Elvis fans have a lot to look forward to if they visit Memphis. While, the king of rock and roll has long departed, his memories remain strong as ever at the destination. After all, he spent a major part of his childhood at Memphis and also began his legendary career here. We have picked four, not-to-be-missed attractions in Memphis, especially for diehard Elvis fans.
Graceland
Drawing millions of visitors from around the world, Graceland was the home of the ‘King’. Elvis shifted into this mansion in 1957 with his parents and grandmother. Priscilla Presley, his wife for six years, also stayed here for about ten years during as well as before her marriage to Elvis. Graceland preserves the memories of the King of Rock n Roll; the collection is quite extensive. To start with, the mansion features two private planes of Elvis that instantly grab one’s attention. His huge automobile and motorcycle collection is no less astounding. Graceland is not just the most visited house in Memphis; it is even said to be the most visited private house in America.
Sun Studio
Any Elvis fan can tell why Sun Studio has to be on the list. This is where it all started. Elvis entered this studio in 1953 as a nervous 18 year old with a cheap guitar and a priceless dream. Most fans place this studio right at the top of their itineraries. At Sun Studio, you can enlighten yourself with the inception and history of rock’n’roll; apparently, this is the ‘The Birthplace of Rock N’ Roll.’ The tour also takes you to the room where Elvis first recorded his songs. You are allowed to touch most of the exhibits and pose for pictures with the legendary microphone here.
Audubon Drive
Elvis was able to buy this house after tasting success with ‘Heartbreak Hotel’. He could have stayed there for the rest of his life but destiny had other plans for him. Within a year of buying this house, his stardom rose to giddying heights and hordes of fans started mobbing the area of Audubon Drive. That is when he purchased Graceland, the most iconic house in Memphis. There is not much to see at Audubon Drive but strong sentiments and Presley’s memories keep drawing fans. And that makes it every bit worth visiting.
Zippin Pippin
Zippin Pippin is USA’s oldest wooden roller coaster. Elvis loved the ride so much that he would occasionally rent the entire amusement park to enjoy it privately. The sign posted at the entrance of the coaster tells you everything you need to know about this place. Here is what it says:
“The Zippin Pippin was Elvis Presley’s favourite ride. The “King” rented Libertyland August 8, 1977 from 1:15 am to 7 am to entertain a group of about 10 guests. Decked in a blue jumpsuit with black leather belt, huge belt buckle with turquoise studs and gold chains, the “King” rode the Zippin Pippin repeatedly during a two-hour period. He lost his belt buckle on the ride that morning, and it was found and returned the next day. Elvis’s Libertyland rental became his last public appearance. He died August 16.