A hush descends as you step inside a world Prince meticulously crafted in 1987—this isn’t just a museum, it’s a living creative sanctuary. Spanning 65,000 square feet, Paisley Park was envisioned as both home and cutting-edge recording studio where Prince forged his artistic empire.
Originally opened to artists and collaborators, Paisley Park transitioned to private use by the late 1990s. After Prince’s death in 2016, it transformed into a public museum offering guided tours through his personal and professional spaces.
Key Highlights
Inside, each tour reveals highlights of Prince’s life and vision: vintage costumes, gold records, and snapshots of his creative process in detailed exhibits. The Purple Rain Room, NPG Music Club, and Studio A—his main 1,500‑square‑foot control room—offer intimate glimpses into his universe.
Paisley Park houses multiple professional recording studios, a large soundstage, rehearsal rooms, and even private backstage areas once reserved for film shoots and album production. It functioned not just as a performance venue, but as a fully integrated center for music, film, and television—used by Prince and other major artists.
Atmosphere & Décor
Walk in and you move from industrial exterior into a kaleidoscopic foyer painted with clouds, doves, and Prince’s iconic love symbol. Bright purples and whimsical motifs contrast with sharp acoustical design; it’s visual spectacle meets studio precision.
The interior design marries practical recording function with bold aesthetic statements—the building’s layout was shaped to Prince’s own vision and includes a glass pyramid that glowed purple whenever he was present.
Other Considerations
So how’s the price?
Tickets range by tour type—from general admission to VIP or the Ultimate Experience—with options priced between roughly $75–$199 depending on guided access and exclusive areas.
What about crowds?
Even general admission offers a thoughtful, well-paced walkthrough of major exhibits without feeling rushed. VIP tours provide additional access, but note that some private areas and Prince’s vault remain off-limits.
Parking & access:
Ample free parking is available on-site. The museum is fully walkable, though visitors are required to store all phones and cameras before entering the guided areas.
Hidden gems?
Diehard fans appreciate surprises like handwritten lyrics, rare concert outfits, and mixing consoles you can interact with on certain tours. Some areas allow photos, particularly if you upgrade to VIP.
Paisley Park
📍 7801 Audubon Rd, Chanhassen, MN 55317
Website: https://www.paisleypark.com
