Step into history at the Pantages Theatre, a remarkable historic venue located on Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. Originally constructed as a towering twelve-story Beaux-Arts complex designed by architects Kees & Colburn, the theater was opened by Greek immigrant Alexander Pantages, a legendary impresario who established 500 theaters across the nation. When you visit today, you will experience a unique architectural blend resulting from its fascinating evolution.
The structure was eventually scaled down to a two-story venue, featuring a sleek Art Moderne facade that beautifully contrasts with its rich Beaux Arts interior. As you explore, you can appreciate the theater's place in performance history; it innovated the mezzanine layout and holds the distinction of being the very first air-conditioned theater in the entire state of Minnesota. After closing its doors in 1984, the venue was lovingly renovated and reopened by the City of Minneapolis in 2002 before ownership was transferred to the Hennepin Theatre Trust in 2005.
Today, it stands as an enduring cultural gem operated by the Historic Theatre Group. It offers travelers a chance to admire architectural craftsmanship, historic theater innovations, and the vibrant arts legacy of Hennepin Avenue.
What to see at Pantages Theatre
- Distinctive Art Moderne facade paired with a classic Beaux Arts interior
- Originally designed as a 12-story Beaux-Arts complex by Kees & Colburn
- Pioneered the theater mezzanine and Minnesota's first air-conditioned auditorium
- Founded by Greek immigrant and famous theater mogul Alexander Pantages
- Restored and reopened by the City of Minneapolis after closing in 1984
Visiting tips
Be sure to look up and admire the contrast between the Art Moderne exterior facade on Hennepin Avenue and the restored Beaux Arts details of the interior.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Evening
How to get there & what’s nearby
Pantages Theatre is easy to reach on Minneapolis’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Gethsemane Episcopal Church and State Theatre. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Minneapolis travel guide.
See the full Minneapolis travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.