Rock on Down - Five Iconic Locations in Tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley
It’s coming up on forty years since the ‘King of Rock ‘N’ Roll’ Elvis Presley passed away, so what better time to pay tribute and remember the impact he had on music history? Celebrate his legacy and remember his life with a trip to some of the destinations that helped shape the legend, following in his footsteps and reliving the enigmatic performers hip swings and controversial concerts.
To help you plan your journey, Booking.com has compiled a list of the best Elvis-centric locations that keep the King’s legend alive and are sure to unleash your inner rock ’n’ roll star.
Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis embodies blues culture and was home to Elvis Presley for most of his life, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find one of his most cherished possessions here- Graceland. Visitors to the mansion can take a trip into the past, getting lost in themed rooms and imagining how it must have been when the King roamed the halls. See some of his famous Vegas jumpsuits, awards and gold records in the onsite museum, or pay tribute at the Meditation Garden where he was laid to rest. The top recommendations from Booking.com travellers to Memphis are live music, food and history, so immerse yourself in the ambiance and get to know the place Elvis called home.
Taking inspiration straight from the iconic Graceland, The Guest House at Graceland boasts beautiful southern colonial architecture and themed rooms throughout. The Guest House features two full-service restaurants, an outdoor pool and a 464-seat theatre with live performances and movies. Guests will love the convenient location of the property- just a short car journey from Beale Street, the true heart of Memphis music and entertainment.
San Antonio, Texas
Elvis performed in San Antonio nine times over his career and it was also where he publicly debuted his hit Burning Love. His infamous peacock jumpsuit also made its first appearance here at a 1974 concert, which would go on to fetch the highest price paid for a piece of Elvis memorabilia ever, a whopping $300,000 in 2008. Elvis’ impact here was widely felt, so much so that August 12, 1976 was proclaimed “Elvis Presley Day”.
Book in to the Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk, perfectly located along the San Antonio River and boasting an incredible rooftop pool with 360 degree city views. Enjoy luxury Texas-style cuisine at the Q restaurant or order a creative cocktail from your poolside lounge- you’ll be treated more royally than the King himself!
Honolulu, Hawaii
Watched by an estimated 1 billion viewers and broadcast in over 40 countries, Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite was one of Elvis’ greatest performances ever. It took place in Honolulu, Hawaii in January 1973, and was the most expensive entertainment special at the time of its airing. The show cemented Elvis’ legendary status in the music world and still remains the most watched broadcast by an individual entertainer in television history. Elvis’s appearance in the American musical film Blue Hawaii has also immortalised the star in Honolulu, so why not take a trip to the Punchbowl Crater or the AlaMoana Park to see the stunning sights where scenes were filmed.
Live like Elvis at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort where the King himself stayed during visits to Hawaii. You’ll have the option to enjoy a 5,000-square foot pool, or simply walk for two minutes to reach the gorgeous beach. Explore the natural sanctuary at the resort, featuring beautiful gardens and over 60 species of exotic animals, or watch the weekly fireworks from the comfort of your room.
Indianapolis, Indiana
In June of 1977, Indianapolis, Elvis performed his final ever concert. The press were generally critical of his performance, with many focusing on his overweight appearance and poor vocals. Little did they know that he would never perform again- on August 16th, 1977 Presley died in Graceland from heart failure. For Elvis fans, a trip to Indianapolis is a fitting tribute to his musical legacy, allowing you to visit the memorial marker in the spot where the final arena to host Elvis once stood.
The Hotel Conrad Indianapolis is located in downtown Indianapolis. Guests staying here will enjoy a full-service spa, wine tasting bar and bathrooms with luxurious marble floors. If it’s shopping you’re after, the hotel is connected via a sky bridge to the Circle Center Mall. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail, a world-class urban bike and pedestrian path that connects the Cultural Districts of downtown Indianapolis is only one block from here. Make sure to explore the sporting sights Indianapolis has to offer, visit the local’s favourite ballpark, Victory Field, or head to the Lucas Oil Stadium that showcases the city’s sporting and entertainment excellence.