Jun 11, 2021

Rochester, MN is home to plenty of live music venues, with a nice variety of sounds and settings. From purpose-built event complexes where the big gigs take place, to local coffee shop acoustic sessions and mellow jazz, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Here are five venues where you can eat, dance, drink and play while you listen to some great music.

1. Kathy’s Pub

Kathy’s Pub offers a wide array of beers and cocktails, and Giovanni’s Pizzas for when hunger strikes. Musicians of different genres, both local and international play live music at Kathy’s Pub every weekend from around 10pm. The music and setting, a stunning rooftop bar, and a generous number of pool tables, dartboards, and video games, mean that Kathy’s pub is the place to go for a fun night out.

Please remember to drink responsibly and with moderation, do not drink and drive, and remember that alcohol is intended for adults of a legal drinking age.

2. Mayo Civic Center

If you’re looking for something bigger, the Mayo Civic Center has been around since the late ’30s, offering entertainment to a large crowd. With three concert venues within the complex and thousands of seats, the Mayo Civic Center is where some of the bigger names go. This venue has a rich history, having hosted concerts by iconic stars such as Bob Dylan. Some may recognize this venue from the shooting location for Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead or Alive” music video.

3. Canadian Honker Restaurant

For those of you who are looking for a family-friendly, home-away-from-home setting, Canadian Honker Restaurant and Lounge offer a mouth-watering menu of stews, steaks, cakes, and more. They feature local musicians that play a mellow blend of jazz, blues, and country live on weekends. The warm lighting and excellent service are sure to leave you feeling cozy and welcome.

4. The Redwood Room

At The Redwood Room, you’ll find live bands playing every night of the week, featuring light jazz and acoustic music that serves as the perfect background to a rustic setting. The Rochester Magazine voted The Redwood Room as “Most Romantic Ambiance” in Rochester, with its soft lighting and cozy setting making it an ideal location for an intimate date. All in all, a rustic restaurant and bar with an amazing menu, and great music.

5. The North Star Bar

At The North Star Bar, there’s live music every Friday and Saturday night, and there’s never a cover charge. Doors open at 9:30pm and they have a calendar on their website showing all the upcoming bands. The North Star Bar offers rock, punk, metal, and alternative live music, boasts multiple pool tables and dartboards, and a dance floor.

Be it jazz or acoustic, metal or bouncing concert, there’s a perfect music venue in Rochester for everybody. Whichever venue you choose, you’ll want to travel there in style, that’s why at Rochester Toyota car dealership, we are here to help you find your perfect car. Visit Rochester Toyota today and check out our fabulous inventory.