One Of The Nation S Best Historic Cities Is Here In Mississippi

USA Today recently released a list of the top 10 historic towns in America, and Mississippi’s very own Clarksdale landed the #7 spot. And we have to say, as the birthplace of the blues, the town is definitely worthy of the recognition. Read on to learn more about Clarksdale and the can’t-miss sites that fill it.

Located in the Delta, Clarksdale was incorporated in 1882.

Mississippi Department of Archives and History/Wikimedia

Established well over a century ago, the city is brimming with history, especially in the way of music, which makes sense since it’s commonly touted as the birthplace of the blues.

Library of Congres/Wikimedia

In fact, USA Today cited Clarksdale’s musical past, which is very much in the present, as the reason the city landed a spot on its list.

PKC54/TripAdvisor

As you stroll around downtown Clarksdale, you’ll notice lots of nods to the city’s musical heritage.

Bill Van Rooy/Google

There are tons of ways to soak in Clarksdale’s culture, including shops, like Cathead, which is stocked with CDs, artwork, and more.

abbyladybug/Flickr

You’ll also find galleries and venues, where you can catch live performances. Ground Zero Blues Club, which is co-owned by Morgan Freeman, is revered for its quirky atmosphere, tasty grub, and live entertainment, of course.

Martin Ely/Flickr

The Mississippi Blues Trail runs right through the city. Keep your eyes peeled for the makers, which tell the story of the musicians that once flocked to Clarksdale.

David Smith/Google

One notable landmark not to be missed is The Crossroads, which is said to be the site where Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil.

Peter Burka/Flickr

Of course, one of the best places to learn about Clarksdale’s musical past is the Delta Blues Museum.

Vanessa Bowser/Google

Opened in 1979, it’s the state’s oldest music museum. It’s also one of the most interesting, as it’s teeming with incredible exhibits.

Rainer Jilke/Google

The musical fun even extends to the accommodations in Clarksdale. In business since 1944, The Riverside Hotel has long hosted blues musicians and, subsequently, blues fans.

Mr. Littlehand/Flickr

The Squeeze Box is another hotel where guests can fully immerse themselves in the city’s history.

The Squeeze Box/TripAdvisor

With so much to see and do in Clarksdale, it can be easy to miss some sites. However, that can be avoided by booking a tour with Delta Bohemian Tours, a tour company that focuses on the city’s can’t-miss sites.

Delta Bohemian Tours/TripAdvisor

For more information, check out the Visit Clarksdale website.