Best Cheap Live Music Venues In Minnesota
Catch tons of live music from talented artists for less when you take advantage of the best cheap live music venues in Minnesota.
Turf Club
1601 University Ave. W.
Saint Paul, MN 55104
(651) 647-0486
www.turfclub.net
The Turf Club has long been an institution of sorts, a live music hot spot in Saint Paul that attracts tons of local artists and even the occasional national act. With a majority of the shows ranging in price from $10 to $15, you don't have to feel guilty if you decide to splurge on a drink or two. Head down to the eclectically styled Clown Lounge if you need a break from the music. Find more information on upcoming shows and pricing when you check out the Turf Club's event calendar.
Varsity Theater
1308 4th St. S.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 604-0222
www.varsitytheater.org
This charming venue, uniquely styled with vintage decor, is a great place to catch live music. From string quartets to rock 'n roll, the Varsity Theater attracts an eclectic mix of musical genres, from both local and nationally renowned artists. Unsurprisingly, more well-known acts up the ticket cost, but local and underground acts won't break the bank, averaging around $15 to $20 for entry (and buying tickets in advance will usually save you a few bucks). Check out the Varsity Theater's event calendar to learn more about upcoming shows.
The Artists' Quarter
408 Saint Peter St.
Saint Paul, MN 55102
(651) 292-1359
www.artistsquarter.com
This dark, subterranean, yet cozy club is the perfect place to get your jazz fix. Whether you're a jazz neophyte or a jazz aficionado, The Artists' Quarter is the perfect place to get introduced to the genre or serve as a regular hangout. This legendary St. Paul gem has hosted some of the finest jazz and blues acts around, and for amazingly low cover charges with most shows costing between $5 to $15. Check out The Artists' Quarter's event calendar to preview upcoming acts and find information about show pricing.
331 Club
331 13th Ave. N.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55413
(612) 331-1746
www.331.mn
What's better than a cheap live show? A free live show! At the 331 Club, you'll never pay a cover to see live music. Catch live, local musical acts most nights of the week at this cozy venue in Northeast Minneapolis. Check out the 331 Club's event calendar to see who's playing next. If you're partial to St. Paul, check out the 331 Club's sister venue, Amsterdam Bar and Hall, which also offers tons of free live music shows.
Lee's Liquor Lounge
101 Glenwood Ave. N.
Minneapolis, MN 55474
(612) 338-9491
www.leesliquorlounge.com
Whether you've got a hankering for honky tonk or want to rock out to some rockabilly, Lee's Liquor Lounge is the perfect place to go. Admission to shows typically cost $10 or less, with a handful of free shows happening every month. People love to dance at Lee's, but don't let seasoned dancers intimidate you from hitting the dance floor. Attend one of Lee's free weekly dance lessons and you'll be dancing with the best of them in no time. Check out Lee's event calendar to check out upcoming shows.
First Avenue
701 1st Ave. N.
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 332-1775
www.first-avenue.com
First Avenue has been a popular downtown destination for live music for decades, having hosted some of the most legendary acts in the music biz. While nationally recognized acts may cost more than you've bargained for, most nights of the week, you'd be surprised at how far $15 will go. From talented DJs spinning to amazing local bands to notable underground artists and more, First Avenue is a great place to catch an eclectic mix of musical acts on a budget. Check out First Avenue's event calendar for upcoming shows and to purchase tickets in advance (which can save you a few bucks).
Related: Best Lounge Bars In Minnesota
A Minnesota native that was born and raised Up North, Minneapolis is where Christina Kalinowski currently calls home. Christina appreciates irony, loves bacon, enjoys a hearty libation (drink responsibly, folks), and is an avid proponent of the Swanson Pyramid of Greatness. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
