Set off from Memphis in rental car at about 12. Headed south in highway 61 for the delta. Saw a sign for Helena Arkansas and trundled on over the bridge for a quick visit. Ended up having great cajun lunch there (blackened catfish and seafood gumbo) and visiting the blues museum. Back in Mississippi stopped by in Clarksdale to see the famous crossroads. Then headed for state capital Jackson. Arriving at about 7.30 headed for downtown - big mistake. No life to be found. Kind homeless guy directed us to street full of motels and restaurants (next to the highway). Checked in to the Red Roof Inn and rested well.