St. James Hotel Maintains Old-World Charm, Adds Updated Amenities

Offering everything from full-service wedding ceremonies to elopements and vow renewals, the St. James Hotel is a hub of wedding buzz in Red Wing. A historic Minnesota venue, the hotel seamlessly blends tradition and trends with memorable character.

The latest development is the newly remodeled Portside Room which reopened in October, and it’s already a big hit, says Abby Hanson, wedding sales manager. “The venue has vintage-modern fusion décor that brings out accents of the building’s history,” she says. With stone walls, wooden beams and concrete flooring, the space on the hotel’s lower level is perfect for couples who love old-world charm and a rustic feel. It can accommodate ceremonies and receptions for 150 guests.

The hotel, built in 1875, has nine venues, five of which are available for weddings of 12 to 240 guests.

“For small, romantic weddings, our Historic Area fits well, with its classic pipe organ and intricate grand staircase,” Hanson says. “For larger affairs, the Summit Room features panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley.” She also mentions the Laurentine Room, on the first floor, which has an outside balcony where smaller gatherings can enjoy river views.

The Veranda, one of the hotel’s three restaurants, is scheduled to reopen in spring after a renovation. “Lots of changes will be happening in this new decade to modernize the hotel,” Hanson says, “but we’ll continue its historic legacy and charm.”