Experience Elvis: A Memphis Adventure

- How to Get to Memphis | When | Where to stay | Elvis' Favorite Food | Elvis' Home, Graceland

The Elvis Presley experience

Welcome to Memphis, Tennessee!

If you’re a fan of the King of Rock and Roll, you’re in for a treat. Graceland is the ultimate destination for Elvis Presley enthusiasts, and it’s packed with history, music, and unforgettable experiences.

From exploring the iconic mansion to diving into exhibits about Elvis’s life and legacy, there’s so much to see and do here. So, let’s get ready to kick off your Elvis adventure!

Lisa Marie Presley inherited Graceland when she turned 25, as outlined in a document that named Elvis’s ex-wife, Priscilla Presley, as the trustee. After Lisa Marie’s passing on January 12, 2023, her eldest daughter, Riley Keough, became the sole trustee and owner of the estate.

How to get to Graceland

Getting to Graceland is a breeze! Located in Memphis, Tennessee, a major transportation hub, it’s super accessible. Here are a few ways to make your way to the King’s home…

Car

If you’re driving, you can take I-55, I-40, or I-240 to get to Memphis. Once you’re in Memphis, take Elvis Presley Boulevard to Graceland.

Bus

Greyhound offers bus service to Memphis from several cities in the U.S. Once you arrive in Memphis, you can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to Graceland.

Plane

Memphis International Airport is the closest airport to Graceland, and it’s served by several major airlines. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to Graceland.

Train

Amtrak offers train service to Memphis from several cities in the U.S. Once you arrive in Memphis, you can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to Graceland.

Once you’re at Graceland, you can park your car in the parking lot and take a shuttle bus to the mansion and other attractions on the property. The shuttle buses run regularly throughout the day and are included in the price of admission.

If you want to explore Memphis beyond Graceland, there are several transportation options available. Memphis has a public bus system called MATA, which operates throughout the city. There are also several taxi and ride-sharing services available, including Uber and Lyft. Additionally, several car rental companies have locations in Memphis if you prefer to have your own transportation during your visit.

Travel and Home’s Favorite Elvis Presley Books

Best time to visit Graceland

The best time to visit Graceland and Memphis, in general, depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do while you’re there. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons and what you can expect:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a great time to visit Memphis, as the weather is mild and the city is in bloom. Temperatures are usually in the 60s and 70s, making it comfortable to explore outdoor attractions like Graceland and the Memphis Zoo. Keep in mind that spring is also the start of festival season in Memphis, with events like the Memphis in May International Festival and the Beale Street Music Festival taking place.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Memphis is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s. If you don’t mind the heat, this can be a great time to visit, as there are plenty of outdoor activities and events happening. Graceland and other attractions may be crowded during the peak summer months, but you’ll also have more opportunities to see live music and enjoy outdoor festivals.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is a popular time to visit Memphis, as the weather cools down and the leaves change colors. Temperatures are usually in the 70s during the day and 50s at night, making it comfortable to explore the city’s outdoor attractions. Fall is also a great time to visit if you’re a fan of college football, as Memphis is home to the University of Memphis Tigers.

Winter (December To February)

Overall, the best time to visit Graceland and Memphis depends on your interests and preferences. If you’re looking for mild weather and fewer crowds, spring and fall are good choices. If you want to experience the city’s outdoor festivals and live music scene, summer is a good time to visit. And if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder weather, winter can be a good choice.

Where to stay in Memphis

Travel Tip: No matter where you decide to stay, be sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.

There are plenty of lodging options available in Memphis, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury accommodations. Here are some of the best options for where to stay when visiting Graceland:

The Guest House at Graceland

The ultimate Elvis experience

If you’re looking for the ultimate Elvis experience, consider staying at The Guest House at Graceland. This hotel is located on the Graceland property and features Elvis-inspired decor, live music, and a shuttle service to the mansion. Rooms are spacious and luxurious, with amenities like flat-screen TVs and plush bedding.

The Peabody Memphis

Luxury Stay

The Peabody is a historic hotel located in downtown Memphis, about 15 minutes from Graceland. This luxurious hotel is known for its rooftop bar, world-famous ducks, and elegant rooms with modern amenities.

The Westin Memphis Beale Street

Budget-Friendly Central stay

This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Memphis, just a short drive from Graceland. The Westin Memphis Beale Street offers stylish rooms with city views, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center.

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Elvis' favorite food

Now, let’s talk about food. Elvis was famous for his love of Southern cuisine, and there are a few dishes that you’ll definitely want to try while you’re in Memphis. Here are some of Elvis’s favorite foods:

Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich: This was one of Elvis’s favorite snacks, and it’s still available at several restaurants in Memphis. It’s a sandwich made with peanut butter, sliced bananas, and bacon, then fried until crispy.
BBQ: Memphis is known for its BBQ, and there are several restaurants in town that serve up some of the best. Rendezvous, Central BBQ, and Corky’s are all popular spots.
Sweet Potato Pie: This is a classic Southern dessert that Elvis loved. You can find it at most Southern-style restaurants in Memphis.
Southern Fried Chicken: This is another classic Southern dish that Elvis enjoyed. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is a local favorite.

In the post “Cook Like the King: Elvis Presley’s Favorite Southern Dishes and Cookbooks”, we explore some of Elvis’s favorite recipes and cookbooks, delving into the culinary world that the King loved so much. Happy reading!

Getting the Elvis Experience at Graceland

First off, let’s talk about Graceland, Elvis’ home. This is the mansion that Elvis bought in 1957 and lived in until his death in 1977. It’s located at 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard, and it’s open for tours seven days a week. The mansion itself is a sight to behold, with its iconic pink exterior and sprawling grounds. You can tour the inside of the mansion, which includes the famous Jungle Room, the Trophy Room, and Elvis’s bedroom.

But Graceland is much more than just the mansion. There are several other attractions on the property that you won’t want to miss. Here are a few of the highlights:

Elvis Presley’s Memphis: This is a massive complex that houses several exhibits, including Elvis’s cars, his jumpsuits, his gold records, and much more. There’s also a soundstage where you can watch Elvis concerts and movies.
The Elvis Presley Automobile Museum: This museum is located across the street from Graceland and features over 20 of Elvis’s cars, including his famous pink Cadillac.
The Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II: These are Elvis’s two private jets, which are also located across the street from Graceland. You can tour both of them and see how Elvis and his entourage traveled in style.
The Graceland Archives Experience: This exhibit gives you an up-close look at some of the rarest and most unique items from the Graceland archives. You’ll see clothing, jewelry, letters, and other personal items that belonged to Elvis.

10 Travel Tips for Visiting Graceland Like a Pro

You’re finally doing it! You’re making the pilgrimage to Graceland, the home of the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley. As a seasoned Graceland visitor, I’ve put together these 10 tips to help you make the most of your trip and have the ultimate Graceland experience.

1. Buy your tickets in advance. Graceland can get pretty busy, especially during peak tourist seasons, so save yourself the hassle of waiting in line and buy your tickets online beforehand.

2. Get there early. Speaking of crowds, it’s best to get to Graceland early in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and lines.

3. Wear comfy shoes. Trust me, you’ll be doing a lot of walking around Graceland, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes to avoid blisters and sore feet.

4. Take the VIP tour. The VIP tour is a bit pricier, but it’s totally worth it. You’ll get to skip the lines and have an exclusive look at some of Elvis’s personal belongings and artifacts.

5. Check out the Lisa Marie airplane. Elvis’s private jet, the Lisa Marie, is on display at Graceland and it’s definitely worth checking out. It’s like stepping back in time to the 70s!

6. Don’t miss the Jungle Room. The Jungle Room is one of the most iconic rooms at Graceland, with its shag carpet and greenery. It’s a must-see!

7. Take your time. Graceland is a place to be savored, so don’t rush through it. Take your time, read the exhibits, and soak up the atmosphere.

8. Bring a camera. You’re going to want to capture every moment of your Graceland experience, so don’t forget your camera!

9. Check out the gift shop. The Graceland gift shop is full of fun Elvis-themed souvenirs, so make sure you stop by and pick up a few goodies to take home.

10. Stay at The Guest House at Graceland. If you really want to immerse yourself in the Elvis experience, book a stay at The Guest House at Graceland. It’s a beautiful hotel with all kinds of Elvis-themed amenities, and it’s located right next to Graceland itself.

And there you have it – 10 travel tips for visiting Graceland like a pro. Whether you’re an Elvis superfan or just curious about the King’s life and legacy, Graceland is a must-visit destination. So put on your blue suede shoes and get ready to rock and roll!

And that’s it, a comprehensive guide to all things Elvis in Graceland. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the King of Rock and Roll, there’s plenty to see and do here. So put on your blue suede shoes and get ready for a trip you won’t forget!