Elvis Presley’s Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis

When exploring Memphis’s connection to Elvis Presley, the Elvis Presley’s Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis offers a well-rounded glimpse into his early years. Priced at $102 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours, this guided tour takes visitors from Memphis to Tupelo, Mississippi, to see where the King was born and raised. The tour is ideal for Elvis fans and history enthusiasts alike, providing a convenient way to visit Tupelo without renting a car. It includes a narrated coach ride, visits to key landmarks like Elvis’s birthplace, the museum, and Tupelo Hardware, plus a driving tour of Tupelo’s significant sites.

While the tour boasts high praise for guides and the experience, some reviews mention that a bit more time at certain stops could improve the visit. This tour combines entertainment, education, and comfort, making it a compelling choice for those eager to learn more about Elvis’s roots.

Key Points

• Price: $102 per person for an approximately 8-hour guided daytrip
• Departure Point: The Guest House at Graceland in Memphis
• Main Stops: Elvis Presley Birthplace, Museum, Tupelo Hardware Company, and Tupelo landmarks
• Transportation: Luxury motorcoach with narrated commentary
• Inclusions: Guided tour of the “Walk of Life” trail, Snacks, Bottled water
• Limitations: No lunch included; children under 5 are not permitted

The Tour Begins at Graceland’s Guest House in Memphis

The tour starts at the Guest House at Graceland, located at 3600 Elvis Presley Blvd. The departure time is 8:30 am, with the group traveling on a luxury motorcoach. This coach ride is a highlight itself, as it features Elvis-themed TV content and provides a comfortable, relaxed setting for the journey.

Travelers will appreciate the small group size, limited to 15 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience. The coaching aspect enhances the trip, setting a lively tone with music and commentary that celebrate Elvis’s legacy throughout the day.

Visiting Elvis Presley’s Birthplace in Tupelo

The first stop is Elvis’s birthplace, a house built by his father for $180, which has become a designated historic landmark by the State of Mississippi. This house is part of the 15-acre Elvis Presley Park, and visitors explore it along with the Elvis Presley Museum. The museum showcases memorabilia and exhibits about his early life.

Additional points of interest include Elvis’s childhood church, the “Walk of Life” trail that traces his personal and musical journey, and the “Elvis at 13” statue. The Fountain of Life and Elvis Story Wall further commemorate his childhood years, all within a compact but meaningful site. The one-hour visit allows for enough time to see the key attractions, though some reviews suggest that extra time at the birthplace could improve the experience.

Exploring Tupelo Hardware and Elvis’s First Guitar

A significant highlight is the visit to Tupelo Hardware Company, where Elvis’s mother, Gladys Presley, bought his first guitar. This hardware store is free to visit and offers a glimpse into Elvis’s early musical instruments. The shop’s atmosphere is warm, with many noting the kindness of employees and the sentimental significance of this spot.

Standing in the hardware store, visitors can imagine the young Elvis holding his first guitar, a moment that kickstarted his legendary career. Although there is no admission fee, the experience is rich in nostalgia and history.

Driving Tour of Tupelo’s Landmark Sites

Following the visits to the Elvis birthplace and hardware store, the tour includes a driving tour of Tupelo’s key landmarks. This includes The Tupelo Fairgrounds, the Elvis Homecoming Statue, and local schools Elvis attended. These landmarks help visitors connect Elvis’s childhood environment with his rise to fame.

This short drive offers context about Tupelo’s significance in Elvis’s life, with commentary from the guide that highlights local history and Elvis’s early influences. The visual connection between Elvis’s humble beginnings and his later stardom is a powerful aspect of this part of the tour.

Visiting the Elvis Birthplace Complex and Memorials

The Elvis birthplace complex features a small museum, a memorial chapel, and Elvis’s original home. Visitors get a chance to explore Elvis’s humble origins firsthand and gain insights into his early religious and musical influences.

This site often appeals because of its intimate scale and personalized atmosphere. Some reviews suggest that more time at this stop would allow for a deeper exploration, especially at the birthplace house and surrounding grounds.

Food and Refreshments During the Tour

The tour includes snacks and bottled water, keeping travelers refreshed throughout the day. However, lunch is not included, and visitors have the option to purchase lunch at a local Tupelo restaurant during the stop. This flexibility allows guests to choose a meal that suits their preferences but requires planning ahead.

There’s a lunch stop in Tupelo, which many find convenient, though some wish for more time to explore the town or enjoy a sit-down meal.

Guide and Transportation Quality

The guided tour features a knowledgeable narrator who leads the group through the “Walk of Life” trail and discusses Elvis’s life in detail. The bus driver and guide receive high praise for their professionalism and friendly demeanor.

The coach ride is described as entertaining and informative, with Elvis-themed TV and music playing during transit. The small group size enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and engage with the guides.

Pacing and Timing of the Tour

Most reviews indicate that the tour’s pacing is generally good, but some feel that extra time at the birthplace or downtown Tupelo could improve the experience. The total time is about 8 hours, making it a full but manageable daytrip.

The itinerary is well-organized, with enough time allocated for each stop, but travelers should be aware that the lunch break is flexible, and some stops may feel slightly rushed.

Overall Experience and Tour Value

This Elvis childhood home tour scores highly on guide expertise, comfort, and site selection. The $102 price includes luxury transportation, guided commentary, and admission to key sites, making it a good value for Elvis fans.

The small group size, personalized guides, and careful organization combine to create a comfortable and engaging day. While some reviews suggest more time at certain stops, the overall experience balances educational content and entertainment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for dedicated Elvis fans eager to see his childhood home and learn about his early influences. It also suits visitors who prefer guided experiences and comfortable transportation without the hassle of driving.

People interested in Tupelo’s local history and Elvis’s roots will find this trip particularly rewarding. Families with children over 5, who can participate in the small group setting, will also enjoy this tour.

The Sum Up: A Solid Elvis-Themed Daytrip

The Elvis Presley’s Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis offers a well-organized, informative look into Elvis Presley’s early life. The luxury coach ride, guides’ expertise, and key landmarks make it a compelling option for fans and curious visitors alike. The price point provides good value, especially given the inclusivity of museum entries and snacks.

While some might wish for more time at certain stops, the overall experience strikes a nice balance of entertainment and education. This tour is most suited for visitors who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and heartfelt glimpse into Elvis’s childhood and Tupelo’s heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, site visits, and breaks.

What is included in the price?
The $102 per person fee covers luxury motorcoach transportation, guided tour of the “Walk of Life” trail, admission to Elvis Presley’s Birthplace and Museum, snacks, and bottled water.

Are children under 5 allowed?
No, children under 5 years old are not permitted on this tour.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from and concludes at The Guest House at Graceland in Memphis, with the meeting point at Elvis Presley Blvd.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included, but there is an option to purchase lunch at a local Tupelo restaurant during the stop.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.