About Fillmore Minneapolis
The Fillmore Minneapolis is a modern concert hall and live music venue in Minneapolis’ North Loop, operated by Live Nation (the same company behind First Avenue and House of Blues). It seats roughly 1,850 people in a 36,000-square-foot facility and was purpose-built for live shows . Opened in early 2020, it occupies 521 North 5th Street (steps from Target Field Station, a light-rail hub) and anchors a mixed-use development that includes a 156-room Element by Westin hotel above the theater . The venue’s design intentionally evokes the famous Fillmore legacy (originally Bill Graham’s San Francisco halls), blending “classic and cutting-edge” style: red velvet drapes, a polished wood dance floor, chandeliers and custom murals feature prominently on the main floor . The mezzanine level includes private box seating and an exclusive lounge (BG’s Lounge) named after promoter Bill Graham, decorated with framed concert posters and Minnesota music tributes (Prince-themed artwork adorns the box areas) . Overall, the Fillmore was billed as “one of America’s most beautiful music halls,” combining rock-and-roll nostalgia with local Minneapolis flair . Situated in a redeveloped warehouse district, it has quickly become an important mid-sized venue in the Twin Cities music scene.
Events and Programming
The Fillmore’s calendar is packed year-round with shows, often up to 150–175 performances annually . Its programming spans many genres: most commonly it hosts touring rock, pop and indie bands, as well as hip-hop/R&B, metal and EDM acts. Notable recent shows included metal titans (Meshuggah, In Flames, Whitechapel) , pop-rock acts (The Fray, KALEO), hip-hop artists (Lil Yachty , 6LACK) and country/Latin stars (Edén Muñoz ). The venue also regularly books comedy tours and variety shows – past performers have ranged from Roy Wood Jr (stand-up) to sketch and burlesque productions – as well as tribute and theme nights (for example, a Taylor Swift tribute “Taylor Party” and anniversary tours). In short, anything from hard rock to electronic DJs, from rap to family-friendly variety acts can be found at the Fillmore. Tickets for main-floor general admission shows typically range from the low $20s up to around $60–$80 for headliners; VIP and balcony seats run higher. (Live Nation often offers presales for fan club members or cardholders ahead of general on-sale dates.) Fans should watch official announcements or venue newsletters for ticket-release dates; popular shows often sell out quickly.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Fillmore shows are sold through the venue’s official outlets (Live Nation/Ticketmaster) and generally go on sale several weeks to months before an event. There is no dedicated box office for advance sales, but a ticket window typically opens on show days (often a couple of hours before doors) to help fans who have ticketing issues or to sell last-minute inventory. Notes on mobile entry: the Fillmore is strictly mobile-ticketing (digital barcodes scanned from your phone) , so attendees should have their phone and photo ID ready at the door. Rush or “day-of-show” tickets may occasionally be available at the door if a show is not sold out, but this is not guaranteed. For full-price tickets, prices vary by artist and seating tier – for example, general admission pit tickets for mid-level touring bands are often in the $30–$50 range, while front-row or balcony sections can go up to $100 or more for top-name acts. Note that special passes (like Live Nation’s “Club Pass” offered in recent seasons) allow unlimited entry to most shows at the Fillmore (and sister venues like the Varsity) for a flat fee, which can be a good deal if you plan to catch many shows.
Seating and Layout
The Fillmore Minneapolis is primarily a general-admission (GA) music hall. The main floor in front of the stage is usually open-standing (with a built-in wood dance floor) . There are no permanently fixed seats on the floor, so fans often arrive early to stake out good spots near the stage. Off the dance floor, the venue has a wrap-around mezzanine (balcony) with tiered seating and a handful of private box seats along the sides. This upper level offers fixed chair seating for a more relaxed view. Box seats and premium tickets are sold for the mezzanine; these feature cushioned seating and extra legroom, with dedicated waitstaff service. Overall sightlines are excellent and “state-of-the-art,” as Live Nation staff emphasized – the sloped floor and well-angled balcony ensure clear views of the stage. As one patron noted, the crowd density is highest in the front pit and becomes quite comfortable toward the rear or upper levels . Guests with mobility needs can purchase ADA-accessible seats online; the venue provides an accessible seating section upstairs (with wheelchair space, an internal ramp, and a full bar and restroom within it) . In brief, best viewing depends on preference: fans wanting energy should grab a spot on the floor near center stage, while those who prefer a bit of distance can use the balcony or back of floor without losing much of the show.
Getting There and Parking
The Fillmore’s exact address is 525 5th Street North, Minneapolis, MN 55401 , in the North Loop district next to Target Field (home of the Twins). It is directly adjacent to the Target Field Station transit hub. Riders can use Metro Transit light rail (Blue or Green Line) or the Northstar commuter rail to reach Target Field Station, which is a short indoor walk to the venue. Fares on Metro lines into downtown range from about $2.00 to $3.25 one-way ; consider using transit to avoid downtown traffic on event nights. For drivers, the Fillmore has no private lot. Many metered street parking spots can be found nearby, as well as several pay lots/ramps within a few blocks. Notable parking options include the Hennepin County Target Field Station Ramp (corner of 5th Ave N and 4th St) and the City of Minneapolis “Blue Lot” at 6th Ave N, as well as the Twins’ official baseball game lot on 5th Ave N (a short walk) . (One review cautioned, however, that the Target Field Ramp can be very slow to exit when patrons leave , so you may prefer street parking or book through ParkWhiz if available.) Rideshare drop-offs are typically done on 5th Street or 5th Avenue North right outside the theater. The venue notes in its “Getting Here” guide that guests should allow extra travel time during busy events . Overall, public transit is often easiest – the LRT stop is literally at the door , and many attendees simply take the train to avoid parking hassles.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, all ticket-holders (including VIP and press) must pass through a security check. The Fillmore enforces a clear-bag policy: only small bags up to roughly 12″ x 6″ x 12″ are allowed inside , and any larger bags will not be permitted. Guests should be prepared to have bags and belongings (including cameras or phones) wanded or searched. Notable prohibited items include outside food or beverages, alcohol, weapons or weapons-like items, large posters or banners, tripods/selfie sticks, and audio/video recording devices beyond a standard smartphone . Cell phones are allowed (for photos or communication), but professional video cameras and audio recorders are not permitted under policy. The venue is fully cashless inside: all food, drink and merchandise stands accept credit/debit cards only . A convenient on-site restaurant, Trax Burgers & Bar, operates on show nights – it serves handmade burgers, salads, appetizers and a full bar . There are also multiple drink stations in the lobby and on the main floor selling beer, cocktails and snacks. Restroom facilities can be found on both floor and mezzanine. (The ADA-accessible seating section even has its own private restrooms and bar .) Any coat checks or locker services depend on the event, so check ahead if traveling with jackets or valuables. In summary, the atmosphere inside is energetic but well-organized: friendly staff circulate through the crowd, lines at bars tend to move quickly , and the club is designed to handle nearly 1,850 fans comfortably with modern lighting and sound.
Nearby Amenities
Before or after a show, visitors will find plenty to do in the surrounding North Loop. The neighborhood is rich in dining and entertainment. Within a few blocks are acclaimed restaurants such as Bar La Grassa (Italian cuisine at 800 Washington Ave N) and Borough (creative New American plates at 730 Washington Ave N) . For a quick bite near the venue, the newly opened Trax Burgers & Bar (on site) offers craft burgers and shakes, and the Fillmore complex also houses BG’s Q – a 140-seat barbeque-and-brew restaurant on the ground floor . Bar and brewery options abound: Fulton Brewing Company (414 N. 6th Ave) and the new Bricksworth Beer Co. (305 N 5th Ave) are just a block or two away, each with on-site food and a variety of local beers . Cocktail bars like Punch Neapolitan Pizza or Marvel Bar are also within easy walking distance for pre- or post-show drinks. For theater and arts patrons, the Guthrie Theater is two blocks north and Downtown attractions lie just beyond. Hotel-wise, the building itself contains the 156-room Element by Westin for visitors , and several other downtown and North Loop hotels (Marriott, Embassy Suites, boutique options) are within a 5–10 minute walk. In short, the Fillmore is in a lively entertainment district – arriving an hour early provides time to enjoy neighborhood dining, a Twins game/Target Field tour or simply grabbing a craft beer before the show.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Fillmore Minneapolis stands out for its mix of design, history and community focus. Architecturally it blends “rock and elegance” – think classic Fillmore style meets modern club amenities. The result is a venue that is both nostalgic and state-of-the-art: traditional touches like red velvet curtains, intricate historic murals and a grand chandelier are paired with top-tier concert sound and lighting . The mezzanine’s Prince-themed artwork and the BG’s Lounge tribute to promoter Bill Graham explicitly tie the Fillmore to Minnesota’s own musical legacy . The venue is also Minneapolis-specific in spirit: Live Nation chose the area because Minneapolis “is one of the most vibrant music markets in the country” and the Fillmore was meant to bring more touring acts here by adding a right-sized venue to the city . Culturally, it symbolizes Minneapolis’s growth as a live-music hub – filling a gap between the larger arenas and smaller clubs. Its economic impact is significant, too: the theater is expected to draw on the order of 150,000–200,000 attendees annually , pumping dollars into local restaurants, bars and hotels. Local fans appreciate that the Fillmore offers a comfortable yet exciting experience: as one attendee put it, while it may not have “the energy of First Ave,” it’s still “a pretty good place to catch a show,” with ample room to move and quick service at the bar . Performers likewise enjoy the professional facilities – premium lockers, artist amenities, and a flexible stage – making it a preferred stop on many tours. In sum, the Fillmore has quickly gained a reputation as a beloved modern venue that honors Minneapolis’s rich music heritage while delivering high-quality concert experiences.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility and Comfort: The Fillmore is ADA-accessible. All public areas and restrooms have wheelchair access , and an accessible seating section is provided with companion seating, an internal ramp, and dedicated amenities . There is no formal dress code, but Minneapolis weather (especially winter) means often waiting outside; dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. For loud shows, consider bringing earplugs. What to Bring: Bring only small personal items – bags must be clear or small (up to ~12″x6″x12″) and will be searched . Do not bring outside food, drinks or alcohol, and leave prohibited items at home (no weapons, professional cameras, tripods/selfie sticks, posters/signs, unsealed liquids, etc.) . Mobile Tickets and ID: Ensure your mobile ticket is ready on your phone before entering . Domain entry scanners will verify it. Keep a photo ID handy – the box office may ask for it if you need to print or transfer a ticket. Arrival Time: Doors typically open about 60 minutes before showtime. For popular concerts, arriving early is wise. Lines for entry and drinks move efficiently – one review noted that even at capacity the venue “gets more packed the closer you are to the stage” , meaning the back or balcony is much more relaxed. Bars and restrooms are plentiful, so once inside drink lines are usually short . Age Restrictions: The Fillmore is generally all-ages. (Some shows may be 18+/21+ depending on the artist or venue policy, so always double-check the event listing.) The FAQ on the venue site confirms “all ages are welcome” by default . Coat Check and Phones: There is no free coat check, so plan to keep jackets either in your small bag or on your person. Cell phone usage for photos or light video is tolerated, but flash photography is prohibited. Live recording (audio/video) is usually disallowed. Food & Drink: Outside food and drink are not allowed, but you can dine at Trax Burgers & Bar before the show (they often open at 4PM or earlier) . Inside, premium cocktails and craft beers are served – they cost more than a bar downtown, but note that drink lines reportedly have “never much of a wait” . Most concession stands take only cards (Cashless). Common Pitfalls: Avoid the Target Field ramp (the "Darby’s" lot) if you can, as exiting it on event nights can take a long time . Instead, use street parking on side streets (if not blocked for games) or the nearby SP+ and Twins lots . Better yet, ride the light rail – the station entrance is literally under the venue. Finally, one tip: store your phone in your front pocket and purchase tickets well in advance, as Ticketmaster resale prices can be high for sold-out shows.
What is the capacity of the Fillmore Minneapolis?
The Fillmore Minneapolis main music hall holds about 1,800–1,850 people . This breaks down to roughly 1,800 standing on the main floor (general admission) plus about 950 seats if the venue were configured with chairs. In practice, most concerts fill the floor standing room (max 1,800) and use the balcony seats for reserved guests or VIPs .
How do I get to the Fillmore on public transit?
The Fillmore is adjacent to Target Field Station (525 5th St N). Take the Metro Transit Blue or Green light rail line to Target Field or the Northstar commuter train downtown (fares are $2–$3 each way) . Exit the station and follow signs; the venue entrance is just outside the train platform. Many buses (e.g. Route 14) also stop at or near Target Field Station. Using transit is usually easiest, as street parking can be scarce or expensive on event nights.
Where can I park for a show at the Fillmore?
The Fillmore has no private lot. Nearby paid parking options include several ramps and lots: the Hennepin County Ramp D at 5th Ave N & 2nd St (Target Field Station Ramp) and the Twins ballpark lots on 5th Ave N are closest, each just a few blocks away . There’s also a large municipal “Blue Lot” (560 N 6th Ave) a short walk west of the venue . Metered street parking is available on adjacent side streets (free after 6pm downtown). Keep in mind that the Target Field ramp can fill up and exit very slowly after shows , so many fans prefer street parking or reserving a spot via services like ParkWhiz. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and taxis can drop off on 5th St N right by the entrance.
Are outside food and drink allowed?
No. The venue strictly prohibits outside food and alcohol . Only items bought inside can be consumed. However, the Trax Burgers & Bar restaurant (in the lobby) offers food and a full bar on show nights , and concession stands around the hall sell snacks and beverages. Carrying a sealed bottle of water from home is generally not allowed (check current policy, as exceptions are rare).
Can I bring a camera or record the show?
Personal cameras or cell phone snapshots are allowed, but professional photo/video equipment is not (audio/video recorders are explicitly banned) . Flash photography is generally discouraged as it can bother performers and other fans. Recording entire songs on your phone is usually tolerated, but long-mounted cameras or rigs are not permitted. In short, you can capture memories with your phone, but don’t bring a big DSLR or video camera.
Is the Fillmore Minneapolis all-ages?
By default, yes – most events at the Fillmore are open to all ages (children accompanied by adults are welcome) . Some touring acts or later-evening shows may be 18+ or 21+ (depending on promoter rules or alcohol licensing). Always check the specific show listing. The venue does note that youth tickets at discounted prices are sometimes available for certain shows . Seating is general admission, so young kids will stand or sit with accompanying adults.
What time do doors open and how early should I arrive?
Doors usually open about 60 minutes before the show’s advertised start time (for example, a 7:00pm concert typically allows entry around 6:00pm). If you want a spot near the stage, plan to arrive significantly earlier – lines can form well before doors. If you prefer a less crowded area, arriving at door time or even later is fine. Note that you’ll need your mobile ticket ready and ID checked, so try to be inside by showtime.
Are there accessible seating and services?
Yes. The Fillmore provides ADA-compliant facilities. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on the main floor (with elevator access) and in the mezzanine . To purchase accessible tickets, use Live Nation’s website and look for the wheelchair icon; these seats range across all price levels. On arrival, people with accessibility needs can be escorted to the accessible section, which has its own bar and restrooms . The main entry and restrooms are also accessible, and staff will assist any time. Service animals are permitted (per ADA guidelines).
Is there coat check or luggage storage?
The Fillmore does not offer permanent free coat check. Most people either keep coats in a small bag or on themselves. For large bags or valuables, it’s best to leave them at your hotel or note that some events may provide limited cloakroom service (usually paid) – check ahead if needed.
Will my phone or wallet fit in my bag?
Yes – bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″ are allowed , so a typical small purse or backpack fits. Larger tote bags or bulky backpacks will be rejected at the door. A slim cross-body bag or a clear tote (48-inch circumference max as noted on site) is ideal. If you only carry essentials (ID, credit card, phone), you may also choose to use jacket pockets and skip the bag altogether for faster entry.
Is outside alcohol or drugs allowed?
Absolutely not. Fillmore rules strictly forbid outside alcohol or illicit drugs . All alcohol consumed must be purchased at the venue bars or concessions. (The venue is not cannabis-friendly.) Violation can result in ejection. In contrast, you can purchase and consume drinks inside at the mini-bars on the floor or at Trax Burgers on site.
Can I buy tickets or merchandise with cash?
No – the Fillmore is completely cashless . All ticket purchases must be made online ahead of time or at the mobile ART. Inside, food, drink and merchandise stands accept only credit/debit cards (Visa/MasterCard/Amex/Discover). Plan accordingly and bring a credit card or have mobile pay ready (digital passes like Apple Pay are usually accepted, but it’s safest to have a card or Apple Wallet with your ticket on it).
Does the Fillmore have Wi-Fi or cell service?
Fillmore Minneapolis does not guarantee on-site Wi-Fi for guests. In practice, most downtown cell carriers still work inside concert halls, so you should be able to use your phone data. However, signal may weaken when the theater is very full. It’s best to screenshot your ticket (if possible) before entering and minimize streaming during the show. For safety, ensure your phone is fully charged or bring a portable charger as a backup.
