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Performing arts

Made for those who want to immerse themselves in the performing arts without the frustration of a long walk from their car.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Penumbra Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate setting with a smaller stage creates a cozy yet spacious atmosphere. Performances focus on the African American experience, delivering inspirational and life-affirming stories with strong music and acting. Ample free parking and good acoustics support a welcoming environment.

Ample parking spots surround the venue, making arrival hassle-free. Free parking options add to the convenience for visitors.

Plays feature primarily African American actors and crew with strong themes on Black identity and social issues. The theater offers good acoustics and showcases expert performances, including by notable jazz artists.

People are saying

"I found the theater to be a warm, intimate, and unique place for performing arts."

"The smaller stage makes the theatre feel really intimate."

"I found parking available and it was easy."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and ample at Penumbra Theatre.

2

The concession stand only accepts cash, so plan accordingly.

3

Black Nativity has been performed at Penumbra Theatre for over 30 years.

02
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts image 1

Performing arts theater offers an intimate setting with phenomenal acoustics and comfortable seating providing great views from all seats. The atmosphere feels elegant and classic, creating a special experience akin to attending an opera. The venue maintains a family-friendly and well-kept environment with a festive energy during events.

Parking stays easy with a convenient ramp on Kellog right next to the center. Multiple pay lots nearby keep spots available even during busy events like hockey games.

Gorgeous design and excellent sound and views make the theater a great venue for live performances. Shows like The Addams Family and SIX the musical offer top-notch musical experiences in a space that feels just right in size.

People are saying

"The performing arts venue here is especially beautiful."

"The shows here are so fun and full of energy."

"Parking was easy to find nearby."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in nearby lots, but can fill up quickly during events.

2

Tickets for popular shows often sell out weeks in advance; buy early.

3

The theater offers a family-friendly environment with accessible seating options.

03
History Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate performing arts theater with excellent acoustics and great sight lines from every seat. Warm, small-town atmosphere enhances the personal feel of productions focused on local history. Lobby features a cafe bar offering wine and beer, adding to the relaxed vibe before shows.

Multiple parking options exist downtown, including lot 7a which connects to the theater. Evening performances have parking across the street, though some lots like 7a can be overpriced on weekends.

Small theater offers well designed seating with no bad spots. Plays focus on Minnesota history, presenting stories with respect and education. Productions like Diesel Heart and "Glensheen" deliver strong, memorable performances.

People are saying

"The plays here are phenomenal and well written."

"The musicals here are a blast and great fun."

"Parking is available downtown with multiple convenient options."

Good to know

1

Parking in lot 7A is convenient but costs $18 for Sunday shows.

2

The theatre has limited elevator access, making it challenging for those with mobility issues.

3

The restroom is located half a floor down from the main area.

04
Como Lakeside Pavilion image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor pavilion on a lake offers covered seating with orchestra-quality live music and a cool breeze from the water. Visitors enjoy walking trails, paddle boats, and a relaxed, cozy atmosphere with space for sitting or dancing. The crowd is diverse and friendly, creating a welcoming community vibe.

Two free surface lots sit on either side of the pavilion with additional free parking along sloping park roads. Parking fills up quickly on weekends, so arriving early helps secure a spot.

Inexpensive stage plays and free musical performances happen often at the pavilion. Theater shows by local groups and delightful musicals like Music Man create a relaxing spot for live arts.

People are saying

"It's a great outdoor space with a nice walking path around the lake."

"There's plenty of parking available, with lots on two sides."

"I heard great music at the pavilion."

Good to know

1

Free concerts are held regularly at Como Lakeside Pavilion during the summer.

2

Parking is free but can be difficult to find on weekends.

3

The pavilion hosts live music events, often at no cost to attendees.

05
Fitzgerald Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater offers an intimate setting with excellent acoustics and comfortable seating close to the stage. The atmosphere feels classic and charming, enhanced by a unique house dog presence during shows. The space suits smaller performances and creates a memorable, cozy experience.

Parking is easy with plenty of street spots and a lot just across the street. Prices stay reasonable and the location is very convenient for quick access.

A beautiful old theater with excellent sound and lighting creates a great setting for concerts, ballet, and special events. Every seat offers a comfortable view with no bad spots in the house.

People are saying

"This intimate theater makes you feel close to the performing arts."

"It's a wonderful historic venue with beautiful architecture."

"Parking available nearby is convenient and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

There is no elevator, so consider orchestra seating for accessibility.

2

Parking is available nearby, but can be challenging to find.

3

The theater has only one bathroom per gender, which can lead to long lines.

06
The Oโ€™Shaughnessy image 1
Performing arts theater

Brutalist architecture defines a spacious auditorium with tiered seating that offers unobstructed views from every seat. The venue delivers excellent acoustics and a comfortable atmosphere despite older seating. Events draw energetic crowds, and the surrounding campus adds a scenic backdrop.

Parking offers tons of free spots but can be sparse near the venue. Lots have ample room but expect a 5-10 minute walk to exit.

Comfortable seats and unobstructed views make the theater great for watching plays. Getting in and out is easy, though the building can be hard to find from outside.

People are saying

"There was tons of parking available."

"The audio quality for live shows here is fantastic."

"You can see the stage perfectly from any seat for the performing arts."

Good to know

1

There is ample free parking available, but expect a 5-10 minute walk to the venue.

2

The seating is not very comfortable, lacking lumbar support and modern cushioning.

3

All seats offer a good view of the stage, ensuring no bad seats in the house.

07
Palace Theatre image 1
Live music venue

Historic theater with updated industrial design offers intimate, multi-level setting and great acoustics. Bars on every floor provide easy access to drinks without long waits. Sight lines are excellent from both general admission and balcony seating, creating a close, personal concert experience.

Plenty of nearby parking exists with reasonably priced rates. A ramp parking option half a block away offers convenient access at $15.

Exposed industrial design and the theater's old school Vaudeville style give it a unique character. Staff actively ensure comfort and safety during performances.

People are saying

"I thought the historic vibe and atmosphere here was really cool."

"The sound quality for performing arts here is surprisingly good."

"The parking nearby was really convenient."

Good to know

1

Nearby parking is available, making it convenient for visitors.

2

The venue has tiered seating for better sight lines during performances.

3

Expect crowded seating during popular events; arrive early for better options.

08
Minnesota State Fair image 1

Fairgrounds transform into a post-apocalyptic wonderland with over 60 rides and games spread across a well-designed layout. Lively crowds create a celebratory atmosphere filled with diverse live entertainment including music, comedy, and animal shows. Food stands offer a wide variety of treats, making it a melting pot for all ages.

Staff assist with handicap parking spots near entrances. Lots offer bus service to the venue. Overall, the parking setup works well for easy access.

Entertainment includes acrobats, fire dancers, and sideshow acts alongside immersive theater performances. An indoor theater offers bench car seats for dining while watching movies and live music shows.

People are saying

"The food options here are diverse and plentiful."

"I found the parking setup to be wonderful and ample."

"The food here is amazing and pushes culinary boundaries."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $25, and availability can be limited during peak times.

2

The Minnesota State Fair runs from late August to shortly after Labor Day each year.

3

Restrooms are plentiful and well-maintained throughout the fairgrounds.

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Saint Paul, Minnesota

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