The Mississippi Blues Trail is one of the few places that commemorate historically and culturally significant sites throughout the state of Mississippi.
From the Blue Front Café in Bentonia to the historic Jimmie Rodgers Museum, the Mississippi Blue Trail takes you to more than 100 locations where blues music was made, lived, and recorded.
In fact, there are so many sites that it can be challenging to choose which ones to visit first.
But don’t worry, as here is a list of must-see attractions on the Mississippi Blues Trail.
1. Blue Front Café
If you’re a fan of blues music, visiting the Blue Front Cafe is a must. This tiny juke joint in Bentonia, Mississippi, has been hosting live music since 1948 and is said to be one of the last remaining original blues clubs in the state.
Initially owned by Carey Homes and his wife Mary, the Blue Front Café first served as a place where Black workers at the Cotton Gin in Bentonia would eat and have fun after a busy day.
Some big names who frequented the Blue Front Café for live performances include Jack Owens, Henry Stuckey, and Thomas West. Today, Carey and Mary’s Son, Jimmy “Duck” Homes, owns and manages the place.
2. Delta Blues Museum
Located in Clarksdale, the Delta Blues Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the legacy of the great musicians who played in the Mississippi region.
Here, you can explore everything about the history of Mississippi Delta Blues music, from its early days until today.
Established in 1979, the museum features a collection of traveling exhibits and memorabilia linked to terrific blues artists such as Big Mama Thornton, B.B King, and Richard “Daddy Rich” Crisman. Also at the site is a gift shop where you can find unique souvenirs to take home with you.
3. B.B King Birthplace
Your trip to the Mississippi Blues Trail won’t be complete if you don’t visit Berclair, the small town where B.B King, famously known as the King of Blues, was born.
While here, you can learn about King’s early life and career and tour Indianola, his hometown.
If you need more information about the King of Blues, you can head to the B.B King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center. The museum has a collection of King’s iconic items, including his button-up shirts and “Lucille” guitars. You can also learn about the history, literature, challenges, and successes of the Mississippi Delta here.
4. Jimmie Rodgers Museum
Situated in the city where Jimmy Rodgers, the father of Country Music, was born, the Jimmie Rodgers Museum is another must-see for any music lover.
The museum chronicles Rodger’s life and career, with exhibits on his humble beginnings as a railroad worker to his rise to stardom.
Highlights of the museum include Rodger’s stage clothes, instruments, and other personal items, as well as audio and video recordings of his performances.
Also at the museum is a research library with documents and photos related to Rodgers and country music history.
5. Howlin’ Wolf Marker and Blues Museum
Howlin’ Wolf is dubbed one of the most influential blues musicians. His marker and accompanying blues museum in West Point, Mississippi, is definitely worth a visit.
Upon arriving at West Point City Park, one of the first things you’ll see is a giant sculpture depicting Howlin’ Wolf holding his guitar.
Inside the Howlin’ Wolf Blues Museum, you can learn about the history of blues music and its cultural significance.
The museum also houses essential exhibits that tell stories about some of the many influential artists who shaped the blues genre through their artistry.
The big names you’ll learn about here include Bessie Smith, Muddy Waters, T-Bone Walker, and guitarist Hubert Sumlin.