Pay tribute to rock and roll legends Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper at the Three Stars Memorial Site — a powerful reminder of their legacy just miles from the Historic Surf Ballroom. This site 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. 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. A second monument honors their pilot, Roger Peterson. Visitors from around the world come to pay their respects, leaving tokens such as flowers, trinkets, and American flags at the fence line to honor these rock ‘n roll pioneers. Accessible by a short walk, the outdoor memorial is located at Gull Avenue & 315th Street, in a peaceful cornfield near Clear Lake. A large pair of black-rimmed glasses marks the trailhead on Gull Avenue. Right across from the trailhead leading to the memorial is the Don McLean Parking Area offering free parking, restrooms, and bottled water available for donation. This convenient spot allows visitors to park and prepare for the short walk to the crash site. To reach the memorial site from Clear Lake, Iowa: * Head north on N. 8th Street from US Hwy 18 for 4.7 miles (the road will turn into Grouse Avenue). * When the paved road curves west, take the gravel road heading east (310th Street). * Immediately turn north onto Gull Avenue (also a gravel road). * Continue north for half a mile until you reach the T-intersection of Gull Avenue and 315th Street. * Look for the large “Buddy Holly” glasses at the intersection. * Park at the Don McLean Parking Area near the trailhead, then walk west along the fence line for about half a mile to reach the memorial. ADMISSION: Free Please note: If you visit during winter months, be sure to dress warmly. The crash site is on private property, so visitors are asked to be respectful.
