Why did Mpls Ban Bathhouses? Plus, Stoner Xmas episode artwork

EPISODE · Apr 20, 2026 · 40 MIN

Why did Mpls Ban Bathhouses? Plus, Stoner Xmas

from City Cast Twin Cities · host City Cast

The Minneapolis City Council banned adult bathhouses 40 years ago. Now, they’re considering decriminalizing these spaces, which were often safe places for gay men to relax, get resources, and have sex. Public historian Noah Barth and MPR News producer Sam Stroozas tell us how the ban is a legacy of policing homosexuality. Plus, it’s 4/20 a.k.a Stoner Christmas. Racket editor and co-owner Jessica Armbruster shares her favorite products to mark the holiday. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: As Minneapolis reconsiders its adult bathhouse ban, here’s what to know about the history (MPR) Adult bathhouses were a part of Minneapolis nightlife. Then police and panic pushed them out (MPR) Weed Weviews: 4 Things I Tried in March (Racket) Learn more about the sponsors of this April 20th episode: Minneapolis Institute of Art Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

The Minneapolis City Council banned adult bathhouses 40 years ago. Now, they’re considering decriminalizing these spaces, which were often safe places for gay men to relax, get resources, and have sex. Public historian Noah Barth and MPR News producer Sam Stroozas tell us how the ban is a legacy of policing homosexuality. Plus, it’s 4/20 a.k.a Stoner Christmas. Racket editor and co-owner Jessica Armbruster shares her favorite products to mark the holiday. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: As Minneapolis reconsiders its adult bathhouse ban, here’s what to know about the history (MPR) Adult bathhouses were a part of Minneapolis nightlife. Then police and panic pushed them out (MPR) Weed Weviews: 4 Things I Tried in March (Racket) Learn more about the sponsors of this April 20th episode: Minneapolis Institute of Art Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

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Why did Mpls Ban Bathhouses? Plus, Stoner Xmas

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This episode is 40 minutes long.

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This episode was published on April 20, 2026.

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The Minneapolis City Council banned adult bathhouses 40 years ago. Now, they’re considering decriminalizing these spaces, which were often safe places for gay men to relax, get resources, and have sex. Public historian Noah Barth and MPR News...

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