About The Cabooze
The Cabooze is a long-running West Bank music club and bar in Minneapolis, USA. It first opened in 1974 and has been a vital part of the city’s scene ever since . Housed in a former warehouse, the venue has a gritty “bikers-and-blues” vibe with cinderblock walls and glowing neon lights – a working-class roadhouse beloved by students and locals alike . Its name is a play on “caboose,” reflecting the building’s train-like look (with a circular neon marquee at the entrance) . Over the decades, The Cabooze has welcomed an astonishing range of acts – from blues and soul legends to punk, hip-hop, folk and jam bands. Legends like James Brown, Albert King, Bonnie Raitt, Peter Tosh (who even had Mick Jagger stop by on stage in 1978), the Dave Matthews Band, Snoop Dogg and Phish have all played here . It’s also famous for showcasing Minnesota stars like the Replacements, Soul Asylum and The Suburbs in their early days . Each night the venue typically draws a diverse crowd – college students, bikers and music fans of all ages – and it maintains a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere often described as a “beer-soaked college party place” with its own unique charm .
Events and Programming
The Cabooze hosts live music nearly every week, often featuring an eclectic mix of genres. You’ll find everything from punk, rock and metal shows to hip-hop, reggae and jam-band nights. The owners emphasize “original music of every genre,” so local acts share bills with touring groups and tribute or theme nights. For example, the 50th-anniversary relaunch week in Sept. 2024 included jam bands (Twine), Afrobeat (Obi Original & the Black Atlantics), classic rock revivalists (the Belfast Cowboys) and reggae DJs (Sunday reggae night with Singing Tony) . In fall 2024 they also booked high-profile anniversary shows: hip-hop pioneers Sugarhill Gang & The Furious Five (Sept 20), roots-reggae supergroup International Reggae All Stars (Oct 5), Lamont Cranston with The Butanes (Oct 25), a Talking Heads tribute (Nov 16), and The Flamin’ Oh’s with Faith Boblett (Dec 6) . In quieter times the venue may sprinkle in open-mic nights or reunion sets. The Cabooze has a history of legendary concerts — for instance, it recently hosted a tribute to folk-blues great Spider John Koerner in June — but it remains focused on grassroots and college-show vibes. Typical ticket prices depend on the act: small local shows might be $10–20, while national headliners or special events can run much higher (sometimes $30–60 or more).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Cabooze shows are usually sold through the venue’s own channels, such as its official website or phone box office. Fans can sign up for the Cabooze email list to get advance notice of new shows and early ticket access . Many events are simply general admission, so buying early can help you get a better spot. For high-demand shows, tickets often go on sale several weeks in advance; for smaller local gigs tickets may also be sold at the door. The policy is that all ticket sales by official outlets are honored – the venue advises against buying from unofficial sources. Some special events (like re-opening or anniversary shows) have even been free in the past, but generally assume you need to pay in advance or at the door. As a tip, local reviews suggest door prices are usually reasonable: one group reported ~$30 for a midlevel act, and even noted that beer is often priced well compared to bigger clubs.
Seating and Layout
The Cabooze delivers a classic club setup. The main floor is open and flat, with a raised stage on one side wall about three-quarters of the way back in the room . This side-stage placement means the audience naturally splits into two viewing areas, but you can generally see the stage well from most spots on the floor. There are only a few small high-top tables and bench seats around the walls ― it’s mostly standing-room, first-come fashion. In the back of the room there is a low balcony/loft area with railing, which often has stools and seats; fans say this can be a quieter place to enjoy the show (and a good view of the entire room). Because seating is limited, no tickets guarantee chairs; all tickets are general-admission on a first-come basis . In practice, fans who prefer to sit often arrive early to snag a stool or depend on the balcony. Acoustically, the venue is small enough that performances are generally loud and clear, though not “hollow” – reviews routinely praise the Cabooze’s sound system as solid for rock and metal shows. The bar is located toward the front of the hall, so it doesn’t block the main view. Note that during busy shows the room can get quite warm and smoky (the band plays in proximity to the crowd), so wear comfortable, breathable clothing.
Getting There and Parking
The Cabooze is at 917 Cedar Avenue South, on the West Bank (Cedar-Riverside) side of Minneapolis. It’s just south of Hwy 94E and only about a block from Franklin Avenue. Transit is very convenient: the Franklin Avenue Blue Line LRT station is literally across the street . That means you can ride the METRO Blue (or Green) Line train from downtown, the airport, Mall of America, or U.S. Bank Stadium and get off at Franklin; the venue is immediately by the Franklin Station exit . Several bus routes also stop nearby (for example, Metro Transit’s 2, 9, 14, 22 and 67 lines all run along Franklin or Cedar, usually within a few blocks). If driving, there are a handful of free parking spots right at the club (on both sides of the building) . Street parking can also be found along local streets, though meters and residential regulations may apply. For overflow parking, the University of Minnesota West Bank campus has paid ramps (like the 21st Ave or Cedar ramps) a few blocks east, or a 10-minute drive north will put you in downtown Minneapolis where parking garages and lots are plentiful. Rideshare or taxi is often easiest for late-night; after-hours transit is limited, as the last Blue Line trains leave around 12:40 AM and many buses stop around 1:00 AM. The recommended drop-off point for cars/rideshares is the Cedar & Franklin corner.
Inside the Venue
When you enter The Cabooze, expect a casual, dive-bar atmosphere. The venue staff will check photo ID at the door. For safety and legal reasons, anyone without a valid ID will get an “X” marked on their hand so they cannot buy alcohol . There is no guest list or table reservation; it’s standing room on the floor or grabbing one of the few available stools. Don’t plan to eat outside food here – the venue does not allow outside food or drinks. Instead, you can grab food from the small grill menu at the connected Joint Bar & Grill next door (which offers burgers, pizza, fries, etc.). The Cabooze’s bar accepts cash and all major credit cards , and there is an ATM by the front table if you need cash. The bar stocks a typical club selection of beers, sodas and spirits; drink prices are moderate (attendees often comment that beer is cheaper here than at downtown clubs). There is a single coat check available in cold weather for about $4 per coat . Restrooms (newly renovated) have multiple stalls and generally move quickly. Cell phone reception inside is average, and Wi-Fi isn’t advertised, so plan accordingly. The venue’s lighting is intentionally retro – neon strips line the back of the stage and dim red neon glows on the front door – giving it a “time capsule” feel . Security is vigilant: large cameras (with removable lenses) usually require band approval or may be held in advance . If you bring a handheld still camera, it’s normally fine unless the performing artist requests otherwise (always respect the artist’s recording policy). Note that re-entry is not permitted on (under-age) all-ages shows, so once you leave the floor after entering, you can’t come back in without a new ticket.
Nearby Amenities
The Cabooze sits in an active neighborhood near the University of Minnesota. For pre-show dining or drinks, you have a few easy options: the Joint Bar & Grill right next door (at 913 Cedar) serves American bar food and is popular with bikers and students alike. A few blocks north on Franklin Ave are various restaurants and bars – for years fans have mentioned places like the old Tracy’s Saloon (2207 E Franklin, now closed) and other casual diners, pizza shops and pub-grub locales along that strip. University Ave heading east has cafes, Vietnamese and brunch spots. Downtown Minneapolis is just a short ride away (5–10 minutes by train or car), where dozens of restaurants and chain hotels await (for instance, the Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis on Washington Ave is only about 0.7 miles from the venue). If you arrive by plane, the Blue Line train from the MSP Airport will take you directly to Franklin Station in about 30-40 minutes. For after-show plans, note that the West Bank stands its own late-night scene: adjacent venues like the Dakota Jazz Club, 7th Street Entry, or 1-3 blocks away (for example, Bohemian Flats near the river) have occasional late music or boardwalk lounges. Rideshare pickup is best arranged at Cedar & Franklin; downtown hotel shuttles or cabs also run in the area after midnight.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Cabooze’s charm lies in its authenticity. It has never tried to be trendy – in fact, one Star Tribune critic noted that it’s “utterly unglamorous” and hasn’t changed much in decades . Yet that’s exactly why locals love it. It’s one of the few truly independent clubs in town (not owned by a big chain), where a wide range of music is welcome and where bands and audiences mix freely. Suburbs frontman Chan Poling fondly remembered it as “a scruffier, more beer-soaked college party place” with a “certain roadhouse charm” that the band and fans loved . Similarly, local DJ D-Mil praised it as “a truly independent place” for shows that don’t fit the corporate mold . Culturally, the Cabooze has seen it all: from a 70’s Mick Jagger cameo to 90’s punk and the current hip-hop scene. Its membership in the community is evident – it welcomed Spider John Koerner’s music even while he was alive, and hosted a celebration after his passing . For touring artists, it’s valued as a hard-working “workhorse” room on every tour. For bands, it’s a rite of passage; for fans, it’s a reliable home for raw, unedited live music. In short, The Cabooze is special because it feels like a true neighborhood dive that happens to throw great concerts, rain or shine.
Visitor Tips and Information
Always bring a photo ID. The door staff will check IDs and mark anyone without valid ID with an “X” so they can’t buy alcohol . If you’re attending an all-ages event, minors are welcome but must leave the hall by 9–10 PM and may have “X” marks to enforce the alcohol ban.
All shows are general admission, so it’s first-come, first-served. To get a good spot near the stage, arrive early. Doors often open 1–2 hours before the advertised showtime. Long before a headline act, the bar area can fill up, so if you want space to dance or watch, get to the floor at opening time .
Dress comfortably and in layers. The dance floor can get very warm and crowded. At the same time, if you have to wait outside (especially in winter), you’ll want a coat. You can check bulky coats at the front desk for about $4 during cold weather . Hats and earplugs are a good idea for loud concerts.
No outside food or drink is allowed inside . Instead, grab something down the street or use the Joint next door (burgers, pizza, fries). Bringing a water bottle inside is usually not permitted, though staff can provide cups of water or soda at the bar.
Cash is useful but not required. The bar accepts credit/debit cards . There is an ATM located at the front of the venue if you need cash. Drink prices are fairly reasonable; one TipAdvisor review specifically noted that beer was priced well.
Camera policy fluctuates by band. Small point-and-shoot cameras are typically fine, but professional DSLRs or video cameras (particularly with removable lenses) are usually not allowed unless the artist specifically permits recording . If in doubt, plan on using a phone camera or getting permission.
The venue is wheelchair accessible . If you need an accessible viewing area or an elevator, call ahead (they have staff trained to assist). Accessible restrooms are available. Even in general crowds, people in wheelchairs can usually find space at the back or side of the floor.
Avoid common mistakes: don’t wear flashy costumes, bring illegal drugs/weapons, or expect fine dining. This is a casual bar setting. Tip the bartenders well if drinks are good. Enjoy the laid-back vibe.
If you’re driving, note that city parking rules apply in the neighborhood after a couple of hours. Check street signs carefully to avoid tickets. On busy show nights, paid parking ramps near downtown may actually be faster.
Plan your trip home: the last Blue Line train departs around 12:40 AM, and many buses stop running by about 1:00 AM. If you get caught late, the easiest option is Lyft/Uber or a taxi. Some people even rent scooters or use bike-sharing to get home. Always check the latest Metro Transit schedules.
Lastly, be respectful. The Cabooze is a community spot, so watch your language and behavior (no aggressive shoving – use that pit safely!). Clean up your trash if possible, and enjoy a slice of local history. Frequent visitors note that the crowd can be older than an average rock club, so there’s usually a friendly, mature atmosphere once the show starts.
Where is The Cabooze located?
The Cabooze’s address is 917 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis (in the West Bank/Cedar-Riverside area). It’s on the Mellon block just south of Franklin Avenue, directly across from the Franklin METRO station (Blue Line) . The building spans the block, so look for the big red neon “Cabooze” sign near the corner.
How do I get tickets to a show at The Cabooze?
Show tickets are usually sold online via the Cabooze’s official site or on the club’s phone line, and sometimes at the door if not sold out. You can also sign up on the venue’s email list to get advance notice of upcoming shows . For big events, buying tickets well before is wise. General admission means you’ll want to arrive early in case the venue fills up.
What are typical ticket prices at The Cabooze?
Ticket prices vary depending on the act. Smaller local bands or tribute shows often charge around $10–20. Touring national acts or special themed events can be $30–60 or more. Occasionally, special events (like anniversary or re-opening shows) have been offered for free or reduced price. It’s best to check the event listing for the exact price and note that tickets are typically first-come, first-served general admission .
Is there parking available at The Cabooze?
Yes, but it’s limited. The Cabooze has a handful of free parking spots directly on-site (both sides of the club building) . If those are full, street parking is available in the neighborhood (watch for city meters and residential restrictions). For overflow, paid parking ramps at the University of Minnesota West Bank or downtown are a few blocks away. Many concertgoers choose to ride the light rail or take rideshares to avoid parking hassles.
What public transit options serve The Cabooze?
The nearest stop is Franklin Avenue Station on Minneapolis’s METRO Blue Line, which is literally across the street . Boarding the Blue (or Green) Line will take you to downtown, Mall of America or the airport in one direction and to Target Field stadium in the other. Several Metro Transit buses also stop nearby (for example, routes 2, 9, 22, 67 and 14 have stops either on Cedar Ave or Franklin Ave close to the club). Check current schedules, but buses on Franklin and Cedar run late into the evening on weekends. If you must travel home after trains stop (~12:40 AM), rideshare or taxi is recommended.
Are tickets general admission or reserved seating?
All shows at The Cabooze are general admission . There are no reserved seats or tables. It’s basically an open floor club. If you want to sit, there are only a few scattered stools along the sides and a small balcony with a railing for seating. To get a good viewing spot, arrive early and claim your place in the crowd. The venue fills up quickly for popular acts, so G.A. means “first come, first served.”
Is smoking allowed inside The Cabooze?
No. Minnesota law bans indoor smoking in bars and clubs. The Cabooze provides doors that open to the outside if you need a smoke break . You can step outside through these exits to smoke. If you do smoke, be mindful of other people waiting at the doors, especially in cold weather.
Is The Cabooze accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes. The Cabooze is wheelchair accessible . There are no significant steps or stairs to enter the main space, and restrooms were upgraded to be accessible. If you need assistance or a specific viewing spot, it’s a good idea to call ahead so staff can help. Overall, people using mobility devices report that the flat layout allows a wheelchair to view shows from the back or side of the floor without issue.
What are the age restrictions at The Cabooze?
The age policy varies by event. The Cabooze hosts both all-ages shows and 21+ shows. Check the event details on the Cabooze schedule. If you attend an all-ages show, anyone can come in, but you won’t be allowed to buy alcohol without ID. In fact, patrons without valid ID get an “X” marked on their hands to prevent alcohol service . Underage lights must exit by around 9–10 PM even at all-ages shows. For 21+ shows, IDs (valid U.S. driver’s license or passport) are strictly required at the door.
Is there a coat check or cloakroom?
Yes. The Cabooze offers a coat check during colder weather (typically fall/winter). You can check your jacket or large coat at the front desk for a small fee (about $4) . It’s not mandatory, but many patrons use it to lighten their load. The venue is relatively small, so a checked coat can save you jostling in the crowd. Keep in mind the club is not responsible for items, so only check items you won’t mind losing.
Can I bring a camera or record the show?
Photo/video policy is up to each performer. The Cabooze allows small cameras, but high-end DSLRs or video cameras (especially with detachable lenses) are generally not allowed without explicit permission . Many bands simply allow phone cameras or compact cameras. There’s usually no ban on snapping a quick photo or brief video with a phone. If a show is listed as “Camera Allowed,” you should still check with the stage manager. Remember: no flash photography. Some artists may even encourage photos from fans.
Does The Cabooze have food or drinks available?
Inside The Cabooze, only drinks (beer, cider, soda, liquor) are sold at the bar. They accept cash and credit cards and have an ATM by the entrance for convenience. There’s no kitchen, so no hot meals are served inside. However, there is a small menu from the adjoining Joint Bar & Grill next door – you can order burgers, pizzas, fries and snacks through the window that connects to The Cabooze . If you’re hungry before or after the show, stepping into the Joint is the easiest option. No outside food or beverage from outside is permitted inside .
What is the capacity of The Cabooze?
The Cabooze is a mid-sized club. While an official max-occupancy is not posted, venue directories often list it between about 500 and 1,200 people (depending on layout). In practice, it feels much smaller than an arena – more like a large bar or small concert hall. Because the space is fairly shallow and the stage is to one side, it can feel full with just a few hundred people if they’re packed in close. Expect a capacity on the order of a few hundred standing patrons.
Is The Cabooze indoors or outdoors?
The Cabooze is an indoor venue. All live shows are held inside the building. The club is climate-controlled, so shows run rain or shine without weather interruptions. (Note: there is a small outdoor smoking area/fire pit, but you only use that briefly on breaks.) So you won’t have to worry about weather affecting the concert.
Why is the club named "The Cabooze"?
The name is a deliberate play on “caboose,” as in the last car of a train. When it opened, the owners styled the building to look a bit like a giant train caboose. A First Avenue guide explains: “The Cabooze” was “named for its intentional resemblance to a super-sized train’s caboose” . The theme is mostly historic now, but you can still see the faux caboose shape and the big circular neon signage on the exterior.
Which famous musicians have performed at The Cabooze?
A wide range of notable artists have played The Cabooze over the years. Highlights include soul and blues giants James Brown, Albert King and Buddy Guy . Reggae star Peter Tosh performed there (famously bringing Mick Jagger & Keith Richards onstage in 1978) . Big rock acts like the Dave Matthews Band, Phish, and Snoop Dogg (yes, the rapper) have headlined here as well . Locally, it’s a legendary spot for Minnesota bands: the Replacements, Soul Asylum and The Suburbs all graced the Cabooze stage in their early careers . Even major acts often hop in unannounced; a photographer caught The Suburbs singer watching the audience there in 2024. In short, it’s a storied venue beloved by both rising local acts and touring headliners alike.
