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If Graceland has been on your bucket list for years, you are not alone. Visiting Graceland in Memphis Tennessee is one of those experiences that feels bigger than just another stop on your trip. It is part history, part music, and part stepping into someone’s real life in a way that feels surprisingly personal.
I grew up loving Elvis, so getting to walk through Graceland felt surreal in the best way. It is one of those places you think you understand until you see it in person. From the iconic rooms to the quieter spaces that feel more personal, there is so much more to it than just touring a house.
If you are planning your visit, this guide covers everything you need to know including where is Graceland, the different Graceland tours, what to expect inside the mansion, and the Graceland tips that will actually help you plan your day.
Where is Graceland?
Graceland is located in Memphis, Tennessee at 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard. It sits about 9 miles from downtown Memphis and just a few minutes from Memphis International Airport.
The estate spans 13.8 acres and is one of the most visited homes in the United States. When you arrive, everything is clearly organized, which makes the experience feel straightforward from the start.
Getting to Graceland
Getting to Graceland is simple whether you are flying or driving.
If you are flying in, Memphis International Airport is about a 10 minute drive away. Rental cars and rideshare services are both easy options depending on how you plan to get around during your trip.
If you are driving, you will park at Elvis Presley’s Memphis, which is the main guest complex located across the street from the mansion. This is where your visit begins, and from there you will take a shuttle over to the mansion for your scheduled tour.
If you are planning a full trip, this is also a good time to think through your transportation for the rest of your stay so everything feels easy once you arrive.
A Brief History of Graceland
Elvis purchased Graceland in 1957 when he was just 22 years old. The home itself was built in 1939 and named after the original owner’s daughter, Grace.
Elvis transformed Graceland into his personal sanctuary, and it became the heart of his personal and professional life. Over the years, the mansion saw countless iconic moments and hosted numerous legendary figures from the music and entertainment industry.
What makes Graceland so interesting is how much of Elvis’s personality is reflected in the home. It was not designed to feel formal or staged. It was designed for his life. You see that in the way the rooms are decorated, how the spaces were used, and the balance between everyday living and entertaining.
Graceland Tours and Ticket Options
Choosing between the different Graceland tours is one of the most important parts of planning your visit.
There are a variety of options for tickets and tours to purchase. Based on your interests, you are able to select the best option for you and your travel party.
Elvis Experience Tour
This is the most popular option and a great place to start. You will get the mansion audio tour, access to Elvis’ airplanes, and entry into Elvis Presley’s Memphis.
Elvis Entourage VIP
This includes front-of-the-line mansion access, Presley Motors auto museum, and a VIP exhibit, which can make a difference during busy times.
Graceland VIP Tour and Graceland Ultimate VIP Tour
These tours include a guided experience in small groups, access to exclusive exhibits, and VIP lounge entry. The Graceland Ultimate VIP Tour also includes additional perks like a meal voucher for earlier tour times.
Includes: Graceland Mansion Tour with an expert guide for each small group of up to 12 guests, self-guided tour of Elvis’ Custom Jets, full access to Elvis Presley’s Memphis Entertainment Complex, access to Ultimate Lounge and Exclusive VIP Exhibit, options to purchase special merchandise only available to our Ultimate guests, a meal voucher for restaurant at Elvis Presley’s Memphis (meal voucher is only included in tour times prior to 1:30 pm), exclusive photo opportunity, personal Graceland Archives show and tell session, and keepsake backstage pass.
Inside the Graceland Archives UVIP Tour
This is the most exclusive option with behind-the-scenes archive access and rare artifact experiences.
Includes: Graceland Mansion Tour with an expert guide for each small group of up to 12 guests, self-guided tour of Elvis’ Custom Jets, full access to Elvis Presley’s Memphis Entertainment Complex, a meal voucher (for morning tours), access to view and ask questions about archival work being done by Graceland Archives Team, access to Ultimate Lounge and Exclusive VIP Exhibit, options to purchase special merchandise only available to our Ultimate guests, exclusive photo opportunity, personal Graceland Archives show and tell session, and keepsake pass.
Elvis Presley’s Memphis + Planes
This option includes access to Elvis Presley’s Memphis entertainment complex exhibits, but it does not include access to the mansion.
The Graceland Mansion Tour
The Graceland mansion tour is the highlight of your visit. As you step through the front door, you’re immediately transported back to the 1970s. The tour is self-guided and enhanced with an audio guide narrated by John Stamos, featuring commentary from Elvis and his daughter, Lisa Marie Presley.
The Stairway
Upon entering Graceland, one of the first things you’ll notice is the grand staircase leading to the second floor. While visitors aren’t allowed to tour the upstairs area, the staircase itself is an iconic feature.
The mirrored walls and layout still make this one of the most recognizable spots in the home. It’s easy to imagine Elvis descending these stairs, ready to greet guests or head out for a performance.
The Living Room
The living room immediately sets the tone with white furniture, gold accents, and a grand piano. The peacock stained glass window is one of the standout features and connects the space to the music room.
This room showcases Elvis’s taste and his love for a welcoming, yet opulent, atmosphere.
Elvis’s Parent’s Bedroom
The bedroom that Elvis’s parents, Vernon and Gladys Presley, shared is a touching and personal space. Located on the main floor, this room is decorated in purple accents and period furnishings. It offers a glimpse into the personal life of Elvis, showing his deep bond with his parents.
The Dining Room
The dining room at Graceland is a blend of Southern charm and 1970s style. Featuring a long table set with fine china, crystal, and silverware, it’s easy to envision the Presley family and their guests enjoying meals here.
The Jungle Room
One of the most famous rooms in Graceland is the Jungle Room. With its green shag carpet, wood paneling, and exotic decor, it’s a striking contrast to the rest of the mansion. This room also served as a recording studio for some of Elvis’s later albums.
The Kitchen
The kitchen at Graceland is a snapshot of a 1970s home, complete with avocado green appliances and wood cabinets. Unlike the more formal dining room, the kitchen has a cozy and lived-in feel. It’s well known that Elvis loved traditional Southern cuisine, and this kitchen would have been the heart of preparing his favorite meals, like peanut butter and banana sandwiches.
The TV Room
One of the most distinctive rooms in Graceland is the TV room, located in the basement. This room is a testament to Elvis’s love for entertainment and technology. Decorated in bold black and yellow tones, the room features three televisions mounted side by side to watch multiple news broadcasts simultaneously.
The Pool Room
The pool room at Graceland is another basement gem, featuring an extraordinary interior design. The walls and ceiling are covered with a richly patterned fabric, creating a dramatic and memorable space. The room is centered around a billiards table, where Elvis and his friends would spend hours playing and socializing.
Beyond the Mansion
There is so much more to see beyond the main house, and taking your time here really adds to the experience.
Vernon’s Office
Located adjacent to the mansion, Vernon Presley’s office is an essential part of the Graceland estate. Vernon’s Office provides insight into the business side of Elvis’s life and the role his father played. The office is modestly furnished but filled with important documents and memorabilia.
The Trophy Building
The Trophy Building showcases Elvis’s awards, gold records, and personal memorabilia, giving you a deeper understanding of his career. This room is a testament to Elvis’s incredible career and his impact on music and culture. The walls are lined with gold and platinum records, while glass cases display his costumes, guitars, and other personal items.
The Racquetball Building
The Racquetball Building offers a look at how Elvis spent his downtime and was one of the final additions to the property. Inside, you’ll find a racquetball court and an adjacent lounge area featuring a piano and a seating area where Elvis and his friends would relax after a game.
The Meditation Garden
The Meditation Garden is one of the most meaningful parts of the visit. It is peaceful, reflective, and where Elvis and several members of his family are laid to rest.
This beautifully landscaped garden is the final resting place of Elvis Presley, along with his parents, Vernon and Gladys, and his grandmother, Minnie Mae.
Lisa Marie Presley and her son, Benjamin Keough, are also now buried here. The garden features a circular fountain and a small pool. Visitors often spend quiet moments here, paying their respects and reflecting on Elvis’s life and legacy.
Elvis Presley’s Memphis Complex
A state-of-the-art entertainment and exhibit complex over 200,000-square-feet in size, Elvis Presley’s Memphis enables you to follow the life path that Elvis took, surround yourself with the things that he loved, and experience the sights and sounds of the city that inspired him. Experience Elvis’ life and career like never before – his roots, his influences, and his artistry.
The Elvis Presley Car Museum
The Elvis Presley Car Museum, located across the street from the mansion, is a highlight for any car enthusiast. The museum showcases a collection of Elvis’s cars, including his iconic pink Cadillac, a 1973 Stutz Blackhawk, and various motorcycles. Each vehicle tells a story, offering insight into Elvis’s personality and style.
Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum
This museum provides a comprehensive look at Elvis’s career, from his early days to his rise to fame and beyond. Exhibits include his dazzling stage costumes, gold records, and memorabilia from his movies. The interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring his story to life in a captivating way.
Elvis Discovery Exhibits
The Elvis Discovery Exhibits cover various aspects of his life, including his influences, his impact on pop culture, and his time in the military. There are several different exhibits to view and can change from time to time.
Elvis’ Airplaces
Step aboard Elvis’ customized airplanes to see how he traveled in luxury. The Lisa Marie includes a living room, conference room, private bedroom and features gold-plated seatbelts, leather-covered tables, and 24-karat gold-flecked sinks. Plus, you can take a glimpse at Elvis’ smaller Lockheed Jetstar, the Hound Dog II.
Graceland Dining Options
Aside from the incredible exhibitions, Elvis Presley’s Memphis offers unique dining experiences that showcase not only the flavors of Memphis but some of Elvis’ Southern favorites as well.
Vernon’s Smokehouse features authentic Memphis BBQ fare while Gladys’ Diner has classic American cuisine and some of Elvis’s favorites.
If you’re in a hurry, stop by Rock ‘n’ Go for coffee, freshly-made sandwiches, salads, and snacks. You can also visit Minnie Mae’s Sweets for hand-dipped ice cream, Root Beer floats, candy, and more!
Graceland Ultimate VIP Tour
For the true Elvis aficionado, the Graceland Ultimate VIP Tour offers an unparalleled experience. This deluxe tour package is designed to give fans an intimate and comprehensive look at Elvis Presley’s life and legacy. We really enjoyed our experience.
The Graceland Ultimate VIP Tour provides guests with access to areas of Graceland that are not included in the general admission or other tour packages. Your group will also have a personal tour guide. These knowledgeable guides offer a wealth of information about Elvis’s life, his music, and the history of Graceland. The personalized experience allows for a more intimate and engaging tour, where you can ask questions and delve into specific aspects of Elvis’s life that interest you most.
Ultimate VIP Tour guests have the opportunity to view special exhibits that are not available to the general public. These exhibits often include rare artifacts, personal items, and costumes that provide a deeper understanding of Elvis’s career and personal life. From handwritten letters to stage costumes, these exhibits offer a unique perspective on Elvis’s world.
The Graceland Ultimate VIP Tour is the pinnacle of Elvis experiences, offering exclusive access, personalized service, and unique insights into the life of the King. For fans who want to immerse themselves fully in Elvis’s world, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through his home, his legacy, and his heart.
What to Know Before You Visit Graceland
Before your visit, there are a few things that will help everything go more smoothly once you arrive.
Your day will start at Elvis Presley’s Memphis, not the mansion itself. This is where you will park, check in, and explore the exhibits before heading over to Graceland. A shuttle takes you across the street, and the process is very organized.
Photography is allowed in most areas, which is great if you like documenting your trips. Just keep in mind that flash photography and video recording are not permitted inside the mansion.
Security is similar to other major attractions, so keeping your bag light will make things easier. I always recommend bringing a small crossbody bag with your essentials. It keeps everything accessible without feeling bulky while you are walking around.
If you are visiting during peak seasons or weekends, expect larger crowds. This is another reason why arriving earlier in the day can make such a difference in how your visit feels.
Graceland Tips That Make a Big Difference
Before diving into the heart of the Graceland experience, it’s important to plan your visit to make the most of your time there. Here are some key Graceland tips to help you prepare:
Buy Tickets in Advance
Graceland offers several ticket and tour options, ranging from basic mansion tours to more extensive packages that include additional exhibits and experiences. It’s highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance online, especially during peak seasons. This ensures you get your preferred tour time and can avoid long lines at the ticket office.
Choose the Right Graceland Tour for You
Graceland offers various tour options, catering to different interests and levels of fandom. The basic Graceland Mansion Tour includes access to the mansion, the Meditation Garden (where Elvis is buried), and the grounds. For a more comprehensive experience, consider the Elvis Experience Tour, which adds access to exhibits showcasing Elvis’s career, automobiles, and costumes. For the ultimate Elvis experience, the Graceland VIP tour is a must. This package includes all exhibits, a VIP-only exhibit, front-of-line access, and a keepsake backstage pass.
Check the Hours
Graceland is open daily from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm (the last mansion tour begins at 4:00 pm) but it does close on a few holidays or for special events.
Start Your Day at Elvis Presley’s Memphis
You’ll start your day at Elvis Presley’s Memphis complex. This is where parking is located, as well as the ticket office. You’ll check in for your tours here and take a short bus ride across the street to see the Graceland mansion.
Plan for Enough Time
There’s a lot to see at Graceland, so plan to spend at least half a day exploring. The mansion tour itself takes about an hour and a half, but additional exhibits and attractions can easily fill several more hours. If you’re a true Elvis enthusiast, consider dedicating a full day to immerse yourself in the experience.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas of Graceland, but flash photography and video recording are prohibited inside the mansion. Be sure to bring your camera or smartphone to capture your favorite moments.
Looking to explore more of Tennessee? Some of my other favorite spots are in Pigeon Forge and Nashville!
Graceland FAQs
- How long does it take to tour Graceland?
- Most visitors spend at least half a day, but it can easily turn into a full day when you include all exhibits.
- What is the best Graceland tour to choose?
- The Elvis Experience Tour is a great starting point, while VIP tours offer a more detailed experience.
- Is the Graceland Ultimate VIP Tour worth it?
- Yes, especially if you want a more guided and immersive visit.
- Can you go upstairs at Graceland?
- No, the upstairs area is private and not open to guests.
- Where do you start your visit?
- You will begin at Elvis Presley’s Memphis entertainment complex before heading across the street in shuttle to the mansion.
- Is Graceland worth visiting if you are not a big Elvis fan?
- Yes, the history and experience make it worthwhile for most visitors.
Why Visiting Graceland Is Worth It
Graceland is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. It is not just about Elvis as a performer. It is about seeing the life he built and the legacy he left behind.
With these Graceland tips, information on the Graceland Ultimate VIP tour, and insights into where Graceland is located, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your visit.
When you take your time and really experience it, it becomes more than just another stop. It becomes something you remember. I hope your experience at Graceland is as magical and meaningful as mine was.
