Surf Ballroom & Convention Center

So Bye Bye Miss American Pie .... Yes, the Surf Ballroom was the last place they played before the music died. Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper (JP Richardson) may have died in a plane crash on February 2, 1952, but their spirits live on at The Surf.

If you are anywhere within 100 miles of this place, it is worth a visit. They have preserved the history, the spirit and the flavor of the era for folks like me who remember Buddy Holly, etc. and for new generations.

We had full access to explore the ballroom, including going in the green room and up on stage. There are so many mementos of not only that infamous night, but also of other great performers who graced the stage over the years. It was quite impressive as well as educational.

The Surf Ballroom is still a performance venue, but during the day it is open to the public (free admission) to explore and enjoy. I highly recommend a visit.

Very cool to see a place where the legends played.

I cannot urge you enough if you love concerts----by all means---try to get to one at the Surf while it is still a part of our history.  The surf is an old venue and the place Buddy Holly and Ritchie Valens performed at before they died in a plane crash which lends itself to an essence of housing some greats throughout the years.....I had the thrill of seeing my absolute favorite female Miranda Lambert here before a lot of people knew who she was---I have been following her since the days of Nashville star and I saw she was performing on my birthday so of course I just bought those tickets for myself.  It is first come first served.  You get in line and get your ticket and they open the doors and you need to haul ass.....I am quite stealthy so I got right up front and could touch the stage which is were I stayed all night long.....It was marvelous....... The little town of Clear Lake is charming and quaint so if it is summer take your boat and cruise around the lake too.....You will love it!