Quarterly Group Newsletter and CHANCE TO WIN $100 cash! 20 MN M+E » FALL 2026/WINTER 2027
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SPONSORED CONTENT
OWATONNA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 800-423-6466 | visitowatonna.org
PHOTOS Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce
O
watonna is a premier destination for meeting and event planners. Located just an hour south of the Twin Cities, this vibrant, midsize city perfectly balances Midwestern hospitality with event infrastructure. With over 700 overnight rooms spread across 11 diverse hotels and versatile multifunctional spaces capable of hosting gatherings of up to 2,000 attendees, Owatonna effortlessly simplifies the logistical and lodging challenges often faced by meeting and event planners. The premier destination for large-scale gatherings is the Steele County Four Seasons Centre. This expansive facility offers over 50,000 square feet of total exhibit space. Planners requiring a more traditional, full-service configuration frequently choose the DoubleTree by Hilton Owatonna, which features more than 6,000 square feet of flexible meeting and breakout space and a magnificent 3,300-square-foot grand ballroom, which is perfectly paired with 130 beautifully appointed guest rooms. For groups seeking a unique experience rooted in local history and character, the Steele County History Center and Village of Yesteryear provide distinctive settings that bring Owatonna and Steele County’s rich heritage to life. From historic exhibits and engaging stories at the history center to the charming historic buildings and grounds of the Village of Yesteryear, these venues offer memorable options for receptions, group experiences, tours, and special events.
Meet in Owatonna...where we go the extra mile to help plan your meeting or event. At the crossroads of I-35 & US Hwy 14, Owatonna is conveniently located in Southern Minnesota.
Start planning today! Affordable No metro traffic A variety of lodging options Group friendly dining Regional airport Team building opportunities Networking activities
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Explore Alexandria B
ring your next meeting, conference, retreat, or group event to Alexandria, where productive gatherings meet genuine Minnesota hospitality. Located right off of Interstate 94 between MinneapolisSt. Paul and Fargo, North Dakota, Alexandria offers a relaxing and refreshing setting for meetings and events of all sizes. From professional conferences and retreats to weddings, reunions, and group gatherings, numerous area venues provide flexible spaces, amenities, and welcoming services to help make your event a success.
When the meeting is over, attendees can step outside and experience what makes Alexandria so great. With more than 300 lakes, scenic parks, golf courses, breweries, wineries, and team-bonding experiences (such as The Escape Room and Garden Center Lanes), there are plenty of ways to connect beyond the conference room. Alexandria offers convenient accommodations, making it easy to keep your group close to the action. Whether you are planning a one-day meeting or a weekend retreat, Alexandria offers the space and venues that turn a meeting into an experience.
PHOTOS Explore Alexandria Minnesota
320-763-0102 | explorealex.com
Recharge & Reconnect.
MEET IN
Alexandria Explore how productive your next meeting, convention, or retreat can be in Alexandria! Let us make your planning process easy with our complimentary services and local expertise! Meeting Spaces Event Centers Lodging Planning Services Group Activities & Excursions
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Discover Perham 218-346-7710 | perham.com
PHOTOS Perham Area Chamber of Commerce
B
ring your meeting, retreat, or special event to Perham, where small-town hospitality meets the natural beauty of lake country. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering, corporate meeting, family celebration, or large-scale event, Perham offers welcoming indoor and outdoor venues to fit your vision. Choose from flexible event spaces, community facilities, banquet rooms, outdoor settings, and scenic locations near the water. For business meetings and conferences, Perham venues accommodate groups of any size. With ample lodging options in and around Perham, attendees can stay close to the action while enjoying easy access to shopping, dining, recreation, and the surrounding lakes. Planning is made even easier with a strong network of area professionals ready to help bring every detail together. Perham-area photographers, caterers, florists, rental providers, entertainment vendors, and other event specialists offer personalized service and regional expertise. Attendees can also take advantage of nearby salons, spas, wellness services, and personal care providers to prepare, relax, and recharge. With beautiful scenery, convenient amenities, and attentive area support, Perham is more than a meeting host city; it is a place where people connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories.
Surrounded by over 1,000 lakes
in Otter Tail County,
you are sure to find the one for you in
Perham, Minn. start planning your trip today @
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
I
t’s coming. A new convention center is on the horizon for downtown Fargo, opening the door to bigger possibilities for meetings, conventions, and events in the FargoMoorhead-West Fargo area. Planned for the heart of downtown, the Fargo Convention Center will build on a destination that already offers what meeting planners are looking for: an easy drive from across Minnesota, a walkable downtown, distinctive venues, standout dining, and a welcoming community, all without the hassle of complicated travel. But what’s coming next will change the kinds of events planners can bring to Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo. The new
facility is designed to create more flexibility, more space, and more opportunities for groups to gather while connecting to the character and energy that make FargoMoorhead-West Fargo a little different from anywhere else. And this is only the beginning. Over the coming months, Visit Fargo-Moorhead will be sharing more about the vision, design, spaces, and possibilities taking shape, along with what it all means for planners looking ahead to future meetings and events. Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo’s next chapter as a meetings and events destination is being built now. And if the metro area hasn’t been on your radar before, it might be time to start watching.
MEET YOUR NEW FAVORITE SPACE A new meetings destination is taking shape
IMAGES Visit Fargo-Moorhead
701-282-3653 | fargomoorhead.org
www.fargomoorhead.org
in Downtown Fargo. Stay Tuned.
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IMAGES Visit Fargo-Moorhead
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I N D USTRY U P DAT E The Meetings Beat
THE SAINT PAUL HOTEL SELLS
The Saint Paul Hotel
T
he Saint Paul Hotel sold on May 14 to a St. Paul-based ownership group— including Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold, Securian Financial, Ecolab Inc., and several real estate developers. The historic hotel, which opened in 1910, has two ballrooms, including the larger Promenade Ballroom with space for up to 400 people reception-style. The hotel connects to Saint Paul RiverCentre and Grand Casino Arena via skyway and tunnels. The new ownership group plans extensive improvements to the hotel, including renovating all guest rooms, reimagining the lobby, upgrading the fitness center, and introducing fresh dining and bar experiences. “It is one of the most exciting times in our city’s recent history as St. Paul businesses and leaders continue to come together to invest in a bright future for our downtown,” St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her says in a prepared statement. “This bold investment in one of our city’s most famous landmarks is another great example of this commitment to downtown.” –Jennifer Pitterle and Todd R. Berger saintpaulhotel.com
BRIT’S PUB
CRAVE
BOKETTO
BUTCHER’S TALE
UNION ROOFTOP
RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY
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sales@kaskaidhospitality.com
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(952) 562-5625
PHOTO Visit Saint Paul
A S pace T hat S peaks F or I tself
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Meetings that Inspire
Just a short drive from the Twin Cities, Bunker Hills Event Center is an impressive and easily accessible space for corporate events and meetings. Our conference facilities are comfortable, customizable, and well-equipped to meet all your business event needs. 12800 Bunker Prairie Rd. Coon Rapids, MN 55448 | BunkerHillsEventCenter.com | 763-951-7276
The season calls for celebration !
PHOTO Visit Saint Paul
Bring people together, no matter the weather at Target Field.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
IN D U STRY U PDATE The Meetings Beat
Explore Willmar Lakes Area 320-235-3552 | willmarlakesarea.com
PHOTO Willmar Lakes Area
J
ust 90 minutes west of the Twin Cities, the Willmar Lakes area offers a refreshing setting for meetings and events in the heart of west-central Minnesota. From full-service conference facilities to distinctive venues throughout the area, Willmar offers planners meeting spaces, lodging, and personalized support for a successful event. Beyond the agenda, attendees can explore area restaurants and breweries, inviting downtowns, trails, lakes, golf courses, and year-round recreational activities. Here, there’s room to get down to business and time to enjoy what makes the Willmar Lakes area worth experiencing. With Explore Willmar Lakes Area ready to help with the details, planning feels a little easier from start to finish.
MPLS LANDS NFL DRAFT » ON MAY 19, NFL owners voted to
stage the 2028 NFL draft in Minneapolis. Slated to be the largest NFL event hosted in the city since the 2018 Super Bowl, the 2028 NFL draft will be held primarily at U.S. Bank Stadium and will feature many free events and activities at the venue and in the metropolitan area. The 2026 NFL draft in Pittsburgh broke attendance records, with more than 800,000 fans flocking to the event across three days. The 2025 draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin, had an attendance of 600,000 people. An immense opportunity for Minneapolis and Minnesota, hosting the draft will showcase Minneapolis itself as a travel destination, says Meet Minneapolis President and CEO Melvin Tennant, who adds, “We are a city of wonderful neighborhoods, cultural districts, and unexpected pleasures. We are interested in letting people see who we really are.” –Spencer White minneapolis.org
Elevate Your Meeting
nfl.com
PHOTOS (FROM LEFT) Steve Bergerson, Leisure Hotels & Resorts
Conveniently Located in West Central MN Array of Meeting Venues Pre and Post Meeting Activities Free Event Planning Assistance
Let’s plan your perfect event!
www.willmarlakesarea.com U.S. Bank Stadium and Medtronic Plaza
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A Premier Minnesota Venue for Meetings and Events • Performances & Ceremonies • Business & Association Meetings • Corporate Receptions • Networking Events • Nonprofit Fundraisers • Recording Sessions & Livestream Events
rentorchestrahall.org 612-371-5693 rentals@mnorch.org Jamie Tatge
Tatge Purchases Leisure Hotels
L
ongtime Leisure Hotels & Resorts employee Jamie Tatge acquired the Baxter-based company on June 8 from retiring founder Steve Olson. The 1,600-employee company operates 26 properties spanning nine states, including The Conf luence Hotel in Hastings, Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd, Pier B Resort Hotel in Duluth, and Superior Shores Resort in Two Harbors. Tatge, who lives in the Baxter area and is currently the company’s “team captain,” president, and CEO, says Leisure Hotels & Resorts moved to Baxter in 2015 because Tatge was based there. He notes the move and his purchase of Leisure were pillars of the company’s long-term succession plan. Tatge also says Cragun’s Resort—which the company bought in spring 2025—will see major renovations over the next 12 to 18 months, including upgrades for all meeting spaces. He adds, “There are a lot of great things happening at [Cragun’s] now, and that is our MO: We find [resorts] that have a great location and history, and ones that may need a little capital, a little love, and a little bit of an upgrade to the vibe and energy. That is what we love doing.” leisurehotel.com –Todd R. Berger
Historic spaces, unforgettable events
landmarkcenter.org | 651.292.3293 | hilari@landmarkcenter.org
www.landmarkcenter.org | 75 Fifth Street West | Saint Paul, MN
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S NAP S HOT S Bloomington’s Diamond Service Awards
1
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A Hopping Celebration of Hospitality Stars
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7
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1. Jim Cunningham, Guillermo “Bill” Zamitiz, Dan Ballstadt, Deanna Rocksted, Mike Tvrdik, and Dan O’Neill 2. Bill McCarthy 3. Zech Carlson, Kannika Carson, and Mizanur Rahaman 4. Jim Cunningham and Carlos De Jesus Beltron Sandoval 5. Norma Lezama Garzon 6. 24K Magic Band 7. Grand Ballroom at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bloomington-Minneapolis South 8. Ciara Graham
8
To have your meeting or event photos featured, contact tberger@greenspring.com.
PHOTOS Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism
3
Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism hosted its 28th annual Diamond Service Awards at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bloomington-Minneapolis South on May 27. The gala celebrated frontline personnel from Bloomington’s hospitality industry, including employees of hotels, restaurants, retail, and attractions. Over 700 attendees filled the hotel’s Grand Ballroom for the awards ceremony, which was hosted by Jim Cunningham— an actor, playwright, and producer based in St. Paul—and Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism’s Vice President of Strategy and Sales Daniel O’Neill. The convention and visitors bureau honored 14 winners in categories ranging from Best Banquet/Catering Staffer to Best Housekeeping Employee.
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PHOTOS Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism
BLOOMINGTON
diamond service AWARDS
Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism hosted the 28th annual Diamond Service Awards on May 27, 2026, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bloomington-Minneapolis South, celebrating the front-line employees who help shape the city’s visitor experience. Established in 1996, the awards recognize outstanding service across Bloomington's hospitality industry—from hotels and restaurants to retail and attractions. This year’s gala honored employees in multiple categories while highlighting the individuals whose dedication, professionalism, and welcoming spirit make Bloomington a premier destination for travelers.
Spirit of Hospitality Greenspring Media, parent company of Minnesota Monthly, is this year’s recipient of the Spirit of Hospitality Award, recognized for its longstanding commitment to showcasing the people, places, businesses, and experiences that make Bloomington and Minnesota vibrant destinations. Through its portfolio of publications, events, and digital platforms, Greenspring Media helps connect residents and visitors alike with the region’s dining, arts, travel, and cultural offerings, supporting local businesses while celebrating the communities that define the state’s hospitality spirit.
Congratulations, Greenspring Media!
BloomingtonMinnesota
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@BloomingtonMN
@BloomingtonMN
@BloomingtonMN
bloomingtonmn.org
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P EOPLE P ROFI L E Eric Peterson
Good Times on Gull Lake
Lifelong golfer and Cragun’s Resort General Manager Eric Peterson brings a competitive spirit to his work at the lakeside haven BY SPENCER WHITE
Eric Peterson in the Cragun’s Resort lobby, remodeled this summer
PHOTO Jenna Elfering Photography
E
ric Peterson’s first love was golf. When he went to college at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, Peterson made sure all his classes were from 8 a.m. to noon, and he kept a standing 1 p.m. tee time at a nearby golf course. He says he golfed at least four days a week then. Now, some 30 years after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, the general manager of Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd has shifted his focus from the greens to the resort world, although the 6-handicap golfer (at one point a scratch golfer) still makes time to get out on the Cragun’s fairways to swing some clubs around. Some of that golf mentality has found its way into Peterson’s professional philosophy. To succeed in a high-pace role like his, he says, you have to be competitive and possess a strong work ethic. “That’s the story of golf,” Peterson explains. “No matter what your ability is, you will always think you should be better.” Peterson says, as general manager, he makes sure he and his team always are as prepared as possible for anything that might arise. He also notes Cragun’s Resort employs more than 500 people during summer, and that managing an operation so large comes down to the people by your side. “You can’t do that without having passionate people around you,” he says. “My role is really to support the team and make sure they have the tools to put on a great show.” Cragun’s is a large operation with many moving parts—golf courses, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and pickleball courts, The Tamarack Event Centre, and more—but that doesn’t seem to rattle Peterson. Especially because, at the end of the day, he is just trying to sell people a good time. “We sell fun,” he says. “It’s a pretty easy thing to sell.” Peterson says there is a lot to be excited about in Cragun’s future. Dutch Cragun, the resort’s former owner, sold the property in 2025 to Baxter-based Leisure Hotels & Resorts. Peterson says new ownership kept the resort management team in place, and Leisure has big plans for upcoming renovations. craguns.com
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Inspired Events at the Twin Cities’ Only Castle!
The American Swedish Institute offers an exceptional Minneapolis venue for corporate events, parties, and special gatherings. • Convenient, South Minneapolis location. • Modern and historical event spaces • Host up to 500 guests • Free onsite parking 2600 Park Avenue
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Minneapolis MN 55407
Learn more about hosting your next event at ASI: asimn.org/rentals
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612-871-4907
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asimn.org
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Why settle for ordinary? Elevate your next event at Duluth’s premier destination with on-site lodging and dining, spacious meeting rooms, modern breakout spaces, and a breathtaking lakeside setting with plenty to do on site. The perfect blend of business and leisure, all in one place.
pierbresort.com
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