Visual Traveler: Surf Ballroom, Clear Lake, Iowa

                                             Above photo by Lisa Waterman Gray

What's in This Post
1) What Put the Surf Ballroom On the Map 
2) How the Surf Ballroom Became Iconic
3) The Surf Ballroom Today
4) Slideshow

What Put the Surf Ballroom On the Map​

My eyes widened and pulse quickened as I read Don McLean’s handwritten lyrics on the wall, for part of his iconic 'American Pie' song. But this wasn't the only famous lyrics or signature written inside the greenroom at the Surf Ballroom. In fact, hundreds of additional musical performers had left their handwritten marks too, covering entire walls and even spots on the ceiling. 

Operating in Clear Lake, Iowa since 1933 (and less than a two hour drive from Des Moines), the Surf Ballroom had already become a hugely popular live music venue when winter weather put this amazing performance space in the history books because of an incident nobody would wish for.

How The Surf Ballroom Became Iconic

After Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson performed here before an enthusiastic crowd - on February 3, 1959 - the small plane destined to carry them to their next tour stop crashed in a nearby field during treacherous weather. Two years later, the Surf Ballroom & Museum was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

Before becoming a not-for-profit the Sulf Ballroom provided a vibrant entertainment venue across the decades, with a move, a long dormant period, and several private owners previously at the helm. A robust concert schedule remains while vintage décor still evokes an old-school beach vibe, and museum pieces range from donated guitars to gold records. 

The Surf Ballroom Today
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Today, 'The Surf' typically hosts three to four shows per month, while offering a wide variety of musical styles that include big band, blues, and country, as well as classic rock and modern rock, plus ‘50s tunes and ‘60s music. It's also a popular place to hold private events such as prom and political gatherings. 

But the Surf’s signature event remains the Winter Dance Party. What began as a Buddy Holly Tribute, in 1979, now draws fans from more than 40 states plus multiple foreign countries. This annual four-night music and dancing event takes place on the closest long weekend to the date when that fateful plane crash occurred. 

Whether you take in a live performance or simply visit and tour the Surf Ballroom & Museum, you'll walk away with huge appreciation for the legendary music that has shaped this destination. 

                                           Above photos by Lisa Waterman Gray

Disclaimer: As a travel writer I may receive complimentary stays, admissions, meals, transportation, and, occasionally, products I am asked to review. However, I make every effort to report my experiences fairly and honestly.

​Please note these photos are older. While they reflected the character of this destination during my visit, specific details have undoubtedly changed.