The Buddy Holly Crash Site near Clear Lake, Iowa, commemorates the tragic plane crash that took the lives of music legends Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson in 1959. Accessible by a short walk, this solemn site draws fans and visitors honoring rock 'n' roll history. A stainless steel guitar and a set of three stainless steel records mark the exact spot where the plane carrying Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, & JP ''The Big Bopper'' Richardson came to rest following their final concert at the Surf Ballroom. In 2009, a second monument was erected on the 50th anniversary of the tragedy honoring their pilot, Roger Peterson. The outdoor memorial is less than half a mile along the fence row in a field north of Clear Lake. A large pair of black-rimmed glasses is marking the trailhead on Gull Avenue. HOURS: Memorials are located on private property. Visitors are asked to respect their rights while visiting. Directions from Highway 18/Highway 122: * Go North on N. 8th St. (Co. Rd. S28/Grouse Avenue) for 4.7 miles * Turn Right (E) on the gravel road – 310th Street * Turn Left (N) on Gull Ave. Continue 1/2 miles to trail marker located just past the grain bins to the first fence row on your left (W) * Walk along the fence (W) 1/2 mile. A small memorial is located at the place the plane came to rest ADMISSION: Free
