Minneapolis Convention Center on 2nd Avenue South: Events, Parking, Rooms & Map
The Minneapolis Convention Center is located at 1301 Second Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55403, in downtown Minneapolis. This expansive convention complex hosts conferences, industry trade shows, public exhibitions, fan conventions and major auditorium events.
Planning a visit? Find the correct entrance, compare nearby parking ramps, review upcoming events, locate exhibit halls and meeting rooms, and understand skyway connections, accessible services and nearby hotels.
Minneapolis Convention Center: Essential Visitor Information
Minneapolis Convention Center Events: October–December 2026
The official event calendar publishes a mix of public shows, trade exhibitions, conferences, concerts and community events. Some require organizer registration or industry credentials rather than ordinary admission tickets.
| Date | Event | Attendance planning |
|---|---|---|
| Oct. 15–18, 2026 | JADPRO Live 2026 | Professional medical conference; registration required. |
| Oct. 17, 2026 | Paint Mingle Drink | Check organizer tickets and session details. |
| Oct. 22, 2026 | Restoring Hope Breakfast | Fundraising/event registration requirements. |
| Oct. 23–25, 2026 | ECK Worldwide Soul Adventure Seminar | Organizer-controlled seminar access. |
| Oct. 28–29, 2026 | MD&M Midwest | Industry exhibition and registration. |
| Oct. 28–29, 2026 | FiltXPO Technical Conference & Exhibition | Professional event registration. |
| Nov. 4, 2026 | Conference on the Environment | Conference registration. |
| Nov. 6–8, 2026 | Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo | Public shopping and art event; check admission. |
| Nov. 8–12, 2026 | AIChE Annual Meeting | Professional conference. |
| Nov. 13, 2026 | Shaan Live in Concert | Check concert ticket provider. |
| Nov. 19, 2026 | Minnesota Buildings & Facilities Management Trade Show | Industry participation requirements. |
| Nov. 20–22, 2026 | Twin Cities Con | Public fan convention with separate event tickets. |
| Nov. 21–22, 2026 | Turkey Tumble | Event-specific spectator or participant details. |
| Dec. 10, 2026 | City of 10,000 Flavors Culinary Competition | Organizer admission details. |
| Dec. 11–13, 2026 | Gymnastics State Championships | Competition and spectator rules. |
Selected events reviewed October 16, 2026. Organizers control ticket availability, opening hours, schedules and public access.
Twin Cities Con: November 20–22, 2026
Twin Cities Con
Dates: November 20–22, 2026.
Location: Minneapolis Convention Center, Exhibit Halls B, C and D.
Event format: Comics, television, movies, toys, gaming, cosplay and artist programming.
Tickets, schedules, autograph opportunities and individual activities are managed by the organizer.
Looking Ahead: January 2027
Minneapolis Boat Show
January 21–24, 2027. The official convention calendar lists the boat show for four days. Confirm tickets, exhibitors and daily show hours with the event organizer before traveling.
How to Find Event Tickets
- Open the official Minneapolis Convention Center calendar.
- Select your event date or search by name.
- Open the organizer’s linked event information.
- Confirm whether the event is public, ticketed or registration-only.
- Check badge pickup, exact hall and entrance requirements.
- Reserve parking if the event is expected to be busy.
- Save your confirmation before traveling.
Minneapolis Convention Center Parking: Five Ramps & Reservation Options
Parking is available in the main Third Avenue Parking Ramp and four partner city ramps close to the convention center. The partner facilities are within approximately two blocks and connect through Minneapolis’ downtown skyway system.
| Parking facility | Published location | Useful feature |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd Avenue Parking Ramp | Third Avenue South, adjacent to the convention center | Main MCC parking ramp. |
| Plaza Parking Ramp | 117 S. 12th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55403 | Near the main entrance; connected by skyway. |
| 11th & Marquette Ramp | 1111 Marquette Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403 | Downtown partner ramp and skyway access. |
| 11th Underground Ramp | 1030 2nd Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55403 | Nearby underground garage. |
| Leamington Ramp | 1001 2nd Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55403 | Partner parking near the convention district. |
Two Official Ways to Pay for Parking
Reserve Through a Parking App
The venue lists ParkMobile, SpotHero and ParkWhiz as reservation options. Choose an available ramp and the actual arrival and departure period, then follow the barcode instructions.
Pull a Ticket at the Ramp
At participating city ramps, visitors can use the entrance ticket and pay at designated stations, with card or cash accepted at certain payment locations.
How to Reserve Parking Near the Convention Center
- Open the official public event parking page.
- Choose a parking ramp that fits your event entrance.
- Follow the ramp’s rate-information or reservation link.
- Enter your actual date, arrival time and expected exit time.
- Review vehicle-height limits and re-entry policy.
- Save the parking confirmation or barcode.
- Follow signs from the ramp toward the convention center.
Accessible Parking & Drop-off
Accessible spaces are published for the Third Avenue Parking Ramp and Plaza Parking Ramp. The venue also identifies accessible curbside drop-off areas on Second Avenue South in front of the building.
Use a valid accessible parking permit when required, and check the closest accessible route to your meeting room.
Parking Security
The Minneapolis municipal parking system provides security services, intercoms and escort assistance.
Parking security phone: 612-339-3441
Text assistance: Text SECURITY to 1-844-722-2692.
For an emergency, call 911.
Minneapolis Convention Center Floor Plans: Halls A–E, Ballrooms & Auditorium
The venue has approximately 475,000 square feet of exhibition space, 87 meeting rooms, two main ballrooms and a large fixed-seat auditorium. The full facility occupies about 1.6 million square feet.
Where Are the Main Exhibition Halls?
| Building level | Notable facilities | What visitors should do |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Level | Hall A and lower-level meeting rooms. | Check elevators and escalators for lower-level events. |
| Level One | Exhibit Halls B–E, main entrance areas, ballrooms and auditorium. | Locate registration, show entrances and event signage. |
| Mezzanine (M) | Additional configurable meeting rooms. | Match room number to the M-level plan. |
| Level Two | Upper-level meeting rooms and breakout spaces. | Use the specific floor plan for a numbered session room. |
Official Hall and Ballroom Capacity Examples
| Space | Area | Theater-style capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Hall A | 99,000 sq. ft. | 7,000 |
| Hall B | 99,000 sq. ft. | 7,500 |
| Hall C | 99,000 sq. ft. | 7,500 |
| Halls B–E combined | 376,200 sq. ft. | 28,000 |
| Ballroom A | 18,070 sq. ft. | 2,013 |
| Ballroom B | 9,452 sq. ft. | 987 |
| Ballrooms A+B combined | 27,522 sq. ft. | 3,101 |
| Full Auditorium | 30,000 sq. ft. | 3,433 fixed seats |
How to Find Your Meeting Room
- Read the room number and level on your event confirmation.
- Visit the official floor-plan library.
- Choose Lower, Level One, M Level or Level Two.
- Identify the nearest public entrance or skyway connection.
- Follow the appropriate directional signs inside the venue.
- Check the organizer’s program for changes to your room assignment.
Getting to Minneapolis Convention Center by Metro Transit, Airport & Skyway
The venue’s Second Avenue South location makes it accessible from downtown hotels, city bus routes, the light-rail network and Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP).
Minneapolis Skyway System
Minneapolis has a system of climate-controlled elevated walkways connecting many downtown buildings, hotels and parking ramps. The convention center is part of this network, which is especially helpful during winter.
Metro Transit and Downtown Buses
Metro Transit serves downtown Minneapolis through regular buses and light rail. The convention center’s official directions highlight selected free-ride buses along Nicollet between Grant Street and Washington Avenue.
The official guide also describes a 50-cent Downtown Zone fare on other eligible buses. Check current fares and service status before travel, as downtown bus routes and fare policies can change.
From Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
- Follow airport signs to Metro Transit light rail at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.
- Check the current Blue Line route toward downtown Minneapolis.
- Plan the connection from the most suitable downtown station to the convention center.
- Use an appropriate bus, walk or arrange a short rideshare transfer.
- Check service alerts and the last train before late arrivals.
- Allow additional time for luggage and winter conditions.
Visitors can also travel directly by taxi, rideshare or rental car. Price and journey time depend on traffic and terminal location.
Second Avenue South Drop-off
The convention center identifies Second Avenue South in front of the building as its principal location for drop-offs and pickups, including accessibility, buses and rideshare services.
| Transport option | Useful for |
|---|---|
| Walking from downtown hotels | Nearby overnight accommodation and conference travel. |
| Skyway | Sheltered downtown connections when open. |
| Metro Transit buses | Downtown and neighborhood travel. |
| Blue Line light rail | Airport-to-downtown connections with a last-mile transfer or walk. |
| Taxi and rideshare | Direct travel and luggage-heavy visits. |
| Bicycle | Bike parking near the building entrances. |
Hotels Near Minneapolis Convention Center on 2nd Avenue South
Staying in downtown Minneapolis can make convention visits more practical, particularly during cold weather or events that begin early in the morning. Compare the skyway connection as well as straight-line distance.
Hyatt Regency Minneapolis
Address: 1300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN.
A large downtown conference hotel close to the convention center. Useful for delegates who want full-service accommodation within the convention district.
Hilton Minneapolis
Address: 1001 Marquette Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN.
A downtown hotel with major meeting facilities. Check current skyway access and walking routes when planning your visit.
Other Downtown Minneapolis Hotels
Several hotels around Nicollet Mall, Marquette Avenue and the central business district serve MCC visitors. Compare actual travel routes and overnight parking.
Convention Hotel Blocks
Large events may offer a negotiated hotel-room block. Check your conference website before reserving publicly available room rates.
Hotel Booking Checklist
- Check whether the event offers an official hotel block.
- Compare the real walking route to your assigned convention entrance.
- Confirm skyway access and its hours.
- Review the room rate including tax and mandatory charges.
- Add hotel overnight parking if you are driving.
- Check breakfast and cancellation terms.
- Confirm winter-weather travel arrangements if visiting during colder months.
Minneapolis Convention Center 2nd Avenue South: Address & Map
Official Visitor Address
Minneapolis Convention Center
1301 Second Avenue South
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403
Telephone: 612-335-6000
Area: Downtown Minneapolis, near Nicollet Mall and the convention district.
Main visitor drop-off: Second Avenue South.
The map identifies the convention center. Partner parking ramps and freight entrances are at separate locations.
Accessibility: Parking, Wheelchair Rentals, Scooter Costs & Guest Services
Minneapolis Convention Center provides accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms, event seating and a variety of guest assistance services.
Accessible Arrival
- Accessible curbside drop-off along Second Avenue South.
- Accessible spaces at Third Avenue and Plaza parking ramps.
- Automatic or power-assist doors.
- Elevators and accessible restrooms.
- Auditorium wheelchair seating arrangements.
Other Assistance
- Assistive listening and other accessible technology.
- Braille and high-contrast signage.
- Aira visual interpreting service.
- Lactation lounges.
- Service-animal accommodations.
Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter Rentals
| Mobility equipment | Official daily rental charge |
|---|---|
| Manual wheelchair | $20 |
| Power-operated mobility scooter | $50 |
Equipment is handled through the Visitor Information Center on Level One near the main entrance. The convention center currently does not accept advance reservations.
Availability phone: 612-335-6040.
Payment is by Visa, Mastercard or Discover; cash and checks are not accepted for these rentals. Equipment must be returned to the center each day.
How to Request Mobility Equipment
- Call the Visitor Information Center to ask about availability.
- Arrive at the Level One main entrance.
- Visit the Visitor Information Center.
- Select the wheelchair or scooter according to availability.
- Pay the applicable daily rate by accepted card.
- Return the equipment by the required time.
Official accessibility, mobility rentals and accommodation guidance ↗
Food, Dining, Skyway Restaurants & Nearby Attractions
The convention center offers on-site dining options during events, while downtown Minneapolis has restaurants and cafés within walking or skyway distance.
Inside the Convention Center
Concessions, catered meals and event-specific food services may be available. The number of open outlets and their hours depend on event attendance.
Downtown Restaurants
Dining areas around Nicollet Mall and the central business district provide breakfast, lunches and business dinners. Confirm schedules during holidays and weekends.
Minneapolis Skyway
Covered pedestrian routes can connect the convention center with hotels, services and some downtown dining businesses during posted hours.
City Attractions
Downtown visitors can also explore arts, sports, parks and cultural destinations, using walking, transit or rideshare as appropriate.
Popular Minneapolis Attractions to Consider
| Attraction | What visitors can do |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis Sculpture Garden | Outdoor art and landscaped walking areas. |
| Walker Art Center | Contemporary art and exhibitions. |
| Target Center | Basketball, concerts and arena entertainment. |
| Target Field | Baseball and selected special events. |
| U.S. Bank Stadium | Football, concerts and large events. |
| Nicollet Mall | Downtown shopping, dining and pedestrian activity. |
| Mill City Museum | Minneapolis flour-milling and riverfront history. |
Tickets, operating hours and transportation arrangements for attractions are separate from convention-center admission.
Renting Minneapolis Convention Center Meeting Rooms & Exhibit Space
MCC supports trade shows, professional meetings, consumer exhibitions, banquets, educational sessions, ceremonies and large presentations. Event organizers should request the layout and service package that best fits their attendance and production needs.
Planning an Event at MCC
- Determine your preferred dates and alternates.
- Estimate expected attendance and exhibitors.
- Choose exhibition halls, meeting rooms, ballrooms or the auditorium.
- Review the published floor plans and seating configurations.
- Plan registration, guest accessibility and security.
- Identify electrical, internet, staging and audiovisual needs.
- Arrange catering, exhibitor services and loading schedules.
- Submit the venue’s request-for-proposal form.
- Review rental charges, service fees, deposits and cancellation conditions.
Hall Selection Examples
| Event type | Potential space | Planning consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Large trade exhibition | Exhibit Halls B–E | Booth layout, load-in and aisle planning. |
| Separate trade exhibition | Lower-Level Hall A | Floor level, freight routing and access. |
| Large keynote | 3,433-seat auditorium | Seating, stage and audiovisual production. |
| Banquet or gala | Ballrooms A and B | Table layout, catering and reception space. |
| Workshop series | Meeting rooms and M Level | Room numbering, simultaneous sessions and navigation. |
Minneapolis Convention Center Visitor Checklist
Before Leaving
- Confirm event date and admission.
- Save 1301 Second Avenue South.
- Locate the correct hall or room level.
- Choose a parking ramp or public transport.
- Check skyway operating hours.
- Review weather and accessibility needs.
On Event Day
- Allow time for traffic and parking.
- Remember your garage and space.
- Locate badge pickup and event security.
- Use the correct level and hall.
- Check dining hours and event re-entry.
- Plan a late-evening return route.
Minneapolis Convention Center: 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Minneapolis Convention Center address?
The Minneapolis Convention Center is located at 1301 Second Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403, in downtown Minneapolis.
2. Where can I park near Minneapolis Convention Center?
Visitors can use the main Third Avenue Parking Ramp and partner facilities including Plaza Ramp, 11th & Marquette Ramp, 11th Underground Ramp and Leamington Ramp. Parking charges vary by facility and event.
3. Is parking free at Minneapolis Convention Center?
No. Convention-center parking ramps generally charge for parking. Prices depend on the selected garage, duration and event, and some spaces can be reserved in advance.
4. How big is Minneapolis Convention Center?
The facility covers approximately 1.6 million square feet, including 475,000 square feet of exhibition space, 87 meeting rooms, two ballrooms and a large auditorium.
5. How many seats does the Minneapolis Convention Center Auditorium have?
The full auditorium has 3,433 fixed seats. It can be divided into smaller auditorium arrangements depending on event needs.
6. Which level contains Exhibit Hall A?
Exhibit Hall A is on the Lower Level. Exhibit Halls B through E are on Level One.
7. Can I reach Minneapolis Convention Center through the skyway?
Yes. The downtown skyway system connects the convention center with nearby buildings and parking ramps. Individual skyway operating hours vary.
8. Can I rent a wheelchair or scooter at Minneapolis Convention Center?
Yes. Manual wheelchairs cost $20 per day and power scooters cost $50 per day, subject to availability. Rentals are handled by the Visitor Information Center on Level One.
9. Where can I find upcoming Minneapolis Convention Center events?
The official event calendar at minneapolis.org/minneapolis-convention-center/event-calendar/ lists upcoming shows, conferences and public events. Each organizer sets admission rules.
10. What is the Minneapolis Convention Center phone number?
The main venue telephone number is 612-335-6000. For mobility-equipment availability, the Visitor Information Center can be reached at 612-335-6040.
Official Events, Parking, Floor Plans & Visitor Resources
| Official link | What it provides |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis Convention Center homepage | Venue overview and visitor information. |
| Official event calendar | 2026–27 events and organizer information. |
| Public event parking options | Parking ramp locations, reservations and payment. |
| Directions and transportation | Arrival routes, drop-off, buses, skyway and airport. |
| Floor plans | Lower, Level One, M and Level Two layouts. |
| Accessibility and mobility rentals | Accessible entry, rental prices and accommodations. |
| Event planner resources | Meeting spaces, rental inquiries and proposals. |
| Metro Transit | Light rail, buses, fares and current travel alerts. |
Minneapolis Convention Center — Contact
Address: 1301 Second Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Main telephone: 612-335-6000
Mobility rentals: 612-335-6040
Official website: Minneapolis Convention Center