Armory Minneapolis - A Historic Event Spot
If you've ever thought about catching a live show or a big event in downtown Minneapolis, there's a place that probably comes to mind: the Armory. This spot, so, has a rather rich past and now serves as a really cool center for all sorts of gatherings, from music concerts to other public happenings. It's truly a building that holds many stories within its walls, a testament to time passing and changes in what people need from a large community space.
Basically, this well-known structure, sitting right in the middle of the city, has seen quite a bit. It was once a place where the National Guard and Naval Militia were based, and then, for many years, it welcomed people for all kinds of civic occasions. You know, things like musical performances, political meetings, and sporting contests. It's almost as if the building itself remembers all the laughter and applause from those earlier days, a truly special kind of feeling.
What's more, the Armory, as a matter of fact, keeps on making history today. It continues to bring in some of the most popular musical acts from around the globe, giving folks in Minneapolis a chance to see their favorite performers up close. So, whether you are someone who loves music, or you just want to check out a building with a lot of character, this place certainly offers something quite unique for everyone who walks through its big doors.
Table of Contents
- What is the history of the Armory Minneapolis?
- The Armory Minneapolis - A Building with a Past
- Where can you find the Armory Minneapolis?
- Getting to the Armory Minneapolis
- What kinds of events happen at the Armory Minneapolis?
- Upcoming Shows at the Armory Minneapolis
- How do you get tickets for the Armory Minneapolis?
- Ticket Information for the Armory Minneapolis
What is the history of the Armory Minneapolis?
The story of the Armory in Minneapolis, you know, goes back quite a ways, reaching into the middle of the 1930s. It was completed in the year 1936, a time when many important structures were being put up across the nation. This particular building, in fact, had a very specific initial purpose: it was meant to be a home for the National Guard and the Naval Militia. For a good number of years, from 1935 through 1936, it housed these important groups, serving as a place for their operations and activities. This structure, in a way, stood as a symbol of public service and community safety during those early years of its life.
Later on, the Armory began to serve a much broader group of people. From the late 1930s and all the way through the 1970s, it transformed into a place for all sorts of community gatherings. It played host to many different civic events, which means things that were important for the people of the city. For example, it was a place where people could come together to enjoy concerts, listen to music, and experience live performances. It also welcomed political conventions, where important discussions about the future of the city and the country took place. And, as a matter of fact, it was a spot for sporting events, too, bringing together fans to cheer on their favorite teams.
One very interesting part of its past involves the Minneapolis Lakers, a basketball team that would later become very well known. Between the years 1947 and 1960, the Armory was a place where the Minneapolis Lakers NBA team played their games. This means that, for a period of time, this building was a key spot for professional basketball, holding many exciting moments for sports lovers. After 1960, the team moved on, but the memories of those games, you know, surely stayed with the people who saw them there. The building continued to be operated by the Minnesota National Guard until the year 1980, marking a long period of military connection for the structure.
The Armory itself, you see, is a building that has a particular look to it, known as PWA Moderne style. This style of building was common for public works projects during its time. It also holds some special artistic creations inside: two murals that were part of the Federal Art Project. These art pieces add another layer of history and cultural importance to the structure. Because of its long and varied history, and its unique style, the Armory was given a special status in 2017. It was officially named a historic landmark, which means it is recognized as a very important building that should be kept safe for future generations to see and appreciate. This designation, you know, really shows how much the building means to the city's past.
The Armory Minneapolis - A Building with a Past
The person who designed this very large and important building was an architect from St. Paul named P.C. Bettenburg. It's quite interesting, in fact, that Mr. Bettenburg was also a major in the Minnesota National Guard. This connection, you know, means that the person who drew up the plans for the Armory had a personal connection to the very groups that would use the building for many years. It gives a little bit of extra meaning to the structure, knowing that its designer was also a part of its initial purpose. This detail, in a way, helps us to better grasp the building's original intent and how it was meant to serve the community.
During the years it was operated by the Minnesota National Guard, up until 1980, the Armory was a place for many different activities related to military service. It was used to run military drills, which are practice exercises for soldiers to stay ready. These drills, you know, would have filled the large spaces of the building with activity and purpose. Beyond its military uses, as I was saying, it also continued to host various public gatherings during this time. This shows how versatile the building was, able to switch between serious military training and lively public events, all within the same walls.
The building's journey from a military facility to a major public event space is quite a story. It has truly adapted over time to meet the changing needs of the city and its people. From holding soldiers during drills to welcoming thousands for concerts, its purpose has changed significantly, but its importance has remained. It is, basically, a living piece of Minneapolis history, a place that has seen so many different kinds of human activity and interaction. Its walls, you know, could tell countless stories if they could speak, stories of both solemn duty and joyful celebration.
Today, the Armory stands as a powerful reminder of its past, while also looking very much towards the present and future. Its designation as a historic landmark in 2017 really cemented its place in the city's heritage. This means that its unique PWA Moderne style and its two Federal Art Project murals are now protected, ensuring that these elements of its history will be preserved. It's a structure that holds a lot of character, a place where history and modern entertainment come together in a pretty interesting way, offering a look back while also providing new experiences for everyone.
Where can you find the Armory Minneapolis?
Finding the Armory in Minneapolis is actually quite simple, as it sits right in the heart of the city's downtown area. Its address is 500 South 6th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55415. This location, you know, puts it in a very accessible spot for many people. It's not hidden away, but rather, it's a prominent building that is easy to spot. The fact that it is in downtown Minneapolis means it is surrounded by other important city structures and is part of the busy flow of city life. This makes it a convenient place to visit for events, whether you are a local or someone coming from out of town.
If you are looking for a good landmark to help you find it, the Armory is just a few blocks away from the U.S. Bank Stadium. This stadium, as a matter of fact, is a very large and well-known structure in Minneapolis, so it serves as a great point of reference. More specifically, the Armory is located right across a green space from the U.S. Bank Stadium. This means you can often see one building from the other, making it even easier to orient yourself when you are in the area. It's a really helpful visual cue for anyone trying to get there for a show or event.
The box office for the Armory has its own specific spot at this address. You can find the box office located right on the corner of 5th Avenue South and South 6th Street. This is where you would go if you needed to pick up tickets or had any questions about an event. Knowing the exact spot for the box office, you know, can save you a little bit of time and effort when you arrive. It’s set up to be easy to find for anyone needing to handle ticket matters in person, making the whole process just a little bit smoother for visitors.
Getting to the Armory Minneapolis
Getting to the Armory Minneapolis is pretty straightforward, especially if you plan to use public transportation. The light rail system, for instance, offers a very convenient way to arrive. The Armory is situated right between two light rail stops: the U.S. Bank Stadium stop and the Government Center stop. This means you have two good options for getting off the train and walking a short distance to the venue. It makes traveling to events without a car quite simple, which is a nice benefit for many people who come to shows there.
When using the light rail, it's always a good idea to check the schedule for start and end times. This helps you plan your trip so you arrive when you want and can leave when the event is over without any trouble. Knowing the train times, you know, helps make sure your entire evening goes smoothly, from the moment you leave your home until you get back. It's a simple step that can make a big difference in your overall experience when you are out enjoying something at the Armory. Public transit, basically, offers a pretty reliable way to get there.
If you prefer to drive, there are also clear directions to follow. One way to get to the Armory is to go north on 5th Avenue. After that, you would turn east, which means turning right, onto 6th Street. The Armory will be there on 6th Street. These directions are pretty simple to follow, and they should lead you right to the building. Parking, of course, would be something you would need to figure out separately, as is common in city areas, but finding the building itself by car is not too hard if you follow these basic instructions. It's a pretty easy drive, in most cases.
The location of the Armory, you know, really makes it a central point for events in Minneapolis. Its position in downtown, close to major landmarks and public transport, means it's a very accessible place for a wide range of people. Whether you are coming from across the city or from further away, the pathways to the Armory are well established. This helps ensure that anyone who wants to experience a show or event there can do so with relative ease, making it a very welcoming spot for community gatherings of all kinds.
What kinds of events happen at the Armory Minneapolis?
The Armory in Minneapolis is known for hosting a very wide range of events, making it a place where many different interests can find something to enjoy. It has a long history of being a venue for various types of gatherings, and that tradition continues strongly today. It's a place that has welcomed some of the most well-known musical acts from around the world. This means that if you are a fan of live music, there is a very good chance you will find artists you love performing on its stage. The variety of performers, you know, is quite broad, covering many different styles and tastes.
This former National Guard Armory has truly become an iconic center for performances and events. It has played host to many superstars, artists whose names are recognized globally. For instance, the building has welcomed groups like Deep Purple, The Police, and Black Sabbath. These are bands that have made a significant mark in music history, and they have all brought their shows to the Armory. This really shows the caliber of talent that performs there, giving people in Minneapolis a chance to see legends in person. It's pretty amazing, actually, how many big names have graced that stage.
Beyond just being a place for live concerts, the Armory has also made its way into popular culture in other ways. Music fans, for example, might even recognize the venue from music videos. One notable instance is Aerosmith's music video for their song ‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing’. This means that the building itself has been featured on screens around the world, adding to its fame and recognition. It’s a little detail, you know, that adds another layer of coolness to the Armory’s story, connecting it to global entertainment in a pretty unique way.
The Armory is also considered one of the most adaptable and flexible venues in the entire United States. This means it can be set up in many different ways to suit the needs of various events. Whether it's a standing-room-only rock concert or an event with seated areas, the building can change its layout to fit. You can even go for a premium experience, which usually means special seating or other benefits, offering different ways to enjoy a show. This ability to change, you know, makes it a very sought-after spot for event organizers, as it can truly accommodate a lot of different visions for a gathering.
Upcoming Shows at the Armory Minneapolis
Looking ahead, the Armory Minneapolis continues to bring in exciting acts for the public to enjoy. For example, on Sunday, July 6th, 2025, there will be a show featuring Teddy Swims with Sienna Spiro. This event is open to all ages, making it a family-friendly option for music lovers. The doors for this show are set to open at 6:30 PM, with the performance starting at 8:00 PM. Knowing these times, you know, helps people plan their evening so they can arrive comfortably and be ready for the music to begin. It's a pretty good opportunity to see some live music.
Another musical performance scheduled for the Armory is Lord Huron with Lee Fields, which will take place on July 22, 2025. This also promises to be a great evening of sound for those who enjoy their style of music. The fact that these events are already set for 2025 shows that the Armory, as a matter of fact, keeps a busy calendar, consistently bringing in new talent and popular artists. It’s a place where you can often find something happening, no matter what your musical preferences might be, truly offering a lot of choices for people.
The Armory also plays host to artists from different parts of the world, showcasing a wide range of musical styles. For instance, there's information about Davido, an artist very well known in the Afrobeats movement. Artists like D'banj, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage have been making big waves globally, and Davido has risen to the forefront with his popular song "Fall." An event with Davido is also mentioned for July 25th at the Minneapolis Armory. This shows that the venue, you know, is truly a place for international acts, bringing diverse sounds to the city's audience.
To find out more about upcoming concerts and other events at the Armory in Minneapolis, you can check various sources. Websites like Jambase often provide details about the venue, including its calendar of events. This makes it simple to discover what's coming up and to plan your visits. The Armory, basically, is always buzzing with activity, offering a continuous stream of entertainment for the people of Minneapolis and visitors alike. It's a place where you can find something new and exciting happening quite often, making it a go-to spot for live experiences.
How do you get tickets for the Armory Minneapolis?
When you want to attend an event at the Armory in Minneapolis, getting your tickets is a pretty straightforward process. One of the main ways to purchase advance tickets is through the Armory's own website, armorymn.com. This website, you know, is set up to be a direct source for buying your entry to shows and other happenings. It's often the most reliable place to get your tickets directly from the venue, ensuring you have the real thing. Checking the official site first is usually a very good idea for anyone looking to secure their spot for an event.
Another very common way to buy tickets for events at the Armory is through Ticketmaster.com. This is a very well-known platform for purchasing tickets for concerts and other large-scale events. On Ticketmaster, you can find details for the Armory in Minneapolis, including information about the venue itself and charts that show you where seats are located. This means you can often pick out your preferred spot in the venue, whether you want to be close to the stage or have a view from a bit further back. It's a very popular way to buy tickets, and many people are already familiar with how it works.
The Armory provides information on its venue concert and event schedules, along with directions and seating charts, often available through these ticket-selling platforms. This helps you plan your visit thoroughly. Knowing the layout of the venue, you know, can make a difference in your experience, especially if you have a specific preference for where you like to be during a show. These resources are put in place to make the ticket buying process as clear as possible for everyone who wants to come and enjoy an event at this special spot.
Ticket Information for the Armory Minneapolis
When it comes to purchasing tickets for the Armory, it's good to be aware of a few key details, especially regarding refunds. The general rule for tickets purchased for events at the Armory is that there are no refunds. This policy, you know, is pretty common for live events. It means that once you buy your ticket, it's a final purchase. So, it's a good idea to be sure you can attend before you complete your transaction, as you won't typically get your money back if your plans change. This is something to keep in mind when you are making your decision to buy.
However, there is an exception to this no-refund policy. Refunds are given only if a show is cancelled or if it is rescheduled for a different date. If an event cannot happen as planned, or if the date changes, then you would typically be able to get your money back. This offers a bit of protection for ticket holders in situations that are outside of their control. It’s a pretty fair way, basically, to handle those unexpected changes, making sure people are not out of pocket if the event itself doesn't go ahead as initially set.
The box office hours are also something to note if you prefer to deal with tickets in person or have specific questions. The contact number for the Armory is 612•315•3965. This number, you know, can be used to get information about box office hours or other general inquiries you might have. Knowing how to reach them directly can be helpful for those times when you need a personal touch or have a question that isn't answered online. It's always good to have a direct line to the venue for such matters, making things just a little bit easier for everyone.
The ability to purchase tickets in advance through armorymn.com or Ticketmaster.com provides a lot of convenience for those who want to secure their spot well before an event. This means you can often buy your tickets as soon as they go on sale, which is especially helpful for popular shows that might sell out quickly. The whole system, you know, is set up to make it simple for people to get their hands on tickets and enjoy the wide variety of events that the Armory brings to Minneapolis, truly making it a central point for entertainment in the city.
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