Inside The Lumber Exchange

THE STORY

The story of the Lumber Exchange Event Center all started with a simple idea. Host larger more elegant events and do it in a way that would change the way Minneapolis looked at event space.  The owner saw the need for this space after years of developing The Pourhouse restaurant as the place to watch televised sports events, eat great food and dance the nights away on the weekends. However, its prohibition-influenced design and large space showed strong potential for events and celebrations of all kinds. As the Pourhouse flourished into a successful event venue, we discovered the third-floor space in the Lumber Exchange Building that was an ideal larger event and wedding venue. The Lumber Exchange Event Center is the culmination of that vision.

To cater to upscale, swanky socialites of Minneapolis, we opened The Exchange & Alibi Lounge. This modern, sophisticated space attracted happy hour goers and night time clubbers and provided us with additional space to host events like wedding receptions, cocktail hours and corporate parties.

Our unique group of spaces and services take the stress out of event planning, allowing you to enjoy the experience. No matter the size, budget or occasion, we can turn your dream event into a reality.

DISCOVER THE HISTORY

The Lumber Exchange building is a Minneapolis landmark rooted in history. As the epicenter of Minnesota’s lumber trade operations, the Lumber Exchange building was a major contributor to the economic development of the state.

At the time of its construction in 1885, the Lumber Exchange Building was one of the most grandiose and expensive buildings in Minneapolis. The Lumber Exchange Building was the first skyscraper built in Minneapolis and remains the oldest building downtown. Designed with the old-world elegance and charm of the Romanesque revival, the building boasts grand arch entries, romantic chandeliers, lofty vault ceilings and dazzling marble floors.