Overview

This multiple-use structure, a full block of retail shops, the Marquette Hotel and offices connected by a sizable vestibule, whisked downtown Minneapolis into a new era. The massive edifice is comprised of four blue-glass covered buildings at its base that come together 12 stories later to form a 777-foot skyscraper, the tallest building in the Twin Cities. Opened in 1973, its Crystal Court immediately became a pulsating indoor town square. Eight stories above the pink granite floor is a white metal canopy covered with hundreds of clear Plexiglas pyramids, hence the name Crystal Court. Trees, flowers, benches and shops elegantly bring to life the vitality of this unique space, also home to Basil's Restaurant. The city's skyway system converges on the court and thousands of pedestrians pour through it every day. The IDS Center, named for Investors Diversified Services, now American Express Financial Advisors, is one of the nation's preeminent skyscrapers. The tower's highly reflective blue glass, haughty lobby and sleek construction make it a true architectural classic.