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There’s just something special about a tournament weekend in downtown Mankato. The city gets a little louder, restaurants fill up a little faster, and everywhere you go, there’s that unmistakable sense that something exciting is happening. This week, it all revolves around the pool. The C&N Entertainment Year-End Singles & Team Pool Tournament (April 16–19, 2026) is taking over the Mayo Health Event Center, bringing players, teams, and fans together for a full weekend of competition. With singles, team, and women’s 8-ball divisions, it’s shaping up to be a packed and energetic few days. Here at Hotel Alexander, we’re fully booked, and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way. We love the buzz that comes with weekends like this. Tournament weekends have their own rhythm. Guests head out early, come back late, swap stories in the lobby, and make last-minute dinner plans downtown. There’s a shared energy that fills the whole city, and it’s a great reminder of how fun Mankato can be when people come together around something they love.

If you are visiting Minnesota State University, Mankato for a campus tour, my best advice is this: do not leave town the minute the tour ends.

At Hotel Alexander and Arch + Cable, our story has always been rooted in people, our guests, our community, and the team members who bring our spaces to life every day. This March, in honor of Women’s History Month, we are proud to shine a light on something that makes our hotels especially meaningful to us: we are women-owned and largely women-operated. From leadership and management to operations, hospitality, and guest experience, women play a vital role in shaping the culture, creativity, and care that define our properties. Throughout the month, we will be highlighting the incredible women who help make our hotels what they are today. Each story reflects a different journey, perspective, and contribution, but they all share a common thread: a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and community.

The holiday season in Mankato is filled with charm, tradition, and glowing winter nights, and nothing captures that spirit quite like the Kiwanis Holiday Lights at Sibley Park. Running from November 28 to December 31, 2025, this beloved annual event transforms Sibley Park into a festive display of twinkling lights, animated scenes, and holiday music that locals and visitors eagerly anticipate every year. Presented by the Mankato Area Foundation and CHS, the Kiwanis Holiday Lights are free and open to the public and completely volunteer-produced, making them a meaningful way to celebrate the season while supporting the community. Guests are encouraged to bring cash or non-perishable food donations, which will help support local children’s programs throughout the region. Visitors can experience the lights by walking through the displays, enjoying a cozy drive-through experience, or arriving with a pre-approved bus group. Warm concessions, including cocoa, cider, and mini donuts, are available inside the park, making it easy to linger and enjoy the festive atmosphere. For hours, visiting tips, and display details, guests can learn more on the official Kiwanis Holiday Lights website: https://www.kiwanisholidaylights.com/sponsorsAfter an evening at the lights, return to the comfort of Hotel Alexander, located in the heart of Downtown Mankato. Our historic boutique hotel offers a relaxing retreat just minutes from Sibley Park, local dining, and other seasonal events, perfect for guests visiting family or coming into town for the holidays. Coming into town this winter or visiting Mankato for the holidays? Pair a festive night at the Kiwanis Holiday Lights with a cozy downtown stay.

Downtown Mankato lit up last week as legendary rock band STYX rolled into town. Both Arch + Cable and Hotel Alexander were buzzing with the energy of excited fans. From the moment guests checked in, it was clear this wasn’t just another concert night. It was nostalgia, first-time magic, and pure musical joy all wrapped into one unforgettable stay.

Hockey season is in full swing, and there’s nothing like game night in Mankato. The Minnesota State University Mavericks are set to take on Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center , and the excitement is already in the air. Whether you’re coming to cheer on a favorite player, meet up with friends, or just take in some great college hockey, Hotel Alexander is ready to welcome you for the weekend.