460 North Shore Dr.
Clear Lake, IA 50428
(641) 357-6151
www.surfballroom.com

This beautifully restored, National Historic Landmark holds a place in history as the final concert site of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and one of the last remaining ballrooms in the Midwest.  Located less than a block to the west of the Surf Ballroom is Three Stars Plaza which features a central art sculpture honoring the rock and roll icons.  The feature is especially striking at night when the neon lights glow.

Directions to Crash Site:  From US Hwy 18, go north on N. 8th St. in Clear Lake for 4.7 miles.  When the paved road (which turns into Grouse Ave) turns to your left (west), take the gravel road (310th St) to your right (east), then immediately left (north) on Gull Ave.  Follow Gull Ave to the north for one-half mile, just past the grain bins to the first fence row on your left (west).  Walk along the fence row towards the west for just under one-half mile.  A small memorial is located at the place the plane came to rest.  Four trees were also planted along the fence row in 1999, one for each performer and the pilot. The memorial is located on private property.  Visitors are asked to respect their rights while visiting “The Place The Music Died.”

Hours:
The Ballroom/Museum*, Ticket Office and Gift Shop are open year-round Monday – Friday from 8 AM-4 PM.  The venue is closed on New Years Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Ballroom/Museum, Ticket Office and Gift Shop are open year-round Monday-Friday from 8 AM-4 PM and additionally on Saturdays from 9 AM-1 PM and Sundays from 1-4 PM between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Admission:
$5 suggested donation for self guided tour. Staff and volunteers are available to answer questions that visitors may have during their self-guided tour of the venue.