The room. Prince filmed Purple Rain here. The black stars on the outside wall track every act that has played the venue. The Mainroom is one of the best mid-sized rock clubs in the country, and the 7th St Entry next door is the small room where bands try out the city before they grow into the big stage. If you only see one show in Minneapolis, see it here.
Mainroom holds 1,550 standing — get there by the opener if you want the rail. The balcony is the move for tall people and short sets. The bar at the back of the floor is the quietest spot to actually hear someone talk between songs. After the show, the Depot Tavern next door is where the touring band ends up.
Cheap Glue
Nectarous
Joey Harkum (solo)
Val Son and LaPlant Road
Karla Rose and Al Church Band
Sparrowhawk
Tonina
Josh Heinrichs and Brendan Clemente