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    The Armory

    3.9 (102 reviews)
    ModerateMusic Venues
    Closed 11:00 am - 2:30 pm, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    Updated 3 months ago

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    Brooke F.

    From out of town and this has got to be one of my favorite venues of all time. Went to 2 shows while in town this past weekend and thoroughly enjoyed my time while I was there. Staff was so friendly, vibes were extremely high, and the merch was never an issue both days. Will definitely be returning!!!

    Suzie R.

    First timer! This place is really beautiful and has some wonderful history. The MN Lakers played here, Prince's 1999 music video was filmed here as well as Aerosmith's I Don't Want To Miss A Thing video. How freaking cool! I was here to attend the Lord Huron concert in July 2025. I do stand tall and proud at 5'2'' so I'm not the tallest person and it's a hard for me to see the stage in a GA standing room type of venue unless I upgrade to the VIP, balcony seats, etc. Which I will say that I should've done. That is the only real reason for the 3 stars. I was impressed with the security team which were friendly and fast. I was also impressed with all the bar options and the team of bartenders...they don't mess around. They have bartenders along the side from the front to the back all lined up. I was also surprised and delighted they have complimentary ear plugs at almost every register for FREE! Bathrooms were constantly being attended to constantly which was great. Lots of stalls. Definitely worth checking out for at least 1x!

    Balcony east view
    Shelby A.

    The Armory is an impressive venue with a fantastic layout that makes it easy to navigate, even during sold-out shows. The organization of the space ensures great views of the stage from almost anywhere, and the sound quality is top-notch. The staff is friendly and professional, adding to the overall positive experience. There is ample private bottle service rooms both on the balconies and floor 2. Floor 3 is strictly for seating and VIP as per the event I attended. I definitely preferred being on the balcony for the first night of our event as it was clean , private bathrooms, however there is no seating but you can sit on the countertop as long as one foot remained on the ground. The second night we were in GA on the main floor as it wasn't too crowded however people were a lot more rude and messier even in the bathrooms. I had two drinks knocked over onto me and the girl looked at me like I did it to myself. I guess it pays to spend more on the expensive seats to avoid a certain type of concert goer. However, the lack of general seating is a downside. Unless you're willing to splurge on a private bottle service booth starting at $1,400 or upgrade to the lounge for $115 per night (which includes two free drinks and first-come, first-serve seating), you're left standing for the entire event. While these options cater to those looking for a more VIP experience, it would be nice to have some affordable seating alternatives for general admission ticket holders. Overall, it's a great venue, but a bit more flexibility with seating options would make it even better. They even have their own indoor parking which is a huge plus you can reserve ahead of time. They also have a full menu of food which is a great touch for a concert venue and it's not crappy generic fast food either.

    Amy N.

    The Armory is such a cool venue! It's really open with tons of standing room, and the acoustics were fantastic for live music. I loved the vintage vibe--it has its own unique charm. The higher balcony seating was a nice touch too, giving a great view of the stage. The drinks were great, but definitely pricey! Regardless, it was a memorable place to see a show.

    Melanie H.

    The Armory is such an AMAZING live music venue in Minneapolis. I would go as far to say that any place in here is a great spot to watch your favorite band. The service for drinks was so quick - no lines ever. Bathroom line was quick. Def will be coming again for another show!

    A view of the stage from center seat, row 3. Lindsey Stirling.
    Teresa L.

    I was at the Armory for Lindsey Stirling concert with VIP Meet & Greet on 08/24/24. VIP: The performer's team will reach out for like meet and greet check in time. Overall VIP experience was good. Security: Checking in was a breeze. Everyone was professional to tell you where to go. Unfortunately, the check in for the VIP front row and meet & greet were five hours early before the concert time. I was not allowed to leave the Armory to go to my car to drop off my VIP gift bag even though I parked at the venue. I was told "no re-entry" and this was when the door were about to open for the general admission after the VIP just finish their Q&A with Lindsey. Bag policy: So there is a size limit, but clear bag is not enforced. Your bag will be searched. I just bought a clear crossbody bag on Amazon. Parking: I did not buy a parking pass from the Armory beforehand. It was a flat rate of $40, pay upfront. There are 2 floors, so space is limited. I did see parking ramps nearby charging $30. We parked here for convenience. It is connected to the Armory, but the time we arrived for the VIP stuff, the doors were shut so we had to exit the parking ramp and walk around outside. Food & drinks: They have a bar that takes food orders. It serves personal pizza, chicken tenders, pretzels, hot dogs, some sort of "bowl." I didn't get a close look since the line was long. We did have chicken tenders and fries in the VIP lounge and the fries were good. Drinks were OK. My regular Coke was $3. My husband's Crown & Coke was $15. Bathroom: The ladies room were big and clean. During intermission, they had staff directing concert goers to keep the line moving. Seatings: As a VIP, I was in the center for row 3. Although a few fans and I agree that the spacing between seats are very tight. My husband, who is 6'3" had no leg room. Space was tight/crowded when you have bodies of same size with limited room. Air Conditioning: I wore a tank top with an under shirt and jeans. I was OK until 2 hours before showtime, when I wish I could go back to my car for my hoodie. Due to security policy of no re-entry, I bought a $80 merch hoodie... oh well. My husband was fine throughout in a polo shirt and shorts. 4 out of 5 stars because we had 2 hours before showtime and I think the no re-entry policy is ridiculous! The VIP gift bags (plastic bag) ripped, there were no replacement bags available, and the merch table sold out of the tote bags. Plus, the VIP gift bags were heavy since every person got a canvas art and a mini bluetooth speaker. I was not the only VIP with bag issues! The VIP folks had their lanyard on - so you know we've been here for a while. When I emailed the Armory 4 days prior, they said we could return to our car, but that wasn't the case on the day of.

    Prince memorabilia!
    Reyna M.

    We went to see Jamie xx here over the weekend. Such a spacious venue! Awesome lighting. Drinks were a bit expensive but that wasn't too surprising. Very fun and enjoyable time! Also, it's awesome because this was the original Lakers venue. I liked the memorabilia in the lobby area!

    Nycole M.

    Leon Bridges was here for the 2nd time around. THAT IS ALL! That's the review! 10/10 would recommend, I'd follow this man if he was in a cave down the back alley in some secluded desert. lol

    Alyssa W.

    Fabulous venue spent $20 on GA and had the best seats ever everything was absolutely phenomenal ! The armory never disappoints!!! Also GO ZADDY WARREN !!!

    Sidney B.

    Great venue with ample room. Get there early as it is all standing room only. But security hands out water bottles during the concerts, the venue is mindful of the temperature and regularly gets the AC blowing, and the bathrooms are huge and clean!

    Katie S.

    This is a great concert venue. They have a huge space with multiple tiers of tickets which allow flexibility in where you stand. We were in general admission, standing room only. Bathrooms were convenient to access and accommodate many people, so there was never a line. Plenty of bars and staff, so getting a drink was quick. Parking is available at the venue for a steep $40. We opted to park at a $20 ramp a couple blocks away. Overall, this is a fun music venue!

    a large crowd of people at a concert
    Dianna N.

    Concerts here typically run in full general admission, meaning the floor is first come first serve! Bars on each side, no issues with getting drinks. They pump AC and security hands out bottled water to the crowd. This venue books popular acts and places them on a stage surrounded by great lighting and sound.

    Billy Strings

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    Been to tons of events here it is a beautiful venue. Staff is respected and security is quick and easy.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - The Armory

    Is there any seating in here without purchasing a vip booth?

    Yes. The East and West balcony's are mostly seats

    I have general admission tickets to a concert next Sunday. The doors open at 530 the show starts at 7. How early should I show up to get close to the front?

    It all depends on the band and how crazy bad others, like you, want to be in front. Honestly, when I was younger and if that was crowd the band catered to, you might want to be there 2-3 hours early.

    Do they have any food available?

    We were there for Slayer last week and they had some limited food options on one side of the area. The VIP areas had food available as well.

    View All 6 Questions

    Review Highlights - The Armory

    Sound quality is fantastic, staff is accommodating, free pizza samples, and mostly a nice crowd.

    Mentioned in 8 reviews

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    Dakota - Earl grey lavender bread pudding

    Dakota

    3.8(304 reviews)
    0.6 miDowntown Minneapolis
    $$$

    This joint was a block from my Air BnB and a colleague of mine suggested for our last night as our…read moreconference had come to a close. It happened to be a Marvin Gaye Tribute night, which was fine by me as I love me some some Marvin Gaye. If you are from the Bay Area, this place is like Yoshi's. I got there early and got the table my colleague picked was up stairs and a good view. Our server was great. There is a little coaster that is at the table that you can turn over for service or not if you don't want to be disturbed while watching the show. I ordered my food while waiting as I know there were two showing and I kind to eat or have most of my food eaten so I can enjoy the show. I started off with the jalapeno bacon wrapped poppers and the focaccia bread. the popper were not big and bulky and had a great smokey flavor to the bacon, which were probably put the on grill and not pan or oven cooked. I'm not a big bread person, but when I am out I'll usually eat and the foccacio was great and I needed to soak up the wine I was having with my food. For the main course I got the Shrimp and Grits, because it's a jazz club and southern joint. Oh my they were good. Just the right amount of spice to the gravy. The music was also great and the ambiance was really good too. I think I'll be heading to Yoshis a little more as it's been years that I've been to a venue like this. A chill way to end the conference week.

    I have been here several times and definitely recommend it…read more Let's start with parking...there are several parking garages close by but you can also valet. I recommend pre booking the valet for $15. Then you check in at the front table and someone takes you to your table. For first times be aware some tables are communal. The food here is just alright. We had the chicken sandwich with fries. It was fine but nothing to write home about. As for the shows we have never had a bad show here. The performer's always are into the show and we have left happy with the performance and sound quality.

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    Dakota
    Dakota - Pan seared snapper

    Pan seared snapper

    Dakota - Stage

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    Stage

    7th St. Entry

    7th St. Entry

    3.7(37 reviews)
    0.7 miDowntown Minneapolis
    $$

    Such an iconic stage. So many bands. I've easily have seen over 100 bands here…read more My first time there was in the 80's and I saw Impaler. It was a beautiful way to lose my virginity to this venue. Metal with actual raw pieces of meat and fake blood. My teenage self was on the road to having ringing in my later years. Biggest name for me? Jane's Addiction before they moved to the Main Room and that Lala Palooza thing. Hell, the pretenders played there in 2023 as a warmup place to kick off their big tour and to get close to fans. How kick ass is that? The place holds 250 people. 250! Think about that. Nirvana also played that room before they blew up. The last amazing show I saw there was Melissa Carper in the late summer of 2024. Three piece band. A fiddle player, Melissa on a standup base and a dude strumming on a hollow body. It was one of those shows where the audience was there for the music and there was no chit chat. The music was beautiful and I was rocking ear plugs, even though they weren't really needed for that show. It was f'n beautiful. I can't believe I'm only associated with two photos (at the writing of this review) and I will be correcting that. Cross over between the Main Room is now kind of a pain in the ass as people typically don't do it and staff are a little in the muck but it is what it is. If you can see a show there, do it.

    A really intimate venue for smaller artists. I find the same issue is the lines outside being…read morereally confusing since the staff doesn't explain it to the crowd outside. Simple inside layout and a neat little stage

    Photos
    7th St. Entry - Soul Asylum 12/17/14

    Soul Asylum 12/17/14

    7th St. Entry - Robert Jon & The Wreck

    Robert Jon & The Wreck

    7th St. Entry

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    State Theatre - Fortune Feimster - May 2025

    State Theatre

    3.8(69 reviews)
    0.6 miDowntown Minneapolis
    $$

    I am sure I really can't add to all the thoughtful superlatives heaped upon this MN landmark…read more Basically, it is all true. Incredible Art Deco interior that will occupy your mind while you are waiting in quiet desperation for the act you came to see. Beer, wine and a limited bar offers the patrons something to enjoy your event with. The audio is generally pretty good, depending on where you sit. The same goes for event viewing - no obstructive view in the theater.

    Recently came here to see Purple Rain. Felt familiar... later on I realized I seen Miguel in…read moreconcert here years ago. The theatre itself is nice, has an old charm to it. The seats are extremely tight, not much leg room and a bit uncomfortable after a while. I feel like the guides weren't very helpful at getting people to their seats. I I'm still not sure where they label the sections, I had to ask several people and that made some other people realize they were in the wrong seats/section. The lobby opens 1 hr before the show but the doors to be seated don't open until 30 min prior. I suggest getting there 15-20 min before the show starts for smoother entry. You will still have time to grab a drink and find your seats without the hassle of the pre show crowd. It was so chaotic. The drinks are spendy for what you get but they don't take tips so I guess it somewhat evens out. You can request a lid for your drink which for me is a must in these crowded spaces. Not my fav theatre but the if there's a play I'd like to see, I'd go here!

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    State Theatre - Stage

    Stage

    State Theatre
    State Theatre

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    Mill City Nights - X!! 08/29/2015

    Mill City Nights

    2.1(45 reviews)
    0.6 miDowntown Minneapolis
    $$

    I went to a show here with some trepidation after reading the reviews. I was particularly worried…read moreabout the sound quality, especially after reading complaint after complaint. I dunno, maybe I'm deaf (highly possible) but sound wasn't an issue for me. I wondered too if the band we were seeing maybe brought some gear because I really didn't have issues with the sound quality. Moving on... we had a good time really.. Mill City Nights isn't going to be the fanciest, nicest venue you've ever been to for a show. It also isn't going to be all historic like First Avenue. But it is a totally fine place to hang out in the dark and listen to some music. I did really dig the hard wood floor, which was worn in the best possible way. Fun for stomping around as you were dancing. We found the security procedure at the front door to be fine -- Carded us, patted us down not very thoroughly, took a peek into my purse and that was about it. The ticket buying procedure could have been better. Seemed to take a long time. But once we were in the door, no issues. I found the bar staff to be friendly and competent. Security seemed a little intense at times (like, who's going to jump the stage during the set break really?) But whatever. I didn't have to go to the restroom, so can't comment there. Since we were downstairs, I also can't comment on the balcony situation, except to say that whoever spilled a beer on my head sucks. Is it my favorite venue in the Twin Cities? No way. Would I go back if the right band was playing? Sure.

    This was not the best venue for a concert…read more 1. It was extremely hot with all the bodies crammed in there. 2. It was difficult to see with the odd long retangular shape of the room, even with the stage being raised. 3. The sound and acoustics are bad. Not sure why but the sound needs improvement. 4. There are large pilars throughout the main floor, so if you are far back towards the bar, good luck trying to see any part of the show. The one good thing was there were multiple, easily accessible bars and clean bathrooms downstairs.

    Photos
    Mill City Nights - Alaska

    Alaska

    Mill City Nights - Pre Haujobb set up.

    Pre Haujobb set up.

    Mill City Nights - Poliça, Nov 2013

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    Poliça, Nov 2013

    The Armory - musicvenues - Updated May 2026

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