Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi & Restaurant

Want to experience the true spirit of Mississippi? Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi is more than just a bar or restaurant; it's a living embodiment of the musical culture of the southern USA. This venue is an official branch of the legendary club in Clarksdale, co-founded by the famous actor Morgan Freeman. Here, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of an authentic juke joint, where the blues sounds just as sincere as it did decades ago.

The club's interior in Biloxi intentionally maintains a charmingly casual vibe: walls adorned with graffiti and visitor autographs, neon signs, and mismatched furniture create a cozy, almost homey atmosphere. This is a place where you can forget about the hype and simply enjoy the moment, surrounded by history and the rhythms of the Delta blues.

Beyond the music, the establishment is famous for its hospitality and high ratings among travelers. It combines a concert venue, a museum of the contemporary blues scene, and a first-class Southern restaurant. People come here for the emotions, the honest music, and that very "ground zero" feeling where all modern popular music takes root.

To book a table or check the performance schedule, you can use the establishment's official resources. The club is active on social media, where it announces appearances by renowned musicians.

The main reason to visit Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi is, undoubtedly, live music. Every evening, both local talents and world blues stars perform here. Visitors can not only listen to the performances but also dance to the energetic rhythms of guitar solos. The venue's unique format allows for close contact with the artists, creating an incredibly powerful energy in the room.

Be sure to pay attention to the gastronomic side of things. The menu features classic Southern cuisine: juicy barbecue, fresh Gulf seafood, and traditional appetizers that pair perfectly with a cold beer or signature cocktails. Many tourists come here specifically for dinner accompanied by blues improvisations.

Don't forget to explore the interior: it's customary to leave your own messages on the walls or simply study the memorabilia and photographs decorating the hall. The club often hosts themed parties and grand shows featuring legends like Bobby Rush. It's a great place for those who want to get to know the musical soul of Biloxi in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Finding Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city at 814 Howard Ave. This is a bustling area in close proximity to the famous beaches and major casinos, making it a convenient stop for any tourist.

If you are arriving by car, the most convenient way is to drive along Howard Avenue. Street parking is usually available around the club, although it's worth arriving early on the days of major concerts. For those who prefer public transport, there are buses from Gulfport-Biloxi airport (located about 20 km away), but the fastest and most comfortable way is a taxi or through Uber/Lyft services, which will take about 15–20 minutes.

For guests staying in hotels in central Biloxi, a walk to the club can be a pleasant addition to the evening. The area is very pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to stop by other interesting bars or restaurants on the coast along the way.

The history of this place is inextricably linked to a legend of world cinema. Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi is the second branch of the famous establishment, the first of which was opened in 2001 in Clarksdale by actor Morgan Freeman along with businessman Bill Luckett and Howard Stovall. The name "Ground Zero" is symbolic: it refers to Clarksdale as "point zero" — the birthplace of the blues in the Mississippi Delta.

The opening of the Biloxi branch in February 2022 was a major event for the coast. It brought the authentic "juke joint" culture — traditional Southern music shacks — from the heart of the state closer to the ocean. The owners sought to preserve the same aesthetic as the original: a relaxed, slightly worn, and history-filled atmosphere of old early 20th-century warehouses.

Over the years of the brand's existence, stars such as Robert Plant, Willie Nelson, and modern blues masters like Christone "Kingfish" Ingram have performed on its stages. The Biloxi club continues this tradition, staying true to the genre's roots and providing a platform for both stage veterans and young talent, preserving the living heritage of the USA.

When planning a visit to Ground Zero Blues Club, you should set aside at least 2–4 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a traditional Southern dinner, try a couple of cocktails at the bar, and, of course, listen to live performances by musicians who usually play several sets throughout the evening.

If you're coming specifically for the music, it's best to aim for the evening hours on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday. On these days, the atmosphere is at its peak, and shows can last until late at night. If your goal is simply to drop by the legendary spot and check out the graffiti interiors, one hour will be enough.

Please note that the club's schedule is geared toward the second half of the week when the main musical program begins. Monday and Tuesday are days off for the venue.

Current schedule:

• Wednesday: 12:00 – 21:00
• Thursday: 12:00 – 22:00
• Friday: 12:00 – 23:00
• Saturday: 11:00 – 01:00
• Sunday: 11:00 – 14:00 (a great time for brunch)

The club's location in the central part of the city makes it easy to combine a musical evening with exploring other interesting locations. A walk around the neighborhood will reveal different sides of Biloxi, from historic landmarks to modern entertainment centers.