Elvis Presley’s Graceland in Memphis

A visit to Graceland is a surprisingly well put together homage to a cultural icon, flawed person, 1950s – 1970s culture, family man to some, and god to others. It is both sentimental and over the top, and deep down it says much not only about Elvis but also about the world he influenced.

Graceland itself is in a rather nondescript and somewhat rundown part of Memphis. But once on the grounds it is also interesting to see that the Graceland “mansion” is not particularly huge or impressive. Sort of Warren Buffett style living, but splashed with lots of gaudy 1970s decor frozen in time.

There are various tour options, starting with the main mansion and then add-ons for the car museum and private jets. The add-ons do not cost much more than the base main tour, so I recommend the full ticket.

A tour bus takes you from the initial tourist reception area across the street from Graceland and then goes through the hallowed gates to Graceland itself. The tour is well put together, starting off with a greeter’s introduction, and then self-paced with every participant having their own iPad and earphones around their necks. The iPads include audio and video, and allow you to skip around as desired.

Only the main floor and basement of Graceland is open to the public. Apparently the upstairs was always Elvis’ private area, and that privacy has been maintained. On the entry first floor, you can view the living room, dining room, kitchen, famous Polynesian style Jungle Room with waterfall. Then you go downstairs to the basement to see the TV room (with 3 TVs side by side to show all of the main stations from the past on at the same time), pool table room, and bar area.

Once outside in the backyard, various outbuildings can be visited. There is the old storage building that Elvis and friends used as a very small gun firing range. The Trophy Room shows an incredible number of awards, gold records, and historical highlights, which then overflows into a racquetball court that is converted into an extension of the Trophy Room by displaying even more awards, costumes, and memorabilia.

The Graceland grounds tour ends with Elvis’ grave, beside the graves of various family members. It includes a meditation area, water fountain, and quotes.

Afterwards, with the full tour package you can go back across the street and visit the car museum. It is moderately interesting, with a few unique cars plus more historical and family context. Then Elvis’ two private customized jets, including the famous Lisa Marie can be entered and walked through. The Lisa Marie is still set for entertaining, sleeping, and hosting an entourage.

All in all, I was pleasantly surprised and it was a better experience than I had expected. Stop on by to see The King if you’re in Memphis.