Why 2027 Is the Year to Visit Elvis' America
50 years. One King. One unforgettable reason to visit Memphis
In 2027, Elvis fans from around the world will head to Memphis to mark 50 years since Elvis Presley died on 16 August 1977. And while Graceland will undoubtedly be at the heart of the celebrations, an Elvis-inspired holiday doesn't have to begin and end at the gates of one famous mansion. In fact, I'd recommend making it a much bigger American adventure.
Where the story really began
Before Elvis became the King of Rock 'n' Roll, he was a boy
growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi. The Elvis Presley Birthplace gives you the chance to see the
modest two-room house where he was born, visit his childhood church and explore
the museum telling the story of his early years.
You can also visit Tupelo Hardware, where Gladys Presley
bought Elvis his first guitar.
Then follow the story onwards to Memphis.
Experience Elvis' Memphis
Of course, no Elvis holiday would be complete without
Graceland. But there's much more to see than the mansion itself.
Across the road, Elvis Presley's Memphis brings together
exhibitions, memorabilia, cars, costumes, music and immersive experiences,
while The Guest House at Graceland gives fans the option of staying right
beside the action.
Then head into Memphis itself. Walk Beale Street. Visit Sun Studio, where Elvis recorded in
his early career. Explore the city's incredible blues and soul heritage, and
make time for some serious Southern food.
Because this is Memphis. Music is everywhere.
Make it a twin-centre or road trip
This is where I'd really start getting creative.
Memphis + Tupelo
The obvious choice for Elvis fans. Spend several nights in Memphis exploring Graceland, Sun
Studio, Beale Street and the city's music heritage, then head south into
Mississippi for Tupelo and the story of Elvis' early life.
Memphis + Nashville
Want to turn your Elvis holiday into a full-blown American
music adventure? Combine Memphis with Nashville for blues, rock 'n' roll and
country music, with plenty of live music along the way.
Memphis + New Orleans
For music, food and atmosphere, this makes a brilliant
combination. Start with the musical history of Memphis before travelling
south to New Orleans for jazz, Creole food, French Quarter culture and a
completely different side of the American South.
Memphis + Mississippi Delta
For travellers who want to go beyond the obvious, take a
road trip through the Mississippi Delta. Think blues, small towns, live music, Southern food and the
places that helped shape American music. Clarksdale, Tupelo and other Delta destinations can be woven
into a tailor-made route.
Why 2027?
Because 50 years is a pretty big anniversary. If Elvis has always been on your travel bucket list, 2027
gives you a brilliant reason to finally go.
And if you're not the world's biggest Elvis fan?
Memphis still delivers incredible food, live music, history,
culture and Southern hospitality. Elvis is simply the thread that can tie the
whole journey together. Whether you want a short Memphis break, an Elvis pilgrimage,
a twin-centre holiday or a full Southern USA road trip, I can build the
itinerary around you.
Frequently Asked
When is the Elvis 50th anniversary?
The 50th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death falls on 16 August 2027. Elvis Week takes place around the anniversary in Memphis.
When is Elvis Week 2027?
Elvis Week 2027 will take place in Memphis around the 50th anniversary of Elvis' death. Exact event schedules and individual event details should be checked as they are released.
Can I visit Graceland outside Elvis Week?
Yes. Graceland and Elvis Presley's Memphis offer Elvis experiences throughout the year, making Memphis suitable for an Elvis-themed holiday outside the anniversary period.
Where was Elvis Presley born?
Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, on 8 January 1935. His birthplace is now part of the Elvis Presley Birthplace complex.
Can I combine Memphis with other destinations?
Absolutely. Popular combinations can include Memphis and Tupelo, Memphis and Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans, or a wider Mississippi Delta road trip.
How long do I need in Memphis?
For a first visit, I'd suggest allowing several nights rather than trying to see everything in a single stop. The ideal length depends on whether you're focusing primarily on Elvis or combining Memphis with wider Tennessee and Mississippi travel.
Is Memphis only suitable for Elvis fans?
Definitely not. Memphis is renowned for its blues, soul and rock 'n' roll heritage, as well as its food, history and live music scene.
Should I book an Elvis 50th anniversary trip early?
If you specifically want to travel during the anniversary period in August 2027, planning early is sensible because accommodation and event demand can be high.
Get in touch to arrange your next adventure!
