The birthplace of American Music is so heavenly ingrained in the South, particularly in the Mississippi Delta. From the blues to country music and even Gospel, the land both rich in fertile soil and musical roots is a must see destination for any music lover. If you are looking for a unique way to explore the Mississippi Delta and explore the rich culture and heritage of the region, a museum road trip is a perfect way to explore. We have a list of 5 Blues Museums to Visit in the Mississippi Delta that can also serve as perfect places to host a family reunion or a farm to table dinner party with your traveling buddies. Check out this list below and be sure to share the images of your trip with us using the hashtag #blacksouthernbelle
5 Blues Museums to Visit in the Mississippi Delta
Gateway to the Blues Museum (13625 US Highway 61 North, Tunica Resorts, MS 38664) Making the journey down Highway 61, visitors will find this little museum next to a Visitors Center to be huge surprise. With interactive exhibits, tales of native bluesmen and amazing art and guitar collections, the story of the birth of the Blues is told. True to its name, the gateway also offers a glimpse of stories told in other museums across the region. Before leaving, visitors get the chance to make their own Blues recording here!
Credit: Tunica Convention & Visitors Bureau
Delta Blues Museum (#1 Blues Alley, Clarksdale, MS 38614) Now in its 40th year, The Delta Blues Museum, housed in the historic Clarksdale freight depot, showcases the history and significance of the Blues in this region. As part of its permanent collection, the museum features an extensive Muddy Waters collection, along with photos, videos and memorabilia telling the stories of many other famous Blues artists. Temporary exhibits add even more reasons to visit.
Credit: Lou Bopp courtesy of Visit Clarksdale
GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi (800 W Sunflower Road, Cleveland, MS 38732) The amazing GRAMMY Museum® has music fans flocking to Cleveland, Mississippi. Why here? The museum’s website touts, “Mississippi, more notably the Mississippi Delta, has one of the richest musical histories and lasting legacies of any place on Earth.” Within its 28,000-square-foot facility are more than two dozen exhibits exploring that legacy as well as music history and the stories of GRAMMY® award-winning songs and musicians.
Photo Credit: Cleveland Mississippi Tourism
Highway 61 Blues Museum (307 North Broad Street, Leland, MS 38756) Leland has been home to many who’ve gone on to fame, leaving their mark on both Blues and rock and roll. The collection here offers a personal connection to the local favorites. Visitors often get the added treat of a stories and songs, from staff and local performers.
B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center (400 Second Street, Indianola, MS 38751) Indianola was B.B. King’s home and is now his final resting place. His inspiring story is told here, too. This impressive museum shares the life, music and influence of the Blues icon. The collection includes interactive exhibits, artifacts, photographs and award-winning films.
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Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
