Overview & Suitability
The Hawthorne Transportation Center (also known as the Hawthorne Municipal Parking Ramp) is a secure, multi-modal indoor parking facility located in the heart of Downtown West, Minneapolis. It serves as a comprehensive transportation hub featuring a bus terminal for Greyhound and Jefferson Lines, in addition to its public parking garage. The facility is ideal for passenger vehicles and is highly popular among visitors attending events at nearby entertainment venues.
Access, Dimensions & Clearance
- Maximum Vehicle Clearance: 8 feet 2 inches.
- Access Notes: The facility features multiple entry points, typically off North 9th Street and North 1st Avenue. It is designed for standard passenger vehicles; oversized vehicles or RVs are not accommodated. Drivers should look for the blue public parking signage.
- Navigation: The garage offers convenient, covered parking with an intuitive layout, though it is recommended to monitor event-related traffic during peak hours.
Parking Rates, Tariffs & Booking
- Pricing Structure: The garage offers competitive rates, including hourly increments (starting at approximately $4.00 for the first hour), daily maximums (around $12.00), and special event pricing that can fluctuate based on local demand.
- Booking & Payment: Visitors can pay via on-site kiosks or utilize mobile parking platforms such as ParkMobile or ParkWhiz. Pre-booking online is encouraged for event-goers to ensure availability.
- Monthly Contracts: Unreserved monthly parking is available for commuters.
Security & Amenities
- Security: The facility is equipped with a centralized monitoring system and benefits from the constant presence of on-site staff/attendants to ensure a safe environment.
- Convenience Features: The garage is fully integrated into the Minneapolis Skyway System, providing climate-controlled pedestrian access to major downtown destinations. Amenities include electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and bicycle lockers.
Strategic Alternative
This facility acts as a premier parking alternative for major local landmarks, including Target Center, Target Field, the Orpheum Theatre, and the State Theatre. Its direct skyway connectivity makes it an excellent choice for avoiding street-level weather and pedestrian traffic during major events.
