You’ve just landed at MSP. You’ve picked up a sleek, white Tesla Model 3 from our Frontier Tesla downtown hub, and the silent hum of the electric motor is already winning you over. But then, you look at the battery percentage. It’s at 40%. You’re staying in the North Loop or near the RBC Gateway, and you need a reliable place to top off while you grab dinner or sleep.
In Minneapolis, two titans of luxury hospitality stand out for EV drivers: the historic Hewing Hotel and the ultra-modern Four Seasons. But which one actually delivers the best experience for someone renting a Tesla?
I’ve spent countless hours navigating the charging infrastructure of the Twin Cities. Here’s the thing: not all "Destination Chargers" are created equal. Whether you’re a local looking for a posh place to plug in or a Frontier Tesla renter exploring the city for the first time, the choice between Four Seasons vs Hewing Hotel Tesla charging can make or break your evening plans.
The Minneapolis EV Charging Landscape
Minneapolis has seen a massive surge in EV adoption. According to a 2024 report by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, electric vehicle registrations in the metro area have grown by nearly 45% year-over-year. This growth has put a premium on high-quality charging spots.
When you’re driving a rental, you don’t want to spend your vacation hunting for a broken Supercharger in a grocery store parking lot. You want "lifestyle charging"—the ability to replenish your range while you’re doing something else. The North Loop and Downtown districts are the epicenters of this trend.
Hewing Hotel: Historic Charm Meets Electric Convenience
The Hewing Hotel is a North Loop icon. Housed in a former farm implement warehouse, it’s all exposed brick, heavy timber, and North Woods chic. For many of our renters, it’s the first stop for a cocktail at the Rooftop or a meal at Tullibee. But how does it handle a Tesla?
Does the Hewing Hotel allow non-guests to use their Tesla chargers?
This is the question we get most often at Frontier Tesla. Here is the short answer: Yes, but with caveats.
The Hewing Hotel primarily reserves its Tesla Destination Chargers for overnight hotel guests and patrons of the hotel’s amenities. If you are dining at Tullibee or heading up to the Rooftop Lounge for a drink, the staff is generally very accommodating. However, it isn’t a public "charging station" in the way a gas station is a fueling stop.
I’ve found that the best approach is to be transparent. If you’re just passing through the North Loop and need a quick boost, call ahead. Usually, if the chargers aren't full, they will let you plug in for a fee or if you spend a certain amount at the bar. But don't expect to just pull up and leave your car for four hours without engaging with the hotel staff.
Is valet parking mandatory for Tesla charging at the Hewing Hotel?
Yes. Valet parking is almost always mandatory for Tesla charging at the Hewing Hotel.
The North Loop is notoriously tight on space. The Hewing’s charging units are located within their secure valet-managed parking area. You cannot simply drive into a stall and plug in yourself.
When you arrive at the Washington Avenue entrance, you’ll hand your keys (or your Frontier Tesla key card) to the valet. You must explicitly request a Tesla charger. The valet team handles the actual plugging and unplugging. This is a double-edged sword. It’s convenient because you don’t have to fumble with cables in the Minnesota cold. On the flip side, you are paying for the valet service on top of any potential charging costs.
Four Seasons Minneapolis: The New Standard for Downtown Charging
If the Hewing is "Old Minneapolis" reimagined, the Four Seasons is the "New Minneapolis" realized. Located in the stunning RBC Gateway building, it offers a level of polish that is hard to match. For the EV driver, this translates to a very seamless, high-tech experience.
Charging Speed and Infrastructure at the Four Seasons
The Four Seasons didn't just add chargers as an afterthought; they integrated them into the building’s core infrastructure. They utilize Tesla Gen 3 Wall Connectors, which are among the most reliable in the industry.
What we’ve learned at Frontier Tesla is that the Four Seasons often maintains a higher "uptime" for their chargers. Nothing is more frustrating than arriving at a hotel with 5% battery only to find the charger "Out of Order." At the Four Seasons, the maintenance standards are rigorous.
Four Seasons vs Hewing Hotel Tesla charging: The Speed Test
Which hotel has faster Tesla charging: Four Seasons or Hewing?
While both hotels utilize Tesla Destination Chargers, the "speed" of a Level 2 charger depends on the circuit's amperage.
- Four Seasons Minneapolis: Their units are typically wired for a higher output, often delivering between 11.5 kW and 16 kW. In a Tesla Model 3 rental, you can expect to gain about 30–44 miles of range per hour.
- Hewing Hotel: Their chargers are slightly older and often shared across a smaller electrical grid. You’ll typically see speeds in the 8 kW to 10 kW range, providing roughly 20–25 miles of range per hour.
The Verdict on Speed: The Four Seasons wins. If you are on a tight schedule and need to add 100 miles of range during a long lunch, the Four Seasons is your best bet. However, if you are staying overnight, both will easily get you back to 100% by morning.
The Valet Experience: A Comparative Look
Both hotels require valet for charging, but the vibes are different.
At the Hewing, the valet team is used to the North Loop hustle. It’s quick, friendly, and a bit more casual. They know the Tesla interface well because so many of their regulars drive them.
At the Four Seasons, the valet service is a choreographed performance. They will often ask you if you have a specific charging limit set in your Tesla app (we recommend 80% for daily use in our rentals). They are incredibly meticulous. If you want that "white glove" treatment where you never have to think about your battery again, this is the place.
Cost Analysis: What Will You Pay?
Renting from Frontier Tesla means you’re already saving on gas, but charging isn't always free.
- Hewing Hotel: Expect to pay the standard valet rate (currently around $40–$50 for overnight). Charging is often included in that fee for guests, but non-guests may be charged an additional "convenience fee."
- Four Seasons: Valet rates are slightly higher, often pushing $55–$60. However, they rarely charge extra for the electricity itself. You’re paying for the premium real estate and the service.
Key Takeaways for Frontier Tesla Renters
Before you choose your destination, consider these points:
- Location Matters: If your day is centered around the North Loop (shopping at Billy Reid, dinner at Spoon and Stable), the Hewing is unbeatable for convenience.
- Reliability is King: If you are low on charge and can't afford a "charger occupied" sign, the Four Seasons' larger bank of chargers offers better odds.
- The "Non-Guest" Strategy: If you aren't staying at either hotel, always call the Four Seasons concierge first. They have a larger parking capacity and are sometimes more flexible with "charging-only" visitors who are willing to pay the valet fee.
Practical Advice for Navigating Minneapolis in a Tesla
Don't rely solely on hotel chargers. Minneapolis has a robust network of Superchargers, including the one at the MoA and the downtown locations.
But here’s a pro tip: use the Tesla navigation system built into your Frontier rental. It will pre-condition the battery if you’re heading to a Supercharger, ensuring the fastest possible charge. For Destination Chargers like the ones at the Hewing or Four Seasons, pre-conditioning isn't necessary, but it’s still good practice to navigate there so the car knows its destination.
Comparison Summary Table
| Feature | Hewing Hotel | Four Seasons Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Vibe | Historic, North Woods, Boutique | Modern, Ultra-Luxury, Polished |
| Charger Type | Tesla Destination (Gen 2/3) | Tesla Destination (Gen 3) |
| Estimated Speed | 20–25 miles/hour | 30–44 miles/hour |
| Valet Required? | Yes | Yes |
| Non-Guest Access | Limited (Patrons only) | Flexible (Valet fee applies) |
| Location | North Loop (Washington Ave) | Downtown (RBC Gateway) |
FAQ: Your Minneapolis Tesla Charging Questions Answered
Does the Hewing Hotel allow non-guests to use their Tesla chargers?
Yes, but it is generally restricted to those using the hotel's facilities, such as the restaurant or rooftop bar. It is not a public charging station. Always call ahead to verify availability.
Which hotel has faster Tesla charging: Four Seasons or Hewing?
The Four Seasons Minneapolis typically offers faster charging speeds due to their newer Gen 3 infrastructure and higher amperage circuits, delivering up to 44 miles of range per hour compared to the Hewing’s 25 miles per hour.
Is valet parking mandatory for Tesla charging at the Hewing Hotel?
Yes. Because the chargers are located in a private, valet-only area, you must use their valet service to access the Tesla charging units.
What should I do if the chargers are full?
If you’re in a Frontier Tesla, check your screen for the nearest Supercharger. There is a major Supercharger station located at the Hy-Vee in Robbinsdale or the TCF Tower downtown if you need a high-speed DC fast charge.
Why Charging Infrastructure Matters for the Future of Minneapolis
We believe that the ease of charging is what will finally push the Twin Cities into a fully electric future. When hotels like the Four Seasons and the Hewing invest in these amenities, they aren't just serving luxury travelers; they are building the "fueling stations" of the 21st century.
According to a 2023 study by J.D. Power, the availability of public charging is the number one concern for potential EV buyers. By providing reliable, high-speed options, these hotels are removing the barriers to entry for sustainable travel.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
So, Four Seasons vs Hewing Hotel Tesla charging—who wins?
If you want the fastest charge and the most professional service in a modern setting, go to the Four Seasons. It’s the gold standard for downtown Minneapolis.
If you want to soak in the atmosphere of the North Loop and don't mind a slightly slower charge while you enjoy a world-class cocktail, the Hewing Hotel is your spot.
At Frontier Tesla, we want your rental experience to be seamless. Whether you’re plugging in at a historic warehouse or a glass skyscraper, you’re part of the electric revolution. Book your next Model 3 with us and experience Minneapolis the way it was meant to be seen: silently, sustainably, and with plenty of range to spare.
Ready to hit the road? Book your Frontier Tesla today and explore the Twin Cities with confidence.
Sources
- Tesla Find Us Map - Official directory of Tesla Destination Chargers.
- Minnesota Department of Transportation EV Dashboard - Data on EV registration and infrastructure growth in MN.
- Hewing Hotel Official Site - Information on guest amenities and valet services.
- Four Seasons Minneapolis Official Site - Details on the RBC Gateway facilities and guest services.
- PlugShare - User-generated reviews and real-time status updates for Minneapolis charging locations.