I headed to Memphis as I was fairly close to the Tennessee border and a visit to Graceland was on my bucket list. I had never been there before so was not sure what to see other than Graceland. I stopped in to the tourist office, which I often do when in a new place, to get local suggestions on what to see.
I found out Memphis offers a rich blend of music history and cultural attractions. First stop was a walk along Beale Street, which is nearly two miles long. It is more than just a street in Memphis; it’s a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage and musical legacy.
Known as the “Home of the Blues,” Beale Street is a vibrant street of clubs, restaurants, and shops. The music of legends like B.B. King and Elvis Presley are popular here. This iconic street has played a role in the history of American music. It remains a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Memphis.
The Peabody Ducks
The Peabody Hotel is filled with southern elegance and historic charm. The hotel is an architectural marvel which opened in 1925. This structure is just a few blocks from the original site, which was built in 1869. Its Italian Renaissance architecture, with grand interiors and intricate detailing, immediately made it a landmark in Memphis. A stunningly beautiful hotel lobby to explore.
The most endearing and famous tradition of the Peabody Hotel is the daily march of the Peabody Ducks. I wasn’t sure what to expect when told about the Peabody Duck walk. I headed to the hotel for the 11am show to see what the fuss was about
The Duckmaster is a role that has become an esteemed position within the hotel. He leads the ducks from their Royal Duck Palace on the rooftop down to the lobby. Accompanied by John Philip Sousa’s “King Cotton March,” the ducks waddle down a red carpet to the marble fountain, where they spend the day. At 5 p.m., they return to their rooftop abode with the same fanfare.
This unique ceremony began in the 1930s. One day the hotel’s general manager returned from a hunting trip and placed live duck decoys in the hotel’s fountain. The ducks were such a hit with guests that they became a permanent fixture. This charming tradition has become a beloved spectacle, attracting visitors from around the world.
The National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum stands as a powerful testament to the struggle for equality and justice in America. The museum opened in 1991 and features a series of exhibits that chronicle the history of the Civil Rights Movement from the 17th century to the present. These exhibits include interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and historical artifacts that bring the struggle for civil rights to life.
The museum also showcases significant events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Freedom Rides, the March on Washington, and the Selma to Montgomery marches. These exhibits highlight the bravery of countless individuals who fought against racial segregation and discrimination.
Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee
The museum is located at the historic Lorraine Motel, which is famously known as the site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968. Dr. King was in Memphis to support striking sanitation workers, continuing his lifelong commitment to social justice and economic equality.
The museum preserves the motel honoring Dr. King’s legacy besides educating visitors about the pivotal moments leading up to and following his tragic death. One of the museum’s most poignant exhibits is the preserved Room 306, where Dr. King spent his final moments. Visitors can view the room through a glass partition, offering a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice.
The National Civil Rights Museum is designed to guide visitors through the history of the Civil Rights Movement in a way that is both educational and emotional. My visit was very informative and I truly experienced the intensity of the times through the fabulous displays.
Graceland
Graceland was on my must see list for several years and I was not disappointed. I treated myself to a VIP tour ticket. Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis Presley, is a must-see for any music fan.
The mansion tour takes you through the iconic rooms where Elvis lived, including the famous Jungle Room with its green shag carpeting and Polynesian-inspired decor. The living room, kitchen, TV room, and the Meditation Garden, where Elvis and his family are laid to rest were all covered in the tour.
The mansion is not just a glimpse into Elvis’ personal life, but additionally a trip back in time to the 1970s. I really enjoyed a look into his eclectic tastes and style.
After a morning touring Graceland I went back across the street to the “Elvis Presley’s Memphis” complex, a 200,000-square-foot entertainment and exhibit space. Included in my VIP ticket was lunch at Vernon’s Smokehouse where I enjoyed a fabulous BBQ rib lunch.
Elvis Presley's Memphis Museums
The Elvis Presley Memphis Museums complex includes multiple museums and showcases, such as:
- The Entertainer Career Museum, which holds an extensive collection of Elvis’ stage outfits, gold records, and awards.
- Presley Motors Automobile Museum, displaying Elvis’ impressive collection of cars, including his famous pink Cadillac.
- ICONS: The Influence of Elvis Presley Exhibit, which highlights the impact Elvis had on other artists and features memorabilia from musicians influenced by him
- His Private Jet named Lisa Marie, after his daughter, which I was able to walk through.
- Several gift shops and restarants.
Graceland and the Elvis museums offer a rich and immersive experience into the life and legacy of Elvis Presley. It is an in-depth look at the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, his lasting impact on music and culture. It is a chance to experience the world as Elvis saw it. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual visitor, Graceland provides a fascinating and memorable journey through rock and roll history. I am grateful to finally experience this famous site.
Trip to Tupelo, Mississippi
Because I had such a fabulous time tourng Graceland I decided to continue my Elvis tour. I drove an hour and forty minutes south of Memphis to Tupelo, Mississippi where Elvis Presley was born. He was born in a two-room shotgun house in East Tupelo that was built by his father, Veron Presley, along with his uncle and grandfather.
The original church Elvis attended as a child was moved to the site. There is a museum with exhibits of his early life as well as an event center. Then a chapel built in his memory and a park with statues and memorials. Another fabulous look into the young Elvis Presley.
After my visit in Tupelo I headed back into Arkansas to continue my trip through the natural state