Gay Bars & LGBTQ+ Venues in Minneapolis, MN — Page 4

When you picture a hotel, an on-site golf course might not come to mind. But the Sheraton St. Paul Woodbury Hotel offers exactly that, plus a swimming pool and restaurant. It's a short drive from the airport and downtown St. Paul. The vibe is family-friendly and pet-friendly, with outdoor seating available. You'll find it's a practical choice for frequent travelers who want everything under one roof. Standard rooms at a $$ price point keep things straightforward. The hotel is open 24 hours, so late arrivals are no issue. A word of caution: the Yelp rating sits at 3.1. If you're looking for more urban energy, consider the Hilton Minneapolis instead.

Arcade games from the 80s and 90s line the walls of this Minneapolis bar, where you can play skeeball while drinking a craft beer. The mixed crowd of 20- and 30-somethings keeps things social, and the pizza makes it a solid date spot. Game selection rotates, so repeat visits stay fresh. Outdoor seating is available when weather cooperates. Open until 2am every night.

Open Tuesday through Sunday, Norseman Distillery fits into a late afternoon or evening out for those who want craft spirits straight from the source. This Minneapolis cocktail bar distills its own liquor on-site, with over 100 unique house-made spirits and liqueurs. A Spanish food truck serves fresh tortas and other Latin-inspired bites to soak it all up. The space blends rustic minimalism with a relaxed vibe. The crowd is mixed gay and straight, mostly in their 20s and 30s. If your night continues, First Avenue is just a short walk away.

This isn't strictly a gay bar, but The Pourhouse draws a mixed crowd for its themed nights and live music. ABBA nights and LGBTQ+ fundraisers anchor the calendar, while the kitchen serves burgers and beer by day. The Yelp rating sits at 2.5 stars from 142 reviews, so expectations should be measured. Hours are limited to late nights Friday and Saturday plus Sunday afternoons. If you're bar-hopping nearby, Brit's Pub is a short walk away.

If you're a 20- or 30-something looking to dance to EDM until 2am, this sprawling nightclub has two full bars and rotating DJs. But note: Yelp lists it as potentially permanently closed, so verify before heading out. Reviews are mixed, with a low 2.5-star average, so keep expectations measured if you go. It's open Thursday through Sunday overnight only.

A mix of 20-somethings and 30-somethings fills this two-story restaurant that doubles as a live music venue most nights. The crowd is mixed gay-straight, and the vibe is good-for-groups. The outdoor patio is a prime spot when weather permits. It's open late on Fridays and Saturdays, with brunch hours starting at 3pm on weekends. If you're looking to catch a show later, First Avenue is just a short walk away.

Overlooking the Mississippi River, Aster Cafe is a European-inspired spot in Minneapolis with a mixed gay-straight crowd. The menu blends American, European, fusion, and tapas small plates, plus a Sunday brunch. You'll find unique cocktails, live music, and a happy hour that draws 20-somethings and 30-somethings. The vibe leans romantic with outdoor seating and dancing on select nights. It's open Tuesday through Sunday; check hours for late evenings. If you're exploring, Hell's Kitchen Inc. is another nearby option. Prices are standard, and the space works well for groups.

Backstory Coffee Roasters - North Loop is an independent coffee house in Minneapolis, housed in a gigantic art deco space with vaulted ceilings. They source beans globally and roast them in-house, brewing espresso alongside a menu of baked goods and sandwiches. The vibe is casual, drawing a mixed gay-straight crowd of 20- and 30-somethings who come to work, read, or catch up. Hours run 7am-3pm weekdays and until 4pm on weekends, making it a solid late-morning stop. Grab a seat in one of the quiet corners if you need to focus. If you're hungry after, Café Latte is a nearby option for a fuller meal.

Cheapo Records stands out from other vinyl shops in Minneapolis with its massive selection of 30,000+ records spanning classic rock, metal, classical, and more. It's a no-frills, second-hand paradise where the crowd is mixed-gaystraight, mostly 30-somethings to 50-somethings. You'll also find clothing and accessories alongside the music. Hours are consistent every day from 10am to 9pm, so you can drop by after work or on weekends. With a 4.3-star Yelp rating from 31 reviews, it's a reliable spot for digging. Regulars know to set aside an hour or two to browse the endless rows.

If you love pinball and craft beer, this is your spot. LITT Pinball Bar in Minneapolis offers wall-to-wall pinball machines alongside a menu of American, Mexican, and fusion finger food. The vibe is playful and inclusive, drawing a mixed gay-straight crowd in their 20s and 30s. Open every day from 11am until 2am, it's easy to squeeze in a visit. The bar specializes in craft beer and tasty cocktails. Check it out before heading to First Avenue for a show.

You'll find a mix of 20-somethings and 30-somethings, both gay and straight, hanging out at Glam Doll Donuts. This trans-friendly cafe serves up donuts and coffee in a retro setting with an outdoor patio. The crowd is young and diverse, making it a welcoming spot for queer visitors. Hours are limited: Tuesday through Friday from 7am to 3pm, with later weekend hours starting at 8am. If you're looking for a bite nearby, Pizza Lucé Downtown is a solid option for a sit-down meal.

Joan's in the Park is an LGBTQ+-owned restaurant in Saint Paul, offering a refined four-course dining experience. With only 40 tables covered in white cloth, the atmosphere is intimate and elegant. The menu focuses on fresh, reliably sourced ingredients, leaning toward American and French cuisine. It's women-led and trans-friendly, drawing a mixed gay and straight crowd. Dinner service runs Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 10pm. The wine list is a highlight, and reservations are recommended given the limited seating. If you're looking for a more casual night, nearby Brasa Premium Rotisserie offers a different vibe for another evening.

Workhorse Coffee Bar is an LGBTQ-owned and women-led coffee house in Saint Paul. This industrial-style cafe has high ceilings and a warm, mixed crowd of regulars. It's a trans-friendly spot where you can grab an iced coffee, a scone, or a sandwich while getting work done. The space feels open and unpretentious. They serve American classics like coffee and baked goods from 7am on weekdays and 8am on weekends. The bakery case often has scones and pastries. If you're craving something more filling, their sandwich options are solid. It's a reliable third place for a quiet afternoon — and you might spot a few regulars typing away on laptops. For a different vibe, Hell's Kitchen Inc. is another local favorite for brunch nearby.

Reviewers note the trout at Owamni is 'succulent' and the flavors are unlike anything else in the Twin Cities. This BIPOC-owned spot focuses on Native American cuisine using pre-colonial ingredients like bison, nettle, and wild rice. The menu changes seasonally, but expect dishes that highlight the flora and fauna of this land. It's a standard price tier with outdoor seating available when weather permits. You'll find a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a date night or a meal with friends. For a different vibe, try Barbette just down the street.

Tandem Vintage is open by appointment or chance. This one-woman operation offers vintage clothing from the 50s-90s. It's LGBTQ-owned and trans-friendly. The shop is also women-led, stocking one-of-a-kind pieces to enhance your wardrobe. You'll find clothing, accessories, gifts, and second-hand treasures. Price tier is moderate ($). For the best selection, check the website or call ahead. The intimate space means you get personalized attention. Across town, Rainbow Road is another queer-friendly stop for vintage finds. It is a good add-on to a shopping day in Minneapolis.

This shop is best for queer folks and anyone seeking a welcoming space for metaphysical goods and local art. The Future is a trans-friendly, mixed-gaystraight general store that's LGBTQ-owned and womxn-led. You'll find art, apothecary items, and altars alongside clothing, accessories, and gifts. They also offer classes on crystals and tarot. The vibe here is casual and inclusive. Hours vary by day, with later evening options on Fridays until 8pm and shorter Sundays until 4pm. If you're exploring Minneapolis, you can also check out The Smitten Kitten nearby.

Here We Grow Plants is a queer-owned plant store in Minneapolis that's also trans-friendly and women-led. The tagline "Plant parents dream" captures the vibe: helpful staff, a selection of plants and pots, plus gifts. The shop is temporarily closed, so check their social media for updates. It's near other LGBTQ+-friendly businesses like Rainbow Road, a beloved queer gift shop.

Black Garnet Books is an independent bookstore that centers Black voices, offering a curated selection of books by Black authors and illustrators plus gifts. It's owned by Black LGBTQ+ women and welcomes families and the LGBTQ+ community. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday, with hours from noon to 6pm most days and closing at 5pm on Saturdays. If you're exploring local LGBTQ+ businesses, you can also stop by The Smitten Kitten nearby.

Dancing Bear Chocolate is open Thursday through Sunday, making it a weekend-only destination for European-style sweets in Minneapolis. This LGBTQ+-owned shop, run by a gay couple, specializes in hand-dipped truffles, delicate pastries, and gelato. It's a trans-friendly spot that draws a mixed crowd of locals and visitors. The space feels more like a cozy boutique than a typical bakery. Stop by for a small box of chocolates or a treat to go. If you're exploring the area, Brasa Premium Rotisserie is nearby for a savory meal. Check Yelp—22 reviews give it a near-perfect 4.9 stars.

If you're looking for a relaxed spot to try something different, Minneapolis Cider Company is a local cider maker with a large industrial-style tasting room. The minimalistic space and sprawling patio make it easy to settle in with a flight of unique ciders. It's a mixed gay-straight crowd and casual, with pickleball courts adding an unexpected activity. Open daily from late afternoon, with extended hours on weekends starting at 10am. The patio is a draw when weather permits, and the indoor space is big enough for groups. You can also walk to Brit's Pub nearby if you want a change of pace.

You'll find a mix of 20- and 30-somethings, both queer and straight, grabbing a quick bite at this skyway eatery. Afro Deli & Grill serves up African, Mediterranean, and American fusion in a fast-casual setting with brightly painted walls and plenty of light. It's easy to stop in for lunch if you're downtown. The menu blends flavors from across cuisines, so there's something for everyone. If you're exploring the skyway system, this spot is a convenient choice. Get directions and hours.

In Minneapolis, Safari Grocery Inc is a quaint grocery that covers more than just food. Alongside American staples, you'll find hardware, sundries, and even arts and crafts. It's the kind of place where you can grab dinner ingredients and a lightbulb in one trip. The vibe is no-frills and practical, friendly to all neighbors including LGBTQ folks. Since there's no confirmed hours info, calling ahead is smart. Regulars stop by for errand essentials and the unexpected finds. If you're heading to Hell's Kitchen Inc. nearby, you can hit Safari first to stock up on snacks.

Rooftop bocce ball sets this English pub apart from other downtown spots. The menu stays true to London standards with fish and chips, scotch eggs, and a solid craft beer selection. Crowds skew 20s and 30s, mixing gay and straight groups easily. Open every day from lunch until late, with extended hours Friday and Saturday. The rooftop draws a lively crowd when weather cooperates, but the indoor bar holds its own with a warm, traditional pub feel. If you're bar-hopping, Up-Down Minneapolis is a short walk for arcade games and drinks.

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel stands apart from typical Minneapolis hotels by offering a 24-hour experience with an on-site casino, open all day every day. It's a mixed-gay-straight environment that's family-friendly and pet-friendly, with outdoor seating, a swimming pool, and a spa. While the Yelp rating is modest at 2.9 from 94 reviews, the hotel's convenience is its draw. If you're driving from the Twin Cities, you'll find free parking and no time constraints on your stay. The sports bar serves American fare, and you can bring your dog along. For a change of pace, the Radisson Blu Mall of America offers a different vibe just a short drive away.

Birchbark Books & Native Arts is a Minneapolis gem for anyone interested in Native American literature, art, and crafts. This BIPOC-owned and women-led bookstore offers a thoughtful selection of novels, handmade crafts, gifts, and clothing from Native artists. It's whimsically decorated with a warm, welcoming vibe – everything you could want in a bookstore. You'll find it open daily from 10am to 6pm. For music lovers, Cheapo Records is nearby if you want to make a day of it. The shop is proudly mixed-gaystraight and serves as an important community space.

Minnesota's only women's-only sports bar brings a femme-centered focus to game-watching. The vibe is casual and after-work, attracting a 30s-50s crowd that's mixed LGBTQ+ friendly. Hours are limited: Wed-Thu 4-10pm, Fri 12-10pm, Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-9pm. Great spot for catching a game without the typical bro atmosphere.

Vertical Endeavors is best suited for climbers and fitness enthusiasts who want bouldering, yoga, and weights all under one roof. The facility has 18,000 square feet of bouldering walls along with a full fitness area and yoga studio. All ages and abilities are welcome for a fun day of challenging yourself. Hours are consistent throughout the week, closing at 10pm on weekdays and 6pm on weekends. It's a mixed crowd here, not exclusively gay, but welcoming to everyone. If you're looking for a dedicated LGBTQ+ gym nearby, check out The Firm instead.

In St. Paul's vibrant craft beer scene, Urban Growler Brewing Company stands out as Minnesota's first woman-owned brewery. Run by a wife-and-wife duo, this brewery is a pillar of the community and a safe space that hosts fun queer events like drag brunches. The tagline says it all: "Beers with queers." The taproom draws a mixed LGBTQ+ and straight crowd, with a beer garden that's popular in good weather. Hours are limited midweek but expand on weekends.

Unlike many downtown Minneapolis hotels, TownePlace Suites by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown/North Loop is designed specifically for extended stays. Every room is a suite with a kitchen, making it a practical choice for travelers who need more than a standard hotel room. The atmosphere leans casual and homey, with a TV lounge, pool table, and complimentary hot cider in the lobby. It's also pet-friendly, so you can bring your dog along. Yelp reviews average 3.3 stars from 45 reviews. The hotel operates 24 hours daily (Sunday check-in from 4pm), so late arrivals are no issue. It's close to nightlife in the North Loop, including the nearby W Minneapolis - The Foshay. Start your evening there, then come back to your own kitchen and space.

Hotel Ivy stands apart from other downtown Minneapolis hotels by blending historic architecture with modern luxury. Housed in a preserved building, this hotel offers rooms with giant soaking tubs and stunning city views. It's family-friendly and pet-friendly, with a spa on site. The 24-hour access adds convenience. The staff is praised for attentive service, and the hotel's central location makes exploring the city easy. If you're looking for more options nearby, the W Minneapolis - The Foshay is another upscale choice. Best for those wanting a refined stay with suburban-like space in an urban setting.