Broadway in the North: Unveiling Minneapolis’ Theatre District on Hennepin

The Minneapolis Theater District, located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, is known for its diverse and dynamic performing arts scene. Centered around Hennepin Avenue, the district is home to both historic and modern theaters, all of which host a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows and classical concerts to contemporary plays and dance productions. You also can’t go wrong with plays in Minneapolis.

On top of its incredible venues, the district features a variety of restaurants, bars and entertainment options, creating a lively atmosphere for theatergoers and visitors. Intertwining Minneapolis’ unique historic charm and the city’s contemporary elements, the Theater District has made it a key destination for arts and culture in the city.

About the Minneapolis Theater District

Established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Minneapolis Theater District became a major cultural center with the construction of the city’s iconic theaters such as the Orpheum Theatre and the State Theatre in 1921. Many of the theaters initially hosted vaudeville acts, silent films and early era Broadway shows. Over the decades, as Minneapolis grew and the nature of performing arts evolved, the district adapted, undergoing renovations and restorations to preserve its historic architectural charm. Today, the Minneapolis Theater District stands as a testament to the city’s rich theatrical heritage, continuing to attract audiences with its blend of classic elegance and contemporary flair.

Iconic Theaters in the District

The Minneapolis Theater District boasts several iconic theaters that are central to the city’s vibrant arts scene. The Orpheum Theatre, a grand Beaux-Arts venue known for its opulent design and stunning chandelier, hosts major Broadway productions and high-profile performances. Nearby, the State Theatre, with its elegant Spanish Revival architecture, features a diverse lineup of musicals, concerts and classical performances. The Pantages Theatre, an Art Deco gem, offers an intimate setting for plays and live entertainment, reflecting the district’s rich theatrical heritage. Each of these historic theaters contributes to Minneapolis’ vibrant theater scene, drawing audiences to the showrooms with their unique architectural charm and a broad offering of performances.

The Orpheum

910 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403

The Orpheum Theatre, originally known as the Hennepin Theatre, opened in 1921 and was designed by the Milwaukee firm of Kirchhoff Kirchoff and Rose in a Beaux Arts style. Its first performers included the Marx Brothers, with more than 70,000 guests attending the opening week run. Billed as the largest vaudeville house in the country when it opened, the Orpheum became a major venue for some of America’s most beloved acts at the time, including Jack Benny, George Burns and Fanny Brice as well as big bands such as Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey and Count Basie. On top of its roster of artists and performers, several musicals, including Victor/Victoria, The Lion King, and The 101 Dalmatians Musical premiered at the Orpheum.

The State Theatre

805 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403

The State Theatre opened in 1921 and was considered to be the most technologically advanced and elaborate theater in the United States. One Minneapolis newspaper columnist described it as “a gilded pleasure palace, dedicated to the Hollywood dreams that captured America’s heart in the roaring ’20s.” During its early days as a venue, State Theatre was used primarily as a movie house, occasionally hosting vaudeville acts, concerts and ballet. At present, the showroom primarily hosts traveling musicals, plays and comedy acts.

The Pantages Theatre

710 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403

The Pantages Theatre opened in 1916 as a 12-story vaudeville house and part of Greek immigrant and impresario Alexander Pantages’ 500 theaters that he opened. It was designed by the Minneapolis firm of Kees and Colburn in an Art Moderne/Beaux Arts style, later being renovated in 1922 to be a two story venue with a dazzling stained glass dome that still exists to this day. Movie musicals West Side Story, The Sound of Music and Annie premiered at the theater in 1961, 1965 and 1982 respectively, attracting massive crowds and critics and garnering acclaim for said works.

The Dudley Riggs Theatre

824 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

The Dudley Riggs Theatre was established by Dudley Riggs, a pioneering figure in the world of improvisational theatre. Riggs, a fifth-generation circus aerialist, founded the theatre in 1971 as a platform for experimental and improvisational performances under “The Brave New Workshop.” The theater quickly gained a reputation for its innovative approach to comedy, blending improvisation with traditional performance techniques. Riggs and his company, the aforementioned Brave New Workshop, were instrumental in shaping the local theater scene and the theater became a center for creative expression. At present, the Dudley Riggs Theatre has been chosen to play host to the world-class sketch comedy and improv tradition, keeping laughter alive within its hallowed halls.

Ordway Theater

345 Washington St, Saint Paul, MN 55102

Recognized as one of the United States’ leading non-profit performing arts centers, The Ordway Theatre is home to a wide variety of performances that encompass the finest shows direct from Broadway. Opened in 1985, this iconic theater is celebrated for its stunning architecture, including a striking lobby and elegant auditorium that hosts a variety of high-quality productions. As the home of the Minnesota Opera, the Ordway Theatre is a cornerstone of the region’s cultural scene, presenting an array of performances from classical operas and Broadway musicals to contemporary plays and dance. Its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to artistic excellence make it a cherished destination for both locals and visitors, offering an enriching cultural experience and contributing significantly to Minneapolis’s vibrant arts community.

Dining and Accommodations

There are an abundance of opportunities for visitors to explore the city of Minneapolis either before or after catching a show. Visitors can take a stroll down Nicollet Mall, a pedestrian-friendly street lined with shops, restaurants and street performances, or explore the Minneapolis Skyway System, an extensive network of enclosed walkways that allow for easy navigation of downtown’s attractions. With a multitude of restaurants and sightseeing options within walking distance of the Theater District, the entertainment is bound to continue even after the doors of the theaters close.

Where to Eat Near the Minneapolis Theater District

CRAVE American Kitchen & Sushi Bar

CRAVE American Kitchen & Sushi Bar in Minneapolis offers a dynamic dining experience that merges contemporary American cuisine with the freshness of a sushi bar. Located in the bustling area of the city at 825 Hennepin Ave, the restaurant is known for its stylish and modern ambiance and diverse menu. Catering to a variety of tastes, including expertly crafted sushi rolls, inventive appetizers and hearty American classics like burgers, steaks and salads. CRAVECrave also boasts an impressive selection of cocktails, craft beers, and fine wines.

Union Rooftop Kitchen & Bar

Union Rooftop Kitchen & Bar is located at 731 Hennepin Ave #1 and is a trendy and vibrant venue offering a unique rooftop dining experience in the heart of the city. With its chic, modern design and panoramic views of the skyline, the restaurant creates an inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy meals at any time of the day. The menu features a diverse array of contemporary American cuisine, including fresh salads, gourmet sandwiches, and hearty entrees, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The bar serves a creative selection of cocktails, craft beers, and fine wines, making it an ideal spot for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations.

Fogo de Chão

Fogo de Chão in Minneapolis is a vibrant Brazilian steakhouse renowned for its exceptional dining experience and authentic churrasco-style cuisine. Located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis at 645 Hennepin Ave, the restaurant offers a lively ambiance. Guests can indulge in a continuous service of various cuts of perfectly grilled meats carved tableside, complemented by a gourmet salad bar and traditional Brazilian sides. A carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails is also available on the menu.

Where to Stay Near the Minneapolis Theater District

The Lofton Hotel Minneapolis

The Lofton Hotel Minneapolis is a luxury hotel that is part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton hotel. Located at 601 N 1st Ave, The Lofton Hotel provides a comfortable and upscale atmosphere that caters to both business and leisure travelers. The hotel often features a range of additional conveniences, such as a fitness center, the in-house Apothecary bar and lounge and the Cosmos restaurant and bar. Its central location allows easy access to Minneapolis’s vibrant downtown attractions, including theaters, restaurants, and shopping districts.

Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo is located at 618 2nd Ave S, situated in the heart of downtown. It offers a contemporary and stylish retreat with a distinctive local flair to all of its guests. Encouraging visitors to “sip, save and repeat,” Hotel Indigo features two onsite restaurants offering two distinct spaces, each with its own vibe and menu: The Star Bar and the Star Bistro. With its commitment to both comfort and sleek style, Hotel Indigo Minneapolis stands out as a chic and convenient choice for visitors exploring the city’s dynamic downtown area.

W Minneapolis – The Foshay

W Minneapolis – The Foshay is a luxury hotel in Minneapolis located at 821 S Marquette Ave. Housed in the iconic Foshay Tower, a historic landmark built in 1929, the hotel maintains the building’s distinctive Art Deco architecture while incorporating contemporary design elements. The hotel’s signature features include the rooftop W Lounge, which offers stunning 360-degree views of the city skyline and a chic bar (The “Prohibition Bar”) and restaurant that serve inventive cocktails and gourmet cuisine.