In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis

Traveling to Minneapolis and want to explore its vibrant music scene without the fuss of guided groups and crowds? This self-guided audio tour focusing on Prince’s life and legacy offers a practical and engaging way to walk the streets and soak in the city’s musical history. It’s perfect for fans of the artist or anyone interested in Minneapolis’s cultural heartbeat, especially if you prefer the flexibility of going at your own pace.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines local landmarks with personal stories—from murals to historic venues—without the hassle of a big tour group. Plus, the price is modest, making it a good value for a personalized urban adventure. On the flip side, you’ll need to have your own smartphone and headphones, and it’s mainly designed for walking, which might be a consideration if you’re less mobile.

This tour suits those who enjoy self-guided explorations, love music history, or want a flexible, private way to connect with Minneapolis’s cultural roots. Whether you’re a dedicated Prince fan or just curious about the city’s music scene, this immersive experience offers a meaningful introduction.

Key Points

• Flexible, self-paced walking tour focusing on Prince’s Minneapolis roots and landmarks
• Affordable price of $11.99 per person, offering good value for a personalized experience
• Offline access ensures no WiFi is needed, ideal for on-the-go exploration
• Includes famous sites like the Nicollet Avenue, First Avenue, murals, and historic venues
• Limited to your group, providing a private, intimate experience
• Duration varies from 75 minutes to over two hours, depending on your pace

What Is This Tour All About?

This self-guided audio tour offers a chance to stroll through downtown Minneapolis, uncovering the city’s deep connection to Prince. The tour masterfully combines music history with urban art and local stories**, making you feel like you’re walking alongside the artist himself. It begins at Nicollet Avenue, widely regarded as the city’s lively heart, and concludes at First Avenue, where thousands mourned Prince’s passing.

What makes this experience stand out is the personalized nature of the tour—you control the pace, start and stop whenever you want, and don’t have to worry about crowds. The app is compatible with both Android and iOS, and after downloading, you have lifetime access to the audio, maps, and geodata—great for repeat visits or future explorations.

While the price of $11.99 is quite reasonable, it’s important to realize that you’ll need your own smartphone and headphones. No tickets or entrance fees are included for attractions along the route, so plan for that if you want to visit any museums or venues. Also, since it’s a walking tour, comfortable shoes will make your experience more enjoyable.

A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Nicollet Mall

Your journey kicks off at 700 Nicollet Mall, a bustling city hub with plenty of shops, restaurants, and the iconic Crystal Court. Here, you’ll recognize the Crystal Court balcony seen in Purple Rain, a spot many fans associate with the film that launched Prince into superstardom.

The Music Wall and Murals

Next, you’ll pass by the Schmitt Music Wall mural, where Prince famously had his first photo shoot. This large, vibrant piece of art captures the city’s artistic spirit and pays homage to local murals that celebrate the artist’s influence. As the tour emphasizes visual landmarks, you’ll get a sense of how street art and music intertwine in Minneapolis.

The Dakota Club and The Orpheum Theatre

A highlight is passing by The Dakota Club, a venue Prince visited just days before his death. Visiting this site offers a tangible connection to his personal life and career. You’ll also stop near the Orpheum Theatre, notable for being one of the first venues where Prince performed as a Black musician—adding historical weight to your walk.

The Iconic Murals and Public Art

One of the most striking sights is a 100-foot mural by Hiero Veiga, commissioned to honor Prince. This towering artwork is a vivid tribute, visible from afar, and offers a great photo opportunity. The tour mentions how art like this sustains Prince’s legacy in the city and how public art can serve as a living memorial.

The Mourning at First Avenue

As you approach First Avenue, the legendary club where Prince’s influence was cemented, you’ll hear about the night 10,000 people gathered to mourn his passing. The site is a pilgrimage point for fans and a symbol of Minneapolis’s musical roots.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Reviews show that many find the tour offers a genuine connection to Prince’s story, with enthusiastic commentary that adds depth beyond just location photos. One reviewer called it “the perfect experience,” praising the guide’s accuracy and the historical richness. Others appreciated the opportunity to explore at their own pace—a major plus for flexible travelers.

However, some mention technical hiccups or difficulty starting the app, so it’s wise to ensure your device is compatible and fully charged. A few reviews highlight the importance of starting the tour at the correct location to avoid missing key details. The tour’s design emphasizes personalized, private exploration, making it ideal for intimate groups or solo adventurers.

The Value for Money

At $11.99, this tour offers solid value—especially considering you get lifetime access and the ability to pause and repeat sections. Compared to guided tours, it’s a more economical way to see the city on your own terms. Plus, since you control the pace, you can linger longer at sites that catch your eye or skip sections if you’re in a hurry.

On the downside, since exclusions include entry to venues and food, you’ll want to budget separately for those experiences. Still, for a primarily walking exploration of downtown landmarks with cultural significance, it’s quite reasonable.

Practical Tips for Maximizing This Tour

• Start at the official beginning point to ensure you receive all the commentary smoothly.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes—this tour covers about 2.4 km (roughly 1.5 miles), which isn’t long but includes some urban walking.
• Fully charge your smartphone and download the app ahead of time—no WiFi needed once loaded.
• Consider bringing a portable charger if you plan to take your time.
• If visiting cultural sites like museums, check their schedules and entrance fees separately.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is best suited for Prince fans eager to connect with his Minneapolis roots in a personal way. It also appeals to music enthusiasts interested in the city’s artistic legacy, or travelers wanting a flexible and private way to explore downtown Minneapolis. If you’re comfortable walking and enjoy self-guided exploration, you’ll find this a rewarding experience.

While technically straightforward, it offers a depth of local storytelling and visual highlights that bring Prince’s story to life without the constraints of group tours. It’s a good balance of history, art, and city vibe, making it a meaningful addition to your Minneapolis visit.

FAQ

Can I do this tour at my own pace?
Yes, the tour is self-guided and designed for you to start, pause, and resume whenever you like, allowing total flexibility.

Do I need WiFi to access the tour?
No, once downloaded, the tour works offline, so WiFi isn’t necessary during your walk.

What do I need to participate?
You’ll need your smartphone and headphones. The app is compatible with both Android and iOS.

Are entrance fees included?
No, tickets or entrance fees for any museums or attractions along the route are not included. You’ll need to pay separately if you choose to visit any sites.

How long does the tour take?
It’s designed for about 75 minutes, but you can take longer or shorter depending on your pace and how long you linger.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility and walking comfort, especially if traveling with children or older adults.

What if I encounter technical issues?
The app is designed to be straightforward, but if you experience problems, check your device compatibility or contact support—most issues are fixable with a quick restart or download.

In summary, this self-guided Prince-themed tour offers a thoughtful, flexible way to experience Minneapolis’s artistic and musical history at your own speed. It’s perfect for fans, curious travelers, or anyone wanting an authentic city walk with memorable landmarks and stories. For those seeking a budget-friendly, personalized experience that celebrates local culture—this is a route worth taking.