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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Central Minneapolis

Live music cool spots

Made for those who only attend live music performances at venues that maintain a specific, curated aesthetic.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Star Bar & Bistro image 1
Star Bar & Bistro image 2
Star Bar & Bistro image 3
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Space combines mid-century modern design with twinkling starburst ceiling and neon-lit walls creating a retro, artsy vibe. Live music fills the room, sometimes loud, adding energy to the atmosphere. Comfortable seating and cocktail tables encourage relaxed conversation and socializing.

Great live music plays regularly, creating a vibrant atmosphere especially noticeable on weeknights. The music adds a lively touch to the bar area.

Decor shows a retro, eclectic, and artsy vibe with a mid-century modern feel. Comfortable chairs and cocktail tables create an effortless cool atmosphere for conversations.

People are saying

"The smashburger at this Lunch Spot is a must-try."

"The mellow groove and soft lights create a cool, mellow vibe."

"I loved the great live music they had during my visit."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for happy hour to secure a table.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport.

02
Berlin image 1
Live music bar

Intimate jazz club with moody interior and thoughtful layout featuring booths and a small stage. Atmosphere stays quaint and romantic with live jazz performances by talented local musicians. Venue offers late-night music and a swanky vibe suited for relaxed evenings.

An intimate, dark lit, romantic setting hosts live jazz that runs late into the night. The venue offers amazing live music that fits perfectly with a relaxed night out.

Groovy vibes fill the space with an intimate layout and hip music creating a very cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The jazz vibe here is moody and intimate."

"The live music here was amazing, especially the jazz."

"I found the venue to be cool with an intimate layout and hip music."

Good to know

1

Free jazz performances are available on many nights, with no cover charge before 7pm.

2

Arrive 20-30 minutes early to secure a good spot, especially for popular shows.

3

Street parking can be difficult to find due to the busy area around the venue.

03
First Avenue image 1
Live music venue

Venue offers an intimate setting with great sound quality and historic character. High stage and balcony improve visibility, while multiple bars ease drink access. Retro design from an old bus station adds unique charm.

Known for its rich history and iconic status, this venue offers a fun atmosphere for live music. It hosts a variety of performances and remains a top spot for concerts in the area.

Historic venue offers an intimate and classic concert experience with good sound. Walking outside reveals stars honoring bands that played there, adding to its cool vibe.

People are saying

"It's a cool historic place with a really great vibe."

"You can get closer to your favorite artists at live shows here."

"I found it to be a great place for live music."

Good to know

1

European visitors may face ID acceptance issues at the venue.

2

Expect overcrowding during popular events, which can make the experience uncomfortable.

3

The venue has a rich history, being known for hosting iconic performances.

04
Fine Line image 1
Live music venue

Small, multi-level venue offers an intimate atmosphere with great sight lines and excellent sound quality. Balcony seating provides a unique view of live performances, creating a cozy and engaging experience. The space feels like a close-knit community during shows.

Intimate live shows create a nice ambience that suits smaller concerts well. The venue offers a consistently excellent club setting for live music.

Balcony seating offers cool fresh air and plenty of space to sit or dance. The venue maintains a consistently cool atmosphere throughout.

People are saying

"It's a small, intimate venue with great sound quality."

"I found it to be a great club for live music."

"The sound quality here is fantastic, making music sound great."

Good to know

1

Tickets for events are typically priced around $20 in advance.

2

Parking is easy and available within a block or two of the venue.

3

The venue has a strict 21+ age policy for entry.

05
Underground Music Venue image 1
Live music venue

Small live music venue with beautiful wood interior and great acoustics creates a chill, cozy vibe. Local and underground bands perform on a compact stage visible through front windows. Space accommodates a reasonable crowd with a large bar and a comfortable atmosphere.

Live music shows happen regularly at the Underground Music Venue. Performances sound awesome and are hosted by M.A.C. House LLC.

Cool front windows let you see the band clearly. The venue has a cool vibe and sometimes gives out cool shirts.

People are saying

"I thought the venue had a really cool vibe."

"The bar's small, fun environment is great for live shows."

"The live music here sounds awesome with great acoustics."

Good to know

1

Expect a cover charge for most events, especially on weekends.

2

Parking availability can be limited; consider arriving early.

3

Comedy and poetry performances are held regularly at the venue.

06
The Fillmore Minneapolis image 1
Live music venue

Live music fills a beautiful venue with intimate size and great sight lines from every spot. The atmosphere feels packed and energetic, creating a close connection between performers and audience. Multiple bars and a lounge offer convenient drink options despite high prices.

Great venue for live music with a crowd that enjoys the throwback atmosphere. Shows offer consistent enjoyable performances.

An intimate venue with good sound and a pretty cool layout creates a unique vibe. The upstairs bar features cool chandeliers that add to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are nice and clean."

"I found the venue to be a really cool, unique place."

"I found it to be a great venue for live music."

Good to know

1

Drinks cost about $20 each, and only card payments are accepted.

2

Expect crowded conditions during sold-out events, making it hard to move.

3

There is only one set of restrooms for general admission attendees.

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Central Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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