DOUBLETREE HOTEL
Sheraton Park Place

The $22 million Park Place hotel opened on June 6, 1982 at 5555 Wayzata Blvd., near the Cooper Theater. [Construction started in 1981.] Over 400 residents and dignitaries were there for the dedication, with the hotel presenting “A Salute to the Park.” Festivities included a race, hot air balloon, sealing a time capsule, speakers, and the release of 1,500 helium balloons by Mayor Phyllis McQuaid. The “Race to the Place” 5.2 mile run went from Parade Stadium to the hotel, with 300 runners in attendance.

The hotel was developed by Minneapolis developer Paul Klodt and designed by Don Thornton. Managers were Kilborn and Fisher. The building featured a five-story pitched roof atrium with glass skylights and over 1,400 plants.

The hotel had 268 rooms in a 15-story tower, and 30 “Lanai” suites, with sitting rooms and balconies overlooking a five-story atrium. The 4,700 sq. ft. Terrace Ballroom could accommodate 700 people

Live New Orleans jazz was played nightly at Monsieur Kelly’s, which seated 210. Kelly’s was named after a friend of the developer’s who advised him to build on the site. Kelly died of leukemia shortly after the project began.

Another restaurant, the 200 seat Seasons on the Park, was an elegant place featuring greenhouse windows. The restaurant served fine European cuisine created by Chef Richert of Alsace Lorraine, who changed the menu with the seasons.

On February 4, 1993, a section of Vernon Ave. was changed to Park Place Blvd.

                              This picture is from 1984

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This information comes from a variety of sources: newspapers, books, yearbooks, phone directories, interviews, etc. Given the varied sources, we cannot guarantee that all of this information is correct, and welcome any additions and corrections. Please contact us with your contributions and comments.