The Best Bars in Minneapolis, Mn

There's no shortage of late-night entertainment in the heart of lively Minneapolis, whether that's at the base of a Downtown skyscraper or near the bustling Lyndale/Lake intersection. Over the years, the Twin Cities have evolved into a suddenly enticing getaway destination thanks to the area's rising craft beer, distilled spirit, and gourmet cuisine scenes. But don't forget about the many timeless bars in Minneapolis that continue to serve stiff cocktails, classic tallboys, and trendy seltzers in a fun atmosphere. And, luckily for you, MINNēSTAY's city lofts and luxury estates are just a short walk, Lime ride, or Uber shuttle from the hippest watering holes in the state's largest city.

Sifting through the countless bars in Minneapolis is no easy feat as there are dozens upon dozens of pubs that are worth mentioning. At the end of the day, we selected one unique bar in Downtown, Northeast, and Uptown to provide an eclectic mix of options in and around the city's center.

Minnesota's "most-booked restaurant" has not one but two distinct bars on the bottom floor of a towering 9th Street build. The twice-weekly "Jacked Up Bloody Mary Bar" is a 35-foot-long slice of heaven that includes 243 hot sauces and dozens of garnishes. The main l-shaped bar area is 15 feet from a teeny stage that's often graced by local, ultra-talented jazz musicians. In-between the two main dining areas lies another bar that resembles a classic, small-town tavern but with heaps of sophistication.

Many of the most iconic bars in Minneapolis rest in Northeast, a trendy art, craft beer, and global cuisine hub across the Mississippi River from Downtown. And University Avenue's 331 Club is perhaps the hippest joint in the neighborhood. College students, local residents, and out-of-towners flock to this dusky, cramped bar for the live music (no cover charge) and outrageous happy hour specials.

Uptown remains the city's busiest neighborhood as it features the trendiest rooftop bars in Minneapolis, including Uptown Tavern, Stella's Fish Café, and LynLake Brewery. But we hold a special place in our hearts for Up-Down, a nostalgic, 80s-style arcade bar with skeeball alleys, pinball machines, and over 50 arcade machines. The beer is cheap, the happy hour deals are bonkers, and the gaming is second to none.

After enjoying a drink or two at one of the best bars in the Twin Cities, retreat to your vacation rental for a nightcap with friends new and old. MINNēSTAY's North Loop penthouses include access to a private balcony, a rooftop deck, and free parking in an assigned space. We also rent a fleet of elegant Georgian mansions, lakehouses, and charming South Minneapolis homes. Give us a call today at 612-216-5511 to get matched with a vacation rental that perfectly suits your group's size, style, and budget (or check availability online). Book our waterfront rentals in Minneapolis here!