The only Cabooze I'm interested in is the fake one belonging to my adult movie star gf that you all know as the girl in the heels who never shows her full face or her tats. But this isn't about her. Although everything is, if you ask me. This is a pretty cool plaza where they have bands and shows and Awolnation played here which I didn't see, and what could be better than that? Although you can't really Sail to Minneapolis. I like hanging out here and catching some nice Hindi music shows. That was meant to say Indie, but the Indians should totally play here too. What a Sikh idea. Buddha dunno if they would actually come. It's so damn cold. Minneapolis is a massive music town and really awesome in that regard. read more

The Cabooze - In Cali, I drink CAbooze - Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Outdoor shows here are really cool. Indoor shows are very meh. In a weird spot in Minneapolis. Most artists skip this one for small- mid size shows read more

Came here for the Scott Stapp concert tonight. Loved the ambiance and atmosphere there. Also liked the ample amount of ladies bathroom stalls. There wasn't a line up at all. This venue had some nice side and upper seating for those who wanted to enjoy the show and relax with a drink. I would definitely come back for another concert. read more

I saw my friends band play for his album release- very fun! It was cash only and that is good for the venue but bad for me- I never have cash. There are ATM's, the fee is $3.50, I am glad they were there. The waitress made the drinks strong and top shelf wasn't crazy expensive. The woman working the door was very nice and the sound quality for the bands was amazing! The concrete floor was uneven but other than that it was a very fun place to see a show! read more

This is one for the MN believe it or not museum.I was here last summer to see Stryper. It was a Christian metal band's 30th anniversary of To Hell with the Devil. I also named my cat after them. I never saw a band here before. Somehow I got it in my head that the audience would be born-again pro-lifers. Not a chance, metal fans win out every time. Michael Sweet still has his body, looks, and voice from years of clean living.Standing room only if you want to see anything. I was off to the side.We ducked out through the other bar to beat the crowd, only to find our car boxed in. Parking gets very creative in this lot when the sun goes down. Fortunately there were some guys hanging around that guided me out. This experience is bucket list material and Basil and I survived it. read more

The Cabooze - Stryper 30th Anniversary - Bars Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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We went to an outdoor concert here and really enjoyed it. It was crowded, but the Cabooze planned well for the crowds. Several bars set up, fencing to direct the crowds and plenty of porta potties. Drink prices were reasonable. If you don't like the options at the multiple outdoor bars, you can go inside the Cabooze or Whiskey Junction or The Joint. It's great that it's right across from the Franklin stop on the Green Line. Loved not having to worry about traffic or parking. I would go to a concert here again. read more

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I feel like the Cabooze falls right into that "love it or hate it, better to know what to expect before you go" kind of place. It's a really fun place to see a show. It has a lot of history and a lot of character. It is not a cookie cutter venue in the best of ways. When you first walk in, you get carded and pay at the window. You get a wristband and off you go. There's a big bar right in the middle of the room. Things to know: It aint fancy. I hesitate really to call it a dive bar since it seems more of a storied venue than that to me. But it's dark. It can get hot. People get drunk. It's good to wear nice solid close-toed shoes. That kind of place. But if you are down, you can have a really good time hanging out here for a night. Beer list isn't fancy. You could argue it's a bit overpriced. But a $4 PBR tallboy is always going to be a good choice, so that's what I stick with. There's both an open floor and some seating. So you can kind of choose the vibe that works for you. Feel like being mellow and enjoying the show? You can camp out at a table and chill. Feel like getting drunk and dancing your butt off? Head for the floor. I was super impressed with the bar staff, who were professional, on point and kept things around the bar under control. Other notes: Yeah, parking stinks sometimes. It is what it is. Cabooze is, as many people have mentioned, cash only, so be ready for that. There's an ATM in the corner, but probably best to come packing some cash. Other than that, come expecting a good time. Be aware of yourself and your stuff. Bring friends. Have fun. That is about it! read more

The Cabooze rules. I had been wary of the place for a while because they never really had shows I wanted to see, but I now prefer a show to be at the Cabooze. Living in south Mpls, it's super easy to just jump on the train to the Franklin station and not worry about either taking the train all the way into downtown or driving. Speaking of which, avoid driving at all if you can. First, you may end up drinking, and second, no kidding there's a shortage of parking, this isn't the suburbs! I've seen Brian Jonestown Massacre and the Walkmen (separately) here in the not-too-distant past and both shows were absolutely phenomenal, with a packed house, great lighting and just all-around good times. Drinks are a little cheaper here than at First Ave, if I remember correctly. The patio is monstrous...seriously you could put a full-sized basketball court back there and still have room. That leads me to think of the OUTDOOR Built to Spill show that was here several years ago. It was an event sponsored by Finnegans and had at least a few bands, with Built to Spill headlining and it was only like $20 or so, and was grossly under-attended. We don't get enough opportunities here for outdoor music and this was in the summer time and hardly anyone showed up. Poor form, Minneapolis. The Cabooze certainly has a weird layout but it's a pretty old building; it's not like it was recently constructed. I really appreciate having the venue around and especially in this location. I hope they book some good shows for this spring and summer. read more

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I had the amazing opportunity played a show here once, having never been to The Cabooze, and I was honestly in awe of how cool a venue this place is. It's kind of in the middle of some industrial areas, but once you enter, it's like a whole other world. The venue has tall ceilings, a large stage and enough room for an army of people. I was blown away by how great the sound was in such a large venue, because normally the reverberations drown out vocals and such, but not here! A top notch venue for shows, I can't wait to go back in the future! read more

I have attended concerts here and I have played here with bands. Cover is inexpensive, the staff has been polite. Finding parking hasnt been an issue. The stage is easy to see and the dance floor is plentiful. Sometimes seating is limited. I dont recall having tried any drinks or food. I've never had a problem parking even if I had to park on the street. They seem to have a wide variety of music there. I've seen/played everything from bluegrass to reggae. If I were invited to a concert here again, or asked to play here again, I wouldnt hesitate. read more

I came to the cabooze tonight. The bartender, Jake, actually cared how I was feeling and doing. I cant remember a time a location, unless with a personal reason, cared I wanted water. Thank you, Jake. read more

This may be worth mentioning, in hopes that a manager will read this, since I can't seem to get one on the phone. I just want to say that a little customer service goes a long way, but don't expect some of the employees at the Cabooze to extend that courtesy. I was treated so rudely yesterday over the phone, TWICE, that I'm still thinking about it. I was hung up on twice! I simply called with some questions about an event they had coming up. The first call I made I had 2 questions, the girl on the phone replied with a short "yep" and "nope", as if I was a huge bother. I called again a little later because I actually want to share an exchange of words with someone who can answer my questions. I asked a few more questions, and mentioned that someone who works there was very rude to me, hoping maybe to hear sorry (why do I need this? someone else's misery affects me? hmm). She said "we get like 500 calls a day with people asking the same questions, so it gets old." I said, "you know, that's really not..my..problem..." She said "yes it is your problem. The event is in 2 days and YOU don't have tickets, so it IS your problem that you waited til the last minute to get tickets" wow. I guess she told me. Thanks for the lesson, oh royal Cabooze girl. Sorry to have called with questions, sorry for encountering you altogether, sorry that you won't ever see a penny of my money ever, ever again. Perhaps if the website had a little more information, people wouldn't hound you with bothersome phone calls. Funny thing is, I wasn't even sure I wanted to go to the event. I was looking to be convinced. The only thing I'm convinced about is the level of anger that was passed onto me was not appreciated. But who cares, right? Why would they need my money. To the girl who answers the phone on thursday afternoons, chill, honey, chill. It's a just a few questions. If you can't handle that, seek counseling or perhaps another job. read more

This is the best venue in Minneapolis. Every weekend there is a show that is worthwhile going to. A lot of times I won't even know who the headling group is but I have so much trust in the bands the Cabooze brings that I go and pay the $15 anyway. I will admit that this place is not for everyone. You will see a lot of dreadlocks, weird patterned pants, and strange dancing. I feel like you could probaby come barefoot here. PEACE AND LOVE MAN! But actually, everyone here is really nice and chill, and it sure as hell beats going to some Bassnectar show at the Target Center and losing hope for the generation as you watch 16 year old girls twitch their jaws and twerk on each other. I've never gone to a show at the Outdoor Plaza, but I assume it is a lot of fun. The nice thing about this venue is it is fairly large and there really isn't a bad place to stand or sit. The girls bathroom can sometimes get annoyingly cramped but everyone is so friendly and nice that it doesn't even matter. I don't really understand how anyone can complain about the staff here. They might not be the most outgoing staff in the world, but they are friendly enough and are just doing their job tending a huge bar. I threw up here once, I still feel really bad. Also, I don't know what it is about this place but I always want to drink Red Stripe when I'm there. They have those massive bottles of it, and it is the only thing I'll drink at the Cabooze. YUM! CONCLUSION: Come here and don't take candy from strangers. read more

I like that there is seating up and away from the performance area. The patrons are good about not spilling a ton of beer on the floor, which I was very appreciative of. The tickets are decently priced, the staff is friendly, and I think I would come here again for another show :) read more

Okay, so I have been to The Cabooze about a million times in the last many years. Honestly, it is not my favorite place to catch live music - not even close. However, it's not my least favorite either... Thumbs up: The cover charge is usually minimal (usually under $10 for local bands), drink prices are reasonable (tall PBR's for $4), the sound system is pretty good, they have free Wi-Fi, there is some limited seating available, and the loo is typically kept clean. Thumbs down: The servers always seem irritated about something, parking SUCKS (even though they claim to have a free lot to park in somewhere - I am guessing it is almost always full + good luck finding it in the first place!), and they must be trying to save money on their energy bill or something, because I think the entire club is running off of one 60 watt bulb...okay, that isn't true...but it feels that way.. :) I generally skip shows that are at this venue - mainly due to their parking issues. But, there are still certain local artists that keep me coming back for more...so, if you see that Trampled by Turtles, Dead Man Winter, or Pert' Near Sandstone are playing there...you can pretty much bet that I will be there too...sipping on my $4 PBR.. :) read more

From what I hear the Cabooze has become a much better place to visit since the smoking ban and some remodeling. They've now got a nice big stage with a plenty of room to sit, stand or dance. We sat at a table in the back most of the night and there was this waitress that knew exactly how to get a group twenty something single guys tipping way too much. She was beautiful and flirting relentlessly. Towards the end of the last set I literally said to her "I love you, but I have to drive home tonight." So yeah the Cabooze is fun and I hope they book more great music. I was annoyed by the Cash only policy and there was a pole obstructing our view a little, but we probably had the only table where it was a problem. Also, If you still smoke, they've got a somewhat sheltered heated area outside that indicates they are still a smoker friendly bar. read more

Out of the many concert venues I've been to the Cabooze is...one of them. By the standards set for me all across the Midwest, I thought that the Cabooze as a venue was perfectly average experience. It's dark, it gets hot and steamy (even in Winter), the sound quality inside ranges between good and acceptable even within the same night. I thought that street parking nearby was pretty widely available. I guess if you're showing up late to the show you might be in for a walk,but I'm generally pretty close to doors-open and had no problem. Drink prices are actually very reasonable compared to other concert venues. I mean, they're not going to beat the prices on your neighborhood bar, but you aren't going to pay $9 for a beer here either. The whole cash-only thing is a point against them though, especially in this day-and-age. It's not a problem if you know about it in advance though. read more

On October 3rd we went to see David Nail & Corey Crowder and the show was awesome! I like the stage setup and the layout was cool. It reminded me of Midnight Rodeo in Amarillo, TX very up close and personal. The only thing I would say about the place is the beers are spendy $4.00 a beer. I could see like $2.50 or $3.00 but, $4.00 is too much. This was the second time I have been here and I will be back. read more

We've been to several shows here. It's an intimate venue and brings in some of my favorite bands like Delain and Hammerfall. Cash only bar which could be a problem. There is a great spacious outdoor patio. We've had food in the adjoining bar and it has been good. This time just drinks. It is a fun place for seeing live bands. Not the best light show or sound system but I love that they still try. We'll be back. read more

I was thoroughly underwhelmed with the inside of this place. Poor layout for most concerts, despite getting some good acts. The sound is also less-than-stellar, but I can't honestly complain because they charge next-to-nothing for a show. The real winner is outdoor shows - on a summer evening, with views of the Minneapolis skyline and a remarkable amount of space (and good sound quality), this place puts on a damn good live show. We saw the first evening of Something Corporate's reunion tour here and it was a fantastic, well-run event. I have no idea why that's so difficult for the inside of the building to put together. read more

I know they're trying to make money and everything but if they are going to have an indoor venue they need to limit the amount of people that get to buy tickets because I'm pretty sure it went past some kind of capacity. I guess I would advise checking out an event that is set to be outside instead of inside the bar. Otherwise, acoustics are great! read more

This must be the darkest venue in the Cities. I mean it literally feels like you've been standing in the sun all day, and then suddenly someone turns the lights out on everything and you are stuck stumbling around trying not to trip over anything, stub your toe, or gouge a shin. Let's discuss the parking situation, as that tends to be the most stressful part of attending a show here. The Cabooze is located in an area that continues to confuse me...in the Riverside/Cedar Avenue district of town...and if you are visiting the first time, it may pay to take the light rail instead of driving, or have a friend who knows the area better than you drive. However, if you are brave...and do not worry about getting too inebriated at the show you are going to see, then there are plenty of parking spots in the nearby area surrounding the bar that are free. However, if the Cabooze has an outdoor festival or show going on...forget about parking, there simply will be none, although there is a complimentary parking lot for the Cabooze just south of the building...it will most likely be full. The surrounding neighborhoods are parking nazis and only allow parking over one hour by permit. Cover charge is reasonable, I've paid under 10 bucks each show I have seen (last two being The White Iron Band and Dead Man Winter)...you'll pay 3 bucks more if you are under 21. The bar staff are, how shall I put it, non-committal? I just simply cannot gauge this group. I always get the impression I am bugging them, or I should know what is on the beer menu. I mean, really, this is a PBR tall-boy kind of place (4 bucks each), but they do have Fat Tire big bottles for 7 bucks...but there is no list that is out in the open, and I had to ask. The bartender did get more friendly as the night went on, or maybe I was more intoxicated and didn't care as much? The Cabooze sports simply one of the highest stages around, and in case you are worried about getting swamped in a taller crowd, you should still be able to see something. The sound is adequate, and the lighting is good (which is surprising with regard to how dark the place is otherwise!) If you are looking for that Allman Brothers/Lynrd Skynrd feel for a show...have a 20 in your pocket, and want to down some tall boys on any night of the week, The Cabooze is worth checking out. read more

I went to the Cabooze to see Soja and the Dirty heads. I had a blast, to say the least. The ATM machine outside was out of order so we ventured inside the Cabooze (it was an outdoor event) to use the ATM inside. It was a cool venue, nice and dark inside with a bar right when you walk in. I want to go back and see another band indoors. read more

Came here for the first time last Wednesday with a friend, a local jam band plays every Wednesday here. I can't profess being a big fan of jam bands, but they were pretty decent and the abundance of dreadlocked people dancing seemed to be having a great time. The cover was only $2.50 with a college id, $5 without. Rails and taps were $3, but my amaretto sour was a little weak. Ditto to the slightly odd stage placement, it would be interesting to see the place packed because there is another huge room next to the stage and it doesn't look like one would have a good view from in there. I would go back if there was a band I wanted to see, but the Cabooze didn't blow me away. read more

great music venue especially for New Years Eve! omg i love this place. if you like live music venues, check this place out! read more

What I don't understand is why they say they take credit cards on their website, but when you try to use your card here, they say cash only. Shitty advertising people. read more

Once I heard about the Janis Joplin Tribute this past January, it was time for me to return to this place after a long absence. No reason for the absence, really, just not on my radar. We were fortunate to find a space to park in their lot that evening. When we arrived, there were not yet very many people, but that soon changed. The place filled up nicely with people of all ages and sorts and we collectively remembered Janis through the female singers gutsy enough to channel Janis' voice and style. It was a fun time. I enjoyed sitting upstairs, watching all the happenings going on below. The wait service we received was timely and attentive. They also have a coat check - great for those heavy coats necessary in January around these parts. read more

The Cabooze is not my favorite place to see live music *but* it is one of my favorite places to people watch. So the two work together to make for a fun night. You get a pretty decent view of the stage from the upper area, which is where we always head towards, but the sound is pretty crappy. I've been to one concert on their outdoor stage and it was quite enjoyable. The drinks are decently priced and well made. read more

Saw Stryper there. Parking sucks. Bad placement of stage. It's a toilet. Wont be back. Go to Medina Entertainment Ctr.

You'd never guess there's a mammoth patio waiting for you when you roll in the Cabooze doors. Most patios can handle ten tables, max. The monster at the Cabooze comfortably holds a good four or five hundred people, wings extended. And with the weirdos that hang out there, you want your wings extended, lemme tell ya. Three or four bars, an outdoor grill, and a secret smoking cave. It's like chilling outside in the comfort of your own living room. Or wardrobe, as the case may be. read more

This is a biker bar in the riverside neighborhood. It's a pretty chill place on the inside though. They often have live music and people there throw em back readily. I have fond memories because my friend and I snuck in when we were 17 (don't ask how) to see Phantom Planet when they played there after Basilica Block Party. Man that was fun!! read more

Have been to a lot of venues around the Cities but just finally visited the Cabooze for a Heiruspecs show. Wasn't sure what to expect, from biker bar to hipster hangout, I've heard plenty. Large rectangular space but they still managed to have a strange layout. Not sure what the thinking it there, doesn't allow for a very deep crowd in front of the stage. Two good sized bars but they could have used more bartenders considering the 1200 people attending. This is nothing new for virtually any club though. I liked the "old school" feel of the space. Sound was ok. Hard to judge when you have some rappers that don't understand the fact that yelling does not equal rapping. Most of Heiruspecs' set was pretty good sounding though. Great ticket prices. Hard to complain about that. All in all, I wouldn't hesitate to go to a show there again. Get there early for easy parking! Bonus: just blocks away from Franklin Luce for post show snacks. read more

My personal experience here was pretty good. Went to the More Than Lights/Heirupsecs show and was standing front row. Sound wuality was good and beer prices are what I expected for a concert venue like that. I think they were around five dollars. What I didnt't like about it is their stage setup. There's a pretty limited number of people that can stand directly in front of the stage. A lot of the room seemed off to the sides or on the balcony. Also, we tried to shoot some pool before the show, but it was clear that both pool table have a substantial slant to one corner - that was inconvenient. read more

I have nothing but fond memories of this place, highlighted by an unbelievable Kool Keith show circa 2004 and the outdoor Gogol Bordello shows of 2008+2009. Stage is positioned a little weirdly, but nothing to get whiney and yelpy about. read more

The stage set up was not great, it's awkwardly located and percussion was a bit too loud for Delain, and way too loud for Kamelot, could barely hear the singing on one side of the bar. The staff were super friendly and it was still an overall good night, but a sound check per band should be mandatory. read more

NO accomodations for handicapped. After standing in the pouring rain for over a half hour we decided to leave. No announcement from The Cabooze or Flogging Molly that the show would be moved inside. - which happaned two hours AFTER we left (1030 pm). Drinks were high priced, but we expected that. Won't drive 2 hours to do it again! read more

The placement of the stage is at the most awkward spots. If I owned this place, I'd gut it, and put the stage in the back with bars on both sides of the main floor. Table seating in the back on a platform, for a price. Sound is OK. The bathrooms need updating and larger. For now, this is just another hole in the wall bar that has live music for decent price. read more

I love love LOVE this place. I support any business that employs people with mental and developmental disabilities, and it's refreshing to see a place like The Cabooze that employs so many people from that population. Five out of five!!! read more

i always get close to the stage and the sound is great, so ppl whining about the sound are so whatever, "we always go in the back, the sound sucks" duh! your in the back of a box! the Cabooze has the acts i want to see, yet has i wide verity as well. it's one of my favorite venues. outdoor shows are the best. prices are in line with everyone else on the West Bank. read more

What a scam. We will NEVER be back. Outdoor concert where radar showed serious storms would start at 8ish and continue through the night. Opening acts at 6:30 were great and then... monsoon. NO communication from staff. Staff said Flogging Molly wouldn't play in rain, so we left by 9:30. Turns out they played INSIDE at 10:30! Of course no refunds. Terrible management. read more