First Avenue & 7th St Entry
A legendary Minneapolis music venue, iconic for its role in Prince's career and its vibrant live performances.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music magic awaits!
First Avenue & 7th St Entry
Best Time
Live music magic awaits!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Minneapolis music venue, iconic for its role in Prince's career and its vibrant live performances.
"This venue is a real landmark, and the staff was all friendly, accommodating, and easy to work with."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Star-Studded Sidewalk
Outside First Avenue
Walk among stars! This iconic sidewalk features stars honoring legendary performers, including Prince.
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
7th Street Entry
Experience up-and-coming artists and local bands in this smaller, more intimate sister venue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Music History
Navigating the Venue
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
👻 Ghostly Encounters?
Rumors of spirits linger here. Keep an eye out for the unexplained!
💧 Free Water Station
Stay hydrated! Free water is available, a thoughtful touch for concertgoers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
👻 Ghostly Encounters?
Rumors of spirits linger here. Keep an eye out for the unexplained!
💧 Free Water Station
Stay hydrated! Free water is available, a thoughtful touch for concertgoers.
🌟 Prince's Star
Don't miss Prince's star on the sidewalk and the golden tribute inside.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Yes, many downtown Minneapolis hotels are within walking distance of First Avenue, making it a convenient option for attendees staying nearby.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎶 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Downtown Minneapolis offers a plethora of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, located just a short walk from First Avenue.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside First Avenue. Check the venue's specific policy for details.
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.
Yes, the 7th Street Entry has a bar where you can purchase drinks during shows.
📸 📸 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.
Capture the iconic exterior, the star-studded sidewalk, and the vibrant interior during a performance. The stage and crowd offer dynamic photo opportunities.
Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited during performances to avoid distracting the artists and other audience members.
The iconic black building with the star mural is a must-photograph. The sidewalk with tribute stars also makes for great shots.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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.
🎶 Dedicated Music Fans
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Prince at First Avenue
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.
First Avenue vs. 7th Street Entry: A Tale of Two Venues
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.
Beyond the Music: The Eerie Side of First Avenue
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit