Minneapolis Target Center | Minneapolis

Here is a detailed breakdown of the Target Center in Minneapolis, covering its history, architecture, layout, events, sustainability efforts, and practical tips for visitors. This structure is suitable for destination profiles and tourism-related materials.

TARGET CENTER – MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

I. Overview

The Target Center is a premier multi-purpose indoor arena located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. It serves as a central venue for NBA and WNBA basketball games, major concerts, family entertainment, and civic events. It is deeply integrated into the downtown's skyway system, allowing for year-round pedestrian access, and it plays a key role in the city’s vibrant Warehouse District.

II. Historical Context

Year Opened: October 13, 1990

Construction Cost: Approximately $104 million

Ownership: Owned by the City of Minneapolis

Management: Operated by ASM Global, a global leader in venue management

Primary Tenants:

Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA) – founding tenant since 1990

Minnesota Lynx (WNBA) – since 1999, one of the most successful franchises in league history

Key Milestones:

2004: Hosted the NBA All-Star Game

2009: Installed the first green roof on a major sports facility in North America

2016–2017: Underwent a major $140 million renovation to modernize the entire arena

III. Architectural Design and Layout

The Target Center blends urban accessibility with modern arena design. The building's exterior was updated in the 2017 renovation, incorporating glass, metal panels, and new lighting, making it more cohesive with surrounding downtown architecture.

Structure and Floors:

Main Concourse (Street Level): Entry point for most fans; houses concessions, retail, and access to lower bowl seats

Skyway Level (2nd Level): Links the arena to Minneapolis’ downtown skyway system; common entry level during winter

Upper Concourse (3rd Level): Access to upper-level seating; includes additional food and drink options

Event Level (Below Ground): Locker rooms, loading docks, media rooms, press workspaces

Premium Levels: Club lounges, executive suites, loge boxes

Seating Capacity:

Basketball: ~18,000

Concerts (Full Bowl): ~20,500

Smaller Events: Configurable for intimate settings with curtained sections

IV. Sustainability Leadership

The Target Center has been recognized as one of the most environmentally conscious arenas in the United States.

Sustainable Highlights:

Green Roof (2009):

Covers 2.5 acres

First of its kind for a major sports arena

Reduces urban heat, absorbs rainwater, and cuts heating/cooling costs

LEED Certification: Achieved LEED Silver status, showcasing leadership in energy efficiency and environmental design

Waterless Urinals and Low-Flow Fixtures: Reduce water usage significantly

LED Lighting: Installed during the 2017 renovation to improve efficiency and fan visibility

Recycling & Composting Program: Diverts waste from landfills with sorting stations throughout the arena

V. Renovation & Modernization (2016–2017)

A $140 million renovation was undertaken to fully transform the fan experience and modernize the infrastructure.

Key Renovation Features:

New Façade: Sleek, modern exterior featuring glass, LED screens, and lighting

Center-Hung Scoreboard: One of the largest in the NBA, with 1080p HD video

New Seating Bowl: All seats replaced; improved sightlines and comfort

Wider Concourses: Improved circulation and access for attendees

Upgraded Restrooms & Concessions: Increased quantity and better accessibility

VIP and Club Spaces: Added upscale dining and lounging areas

VI. Premium Experiences

Fans and corporate clients have access to a range of luxury options:

Lexus Courtside Club: Exclusive dining, bar service, and premium views for courtside ticket holders

Club TI (Treasure Island): Premium club-level seating with upscale amenities

Executive Suites: Private rooms with catering, TVs, and seating for groups

Loge Boxes: Semi-private boxes for small groups with high-top seating

VII. Events & Programming

The Target Center hosts approximately 150–200 events annually, ranging from sports to live entertainment.

Regular Programming:

NBA: Minnesota Timberwolves (Season: October–April)

WNBA: Minnesota Lynx (Season: May–September)

Concerts: Major national and international acts from rock, pop, hip-hop, country, and classical genres

Family Entertainment: Disney on Ice, Monster Jam, Harlem Globetrotters, and more

Wrestling & MMA: WWE Live, AEW, UFC events

Civic & Community Events: Graduations, religious conferences, and corporate meetings

VIII. Visitor Information

Location:

Address: 600 N 1st Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Neighborhood: Downtown / Warehouse District

Nearby Landmarks:

Target Field (Twins baseball stadium)

First Avenue (iconic music club)

Minneapolis Skyway System

Mississippi Riverfront

Transportation & Parking:

Public Transit:

METRO Light Rail (Blue & Green Lines): Warehouse District station is a 3-minute walk

Multiple city buses serve the area

Parking:

Over 20,000 parking spaces within a short walk

Closest options: Ramp A, B, and C (connected via skyway)

Bike Access: Ample racks outside; Nice Ride stations nearby

Security & Entry:

Bag Policy: Small clutch bags only; no backpacks or large purses

Metal Detectors: All guests pass through security screening

Prohibited Items: No outside food, weapons, or professional cameras without permission

Accessibility:

ADA-Compliant Entrances

Wheelchair-Accessible Seating

Assistive Listening Devices Available

Elevators to All Public Levels

IX. Dining & Concessions

The arena offers a mix of classic stadium fare and local Minneapolis flavors:

Fan Favorites: Hot dogs, nachos, pizza, and burgers

Local Vendors: Often feature regional specialties like wild rice brats or craft brews

Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options available

Bars: Full-service bars and beer kiosks throughout all levels

Premium ticket holders get access to higher-end offerings including chef-prepared meals, private lounges, and mixology bars.

X. Cultural & Economic Impact

The Target Center plays a key role in downtown revitalization, drawing visitors from across the Midwest. Its adjacency to Target Field, Nicollet Mall, and the North Loop creates a year-round destination district.

Jobs: Employs hundreds in part-time and full-time roles

Tourism: Brings over 1 million visitors annually

Community Events: Hosts high school tournaments, charity functions, and more

Conclusion

The Target Center is more than just a sports arena - it's a dynamic, environmentally forward, and culturally significant part of Minneapolis’ urban identity. With its accessible location, modern amenities, and robust event calendar, it continues to be a magnet for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're attending a Timberwolves game, a concert by a global superstar, or simply exploring downtown, the Target Center stands as a symbol of entertainment, sustainability, and civic pride in Minnesota.