Discovering America’s soulful history along the Blues Highway and Mississippi Blues Trail

Here’s your invitation to journey along the Blues Highway, also known as U.S. Highway 61. As you travel, don’t miss the Mississippi Blues Trail markers located all along the route. They highlight significant sites and stories of this iconic music genre.

The Blues Highway route originates in Minnesota. (Who knew?) It closely follows the Mississippi River and continues south through Memphis, Tennessee. It crosses the Mississippi Delta region and meanders south to its conclusion in New Orleans.

To see the most iconic sites within a relatively concentrated area, start your journey in Memphis and head southward.

Exploring the trail

Traveling along Highway 61, you’ll encounter numerous towns and landmarks that have helped to shape the music we know as the blues. The trail sometimes veers off onto secondary roadways like Old U.S. 61 and at other times it may take you along county roads. I think it’s best to park your RV and take day trips to and from your campground(s) to the sites you’ve prioritized.

Let’s go!

Begin your journey on the Mississippi Blues Trail in Memphis, Tennessee. As you travel southward, get ready to experience a rich tapestry of musical heritage and cultural landmarks.

Route Overview

U.S. Highway 61: The main artery beginning in Memphis, TN, will take you through the Mississippi Delta, connecting you to key blues heritage sites. Cross from Tennessee into Mississippi, traveling south.

County roads: Venturing off Highway 61 onto local county roads can lead to hidden gems and authentic juke joints. For example, exploring areas around Clarksdale may take you onto County Road 436 to visit historic sites like the Riverside Hotel.

Here’s a guide highlighting notable stops, highway routes, and county roads to maximize your adventure:

Memphis, Tennessee

Explore Beale Street, Sun Studio, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music before heading south.

Tunica, Mississippi

• Gateway to the Blues Museum. Located at 13625 U.S. 61 N, this museum offers insights into the origins of blues music.
• Tunica River Park. Explore exhibits on the Mississippi River’s history and ecology.

Clarksdale, Mississippi

• Delta Blues Museum. Situated at 1 Blues Alley Lane, it’s Mississippi’s oldest music museum dedicated to the blues.
• Ground Zero Blues Club. Experience live blues in an authentic setting at 387 Delta Ave.
• The Crossroads (Highways 61 and 49). The legendary intersection associated with Robert Johnson’s famed deal with the devil.

Cleveland, Mississippi

• GRAMMY Museum Mississippi. Located at 800 W Sunflower Rd, this museum celebrates the history of the GRAMMY Awards with a focus on Mississippi’s musical heritage.
• Dockery Farms. Often referred to as the birthplace of the blues, it’s located at 229 MS-8.

Indianola, Mississippi

• B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center. Found at 400 2nd St, it offers an in-depth look into the life of B.B. King and the blues genre.

Bentonia, Mississippi

• The Blue Front Café. Bentonia, MS. Established in 1948, this café is renowned for its association with the Bentonia blues style and continues to host live music events.

Vicksburg, Mississippi

• Blues Trail Markers. Vicksburg is home to six Blues Trail markers, including The Blue Room, Highway 61 South, Marcus Bottom, The Red Tops, Willie Dixon, and William Ferris.
• Historic Downtown. Explore the rich history and architecture of Vicksburg’s downtown area.

2025 events

Mississippi is set to host several notable events in 2025 that RVing blues enthusiasts should consider:

• Vicksburg Bicentennial Celebrations: Starting in January, Vicksburg will commemorate its 200th anniversary with events throughout the year, including music and cultural festivals.
• Weidmann’s 155th Anniversary: Located in Meridian, Weidmann’s, Mississippi’s longest-operating restaurant, will celebrate its 155th anniversary in 2025 with special events and menu offerings.
• Highway 61 Blues Festival: Traditionally held in Leland, this festival celebrates the rich blues heritage of the region. While the 2024 festival was on October 5, dates for 2025 are yet to be announced. Check for updates.

RV parks and camping

Here are some RV parks along the route:

• Tunica Arena & Exposition Center RV Park. Tunica, MS, offers full hookups and is conveniently located near the Gateway to the Blues Museum.
• Coahoma County Expo Center RV Park. Clarksdale, MS, provides RV accommodations with easy access to Clarksdale’s blues attractions.
• Ameristar RV Park. Vicksburg, MS, provides RV sites with amenities and proximity to Vicksburg’s historic downtown.

Tips for RV travelers

• Plan ahead: Some areas may have limited RV facilities; it’s advisable to check availability and make reservations in advance.
• Local cuisine: Don’t miss out on local delicacies like Delta tamales, especially in Clarksdale.
• Live music: Experience live blues performances at local venues to fully immerse yourself in the culture.
• Engage the locals: Southern folks are known for their friendly hospitality. Talk with them. Ask for restaurant recommendations as well as local history. Don’t forget to check with local tourism websites and visitor centers which can provide up-to-date information that will enhance your trip.

Plan to go

A journey along the Blues Trail offers a deep dive into the roots of American music. Every stop gives a unique glimpse into the soulful heritage of the blues. Make plans to see it for yourself in 2025.

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