Gotta Do This…Retracing the Life of Elvis Presley
Even though Elvis Presley has left the building (ahem, earth)
over 30 years ago, despite what numerous tabloid headlines say, his life and everything related to him is still fascinating to many. Come on, admit it; even if you aren’t a die-hard fan, you still a little curious of what Graceland looks like on the inside.
As we approach the anniversary of his death (August 16), many want to “walk” (or ride by) in the footsteps of the King in the South. So, here is a little mini-guide that highlights some of the important places of Elvis’ life, as well as some sites related to him.
For starters, you can drive through Fort Chafee, Ark., where, in 1958, Elvis completed his Army basic training. However, if you really want to start at the beginning, head to Tupelo, Miss., the birthplace of Elvis. Be sure to stop by on August 9 for the annual Fan Day Appreciation. If you are interested in a self-driving tour of Elvis sites, I found information on where to go not only in Tupelo, but Memphis and Nashville as well. But before you head to 
Memphis, you have to swing by Graceland Too, a fan-created museum dedicated to the King, in Holly Springs.
Now, in Memphis, you all ready know about Graceland, 
but do you know about his other homes? If you are looking for a place to stay overnight, consider Elvis Presley’s Heartbreak Hotel. The 128-room property includes four themed suites. If you are in town August 9-17, you can partake in the different events during Elvis Week that includes live music, movies and an expo.
In Nashville, be sure to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, where Elvis was inducted in 1998. Presley also performed in Ryman Auditorium in 1954. You probably know about the historic RCA Studio B, where Elvis recorded some songs, but did you know about the House of David Studio that had something special only for Elvis.
Want more Elvis? If you visit Pigeon Forge, don’t miss out on Elvis Museum and Gift that features a rather large private collection of Elvis memorabilia.
Save the date! Florida’s Space Coast, along with Elvis Presley Enterprises, is hosting the 1st Annual Elvis-themed festival on October 17-19, called “Elvis Has Landed.”
-Apryl Chapman Thomas
Photo credits: (top left) Elvis’ Grave at Graceland, flickr, creative commons by mmwm; (top right) The Foyer at Graceland Too, flickr, creative commons by Glynnis Ritchie; (bottom left) Front Entrance to Graceland, flickr, creative commons by mmwm
Related Stories
POSTED IN: Celebrities, Elvis, Gotta Do This, Southern Byways, Things to See in Arkansas, Things to See in Florida, Things to See in Mississippi, Things to See in Tennessee
1 opinion for Gotta Do This…Retracing the Life of Elvis Presley
It’s Happening in the South: Celebrating Elvis
Jan 6, 2009 at 2:46 pm
[...] Don’t forget, you can also celebrate the King’s birthday in your on way by visiting some of his old stomping grounds as well as places dedicated to him. [...]
Have an opinion? Leave a comment: