About Fillmore Minneapolis
The Fillmore Minneapolis is a brand-new concert hall in downtown Minneapolis’s North Loop, opened in 2020. It spans roughly 22,000–36,000 sq ft of entertainment space and holds about 1,850 people (www.musicinminnesota.com ) (wanderlog.com ). Part of Live Nation’s Fillmore chain (the 9th U.S. location (www.musicinminnesota.com )), it was built next to Target Field Station and the Element by Westin hotel (160 rooms) by the Twins’ ownership (www.startribune.com ) (www.startribune.com ). The venue fuses San Francisco Fillmore motifs (red velvet drapes, wooden dance floor and chandeliers) with Minnesota music heritage (murals of Prince, Lizzo, Dylan, etc.) (www.musicinminnesota.com ) (www.ewingcole.com ). Inside, two side bars serve cocktails and local beers (mspmag.com ), with excellent sightlines to the stage from the main floor and surrounding mezzanine (millcitytimes.com ) (mspmag.com ). The Fillmore brand nods to promoter Bill Graham’s legacy (even handing out apples at some shows (www.startribune.com )) but tailor-made for Minneapolis’s scene. City leaders call it the “missing link” in Twin Cities live music (mspmag.com ): an upscale, high-tech venue built from scratch to attract major acts and boost the local concert scene (www.startribune.com ) (millcitytimes.com ).
Events and Programming
The Fillmore hosts around 150–200 events per year (www.musicinminnesota.com ) (millcitytimes.com ). Programming is very diverse: rock, indie and alternative bands; metal and punk tours; country and Americana; electronic/EDM and hip-hop DJs; plus stand-up comedy, podcasts, and special events (www.startribune.com ) (www.concertarchives.org ). Opening acts in 2020 included Brandi Carlile (three nights in Feb) and hometown favorites like Motion City Soundtrack, Buddy Guy, Jonny Lang, plus EDM (Rüfüs Du Sol), rap (Three 6 Mafia, Ty Dolla $ign, Yung Gravy), and rock (Disco Biscuits, Evanescence) (www.startribune.com ). Recent years have featured acts like Meshuggah, August Burns Red, Akon, Lil Yachty, Roy Wood Jr., The Gaslight Anthem, and Latin artist Edén Muñoz (see venue schedule) (www.concertarchives.org ). Many night-of-openers or local indie shows are booked too. Ticket prices vary: inexpensive GA tickets often start in the \$30–\$40 range, but premium mezzanine or VIP seats can hit \$100+ (online fees can more than double face prices) (www.startribune.com ). Fans note that the Fillmore feels luxurious (padded seats, bottle service, tiled bathrooms) with a top-notch sound system (www.startribune.com ), even as it charges accordingly. (Drink prices are steep – e.g. \$12 draft beers, \$13 cocktails reported (www.startribune.com ).) In short, Fillmore Minneapolis is the city’s go-to mid-size club for touring artists of all kinds, with a year-round concert schedule and even some ticket passes for local fans (www.startribune.com ) (www.axios.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Fillmore shows are sold through Live Nation/Ticketmaster as well as the box office. Sale dates and times are announced in advance (typically public sales begin at 10 AM local time) (www.startribune.com ). Pre-sales are common (for credit unions or fan clubs), so join mailing lists or check local credit unions (Affinity Plus) in case of early access. Note that the Fillmore uses **mobile entry only**: you must bring your smartphone to have tickets scanned (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). Fortunately, you can avoid online fees by buying in person at the Fillmore box office on show days (www.startribune.com ) (the Varsity Theater box office in Dinkytown also sells Live Nation tickets). If a concert isn’t sold out, remaining tickets are often available at the box office until show time. Expect a range of prices: general admission for mid-level acts might be in the \$30s before fees, whereas premium “balcony” seats or VIP packages will run much higher (www.startribune.com ). For popular events, tickets can sell out fast, so buying early is advised. For cheap multi-show options, note that Live Nation once offered a $59 “Fillmore/Varsity club pass” giving unlimited entry for a season (www.axios.com ) (check if such promotions are current). Also remember: the venue is cashless. All bars and merch stands accept credit/debit cards only (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ), and the box office may only take card payments for tickets.
Seating and Layout
The Fillmore is primarily a **standing-room GA** venue. Most concerts pack the main floor with fans dancing or standing close to the stage. By default there are no chairs on the floor (all ages GA), though for special events the hall can be set up with seats. The **second level mezzanine** wraps around the back of the hall – those tickets are for reserved seating (benches or chairs) and include premium “box” areas and the BG’s Lounge. Box seats and lounge access (with private bar and restroom) are for VIP ticket holders (millcitytimes.com ) (www.musicinminnesota.com ). Sightlines are excellent: the hall was custom-designed so you can see the stage from anywhere (millcitytimes.com ) (mspmag.com ). For a lively experience, GA front-and-center is best, but if you prefer to sit or be elevated, the mezzanine seats up front or the comfortable vantage of BG’s Lounge offer great views (millcitytimes.com ). Note that the Fillmore has a large wooden dance floor and high ceilings – in the center the sound and vibe are immersive. (Fans have remarked the Fillmore’s acoustics and production are “top-notch” for a club (www.startribune.com ).)
Getting There and Parking
The Fillmore’s address is 525 North 5th Street, Minneapolis (North Loop neighborhood) (www.musicinminnesota.com ). It is extremely transit-friendly, as the Target Field Station (METRO Blue/Green light rail and Northstar commuter rail) is right next door – literally an entrance up the stairs from the station (www.musicinminnesota.com ) (www.startribune.com ). Multiple Metro Transit bus routes also stop nearby on 5th and 6th Street. If driving, there is **no Fillmore lot**, so street parking or nearby garages must be used. The Target Field Station parking ramp (P1) is immediately adjacent; city parking ramps B and C (at 6th & 1st Avenue N) are a short walk (www.startribune.com ). Metered street parking is limited (downtown rules apply). You can reserve nearby spots via ParkWhiz, which even highlights ADA-accessible spaces (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). Rideshare drop-off is common on 5th Street in front of the entrance (just follow app directions to “525 N 5th St”). A local tip: arrive early to beat game-night or evening traffic, and consider using transit or rideshare on busy nights (www.startribune.com ) (wanderlog.com ). After shows, the light rail runs late into the night (last trains around 1 AM) and several late buses serve the area. Taxis and app cabs are plentiful on concert nights. Nearby, the Minneapolis Convention Center and numerous bars/restaurants make pre- or post-show transit easy.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering, you’ll pass through metal-detecting security and bag check. Small clear bags (up to ~12″×6″×12″) are allowed (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ) (www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). The lobby flows into the large concert hall, which has two full bars on the floor level (mspmag.com ). You’ll immediately notice the Fillmore’s signature decor: vivid backlit murals on the walls, sparkling chandeliers overhead, and plush Lexan-tiled floors or sofas in lounge areas. The house lighting can blacklight certain murals (giving a psychedelic vibe) (www.startribune.com ). Trax Burgers & Bar (the on-site restaurant) shares the same building – diners and non-ticketed guests can enter via a covered patio on 5th Street (northloop.org ). Restrooms (each with ADA-accessible stalls (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com )) and drinking fountains are located on the main and mezzanine levels. In the mezzanine you’ll find the upscale BG’s Lounge for VIP ticket holders (millcitytimes.com ), complete with private bar and restrooms. Merchandise tables (for artists’ T-shirts, etc.) are usually set up by the stage or lobby during concerts. The venue is fully **cashless**: only credit/debit cards are accepted at bars and merchandise stands (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). If you need venue assistance (lost items, seating help, etc.), staff are stationed at entrances and concession areas. Overall the Fillmore has a modern club atmosphere – it’s clean and spacious, albeit crowded on big nights. Tips: bring your phone (charged) to scan tickets (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ), dress comfortably, and expect a thorough bag/wand search before entry (www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). Once inside, the mood is energetic but orderly.
Nearby Amenities
The North Loop around the Fillmore is packed with dining and nightlife. Right at the Fillmore is Trax Burgers & Bar (by the Element hotel) – an upscale burger joint with craft beers (including local breweries like Fulton, Surly and Fair State) (northloop.org ) (northloop.org ), creative cocktails and even deep-fried desserts (e.g. “OMG Oreos” (northloop.org )). Minutes away are popular brewpubs/factories like Fulton Brewery, Inbound Brewery and One Fermentary (www.startribune.com ). Trendy restaurants include Medterra (American fare), İzzy’s Ice Cream & Coffee (area favorite), Smack Shack (seafood), and Las Palmas Taqueria, plus Minneapolis staples Graze (tacos), Lu’s Sandwiches and Val’s Pizza (all a short walk) (www.startribune.com ). If you want a fancier meal, world-class spots like Spoon and Stable or The Bachelor Farmer are nearby in the North Loop Commons (www.tripadvisor.com ). For late-night options, many of these places stay open until 11 or midnight, and Uber/rideshare easily serve the area. Several hotels sit within a block or two: the Fillmore’s attached Element by Westin (on-site), the Hilton Garden Inn (across 6th Ave), and the downtown Westin and AC Hotel are only a few blocks south (reachable on a short light-rail ride or walk). In practice, most concertgoers pair a show with a pre-event dinner or post-event drink in this bustling neighborhood.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Fillmore Minneapolis stands out for its blend of rock-history and local character. It was designed from the ground up – a rare feat among Twin Cities venues (www.startribune.com ) – marrying Bill Graham’s Fillmore legacy with Minnesota’s music culture. Everywhere you look are Fillmore “easter eggs”: the classic giant chandeliers and red velvet drapes from the San Francisco Fillmore era, and even apples tossed into the crowd (a tribute to Graham) (www.startribune.com ). Local pride is woven in too – custom murals honor Prince, Lizzo, Bob Dylan, the Replacements and other Minnesota icons (www.ewingcole.com ) (millcitytimes.com ). Architecturally, the industrial space (a former rail yard) was clad in reclaimed timber, leather seating and neon art echoing the city’s bridges (www.ewingcole.com ) (www.ewingcole.com ). For artists and audiences the Fillmore offers a world-class concert experience: multiple bars and dining on site (Trax), luxury amenities (VIP lounge, private boxes), and a cutting-edge sound/lighting rig (www.startribune.com ) (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). These extras make it feel more premium than the city’s older rock clubs. In cultural impact, the Fillmore has quickly become a major hub: it brings many touring acts to Minneapolis who skip smaller markets, and it adds energy to a neighborhood already famous for Target Field and its breweries (www.startribune.com ) (www.startribune.com ). In short, both artists and fans love the Fillmore for its polished yet alive atmosphere – it’s as iconic and eclectic as the acts that play there.
Visitor Tips and Information
The Fillmore is fully ADA-accessible: the main entrance is level (no steps) and wheelchair users get priority entry (you may check in at the front podium instead of waiting in line) (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). An elevator serves the mezzanine, and staff will escort any guest with mobility needs to the designated accessible seating area on the main floor (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ) (halfaccess.org ). Accessible stalls are in every restroom (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). Service (guide) animals are welcome (emotional support pets are not considered service animals) (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). When you come, bring your smartphone (for mobile tickets) and ID if you plan to drink (all bars require 21+ ID). Since space is limited, pack lightly: only small bags are allowed (max ~12″×6″×12″) (www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ) (www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). Don’t bother bringing outside food or open drinks – these are prohibited (www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ) (outside alcohol and cannabis are banned too). Any sharp objects, weapons, chain wallets, large signs, selfie-sticks or recording equipment other than a phone are not allowed (www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). Smoking/vaping is strictly forbidden everywhere inside the venue (www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). Dress is casual–either jeans and tee or whatever is comfortable; some fans like to dress up a bit for this fancier hall, but there’s no formal code. Common sense goes a long way: arrive about 30–45 minutes before the show to clear security and pick a spot (wanderlog.com ). Earplugs can help if you’re sensitive, and these are often available at merchandise or coat-check stands. Finally, check the event listing or venue calendar after booking: it will note any age restrictions (some comedy or rap shows might be 18+ or 21+) and specific door times. Otherwise, expect doors roughly 1 hour before showtime. With these tips, you’ll be set for a great Fillmore experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What range of ticket prices can I expect at Fillmore Minneapolis?
Prices vary by act and seating. General‐admission floor tickets often start in the \$30–\$40 range (face value), while reserved mezzanine or VIP tickets usually cost significantly more (often \$80–\$100+) (
www.startribune.com ). Ticketmaster adds fees, so bring cash for those. For best deals, look for presales or buy GA tickets early. (The Fillmore also offers occasional concert passes for frequent buyers.)
How do I buy tickets and can I avoid online fees?
Tickets are sold through Live Nation/Ticketmaster. You can order online or over the phone, but the fastest way to skip high fees is **in person at the Fillmore box office** on show days (
www.startribune.com ). On show days the box office typically opens around 10 AM; walk up if tickets remain. Otherwise buy online: note that Fillmore events are **mobile-entry**, so you must use your phone to enter (
www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ).
When do tickets go on sale for Fillmore shows?
Public on-sale times vary by show but are usually announced well in advance. Traditionally, Live Nation has made tickets available at 10:00 AM local time on the sale date (
www.startribune.com ). Check the official Fillmore Minneapolis website or sign up for venue alerts/newsletters. Credit union (Affinity Plus) and fan-club presales often occur a few days before the general sale.
Can I buy tickets at the door on the night of the show?
Yes, if tickets are still available. The Fillmore’s box office will sell remaining tickets up until showtime (subject to availability). It’s best to call ahead to check if a show is sold out, or arrive early and try your luck at the box office. Large sold‐out tours may not have day-of tickets, so plan accordingly.
What is the address of Fillmore Minneapolis?
The Fillmore Minneapolis is located at
525 North 5th Street in the North Loop district of downtown Minneapolis (
www.musicinminnesota.com ). It’s adjacent to the Target Field Station (light rail stop) and attached to the Element by Westin hotel. Enter from 5th Street North; there are marquee signs above the entrance.
How do I get to the Fillmore using public transit?
The Fillmore is right at Target Field Station – just take the Blue or Green METRO line downtown, get off at Target Field, and go up the stairs; you’ll be at the Fillmore door within a minute (
www.musicinminnesota.com ) (
www.startribune.com ). Northstar commuter rail also ends at Target Field lot. Several Metro Transit bus routes along 5th Street and nearby drop you a block away. This makes transit one of the easiest ways to arrive, especially when city parking fills up.
Are there parking options near Fillmore Minneapolis?
No on-site lot, but there are nearby options. The Target Field Station parking ramp (just behind Fillmore) and other public ramps (like Ramps B & C on 6th Street) are the closest multistory garages (
www.startribune.com ). On-street metered parking is limited. We recommend booking ahead via ParkWhiz – they show nearby lots (including accessible spots) (
www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). Rideshare drop-offs on 5th Street are also common.
Is the Fillmore Minneapolis a general-admission (standing room) venue?
Yes. Almost all Fillmore Minneapolis concerts are **general admission on the main floor** (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). That means no assigned seats on the floor – you stand or dance in an open area. If you prefer a seat, purchase a mezzanine ticket. Reach out to the box office if you require special seating arrangements; the venue can sometimes provide chairs or accessible seating as needed.
Are seats available at Fillmore Minneapolis?
Seating is only on the upper levels. The statelow mezzanine has reserved bench or chair seats and enclosed box sections (
millcitytimes.com ). Premium tickets often include access to “BG’s Lounge” in the mezzanine, which has tables and a bar (
millcitytimes.com ). There are no chairs on the main floor unless it’s a special event that requests them. For a guaranteed seat, book a mezzanine seat ticket.
What is BG’s Lounge at the Fillmore?
BG’s Lounge is the Fillmore’s upstairs VIP club, named after concert promoter Bill Graham (
millcitytimes.com ). It’s a private lounge with cushioned seating, a dedicated bar and bathroom, and an intimate view of the stage. Access to BG’s (also called “box seating” or premium) comes with higher-tier tickets. It’s a quieter spot to enjoy pre- or post-show music and cocktails in a lounge atmosphere.
What items are prohibited at Fillmore Minneapolis?
Strict rules apply. For safety, no weapons (guns, knives, pepper spray, etc.), sharp objects or hazardous items are allowed (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). Outside food and alcohol are banned (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ) (you must buy drinks at the venue). No recording equipment (beyond a phone), megaphones, large signs/posters, laser pointers, selfie-sticks, or anything that might disturb the audience (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). All bags are subject to search at entry (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). Basically, bring only essentials: ID, wallet, phone and a small see-through bag (max 12″×6″×12″) (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ) (
www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ).
What is the bag policy at Fillmore Minneapolis?
Can I bring outside food or drinks into the Fillmore?
No. The Fillmore prohibits outside food, beverages and alcohol (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). You may bring an empty water bottle to fill at water fountains, but any pre-opened drinks or snacks will be confiscated. All food and drink must be purchased inside from the concession stands or the Trax restaurant.
Is smoking or vaping allowed inside the Fillmore?
Absolutely not. The Fillmore is 100% smoke-free and vape-free (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). You cannot smoke or vape anywhere in the building, including bathrooms. (If you need to smoke, do so outside on the public sidewalks and be discreet.)
What food and drink options are there at the Fillmore?
The main concession is *Trax Burgers & Bar*, an on-site restaurant serving gourmet burgers, appetizers and desserts (
northloop.org ). Trax is open daily (11 AM–11 PM Sun–Thu, 11 AM–midnight Fri/Sat) (
northloop.org ) and does not require a concert ticket. During events, the Fillmore also has multiple bars on the floor level (beer, wine, cocktails) and a bar in the mezzanine lounge. They offer local craft beers (Fulton, Surly, Fair State) (
northloop.org ) and creative cocktails (even a “vape cocktail” with a poppable bubble) (
northloop.org ). There’s no coffee shop inside, so plan any coffee stops beforehand.
Is the Fillmore cashless?
Yes. The Fillmore does not accept cash. All food, drink and merchandise purchases must be made with credit or debit cards (
www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ) (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, AmEx). Tip: bring a card or use mobile pay to simplify transactions.
Does Fillmore Minneapolis have wheelchair-accessible seating?
Yes. The Fillmore’s main floor is wheelchair-accessible and has a specific ADA seating area. You can purchase accessible tickets online, and ushers will escort you to the seating section on the floor level (
www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). The venue has a ramp and elevator for the mezzanine (
halfaccess.org ), and all bathrooms have ADA stalls (
www.fillmoreminneapolis.com ). If you need assistance (e. g. reaching seats or restrooms), staff are available to help.
Are the shows at Fillmore all-ages?
Generally, yes. By default the Fillmore is an all-ages venue (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). Children may attend concerts accompanied by an adult. However, some events (especially certain comedy or rap shows) may be 18+ or 21+, and this will be noted on the ticket. Always check the event description for any age restriction. If a show is 21+, expect wristbands at the door for those 21 and over.
What is the capacity and layout of the Fillmore?
What time do concerts typically start and when should I arrive?
Event times vary. Usually doors open about one hour before the advertised showtime. For example, a “7:00 PM show” usually has 6:00 PM doors. We recommend arriving 30–45 minutes before the show starts to get through security and find your spot (and to let your friends meet up) (
wanderlog.com ). Arriving very late risks missing the opener. Check your ticket or the Fillmore’s website for any specific door time listed.
Is seating assigned at the Fillmore?
No, not for the main floor. General admission tickets on the main level mean “first come, first served” standing space. The only assigned seats are upstairs (reserved mezzanine seats and boxes) (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ) (
millcitytimes.com ). If you need a particular seat (for wheelchair or preference), purchase a mezzanine ticket in advance.
Is photography allowed at shows?
Casual smartphone photos are usually OK for personal use. However, professional cameras (or any audio/video recording devices) are prohibited (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). Security may not let in large cameras or tripods. If in doubt, ask staff. (Obviously do not use flash.)
Are there any exclusive shows or events at the Fillmore?
Aside from concerts, the Fillmore hosts occasional private events, album-release parties or VIP-only performances (especially in BG’s Lounge). It’s also used for corporate functions and award ceremonies (
www.minneapolisconcerthall.com ). These special events are typically by invitation or separate ticketing; check the calendar on the Fillmore’s site to see any advertised special events.
