About Millers Cave
Millers Cave is a popular local bar and live music venue in Hebron, North Dakota. Located on Main Street (513 Main Ave) (www.pifers.com ) (www.restaurantji.com ), it’s known locally as a cozy, “rustic retreat” nestled in the heart of town (www.mapquest.com ). The name suggests a cave-like, down-home vibe, but it is actually an indoor space (no actual cave). The bar occupies a historic Main Street building with roughly 3,000 square feet of space (www.pifers.com ). Inside you’ll find wood-and-metal décor, bar stools, high-top tables and a well-worn dance/game floor. It’s a “full-service” tavern – a hub of local camaraderie and entertainment (www.pifers.com ). The owners have equipped the bar with a walk-in cooler, gaming machines (pull-tabs), jukebox (TouchTunes), a pool table and foosball (www.pifers.com ) (www.pifers.com ). The kitchen is set up for pub fare – even “pizza cookers” are listed in the equipment (www.pifers.com ) – so expect to find bar snacks like pizza, fries and burgers. In short, Millers Cave is significant in Hebron as one of the town’s main nightlife spots, offering a warm, communal atmosphere against the backdrop of small-town North Dakota.
Events and Programming
Millers Cave hosts a range of entertainment events, especially on weekends. You’ll commonly find live music (often country, classic rock or cover bands), DJ dance nights and special themed parties. For example, a recent event listing (for October 2025) advertised a “Girls’ Night Out” featuring an all-male revue (“The Men Next Door”) – a fully choreographed dance show – and the listing explicitly noted “Ages 21+” for this party (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). This illustrates that Millers Cave can put on adult-oriented party shows (a blend of nightclub and bar experience) as well as concerts. Local bands and tribute acts frequently play here, and the bar itself is large enough to set up mobile stages and amplify sound. Recurring events might include community fundraisers, birthday bashes, karaoke or dance competitions – it’s basically an all-purpose party venue. Many regulars plan to drop in at least once or twice a month for a live music night or a DJ dance party. Ticket prices vary by event: small local gigs may have only a modest cover charge (often $5–10 at the door), while bigger shows or specialty acts charge more. As a grassroots venue, Millers Cave typically sells a mix of advance tickets (often online or via local outlets) and door tickets on the night of the show. Because the space isn’t huge, popular events can fill up; it’s wise to secure tickets or arrive early for well-known performers.
Tickets and Booking
For big shows at Millers Cave, advance tickets are generally offered through online event listings or local outlets. The venue’s phone number (–(701) 878-4512–) is often given on posters for more information (www.ticketfairy.com ). Promotions usually appear a few weeks in advance on community calendars. When a show is announced, tickets may sell online or at nearby businesses, and door sales are often available if not sold out. For example, one announcement listed a specific date and time for a concert (www.ticketfairy.com ) – once those go on sale, they can move quickly. If you’re planning to see a popular band or special show, get tickets early. For lesser events (like casual karaoke nights), there may be no ticket at all – you simply walk in before or at start time. In any case, bring cash even if cards are accepted. One promotional flyer even told patrons to “remember to bring your dollar bills!” for tipping the performers (www.ticketfairy.com ). When buying tickets, watch out for tiered pricing (front-row or VIP options) – these occasionally come up for big acts, but most Millers Cave events are general admission.
Seating and Layout
The interior of Millers Cave is mostly open-plan. The 3,000-square-foot bar has the long wooden bar along one wall and a cluster of high-top tables and stools scattered around (www.pifers.com ). Opposite the bar is a dance/open floor area – sometimes with a small raised platform or stage brought in for bands. There is no fixed seating like theater chairs; virtually everyone stands or perches on stools. Thus, seating is first-come, first-served. If a concert or performance is on, the best views are at the front and center of the room. Many locals grab a spot right near the stage or DJ booth; others rotate around the bar or tables during slower songs. Because it’s a cozy space, even the back row isn’t too far from the performers. For a big show, consider arriving early to claim a good vantage point. If you prefer to sit, stick to the high stools rather than leaning on the bar (bar stools flip over if misused). There’s a single level, so no balcony or tiered seating. One odd quirk: a portion of the building has an upstairs level, but that upstairs is reportedly used only as a private sleeping area and office (www.pifers.com ) – it’s not open to guests during shows. Sound is typically loud and bar-like; expect drums and guitars to fill the room in a contained way. The acoustics aren’t “studio perfect,” so very quiet songs might not carry perfectly, but for rocking country or rock bands the sound carries around all corners. The only real drawback is that the speakers and drums can get loud on full volume, so if you want an easier listening experience stick toward the sides of the room or closer to the bar rather than in front of the loudspeakers on the dance floor. In summary, Millers Cave has a down-home floor plan: standing-room and a few stools, an active game area (pool/foosball), and a small stage – perfect for an up-close juke-joint feel, but not ideal if you expect plush seating or hipster lounge vibes.
Getting There and Parking
Millers Cave is at 513 Main St in downtown Hebron (www.pifers.com ), easily found on the town’s street grid. Hebron itself is about 63 miles west of Bismarck and 40 miles east of Dickinson (hebron.municipalimpact.com ). In practice, almost everyone drives here. There is no public transportation to Hebron – no bus, no commuter train – so you’ll need a car or arrange a ride. The nearest commercial airport is in Bismarck (about a 1–1½ hour drive on ND-49/ND-22), with Dickinson’s small airport about 45 minutes west. Once in Hebron, look for street parking: along Main and nearby side streets parking is usually free and plentiful during evenings. The bar sits between 6th and 7th Street on Main, with a little pull-in space on the block, but most patrons park right on Main or the cross street. No meters or parking fees apply. If the main lot in front fills up (rare in a small town), overflow parking is available on adjacent side streets – just be mindful of any traffic flow. Rideshare services like Uber/Lyft are generally not available in Hebron, so if you plan to have drinks consider a designated driver or calling a local taxi (call ahead for numbers) from nearby Dickinson or Mandan. Dropping off at the bar entrance is easy, but note that evening traffic is minimal. In winter months, watch out for snow – roads are plowed but side street parking may get tight. Overall, getting to Millers Cave is easiest by car or charter: fill up the tank and expect a rural highway drive if you’re coming from Bismarck, Mandan or Dickinson. (www.ticketfairy.com ) (hebron.municipalimpact.com )
Inside the Venue
Arriving at Millers Cave, you’ll notice it opens after mid-afternoon. According to online listings, the bar opens daily around 2:30 PM and stays open until 1:00 AM (www.restaurantji.com ). On event nights, expect a drink line and ID check at the entrance. If it’s a ticketed concert, have your tickets ready (printed or on your phone as permitted). For big events, staff may check IDs at the door and enforce a 21+ rule. Once inside, the atmosphere is homey and energetic. There’s typically a long queue at the bar late-night, serving cold drafts (domestic and some craft beers), bottles, canned beer, spirits and mixed drinks. Bartenders mingle with customers, and you’ll often hear friendly banter. The drink menu isn’t posted online, but patrons say it’s standard bar fare (domestic beers on draft, plus local North Dakota brews from nearby breweries, wine by the glass, and bar cocktails like rum and cola or whiskey and soda). Soft drinks, bottled water and energy shots are also sold. Don’t hesitate to ask bartenders to make specialty cocktails – they seem willing if you supply details (vodka cranberry, etc.). For food, don’t expect a fancy restaurant – but do expect pizza and snacks. The bar has multiple pizza ovens (www.pifers.com ), so pizza by the slice (cheese, pepperoni, sausage, etc.) is a staple. Other possible bar bites include breadsticks, chicken wings, fries or loaded nachos. If you want a hearty meal first, you might grab dinner elsewhere (see Nearby Amenities below); that said, a late-night pizza slice here is a popular choice. The floorspace is partly taken up by games: you’ll find pool and foosball tables free to play, plus pull-tab gambling machines. There’s even an on-site ATM listed in the equipment (www.pifers.com ), so you can get cash inside the venue. Restrooms are inside near the back, usually one for men and one for women. Given it’s a bar, cell phone signal may vary – don’t rely on Wi-Fi (none is advertised). Mile-high coats and gear go on a rack or shelved by the wall; there is no formal coat check. Typically, dress is very casual: people wear jeans, tees, plaid shirts, boots (cowgirl and cowboy boots fit right in), or occasionally nicer attire for special events. High heels and ties are rare. Overall, expect a friendly, slightly rowdy bar scene with live tunes or a DJ pumping through house speakers. Oh – and yes, since tobacco laws have changed, the indoor smoking ban is in effect: if anyone wants to smoke, they’ll step outside or onto a porch (ask at the bar where the official smoking area is). The no-smoking rule inside keeps the air noticeably clearer than a smoky dive bar. Finally, Millers Cave has a revolving door of characters – from college kids on break to old-timers in trucks, anyone’s welcome as long as they buy a drink and enjoy themselves.
Nearby Amenities
Hebron is a small town, so choices are limited but growing. For dining before or after a show, the main option in town is Brick City Public House , which opened in mid-2025 in a renovated historic building (www.grandforksherald.com ). Brick City serves elaborate brunch (think eggs Benedict, omelets) and a broad lunch/dinner menu (burgers, rack of lamb, specialties) (www.grandforksherald.com ). It also doubles as a bar, so you could grab a craft beer or cocktail there to kick off your night. Other than that, Hebron’s eateries include a small pizza place and the local Steakhouse Café – both casual spots. The Beef Booster (around Main and 8th Ave) is a diner-style cafe, and there’s a small grill at the Shell gas station on the west edge of town. For nightlife aside from Millers Cave, options are sparse: a short drive to nearby Mandaree (9 miles north) or Hawkhurst (4 miles south) has one bar apiece, but the real bar scenes are 40+ miles away. If you have time, consider heading to Dickinson (about a 40-minute drive) for more bars and late-night restaurants (appeal of suburbs, chain pubs, etc.). As for hotels, Hebron itself has very few. Many visitors stay 30–60 minutes away. For example, the Cobblestone Hotel & Suites in Beulah (about 40 min northeast) is a popular choice (www.tripadvisor.com ). It’s a modern motel with a pool and restaurant. Dickinson (40 min west) offers motel chains like Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, etc., and is the closest source of 24-hour services. Bismarck (1–1½ hrs east) has full-size hotels but is quite far for a quick trip. In short: plan your lodging around Dickinson or Beulah, and grab dinner in Hebron’s few local spots (Brick City is the standout) before heading to Millers Cave. On show nights, arrive early if you want to mingle – sometimes locals start the evening with happy hour near the bar or at community events nearby. After the music ends (often 1 AM last call), note that very late-night options are limited; you might need to wait until morning or head to Dickinson or Mandan for a meal. Taxis or rideshares back to the hotels are rare, so arrange rides or cabs in advance if needed.
What Makes This Venue Special
Millers Cave stands out because it brings a true live music and dance experience to rural North Dakota. In a tiny city of under 1,000 people, it’s essentially the only place for late-night fun. The venue’s character is very “North Dakota” – unpretentious, community-focused, and welcoming. A property listing even praised it as “more than just a place to enjoy a drink; it’s a hub of local camaraderie” (www.pifers.com ). Indeed, locals – townies and nearby farmers alike – treat Millers Cave as their gathering hall. The atmosphere is one part neighborhood bar, one part country dance hall. Architecturally, it’s built from old materials (wood and metal siding) with a few rustic touches, so you feel like you’re stepping into an old-time tavern. Over the years it has hosted county fairs after-parties, high school reunions, biker nights, band alumni performances and more. That kind of history turns it into a local legend. Customers often share funny memories – like bumping into your childhood friends at a surprise Monday-night jam session, or growing up dancing in that same room. Because of this, Millers Cave often has a poignant “old Hebron” charm. For visiting artists, it’s notable that while it’s small, crowds are loud and grateful; word of mouth says bands enjoy OHing it the same way. Another unique tidbit: despite the name, there is no spooky cave on the premises; rather, the owners marketed it with that adventurous name to evoke a wild, underground party cave vibe. All in all, Millers Cave is special because it’s real – no glitz, just genuine fun. In a state known for plains and farmland, the fact a few entrepreneurs kept live events alive here makes it a must-see (or at least must-hear!) for travelers wanting an offbeat Midwestern music scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and ID: Most Millers Cave shows are 21+, especially late-night concerts or adult events. Be ready to present valid photo ID at the door. If you have under-21 friends, they should check in advance or stick to earlier, family-friendly community events (if any).What to bring: Bring cash. While credit cards may be accepted behind the bar, cash is king – especially for cover charges and performer tips (the venue’s flyers often advise attendees to “bring your dollar bills” for tipping dancers (www.ticketfairy.com )). Also carry a photo ID, and definitely a jacket in winter. There’s no coat check, but you can hang outerwear inside.Timing: Arrive early on event nights. Doors usually open 30–60 minutes before showtime, so getting there early secures a good spot and avoids lines. For a Thursday–Saturday concert or dance, consider getting there 30 minutes ahead if standing room is important to you. If you’re just dropping in for a drink on a slow night, anytime after the afternoon opening is fine.Dress code: It’s casual. No need for fancy outfits. Jeans, boots, T-shirts or plaid shirts are typical. Some women like to dress up a bit for “girls’ nights out” (which sometimes have a theme), but you won’t feel out of place in everyday attire. Comfort is key if you plan to dance. Parking and walking: Leave sufficient time for small-town parking (people often chat in front of the bar). Street parking is free, but if a winter storm has hit, plan extra time to find a cleared spot.Safety: It’s a friendly farm town, but as always, watch your drinks and belongings. The crowd is generally good-natured, but bars can get rowdy late at night. The bartenders and occasional bouncers will handle any trouble. If you’re sensitive to noise, bring ear plugs – live amps can get loud in a small room.Accessibility: The building is older and may have a small step at the entrance. Inside, there isn’t a designated handicap lift to the upstairs (which is private anyway). If you or a companion use a wheelchair or have mobility issues, you should inquire by phone. Wheelchair access may be limited. There is likely only one restroom per sex, so plan accordingly.Common mistakes: Don’t expect “just another bar” – even if you’re not there for a show, Millers Cave often has music or karaoke going and might still charge a small cover. Also, don’t assume quiet countryside – on a busy night it will be as loud as any city bar. Bring a sweater on chilly nights – the building warms up from dancing but can start cool. And definitely tip your servers and performers! A dollar per drink or couple for the band is the norm. Check the event information carefully: some nights are private 21+ events or all-age evenings, so call ahead to avoid surprises.Local recommendations: Before the event, many visitors eat at the Brick City Public House (www.grandforksherald.com ) or grab gas-station sandwiches downtown. After-hours, patience is needed: there are few late-night restaurants. If you get thirsty after last call, your best bet is a 10-minute drive to Dickinson or waiting until morning. Keep an eye on the weather report too – Hebron’s wind and snow can catch drivers off guard in winter. Final tip: Embrace the experience. Millers Cave is all about good times with neighbors, loud music and dancing. You might make a new friend or learn some North Dakota Two-Step moves. If you enjoy small-town charm and spontaneous live entertainment, this venue is a gem. (If not, they’re open daily until 1 AM (www.restaurantji.com ) – so maybe plan on a quiet night elsewhere!)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for Millers Cave events?
Tickets for concerts and special nights at Millers Cave usually go on sale several weeks in advance. They’re often sold through local event listings or directly at the bar’s box office (by phone or in-person). Some events also offer tickets at local businesses. If it’s a big show, buy ahead online or at the door early; popular nights can sell out fast.
Is there a cover charge or door fee?
It depends on the event. Casual karaoke or open-mic nights may have no cover, while live concerts (especially popular bands) generally have a door fee ($5–$20, for example). The Maine concerts and special parties often list an admission price. Check the specific event flyer or ask at the bar. In all cases, having a few dollars on hand is smart – one promotions page even reminded attendees to "bring your dollar bills" for tips (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Where can I park my car? Are there any fees?
Parking at Millers Cave is free. You’ll find street parking along Main Ave and the cross-streets, usually only a block or two from the venue. In front of the bar on 6th and 7th Streets there is a small gravel area for parking. Because Hebron is very small, there are no meters or parking fees. If those spots fill up, simply park further down Main or on a side street – it’s only a short walk.
Can I get to Hebron without a car? Is there public transit?
There is no public transit to Hebron. No bus service or train runs here. The venue is too remote for rideshares like Uber or Lyft, which generally do not serve small towns. Most visitors drive. If you fly in, you would rent a car from Bismarck or Dickinson and drive (Bismarck is about 1–1½ hours away (hebron.municipalimpact.com )). Some people carpool or hire a local taxi in the area, but plan on driving yourself or arranging a lift.
What are the best spots inside Millers Cave to watch a show?
Millers Cave is mostly general admission standing room. For concerts or dance nights, the best views are near the front center facing the stage or band area. If you prefer to sit, secure one of the high bar stools along the edges – though these can tip for dancing, they give a perch. Otherwise, the tables around the room are first-come. Because the space is only ~3,000 sq.ft (www.pifers.com ), even the back part of the room isn’t far from the action. Arriving early on a busy night is the key to a front-row spot.
Is Millers Cave wheelchair accessible?
Millers Cave occupies an older building and may have a small step at the entrance, which can be a barrier. Inside, the main floor is flat, but there is no elevator (the upstairs is private office/bedroom space anyway). Sadly, the venue does not advertise full ADA compliance. If you need assistance, it’s recommended to call ahead. The staff are reported to be friendly and willing to help with seating, but be prepared that facilities may not be fully accessible.
Are children allowed in the venue?
Millers Cave is primarily an adult venue (with alcohol service all day). Most nights, especially after early evening, it is 21+. For special events labeled “21+” (like the male revue show) minors are not admitted (www.ticketfairy.com ). That said, the bar occasionally hosts earlier community events which might be open to all ages – check announcements. In general, though, assume it’s an adult crowd after around 7 PM.
Does Millers Cave serve food?
Yes. Though it’s a bar, Millers Cave has a kitchen for pub grub. You can get pizza (they have pizza ovens on site (www.pifers.com )) along with typical bar snacks. Options often include pizza by the slice or personal-sized, chicken wings, fries, and burgers. If you’re hungry, ordering a pizza at the bar is a safe bet for dinner or late-night munchies. The menu isn’t on an official website, but patrons report it’s casual, bar-style food – nothing fancy.
Is there an ATM inside?
Yes. The venue lists an on-site ATM machine in its equipment (www.pifers.com ). This makes it easy to grab cash without leaving the bar. Even if you plan to pay by card, it’s wise to have cash on hand (for tips and cover charges). So if you arrive cash-light, just hit the ATM by the entrance.
Do I need to bring a photo ID?
Absolutely. Millers Cave is a licensed bar, so anyone who looks like they may be under 30 should be prepared to show government-issued ID. For 21+ events, ID is checked at the door. Even if it’s not a 21+ night (if one is young), it’s smart to carry ID because bartenders will ask before serving alcohol or if an event requires it. A driver’s license or passport is fine.
Is there a dress code?
Millers Cave has a very relaxed dress policy. You’ll see everything from jeans and shorts to boots and flannel shirts. A nicer outfit (clean shirt, no mud) is courteous, but there is no formal dress code. For themed nights (like “80s night” or holiday parties) some people dress up to fit the theme, but it’s entirely optional. Generally, just wear something comfortable enough to dance in if that’s your plan.
Are there any prohibited items I should know about?
The rules are typical of any bar: no outside alcohol or illegal drugs. Large backpacks might be asked to be checked (usually by the front). Weapons are forbidden (bars enforce local law). Cameras and recording equipment aren’t officially allowed; casual phone photography is usually OK but avoid flash during performances. Dress modestly; some events might bar overly revealing costumes. If in doubt, call to ask – the staff can clarify any security policies before you make the trip.
What payment methods are accepted?
The bar will take credit and debit cards, but it’s highly recommended to carry cash. Many customers use cash for speed or because of smaller cover charges. The on-site ATM ensures you can get cash if needed (www.pifers.com ). Tipping servers and performers in cash is standard. One safe approach is to use a card for large tabs and then withdraw cash as you go.
What is the local atmosphere like at Millers Cave?
Expect a friendly, down-to-earth crowd. Patrons are mostly locals – folks who live in Hebron or nearby farms and towns – and they treat Millers Cave as a community hangout. Conversation mixes Midwestern friendliness with lively cheering for bands. On weekends it gets quite energetic and loud with dancing; on weekdays it may have a lite crowd playing pool. In general, it feels like a community club – people know each other. A traveler often finds that if you buy a drink and enjoy the music, you’ll leave feeling you made some new friends.
Why is it called “Millers Cave”? Is there a real cave?
It’s a historic name. There is no literal cave in the venue or nearby. The “Cave” in the name is more thematic – meant to conjure the feel of an underground speakeasy or a cozy hideaway. (In reality, the space looks like a rustic tavern rather than a subterranean grotto.) The name likely comes from the original owner’s name (“Miller”) combined with the adventurous idea of a cave, to market a fun, offbeat nightspot in small-town North Dakota.
What hotels are near Millers Cave?
Hebron itself has very few hotels. The closest lodging is in surrounding towns. For example, the Cobblestone Hotel & Suites in Beulah (about 40–45 minutes northeast) is often recommended (www.tripadvisor.com ). Dickinson (40 minutes west) offers chain motels (Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn, etc.) and more amenities. Some visitors stay in Mandan or Bismarck, but that’s much farther. Plan on a 40-minute drive at minimum for major hotel options.
Are there other restaurants or bars nearby?
Besides Millers Cave, downtown Hebron has a couple of cafes and grills. The newly opened Brick City Public House (in the old general store) is a full restaurant/lounge with brunch and a diverse menu (www.grandforksherald.com ). There’s also a small pizza/diner place on Main and the Steakhouse Cafe around 8th Ave. For more substantial nightlife or late-night food, head to nearby Dickinson or Mandan, which have multiple restaurants and brewpubs. Keep in mind Hebron’s bars will shut down by 1 AM, so late-night options in town are extremely limited.
Is smoking allowed inside Millers Cave?
No, North Dakota law bans indoor smoking in public places. Expect the indoor space of Millers Cave to be smoke-free. There is usually an outdoor area or front porch for smokers, and coolers provided so people can step outside safely. If you need to smoke, do it outside – do not try to smoke inside the building.
