Graceland is Elvis Presley's former home, now a museum in Memphis, Tennessee

Graceland sits at 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard in Memphis and operates as a museum open to the public. Elvis bought the mansion in 1957 and lived there until his death in 1977. Today it is one of the most visited private homes in the United States, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who tour the rooms where Elvis lived, recorded music, and spent time with his family.

The property includes the main mansion, a car museum, a racquetball court, and several other buildings. Visitors typically spend two to four hours on-site, though the time varies depending on which exhibits you enter and how long you linger in each room. The mansion itself is climate-controlled and accessible by guided tour only — you cannot walk through on your own.

Key Takeaways

  • Graceland is located in Memphis, Tennessee, and you can visit the mansion, car museum, and other exhibits on the grounds.
  • Admission prices vary by tour type, with basic mansion tours costing less than premium options that include additional buildings and exhibits.
  • Tours run daily except for major holidays, and you should arrive early during peak tourist seasons to avoid long waits.
  • The mansion tour requires you to wear provided audio headsets and follow a set route; you cannot explore at your own pace.
  • Parking is available on-site, and the grounds include restaurants, a gift shop, and restrooms.

Tour options and what each one includes

Graceland offers several tour packages at different price points. The basic mansion tour includes the main house and grounds and is the most common choice. A mid-level package adds the car museum, which displays Elvis's personal vehicles including his famous pink Cadillac. Premium packages bundle the mansion, cars, and additional exhibits such as the racquetball court, Elvis's personal jets, and a museum dedicated to his costumes and stage outfits.

Each tour comes with an audio guide that plays automatically as you move through rooms. The audio is narrated and includes music, interviews, and historical context. You cannot skip ahead or go backward through the audio — it advances as you progress through the tour route. Tour lengths range from about 90 minutes for the mansion alone to three to four hours for the most comprehensive packages.

Prices vary by season and tour type. Peak season (typically spring and summer) costs more than off-season visits. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the gate on the day of your visit. Online purchase sometimes offers a small discount and guarantees entry at your chosen time, which is useful during busy periods.

Hours, admission prices, and what to bring

Graceland is open most days of the year, though hours vary by season. Winter hours are typically 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., while summer hours extend to 5 p.m. or later. The site closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and a few other major holidays. You should check the official website for current hours before you visit, as they change seasonally and occasionally for special events.

Admission prices depend on which tour package you choose and when you visit. A basic mansion tour costs significantly less than a package that includes multiple buildings. Children under a certain age (check the current policy) sometimes receive discounted rates. Seniors and military personnel may also receive discounts — bring proof of military service or a valid ID showing your age.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be on your feet for most of the tour. The mansion is air-conditioned, but outdoor portions of the grounds can be hot in summer. Bring water or plan to purchase it on-site. Cameras are permitted in most areas, though flash photography is restricted in certain rooms to protect the furnishings. Large bags and backpacks are not permitted inside the mansion, but bag storage is available.

Getting there and parking

Graceland is located in south Memphis, about 15 minutes from downtown. If you are flying in, Memphis International Airport (MEM) is roughly 20 miles away. Rental cars are available at the airport, and ride-sharing services operate in Memphis. The address is 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard, which you can enter into any GPS or mapping app.

Parking is available on the Graceland grounds at no additional charge. The lot is large and fills up during peak tourist seasons, so arriving early in the day improves your chances of parking close to the entrance. If the main lot is full, overflow parking is available nearby. Handicap-accessible parking spaces are reserved near the entrance.

What to expect during the tour

Tours begin in a lobby area where you receive your audio guide and are assigned to a departure time. Groups are staggered throughout the day to manage crowd flow. You will then cross Elvis Presley Boulevard (a busy street) via a pedestrian bridge to reach the mansion entrance. This crossing is part of the tour experience and takes a few minutes.

Inside the mansion, you follow a marked route through rooms including the living room, dining room, kitchen, recording studio, and upstairs bedrooms. The audio guide provides information about each space and Elvis's life. You cannot enter every room — some areas are closed to visitors, and ropes guide you along the permitted path. The tour moves at your own pace, though staff members are positioned throughout to keep traffic flowing.

The mansion contains original furnishings, personal items, photographs, and memorabilia from Elvis's life. Some visitors find the decor and design choices from the 1970s striking or dated, depending on their perspective. The experience is more about seeing where Elvis lived than about interactive exhibits or hands-on activities.

Nearby attractions and dining

Graceland is located in a tourist area with several nearby restaurants and shops. On the Graceland grounds, you will find a cafe and a gift shop. Across the street and in the surrounding neighborhood, additional restaurants and souvenir shops cater to visitors. Many people combine a Graceland visit with other Memphis attractions such as Beale Street (known for live music venues), the Memphis Rock and Soul Museum, or the National Civil Rights Museum.

If you plan to spend a full day in Memphis, you can visit Graceland in the morning and explore downtown attractions in the afternoon. The city has hotels ranging from budget to upscale, and many visitors stay overnight. Graceland itself does not operate a hotel, but several are within a short drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take photos inside the mansion?

Photography is permitted in most areas of the mansion, but flash is not allowed in certain rooms to protect the furnishings and artwork. Check with staff when you enter if you are unsure about a specific room. Video recording is generally restricted.

Is Graceland accessible for people with mobility issues?

The mansion tour involves stairs and uneven surfaces, which may be difficult for some visitors. Graceland offers a companion pass for people who need information, and some areas are wheelchair-accessible. Contact Graceland directly before your visit to discuss your specific needs and learn what accommodations are available.

How long does the basic mansion tour take?

The mansion tour alone typically takes 90 minutes to two hours, depending on how long you spend in each room and how crowded the tour is. If you add the car museum or other exhibits, plan for three to four hours total.

Can I visit Graceland if I am not an Elvis fan?

Yes. Many visitors come for the historical and architectural interest rather than as devoted fans. The mansion is a well-preserved example of 1970s design, and the tour provides context about Elvis's life and career. Whether you find it worthwhile depends on your interest in music history and celebrity homes.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Spring and fall typically have pleasant weather and moderate crowds. Summer is peak tourist season, so expect longer waits and higher prices. Winter is quieter but can be cold. Avoid visiting on major holidays when the site is closed.