They may call it the Blues, but road tripping through the area where this distinctive musical style was born will likely lift your spirits. In fact, the area is so rich in musical history that U.S. Route 61, which runs right through it, has been dubbed the "Blues Highway". Immerse yourself in the culture by following in the footsteps of the Blues greats, and discover what inspired them to make music so profound that it was dubbed "soul" music. Ready to hit the road? Pop in that Muddy Waters CD, roll down the windows and belt out a tune or two on the road down from Memphis town, along the Blues Highway.
11991 Tyra Court, Maryland Heights, Missouri, United States
351 Saint Marys Rd, Sainte Genevieve, MO, United States
The Union Station Hotel is an iconic Nashville establishment, and the perfect place to spend the night. It's a beautifully restored 19th century railroad station. But, even if you don't end up staying, at least poke your head in and gawk at the ornate lobby. It's stunning.
Starting in Nashville, you've got to hit up B.B. Kings Blues Club. As with most places in Nashville, you'll find good music and good BBQ here. It's a big space that can get crowded, but it's got drinks and dancing late into the night.
Next up is the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum in Memphis, TN. This museum is a must-visit for any fan of the blues and blues history. When you first walk in you're given a set of headphones that guide you through the exhibits. You begin by learning about the roots of blues and country, and how this genre of music started on farms and plantations, and then you'll move on up through the years. Another cool feature is that there are jukeboxes in the exhibit rooms, so you can hear music from each time period.
While in Memphis, visit Lauderdale Courts, where Elvis Presley and his parents lived from 1949 til 1953. Today, you can see the room that Elvis slept in. The whole place feels like you're stepping back in time to the '50s. They also offer overnight stays for diehard Elvis fans.
Next stop is the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. This museum is housed in a former recording studio/record shop. Here you can see some awesome artifacts, like Isaac Hayes' car or Booker T. Jones' keyboard, all while learning about the amazing history and influence of the Stax record label. Some of the best music in the world came from Stax, and this museum is an absolute must-visit if you're traveling through Memphis.
Next up is Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel. Just around the corner from Graceland (the hotel is literally steps away), the Heartbreak Hotel is a fun 1950's-inspired hotel that Elvis fans (and just visitors to Memphis) will thoroughly enjoy. Rooms are actually contemporary and modern, with fun photos of Elvis hanging on the walls. Wifi is free and there are channels on the TV that show only Elvis movies. TIP: Ask to upgrade to one of their suites to really experience what it was like to be the King of Rock and Roll. Plan to spend time in the heart-shaped pool, and the jungle-themed lounge. The hotel also offers rides to Beale Street, where you'll find loads of bars featuring live blues, at night for a modest fee.
Tunica, MS, United States
Clarksdale, MS, United States
Best time to travel down the Blues Highway: Since summer is high season for all of the towns along the route, spring and fall are the best times to travel if you're hoping to avoid high hotel rates, crowds, and the often-sweltering Southern heat.
