Looking to check out the best music venues in Minneapolis? Using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce, Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top music venues in the city.

1. First Avenue

Topping the list is the iconic First Avenue, best known as late Minneapolis native Prince's favorite venue. Located at 701 First Ave. North in Downtown West, the music venue and dance club is the highest-rated spot of its kind in Minneapolis, boasting 4.5 stars out of 205 reviews on Yelp.

Established in 1970, First Avenue features two stages in one building. The Mainroom has a 1,550 person capacity and hosts about 200 events a year, while the 7th St. entry can hold about 250 patrons and throws down more than 350 concerts annually.

"You just can't say you've lived the Twin Cities until you've seen a show in the Mainroom," said Yelp user Chris L. For upcoming shows, check out First Avenue's website for more information. 

2. Varsity Theater

Next up is Marcy-Holmes' Varsity Theater, situated at 1308 Fourth St. SE With 4.5 stars out of 120 reviews on Yelp, the music venue has proven to be a local favorite.

Located in the Dinkytown neighborhood in Marcy-Holmes, the Varsity hosts a wide variety of concerts, live theatre performances, film screenings and dance performances. According to its Yelp page, the Varsity's stage has seen artists like Amy Winehouse, Janelle Monaé and Phoenix all perform. 

3. Dakota Jazz Club & Restaurant

The Dakota Jazz Club & Restaurant, located at 1010 Nicollet Mall in Downtown West, is another go-to, with four stars out of 201 Yelp reviews.

This club pairs live music seven days a week with a chef-inspired menu, per its website. Along with a wide range of performances ranging from local performers to Grammy Award winners, look for menu options like chicken and sausage gumbo; stuffed poblano with goat cheese, chilies and rice; or fried sunfish with red beans and rice. Beer, wine and signature cocktails are also on offer.

4. Orpheum Theatre

Last but not least, there's the Orpheum Theatre, a Downtown West favorite with four stars out of 83 reviews. Stop by 910 Hennepin Ave. to hit up the music venue and performing art spot next time you're in the mood.

Established in 1921 and billed as one of the city's oldest music and performing arts venues, the Orpheum has a capacity of 2,579 patrons. In the past, it's hosted artists like Bob Dylan, as well as Broadway productions like Wicked and The Book of Mormon. 

For more information, check out the website.