The Blues Crossroads: Where Legends Intersect

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Visit the legendary Blues Crossroads in Clarksdale, MS, where music history and myth converge at the intersection of Highways 61 and 49.

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The Blues Crossroads

The Blues Crossroads in Clarksdale, MS, marks the legendary intersection of Highways 61 and 49, where blues icon Robert Johnson is said to have sold his soul to the devil for musical talent. A monument with three giant blue guitars commemorates this mythical event, drawing blues enthusiasts from around the world.

A brief summary to The Blues Crossroads

599 N State St, Clarksdale, Mississippi, 38614, US
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 6 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Blues Crossroads.

Take photos at night when the Crossroads sign is illuminated for a memorable experience.
Visit nearby Abe's BBQ for a taste of local cuisine while exploring the area.
Check out live blues music at local juke joints and clubs for an authentic Delta experience.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Delta Blues Museum, head south on Blues Alley, then turn right onto Delta Avenue. Walk west for two blocks, then turn left onto N State Street. Walk south for one block. The Blues Crossroads will be on your left at the intersection of Highways 61 and 49. This is a short walk within downtown Clarksdale.
Public Transport

The Greyhound bus station is located at 1604 State St, approximately 1 mile north of The Blues Crossroads. From the bus station, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to the intersection of Highways 61 and 49. The ride will cost approximately $5 - $10.
Driving

From Memphis International Airport, take I-55 South to MS-3 West toward Clarksdale. Continue onto US-61 South. Follow US-61 to N State St in Clarksdale. The Blues Crossroads will be at the intersection of Highways 61 and 49. Parking is available near the venue. Expect to pay around $5-10 for parking in nearby lots.

Discover more about The Blues Crossroads

In Clarksdale, Mississippi, the intersection of Highways 61 and 49, known as The Blues Crossroads, is more than just a geographical point; it's a symbolic landmark in blues music history. According to legend, this is where Robert Johnson, a struggling bluesman, made a deal with the devil to gain extraordinary musical ability. The Crossroads isClaimed to be the spot where Johnson met a mysterious man at midnight who tuned his guitar in exchange for his soul. This legend is immortalized in Johnson's song, "Cross Road Blues".Clarksdale is considered the birthplace of the blues, and this intersection has become a pilgrimage site for music lovers. Highway 61, known as the "Blues Highway", and Highway 49, the road to Parchman Prison, both contributed to the rich musical heritage of the area. Today, a monument featuring three large blue guitars marks the spot where this legendary event is said to have occurred. The site serves as a reminder of the profound impact of the blues on American culture and continues to draw visitors who want to connect with the roots of this iconic musical genre.The story of Robert Johnson and the Crossroads has become a cornerstone of blues mythology, inspiring countless artists and solidifying Clarksdale's place in music history. Whether fact or fiction, the legend adds to the mystique and allure of this Mississippi Delta town. The Blues Crossroads remains a powerful symbol of resilience, creativity, and the enduring quest for artistic expression.