Memphis, TN (Graceland) Nov. 2017

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What a wonderful stop along the way.  We are staying at Graceland RV Park and it is in walking distance to Graceland.

 Today we toured Graceland,  something I have always wanted to see and I, like my mom, have always been a fan of Elvis.  Our first stop was to the VIP desk to pick up our passes.  VIP is the only way to go, yes, it does cost more but you are not herded around and pretty much have top visiting privileges. You are able to stay as long as you want and visit the mansion as many times as you would like within the day. While we waited for the VIP shuttle to the mansion we were talking to an ambassador who it turns out was/is a close friend to Pricilla, in fact she rode/showed Pricilla's horse.  She was such a delight.  The old Heartbreak Hotel was closed down and the new hotel is across the street, the entire top floor is the suite of Pricilla's.  The shuttle dropped us off at a VIP entrance were we were shown inside and viewed a short movie on Elvis.  Once that was finished, we were taken to the front door of the mansion, no waiting in line, and started our audio tour.  So much to take in.  Once we finished our leisurely walk through the mansion we were able to visit other area including Vernon Presley's office (Elvis's dad), onto the trophy room filled with information on Elvis, then to the racquetball court.  Horses are kept on the acreage and always a Palomino as that was Elvis's favorite horse.  Then a stop at the Meditation Garden were family is buried along with Elvis and also a memorial  honoring his twin brother that died during childbirth.  Then it was back on the VIP bus to return to the complex and continue touring other museums.  Enjoyed Presley Motor Museum, the career museum, Presley Cycles, Archives Experience, Private Presley, his time in the Army, Icons, The influence of Elvis.  Then to the Fashions of Elvis which showed many fashion trends set by the King, and his custom-made clothing.  We also enjoyed The Sam Phillips  Story telling of his legendary record producing.  Viewed clothes and items from country stars as we explored the history of country music and its influence on rock'n'roll. Visited several gift shops as they seemed to have one in every area there was a "museum". 

We had lunch at Gladys' Diner (Elvis mom). It was a good escape from the little rain we experienced, that turned into a downpour.  While it poured outside we found ourselves enjoying the VIP Exhibit and Lounge.
Once the rain let up we were off to the area were Elvis's planes were parked.

Then a stop at Minnie Mae's sweets for some ice cream. Was also a much needed rest for me before we headed back to the RV Park.  It was a full day and one I will never forget.  While Len isn't/wasn't a big Elvis fan my love for Elvis makes up for both of us and he did seem to enjoy the day also.