Dakota Jazz Club and Restaurant Credit: Jeffrey Newcomer, provided by Dakota find legendary music venues Minnesota's live music scene is electrifying year-round, from iconic venues that shaped American music history to intimate clubs showcasing emerging talent. FIRST AVENUE: A MINNEAPOLIS ICON A renovated bus depot in downtown Minneapolis, First Avenue has been rockin’ for more than 50 years and remains a shining example of what it means to be truly independent. You may have seen First Ave even if you’ve never been to Minneapolis; it’s where the concert scenes from Prince’s “Purple Rain” were filmed. FITZGERALD THEATER: ST. PAUL’S HISTORIC STAGE St. Paul's oldest active theater served as the home of "A Prairie Home Companion" for nearly four decades. The elegant 1,000-seat venue with its exceptional acoustics now hosts an eclectic mix of musical performances, comedy shows and speaking events in its historic space. WHERE TO SEE THE BIG SHOWS The Twin Cities attracts major global tours. Target Center in downtown Minneapolis has hosted stars like Charli XCX, Foo Fighters and Doja Cat, while Grand Casino Arena (formerly Xcel Energy Center) in St. Paul has featured Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel. For the biggest acts, U.S. Bank Stadium transforms into a massive concert venue for artists like Beyoncé, Post Malone, Luke Combs, Kendrick Lamar, Paul McCartney and Taylor Swift. JAZZ NIGHTS AT THE DAKOTA With tables wrapped around the stage, the Dakota in Minneapolis offers one of the most immersive listening experiences in the Midwest with dinner and a show. This cozy music club and restaurant has hosted jazz legends like Ramsey Lewis and McCoy Tyner and has a rich history of showcasing renowned jazz, blues, contemporary and world music artists. 48 | EXPLORE MINNESOTA .COM
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2026 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 48
