Ever wonder how a place among pawn shops and liquor stores became a music landmark? That’s the Turf Club. It stands in the Midway neighborhood of St. Paul. This area lies between downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. It’s not a typical nightlife hub with river views or skyscrapers. Instead, it’s got bus stops and Snelling traffic.
The Turf Club’s charm comes from being set apart. It’s an outcast from the modernizing Twin Cities. Minneapolis offers many venues. But St. Paul has a unique feel. The Turf Club captures this on the outskirts of downtown. It is rich in unpolished history. This rock ‘n’ roll joint offers flannels and beer. Forget chocolate martinis.
Opening in the 1940s, the Turf Club was a two-stepping country bar. It mellowed through the folk 60s. It morphed with the dance wave of the 70s. Then it embraced the grunge of the 80s. The club is like a history of Minnesota music. It consistently supports local and independent music. The town recognizes and appreciates this. It maintains loyalty despite the location. The adversity even becomes a reason to visit.
The Turf Club is a dependable rock venue. It stands out in a city that sleeps early on weeknights. You never know what’s next, but it’s sure to be good. Catering to music fans pays off. Especially when they love rock. Rock ‘n’ roll, classic rock, alternative rock, indie rock, folk rock, punk rock. These fans don’t die or go away. Some don’t sleep.
The Turf Club provides a perfect setting for rock. A long bar runs along one side. The stage is at the back. Dark woods envelop the space. Christmas lights add a cheap strip club vibe. It rivals the local Veteran’s Legions. The music is loud. The crowd is devoted.
The Turf Club started as a supper club and dancehall in 1945. It has a capacity of 350. The main area features a stage and bar. The Clown Lounge is in the basement. It is a smaller bar and performance space. The Turf Club is near the Snelling Avenue light rail station. In 2014, it was remodeled. The updates included an upgraded sound system. Also, a mural of five racehorses was rediscovered.
The Turf Club closed for over a year in 2020-2021. This was due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It also suffered fire and water damage. This happened during the George Floyd protests. Repairs took months. The Turf Club reopened in July 2021.
First Avenue owns and operates the Turf Club. The commitment to local music remains strong. So, next time you’re looking for a night of rock, remember the Turf Club. It is a dirt-covered diamond in the rough. It’s sure to provide a gem of a night. Vive le rock ‘n’ roll at the Turf Club.