Like its sister Mansard complex, Minneapolis Airport, the South location also opened in 1973, and similarly its development and construction had progressed to the point where the project was not cancelled. Furthermore both properties were once part of McLean Motor Lodge group that was based in Springfield, Missouri at the huge Springfield Howard Johnson's Motor Lodge complex.

Highly visible to motorists approaching Minneapolis on I-35W, South was hampered by difficult access.

Right: Note the twice recycled sign. Converted first to advertise the site as a Ramada Limited, the sign was heavily disguised. However it retained its Ramada red and shape with the change to Select.