Saint Paul, Minnesota
The Northern Commons is a new kind of gathering place for shared meaning-making through conversation, contemplation, creativity, and the simple act of being present with each other.
See what's comingWhy we're here
The Northern Commons isn't a coworking space, classroom, or event venue (though you might recognize bits of all three when you're here). At its heart, it's a shared space for reclaiming what daily life tends to crowd out: conversations that take their time, shared music-making, creative play, and silence that doesn't need to be filled.
Located in downtown Saint Paul, the Commons is a place to slow down, ask interesting questions, and learn and create together, simply by showing up.
How to get involved
You don't need any special knowledge or experience to be here. If you're curious, that's enough. The simplest way to get involved is to show up.
Come to one of our public events — conversations, workshops, meditation, music — each gathering is an invitation to listen, reflect, and learn together.
Upcoming events ↓During open hours, the Commons is a place to drop in, read, sit quietly, have a conversation, or simply be in the space. You don't need a plan or a purpose to be here.
Fridays 12 – 3 pmIf you're dreaming up a gathering that invites conversation, creativity, or reflection, we'd love to hear about it.
Propose a gathering →The good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge, lived among others who are trying to do the same.
— loosely after Bertrand Russell
Events are updated regularly. Check back or get on our list to stay in the loop.
What to expect
Gatherings at the Northern Commons are designed to support sense-making, creativity, and relational depth rather than information transfer or productivity alone. Events take many forms, but share a common orientation: slowing down enough to notice what's happening between us. You might find:
Some gatherings are more structured, others are lightly facilitated, and some are co-created and unfold as they go. For us, depth matters more than scale and presence more than polish.
We're a shoes-off kind of place, so feel free to leave yours by the door. We know some folks need to wear shoes, and that's no problem at all — just use the wipes at the door or bring a clean pair to wear inside. It keeps the floors happy and the space feeling like a shared living room.
Wheelchair Access: The Northern Commons is wheelchair accessible, and an elevator provides access to our second-floor space.
Restrooms: There are two private, gender-neutral restrooms located on the same floor as the Commons.
Scents: In general, we try to keep fragrances to a minimum. If a gathering includes incense, smoke, or other scents, we'll note that in advance and check in about sensitivities.
If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, please let us know.
When to Arrive: Doors typically open 10–15 minutes before a gathering begins. You're welcome to arrive early, settle in, and get oriented. We aim to begin each gathering at the posted start time, while allowing space for people to arrive and settle. We also aim to end on time so you can make your next commitment.
Late Arrival: If you're running a few minutes late, don't worry — just enter quietly and join us, no apology required. If a specific event requires an on-time arrival, we'll let you know in advance.
Getting here
We're in the Northern Warehouse building. Look for the door marked "308" — that's your starting point. From there, follow the "Northern Commons" signs to the elevator or take the stairs. We're on the second floor.
The building is old and has lots of hallways, so finding the space can feel a little like a scavenger hunt the first time — but we promise you'll get there.
Whether you want to attend a gathering, propose one, teach something, learn something, or just sit in a room with curious people who care — we'd like to meet you.
The Northern Commons runs on presence and generosity. Rather than a set membership model, we invite donations in whatever way feels right for you. Your support helps keep the space welcoming, the gatherings happening, and the Commons alive.
Support NoCoWhether you have a question, want to get on our mailing list, or just want to introduce yourself — we'd love to hear from you.
We'll be in touch soon. In the meantime, feel free to check out our upcoming events.