Surf Ballroom, National Historic Landmark ballroom in Clear Lake, United States
The Surf Ballroom is an ocean-themed dance hall in Clear Lake, Iowa, featuring a dance floor covering 6,300 square feet (585 square meters). The walls display seascape murals, and bamboo furniture throughout the interior creates a tropical setting.
A Moderne-style reconstruction rose in 1948 after a fire destroyed the original 1933 building. The hall became the final performance venue for Buddy Holly in 1959, who died in a plane crash shortly after a concert here.
The venue preserves rock and roll heritage through its collection of memorabilia and a Wall of Fame displaying signatures of performing artists. Visitors today can see how American music history remains alive in this space.
The hall accommodates 2,100 people, and visitors can purchase tickets for concerts and events in advance. Those preferring seating in one of the booths should reserve early, as they fill quickly.
The Green Room carries handwritten signatures on its walls from dozens of musicians, including The Righteous Brothers and Waylon Jennings. These signatures form a spontaneous archive of artists who performed here over the decades.
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