First Avenue & 7th St Entry - a street sign in the middle of a city
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First Avenue & 7th St Entry

4.7
·417 reviews·Minneapolis, United States

A legendary Minneapolis music venue, iconic for its role in Prince's career and its vibrant live performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Live music magic awaits!

CrowdMedium
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First Avenue & 7th St Entry - a street sign in the middle of a city

First Avenue & 7th St Entry

Best Time

Evenings

Live music magic awaits!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary Minneapolis music venue, iconic for its role in Prince's career and its vibrant live performances.

4.7
(417 reviews)

"This venue is a real landmark, and the staff was all friendly, accommodating, and easy to work with."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Grab your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be on your feet dancing! Wear comfy shoes for a great night out.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Star-Studded Sidewalk

The Star-Studded Sidewalk

Outside First Avenue

Walk among stars! This iconic sidewalk features stars honoring legendary performers, including Prince.

Prince's Purple Reign

Prince's Purple Reign

First Avenue

Feel the magic of Prince's legendary performances. The venue is deeply intertwined with his iconic film and music.

Intimate 7th Street Entry

Intimate 7th Street Entry

7th Street Entry

Experience up-and-coming artists and local bands in this smaller, more intimate sister venue.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Music History

This iconic venue is a pilgrimage site for music lovers, especially Prince fans. Plan your visit around a show to truly experience its legendary atmosphere. Check the schedule in advance, as tickets sell out fast for popular acts.

Navigating the Venue

First Avenue and its sister venue, the 7th Street Entry, offer distinct vibes. The Entry is more intimate, perfect for discovering new bands. Be prepared for potential crowds, especially for sold-out shows, and check their bag policy before you go.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Live music magic awaits!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Busiest nights for shows
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Prince Rogers Nelson Way 🚏 — #Minneapolis unveiled the commemorative street sign this afternoon, on Prince’s birthday. (don't worry, we're still First Avenue 😉) 💜 #Prince #FirstAvenue #fyp #foryou
@firstavenue
36.1K likes • 360.6K views

🎯 Book Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Grab your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be on your feet dancing! Wear comfy shoes for a great night out. Reddit

#minnesota #haunted #foryoupage #scary #firstavenue #prince #purplerain #VansCheckerboardDay
@danceswithwerewolves
4.4K likes • 41.7K views
If you've ever danced at First Avenue, you might’ve shared the floor with someone... not quite living. Our Candlelight Ghost Tour guide will share the eerie tale of a spirit who still lingers. Come join us—if you dare.⁠ ⁠ #MinneapolisTrolleyTours #WeekendActivity #GhostTour #TwinCities #ThingsToDoMinneapolis #TravelMinneapolis #CandlelightGhostTour #WeekendMinneapoils #MeetMinneapolis #MusicGhost ...
minneapolistrolley
18 likes • 515 views

👻 Ghostly Encounters?

Rumors of spirits linger here. Keep an eye out for the unexplained! TikTokInstagram

💧 Free Water Station

Stay hydrated! Free water is available, a thoughtful touch for concertgoers. Reddit

🎸‼️TICKET GIVEAWAY ALERT‼️🎸 ••• Thanks to @firstavenue, we’re giving away TWO TICKETS to @spacey_jane at First Avenue on Sept. 19th! ft. @lipbombs 🔥🔥🔥 ••• Here’s how to win: 1. Like this post 🫶 2. Follow @brobroscloset and @firstavenue 3. Comment and tag someone you want to bring to the show (unlimited entries) ***Cannot comment same person twice*** GOOD LUCK! 🍀 ••• Show information: Entries clos...
brobroscloset
36 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Grab your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be on your feet dancing! Wear comfy shoes for a great night out. Reddit

👻 Ghostly Encounters?

Rumors of spirits linger here. Keep an eye out for the unexplained! TikTokInstagram

💧 Free Water Station

Stay hydrated! Free water is available, a thoughtful touch for concertgoers. Reddit

🌟 Prince's Star

Don't miss Prince's star on the sidewalk and the golden tribute inside. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(417 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise First Avenue and the 7th Street Entry for their incredible live music experiences, vibrant atmosphere, and friendly staff. The intimate setting of the Entry is particularly loved for discovering new artists, while First Avenue's legendary status and connection to Prince draw many music fans. Some minor critiques mention restroom wait times at the Entry and the general challenge of downtown parking.

"It's special to me because of Purple Rain 💜 and all the important acts that have performed here! I'm such a fan girl! No apologies. Took pictures until my hearts desire! 💜"

MBJ

"I've known about this venue and its rich history for majority of my life but have never seen a show here while I've seen a dozen shows at First Ave. As a first time at the Entry, I was really blown away with the quality of my experience from bartender service to the sound quality to the quality of the restrooms. There was a little bit of wiggle room during the opening band but as the show got closer to the headliner the more the venue got packed. Really loved the intimate setting that this venue provided and the comradery of my fellow concertgoers. The bathrooms here are much better than First Ave given they offer much more privacy albeit at the cost of longer wait times to get in. Sound was perfect all night for every band which from my experiences elsewhere can be a struggle in very small venues. I would to come back for more concerts here at the Entry."

Chris Montan

"Went to see Strings & Heart perform here and it was nice for a small venue. The bathroom was the only thing that felt weird but it was a great time!"

Mari Cortes

What People Like

Legendary music venue
Intimate Entry experience
Friendly and accommodating staff

What People Dislike

Downtown parking challenges
Entry restroom wait times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

First Avenue & 7th St Entry is located in downtown Minneapolis. Public transportation, including buses and light rail, is a convenient option. Ride-sharing services are also readily available. Parking can be challenging in the downtown area, so factor that into your travel plans. Reddit

Several parking garages and street parking options are available near First Avenue, but they can fill up quickly, especially on show nights. Consider arriving early or using public transport. Reddit

Yes, many downtown Minneapolis hotels are within walking distance of First Avenue, making it a convenient option for attendees staying nearby. Reddit

For concerts, many locals recommend using ride-sharing services or public transit to avoid parking hassles. Check the Metro Transit website for routes and schedules. Reddit

Absolutely! First Avenue is well-served by numerous bus routes and is a short walk from light rail stations, making it easily accessible for visitors. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically available through the First Avenue website, Ticketmaster, and at the venue's box office. It's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as popular shows sell out quickly. Instagram

First Avenue's hours vary depending on scheduled events. The venue typically opens its doors about an hour before the show's start time. Check the specific event listing for details. Reddit

Yes, First Avenue has a bag policy. Generally, small clutches or wallets are allowed, but larger bags, backpacks, and purses may be prohibited. Always check the venue's official website for the most up-to-date policy before your visit. Reddit

For some shows, tickets may be available at the door if the event hasn't sold out. However, for popular acts, it's best to buy tickets in advance to guarantee entry. Reddit

Yes, the 7th Street Entry is a smaller, more intimate venue often hosting different acts. Tickets are usually sold separately for shows at each venue, though sometimes they are part of a larger event. Instagram

🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience

First Avenue is renowned for its electric atmosphere, especially during live performances. It's a place where music history is palpable, offering an intimate yet energetic concert experience. Reddit+1

First Avenue hosts a wide range of genres, from rock and indie to hip-hop and electronic music. It's a hub for both established artists and emerging talent. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The 7th Street Entry is known for its intimate setting, making it an ideal spot to catch up-and-coming local and national artists. InstagramReddit

Beyond the music, you can see Prince's star on the sidewalk and a golden tribute inside. The venue itself is a landmark steeped in Minneapolis music history. TikTokInstagram

Reviews suggest the restrooms at the 7th Street Entry offer more privacy than at First Avenue, though this can sometimes lead to longer wait times. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While First Avenue is primarily a music venue, they often have a bar serving drinks. Food options might be limited, so it's best to dine before or after the show. Reddit

Downtown Minneapolis offers a plethora of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, located just a short walk from First Avenue. Reddit

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside First Avenue. Check the venue's specific policy for details. Reddit

You'll find everything from classic American fare to diverse international cuisines in the vicinity of First Avenue. Explore the downtown area for a wide selection. Reddit

Yes, the 7th Street Entry has a bar where you can purchase drinks during shows. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by show. Generally, personal cameras and phones are allowed for casual photos, but professional recording equipment is usually prohibited. Always check the specific event's policy. Instagram+1

Capture the iconic exterior, the star-studded sidewalk, and the vibrant interior during a performance. The stage and crowd offer dynamic photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited during performances to avoid distracting the artists and other audience members. Instagram

The iconic black building with the star mural is a must-photograph. The sidewalk with tribute stars also makes for great shots. TikTok

It can be challenging due to low lighting and crowds, but capturing the energy of a live show can result in amazing photos. Be mindful of others around you. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

First Avenue and the 7th Street Entry are primarily adult-oriented music venues, so they are generally not suitable for young children. Most shows have an age restriction, typically 18+ or 21+. It's best to check the specific event details for age requirements before planning a family outing. Reddit

However, if you're visiting Minneapolis and want to experience the cultural significance of First Avenue, you can still admire its iconic exterior and the star-studded sidewalk during the day. This offers a glimpse into its legendary status without the need to attend a show.

💰 Budget Travelers

Attending shows at First Avenue can be budget-friendly, especially if you catch local bands or emerging artists at the 7th Street Entry, where ticket prices are often lower. Keep an eye out for free shows or special promotions. Instagram

To save on food and drinks, consider dining at nearby restaurants before heading to the venue. Also, utilizing public transportation or ride-sharing services can be more cost-effective than parking downtown, especially on busy event nights. Reddit

🎶 Dedicated Music Fans

For true music aficionados, First Avenue is a must-visit. The venue's rich history, diverse lineup, and intimate atmosphere make it a prime destination for experiencing live music. Reddit+1

Make sure to check the schedule regularly for your favorite genres and artists. Consider attending shows at both First Avenue and the 7th Street Entry to experience the full spectrum of what this legendary Minneapolis music complex has to offer. Don't forget to explore the iconic sidewalk stars, a tribute to the artists who have graced its stages. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Prince at First Avenue

First Avenue is inextricably linked to the legendary Prince Rogers Nelson. The venue served as the backdrop for his iconic film, Purple Rain, and hosted countless electrifying performances throughout his career. Visitors can still feel his presence, with a star on the sidewalk outside and a special golden tribute inside the club. The club's black exterior and the vibrant energy within are synonymous with Prince's groundbreaking artistry and his deep connection to Minneapolis. TikTokInstagram

Fans often visit to pay homage, taking photos with the iconic stars and soaking in the atmosphere that inspired so much of Prince's work. The venue's commitment to preserving his legacy makes it a pilgrimage site for music enthusiasts worldwide. It’s a place where the echoes of his music and the spirit of his creativity continue to resonate. TikTok

First Avenue vs. 7th Street Entry: A Tale of Two Venues

First Avenue and its sister venue, the 7th Street Entry, offer distinct but complementary live music experiences. First Avenue, the larger of the two, is a renowned concert hall that attracts major national and international acts across a wide spectrum of genres. It boasts a legendary status in music history, having hosted countless iconic performances. Instagram+1

The 7th Street Entry, located within the same complex, provides a more intimate setting. This smaller club is the perfect place to discover emerging artists, local bands, and up-and-coming talent. The close proximity to the performers in the Entry creates a unique, energetic vibe that many concertgoers cherish. While First Avenue offers the grandeur of a historic music hall, the Entry delivers the raw excitement of a more personal musical encounter. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Music: The Eerie Side of First Avenue

Whispers of the supernatural add another layer to the mystique of First Avenue. Over the years, stories have circulated about lingering spirits, particularly those connected to the venue's long and storied history. Some visitors and staff have reported unexplained phenomena, contributing to its reputation as a potentially haunted location. TikTokInstagram

These tales often involve apparitions or strange occurrences, adding an element of intrigue for those who visit. While the primary draw is undoubtedly the world-class music, the possibility of a ghostly encounter adds a unique, albeit spooky, dimension to the First Avenue experience. It’s a fascinating aspect that fuels the venue's legendary status and sparks conversation among visitors. TikTok

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