ENJOY A PRINCE-THEMED TOUR
Prince was a born-and-bred Minnesotan who spent most of his 57 years here — someone who once told Oprah he "will always live in Minneapolis" because winter "keeps the bad people out."
Here is how you can take a self-guided tour of the spots that shaped Prince, from his iconic recording studio/residence to the nightclub immortalized in "Purple Rain".
first avenue
This ex-Greyhound depot has been the center of Minneapolis’ live music scene for more than 50 years. Featuring more than 500 stars on its facade — the names of acts who have performed there — First Avenue was one of Prince’s main stages to try out his new eccentric sounds.
In 1983, the album version of the song "Purple Rain" was recorded here live. One year later, the venue set the backdrop for the concert footage in the movie of the same name. Prince's star was painted gold after his death, and thousands gathered to celebrate his life there when he passed away at 57 on April 21, 2016.
paisley park
Paisley Park, Prince's recording studio/residence/performance venue in the western suburb of Chanhassen, has become a destination for his fans to pay tribute to the late star. Public tours are available throughout the week and include access to Prince's recording and mixing studios, rehearsal rooms, sound stage and private music club. Not to mention a closer look at his iconic outfits, awards, instruments and other memorabilia.
Self-guided and VIP options are available, as well as special events throughout the year, including the annual Celebration festival that features exclusive panel discussions, concerts, and Paisley Park experiences.
public murals
Artist Rock "Cyfi" Martinez painted a mural of Prince a few days after his passing as "a present to the city of Minneapolis." You can find this mural at 26th and Hennepin in the Uptown neighborhood, behind the Sencha Tea building.
There is also a Prince mural in Minneapolis' North Loop that Floyd's 99 Barbershop commissioned, and a towering piece near the Target Center by street artist Hiero Veiga, which was unveiled as part of a weekend celebrating what would have been Prince's 64th birthday.
The town of Henderson was featured in "Purple Rain" when a scene was filmed along the Minnesota River. There's now a mural downtown featuring Prince, First Avenue and 7th Street Entry and a little red Corvette. Fans can also pay their respects at a memorial bench surrounded by purple flowers.
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