The Depot occupies the former Milwaukee Road Depot, built in 1899 with one of the last long-span, truss-roofed train sheds in the country. The last train left in 1971, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, and in 2001 the complex was converted into this hotel, which now has 73,000 square feet of event space and an attached Residence Inn. It sits at 225 3rd Avenue South, in the Mill District, steps from the Mississippi and a short walk from the Stone Arch Bridge, U.S. Bank Stadium and the Armory. The amenities are generous for a downtown hotel: an indoor heated pool open daily from 6am to 10pm, a 24-hour fitness centre, two restaurants including Milwaukee Road Restaurant and Bar with a patio and outdoor fire pit, and a concierge. Guest rooms have modern or historical styling, luxury bedding, a mini fridge, in-room safe and Aveda bath amenities. It suits families who want a pool, history lovers and anyone who wants a distinctive building with the river outside.
Location and getting around
The hotel is in the Mill District, about ten miles from the airport, with no shuttle service. The riverfront trails, Stone Arch Bridge and Mill City Museum are a short walk, and the light rail and the stadium are close. On-site parking is charged by the hour or the day, and valet is available at a higher rate, so check the cost if you are driving. Because it is by the stadium, event days bring crowds and higher rates.
Rooms and amenities
The pool is the standout for families and for anyone who wants a swim after a day outdoors in winter. The guest rooms vary between modern and historical styling, so ask for a type that suits you, and note that the attached Residence Inn is a separate property for longer stays.
The hotel’s large event spaces mean weddings and conferences are common, so the lobby may be busy at weekends. Wi-Fi is complimentary, and room service and a business centre are available. The hotel’s information does not mention a spa or a rink, so do not book on that expectation.
Who it suits and what to know: families, couples and history fans will like the building and the location. Walking the Stone Arch Bridge at sunset is the obvious evening plan, followed by dinner on the patio in warmer months. Ask for a river-facing room if available, and book early for stadium events. Winter walks along the river are bracing, so pair them with a swim and a hot drink when you return.
Why stay here
- ✓1899 train depot building
- ✓Indoor heated pool
- ✓24-hour fitness centre
- ✓Milwaukee Road Restaurant and Bar
- ✓Patio with fire pit
- ✓Aveda bath amenities
- ✓Concierge
- ✓Walk to Stone Arch Bridge
Good questions
Does The Depot have a pool?+
Yes. There is an indoor heated pool, open daily from 6am to 10pm according to the hotel.
What is the building?+
The Milwaukee Road Depot, built in 1899 and converted into a hotel in 2001. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.
How far is the Stone Arch Bridge?+
The bridge and the riverfront trails are a short walk from the hotel.
