underground & indie favorites For intimate shows in the Twin Cities, check out the eclectic lineup of the nonprofit Hook & Ladder in south Minneapolis, the rock and metal bands of Zhora Darling in northeast Minneapolis or the Cedar Cultural Center in Cedar-Riverside, which focuses on international and folk shows. In St. Paul, the Turf Club has long been a favorite local hangout for indie rock performances, while the Palace Theatre hosts global touring bands in a restored vaudeville theater with great sound quality. Looking to dance the night away? The Twin Cities offers plenty of choices, from EDM at the Armory and goth nights at Ground Zero to lively dance parties at The Saloon , Minneapolis’s premier LGBTQ+ nightclub, to swing dancing at TC Swing or the Wabasha Street Caves. Denzel Curry at Palace Theatre in St. Paul Credit: Mike Madison First Avenue music events Music in the Parks (summer): Enjoy free concerts across many genres at Minneapolis parks. Twin Cities Jazz Festival (June): Free outdoor concerts transform St. Paul’s Mears Park and surrounding venues into a jazz paradise. Lowertown Sounds (Thursday evenings, June-August): Local bands take the stage for free evening performances in Mears Park. Lakes Jam (June): This high-energy festival features rock and country acts at Brainerd International Raceway. Scan to explore more of Minnesota's music events and festivals. ExploreMinnesota.com/musicscene ICOnIC EXPERIEnCEs | 49
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2026 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 49
