A Prince-Themed Tour of Minnesota By Caitlin Hannah Prince was a born-and-bred Minnesotan who spent most of his 57 years here. Take a self-guided tour of some of the top Prince related destinations. FIRST AVENUE In 1983, the album version of the song “Purple Rain” was recorded live at First Avenue. One year later, the venue set the backdrop for the concert footage in the movie of the same name. 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. THE DAKOTA Just a short walk from First Avenue you will fi nd the Dakota. Prince was known to frequent the intimate club to support local musicians and would often show up unexpectedly. In 2013, he performed a set of shows that sold out a half hour after they were announced. America’s Most Picturesque Towns and Small Town Food Scenes -USA Today Travel LAKE MINNETONKA Fans of “Purple Rain” will remember the scene where Apollonia is asked to “purify herself in Lake Minnetonka.” Though the scene was actually fi lmed along the Minnesota River south of the Twin Cities near Henderson, the real Lake Minnetonka is about 30 minutes west of Minneapolis. For more stops and additional details, visit exploreminnesota.com/ itinerary/self-guided-prince-tour Order a FREE Visitor Guide at DiscoverStillwater.com #ONLYIN MN | 31
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2025 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 31
