Along the Mississippi, the Blues Highway is a journey to the heart of American music history. From New Orleans to Chicago, it links the cities and towns where jazz, blues, soul and rock'n'roll were born.
New Orleans, the starting point
The French Quarter, its wrought-iron balconies, jazz clubs and Creole and Cajun cuisine: New Orleans is an unforgettable start. Take time to explore the bayous and nearby Cajun country too.
The Mississippi Delta and Clarksdale
Heading north, you enter the Delta, the cradle of the blues. In Clarksdale, the famous crossroads of Highways 61 and 49 is linked to the legend of Robert Johnson, and juke joints still bring the music to life at night.
Memphis
Memphis is a must: Beale Street and its clubs, Sun Studio where Elvis Presley recorded his first songs, and Graceland, his famous home.
Nashville and on to Chicago
Many itineraries make a detour to Nashville, the capital of country music, before heading up to St. Louis and then Chicago, where the blues went electric.
By car, motorcycle or cruise
The Blues Highway is ideal by car or motorcycle, on quiet roads with reasonable daily legs. For a gentler approach, a Mississippi cruise between Memphis and New Orleans brings the Old South back to life aboard a paddle steamer.
Our tips
- Spring and autumn are the best seasons: summer is hot and humid in the South.
- Check the festivals: many towns host blues and jazz festivals.
- Keep your evenings free: that is when the music comes alive.
We have designed exclusive itineraries on the Blues Highway, by car and by motorcycle. Our specialists build your tailor-made trip.
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