IDS Tower

What if a building could whisper secrets of the skyline? The IDS Tower, a majestic giant piercing the Minneapolis sky, holds just such secrets. The IDS Tower isn’t just a building. It’s a story etched in glass and steel, a testament to ambition and a touch of architectural whimsy. Completed in 1973, the IDS Tower quickly claimed the title of Minnesota’s tallest building, reaching a proud 792 feet. It dethroned the Foshay Tower, ending its 43-year reign. The IDS Tower, originally the headquarters of Investors Diversified Services, was designed by the renowned architect Philip Johnson. He incorporated a unique “stepback” design, affectionately nicknamed “zogs”. This unusual feature gifts each floor with up to 32 corner offices, bathing them in natural light and offering breathtaking views. At the base of the IDS Tower, a vibrant hub known as Crystal Court bustles with activity. This enclosed space isn’t just a lobby; it’s a seven-story atrium connecting the tower to surrounding blocks via skyways. Imagine it, a sheltered city within a city, a testament to Minneapolis’s innovative urban planning. But the IDS Tower’s story isn’t just about height and design. It’s woven into the fabric of popular culture. Remember Mary Tyler Moore’s iconic hat toss? Just across the street from the IDS Tower stood Donaldson’s Department Store, the backdrop for that memorable scene. Mary herself was even seen dining in a restaurant overlooking Crystal Court in the show’s opening sequence. Today, you can still sit at the “Mary Tyler Moore Table” and soak in the history. Even Prince graced the IDS Tower with his presence, appearing in a scene from “Purple Rain” on the Skyway Level of Crystal Court. Over the years, the IDS Tower hasn’t been immune to challenges. Leaks, falling ice, and even a devastating windstorm in 1979 have tested its resilience. Yet, like a true Minnesotan, the IDS Tower has weathered these storms, standing as a symbol of strength and enduring beauty. So, the next time you gaze up at the IDS Tower, remember its stories. Remember the “zogs,” Mary’s hat toss, Prince’s glimpse, and the bustling Crystal Court. The IDS Tower isn’t just a building; it’s a living narrative, a vibrant piece of Minneapolis history.