Foshay Tower | Minneapolis

Information

Landmark: Foshay Tower
City: Minneapolis
Country: USA Minnesota
Continent: North America

Foshay Tower, Minneapolis, USA Minnesota, North America

Foshay Tower is a 37-story Art Deco skyscraper located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.

It was the tallest building in Minneapolis until 1971 and is a designated National Historic Landmark.

Visual Characteristics

The tower stands 447 feet (136 meters) tall and is constructed primarily of buff-colored brick and limestone. Its design features setbacks at various levels, culminating in a distinctive pyramid-shaped roof topped by a beacon. The facade incorporates decorative elements characteristic of the Art Deco style, including geometric patterns and stylized ornamentation.

Location & Access Logistics

Foshay Tower is situated at 821 Marquette Avenue South in downtown Minneapolis. It is approximately 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the central business district. Public parking is available in adjacent parking garages, such as the RBC Plaza ramp. The building is accessible via multiple bus routes serving downtown Minneapolis, with stops located within a block of the tower.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Foshay Tower began in 1929 and was completed in 1930. It was designed by architect Leon Arnal and built by the George F. Fuller Company for Wilbur Foshay, a financier. The tower was originally intended to house the offices of the Foshay Company and other businesses.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can access the observation deck on the 30th floor for panoramic views of the city. The W Minneapolis - The Foshay hotel occupies the upper floors, and its lobby and public areas are accessible. Guided tours of the building's history and architecture are sometimes available.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the observation deck and within the hotel. Limited shade is available on the observation deck. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the tower. Food and beverage options are available within the W Minneapolis - The Foshay hotel.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal photography, the late afternoon provides favorable lighting conditions. The observation deck is open year-round, but clear days offer the best visibility. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

Wilbur Foshay reportedly modeled the tower after the Washington Monument. A unique detail is the inclusion of a small replica of the Statue of Liberty on the building's roof, though it is not easily visible from the ground.