FIRST AVENUE

One of the city's top venues, it has seen the likes of Björk, Blur, The Cardigans and above all Prince take to the stage. The Minneapolis kid shot part of his autobiographical film Purple Rain here in 1984, contributing greatly to First Avenue's fame. The outside facade is adorned with 531 stars named after the stars who contributed to the success of the venue, which doubles as a nightclub and concert hall. Upstairs, the bar is a delight: its windows overlook Nicollet Mall and its unobstructed view of the stage.