After his tragic death at Graceland in August 1977, devotees continued to congregate at the gates, gathering in larger numbers each August to remember his legacy and share stories. In 1982, Graceland opened for tours and continued to attract fans from all over the world.
In recent years, Graceland has expanded to include Elvis Presley's Memphis, a complex containing several museums, Sirius XM's Elvis Radio, restaurants, gift shops, and the Graceland Sound Stage. Special events through the year, such as Elvis Week, Birthday Week, and the Ultimate ETA Weekend draw large crowds of people from all over.
The Guest House at Graceland is hands down the best place to stay if you're visiting Graceland. This 4-star, Elvis-themed resort contains everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a pool, 2 restaurants, a gift shop, theater, lobby bar with live music, outdoor games, and a constant shuttle to and from Graceland. Every time I've stayed at the Guest House, the beds have been extremely comfortable, and I've found the bathrooms to be well-equipped with everything you'll need. The in-room televisions give access to standard cable channels, as well as 24/7 access to Elvis' Aloha from Hawaii and the famous 68 Comeback Special. During special events like Elvis Week, Elvis Birthday Week, or the ETA Weekend, the on-site theater, The TCB Showroom, hosts concerts. During off weeks, you'll find Elvis movies playing nightly. I have fond memories of seeing the Memphis premiere of Baz Luhrmann's Elvis in 2022, as well as his more recent film EPiC, at this theater, along with countless other movies, concerts, and auctions.
When I can't get a room at the Guest House, my 2nd choice is always the Holiday Inn Express on Elvis Presley Boulevard. Unlike the Guest House, it's not walking distance to Graceland, but it does offer a shuttle to and from Graceland and the Guest House during regular business hours with additional shuttles during special events. During Elvis Week and Birthday Week, the hotel does an excellent job of keeping the Elvis theme with piped-in Elvis music, a cardboard Elvis in the lobby and the EP Blvd Pawn Shop's memorabilia sale and convention. The hotel is clean, comfortable and budget-friendly. Parking is secure and gated, with key card access required to enter. The guitar-shaped pool in the back is a nice touch, though I've never seen anyone use it.
Although I can't personally vouch for the Days Inn on Elvis Presley Boulevard, I do know it is another very popular hotel for Elvis fans visiting Graceland. The reviews are sometimes great, and sometimes not so great, but this hotel has been a staple in the Elvis community for decades and is the most affordable of the three hotels in this post. The Elvis-themed decor, Elvis Week pool parties, and close proximity to Graceland will delight any Elvis fan looking for an inexpensive motel near the King's castle.
In conclusion, although there are many wonderful hotels in the Memphis area, these three are the only hotels that you should consider if you want to be on Elvis Presley Boulevard. Enjoy your trip to Memphis, and please feel free to reach out with any questions!
