Wednesday, September 22, 2010

The Kings Castle

Graceland was my main reason for going to Memphis. I've been a fan of Elvis's since I can remember. I heard his music and got into his movies when I was about 8 years old. One Christmas, I asked for anything and everything Elvis. In all my photos from Christmas morning, I'm holding Elvis t-shirts, water globes and elvis memorabilia. So to say that I waited a long time to finally get there, is an understatement! 

Before I let the pictures speak for themselves, I should let you know that I went on the VIP tour which I highly suggest for anyone planning on making the trip to Graceland. It allows you to take your time viewing everything in all of the museums and you have multiple access to the mansion during the day. There's also a few extra things to see that you can only view if you're a VIP. Totally worth it! 
On the steps at the front of the mansion
some of my favorite photos from the inside of the house
jumpsuits from the vip room
standing at the gates, signing my name on the wall
This was definitely one of the most memorable trips I've ever been on. Seeing the inside of the house in person was mind blowing. It's totally 60/70's and I loved it. I love vintage and seeing it up close and personal was great. My favorite room was by far his living room with the peacock stain glass. I also thought that the over the top jungle room was a fabulous must see! 

One thing that really surprised me was the size of the house. From the photos and footage that I had always seen the house looked giant inside. Well once you're actually in there, it's not. Now don't get me wrong, it's not small by any means but it definitely feels cozy. The grounds are beautiful and the pool/meditation garden are so peaceful. I can see why Elvis feel in love with it and chose it to make it his home. 

I've heard the mansion is beautiful at Christmas. I think that'll have to go onto my must see list! I already want to go back! Who's up for a road trip? 

26 comments:

All the Small Things said...

Yay for the Graceland post! I was so excited to read about it. The pictures are amazing! I can only imagine what the place was like in person. So glad it lived up to all your expectations!

Jules AF said...

I honestly have no desire to visit, but that looks amazing!

JMJE said...

That sounds like an amazing trip for you. I'm going to Harry Potter Land next week. Very excited.

Jax said...

So fun! I've heard that it's not as huge as you think it is from pics! Love the jumpsuit photo! ha! And love the imagery of you as a kid obsessed with Elvis. So cute!

Salt said...

AWESOME photos! I have always wanted to go to Graceland!

Krysten @ Why Girls Are Weird said...

Oh wow, very cool. My aunt has always been a huge Elvis fan and who wouldn't love a chance to visit Graceland?

Random Musings said...

LOVE IT!!

I wonder how long the drive is from San Fran? Lol

Its on my list just for the history of the place

Steph said...

Wow! So cool! I'm not a big Elvis fan but I'm sure it is neat to see.

Cole said...

That is so cool!!! I'd love to get to Graceland at some point.

Ashleigh said...

I lived in east TN until I was 19 and never visited Graceland. (Granted, it was 8 hours away but still, no excuse!) Thanks for the insider peek!

Queen of the Rant said...

sooo cool, such neat pics love that bamboo room

Amanda @ It's Blogworthy said...

I loved your pictures on Facebook and want to go SO bad. Unfortunately, it's out of my "road trip" range...someday though!

SS said...

Looks like you had an amazing trip... so glad you had so much fun! The weather looks so nice too. I'm totally jealous of sunshine right now.

Anonymous said...

I am from Tennessee and have never been to Graceland. That is officially going on my bucket list. How cool!

Stephanie said...

Oh my gosh! Your pics are fab! I didn't know you could get so up and personal on those tours:) Thanks for sharing!

Selma @ Crazy Little World Of Mine said...

So jealous!! This sounds like a fun trip!!!! :)

JG said...

Very cool pictures! Sounds like it was a dream come true!

JB said...

Holy smokes I'm jealous! I've always wanted to go, it looks awesome!

corkyshell said...

Ooo, we do not live too far from Graceland and I have it on my bucket list of things to do before we move again. Any other suggestions?

. said...

I just went to Graceland for my first time this past August for my birthday! I wanted to go on my acutal birthday date August 16th but some many people told me that would be a bad idea for seeing it for the first time.
I enjoyed it, but I think I am now going to have to go back and do the VIP tour! Thanks for sharing pics!

Ashley said...

Love this post! I've been to Graceland twice, and I just love it! So much history there! Elvis is amazing!

Blicious said...

how fun!! love the pics!

xoxo
b
check out my giveaway! :)

Kelsey Claire said...

Oh how fun! I have always wanted to be there. Now I know to take the VIP tour! You have given me so many tourist trips lately!

Tina L. Hook said...

It has been several years since I have visited but I can still remember it. Thanks for sharing the photos!

I think have a Graceland souvenir somewhere in the recesses of my closet. It is waiting for when I have a place to display it.

Anonymous said...

Oh my, thanks for the inside look! Vintage house...totally you! I'd love to see the house at Christmas time!

Unknown said...

How fun! I'm glad that you were able to live the dream! That's awesome that you were able to see so much more of it. I'm glad too because I get to see it in pictures!