Day 2: Memphis (6 miles)
Today is dedicated to a leisurely tour of some of the main Memphis attractions. You may do this walking or by car depending on your preference. We recommend starting at the more distance point, while your rested. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music, 3 miles away from the city center, located on the original site of the Stax Records studio. This is the world’s only museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Stax Records and American soul music pays special tribute to the artists who recorded there, as well as other American soul legends, with interactive exhibits, films, stage costumes, musical instruments, vintage recording equipment used at Stax and a rare and amazing collection of more than 2,000 items of memorabilia and artifacts. Walk or drive back towards the center to visit Sun Studio. Since the distance to the studio is another 3 miles we suggest you take a rest in between the visits. The studio provides guide tours to facilitate the visit. Known as "The Birthplace of Rock 'N' Roll", it’s where Elvis Presley recorded his first song at age 18. Opened by rock pioneer Sam Phillips in 1950, this national Historic Landmark is where superstar musicians like Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King, Howlin' Wolf, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and countless others started their recording careers. Time to take a lunch break. In the afternoon go to Mud Island Park (1.5 miles). Take the half-mile Skybridge (plus some stairs) and savor the river view as you stroll above it. Stroll the island, watch the “mini Mississippi River” or visit the museum. Later in the afternoon head for the Memphis Riverboat Pier (1 mile) to board the evening River Cruise and enjoy dinner aboard. After the cruise return to the hotel for overnight.
Day 3: Memphis, Alamo (163 miles)
This morning drive about one hour to Brownsville to visit the Tina Turner Museum. Step inside the restored Flagg Grove School. This one-room schoolhouse once attended by a young Anna Mae Bullock (a.k.a. Tina Turner), built by her great uncle in 1889, is now home of the Tina Turner Museum. Inside you’ll find a collection of her memorabilia, including costumes, gold records and even her high school yearbook. Saved and moved from Nutbush, a small farming community just outside of Brownsville, you’ll also experience what learning must have been like for African-American students in the 1940s through early ’60s. The structure also includes an authentic chalkboard and original desks and benches preserved along with the structure. Then, drive another 20 miles to reach the Tennessee Safari Park. You may enjoy lunch at the park grill. Experience a drive through and walk along the 5.5 miles of Safari Roads in your own car and interact and feed animals as you make your way through. After your journey pet the baby goats at the petting zoo and visit the gift shop. An experience you will never forget, Africa at your back door! After the visit, it will take about 90 minutes to return to your hotel in Memphis.
Day 4: Memphis (110 miles)
Today is your Elvis Day! Drive 10 miles to Graceland Mansion. It was the private retreat of the King of Rock 'n Roll. It was where his family grew up, spent their time together and enjoyed life. Explore the personal side of Elvis Presley with an interactive iPad tour of Graceland Mansion, hosted by John Stamos and featuring commentary and stories by Elvis and his daughter, Lisa Marie. Then, walk among some of Elvis’ favorite automobiles, including his iconic Pink Cadillac, Stutz Blackhawk, 1956 Cadillac Eldorado, Dino Ferrari, Mercedes Benz limousine, Rolls Royce sedans and more. Graceland has recently introduced ten state-of-the-art, immersive experiences that invite guests to become the King or Queen of social media! Fans now have the opportunity to get closer to Elvis than ever before via new virtual and augmented reality activities. Designed to inspire, entertain and inform, these additions create dozens of interactive, shareable moments and one-of-a-kind customized photos and videos of you and Elvis to download, share with friends and treasure forever! Last, step aboard Elvis’ customized airplanes to see how he traveled in luxury. Return to Memphis and get lost in iconic Beale Street encompassing three blocks of nightclubs, restaurants and shops in the heart of downtown Memphis, and a melting pot of delta blues, jazz, rock 'n' roll, R&B and gospel. This National Historic Landmark district shares its rich history of legendary live music (think Memphis Minnie, B.B. King and Rufus Thomas, to start) through museums, photo ops and clubs where you can still hear who's making music in Memphis today. There’s no better way to end your day than a stop at B.B. King Club to enjoy the best barbecued ribs in town surrounded by the sound of blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll!
Day 5: Memphis, Tupelo (115 miles)
Drive 90 minutes to Tupelo, MS, where, on January 8, 1935, Elvis Aaron Presley was born in a two-room frame home that was built by his father, grandfather, and uncle. That tiny shotgun-style home still stands and has been converted into a museum that’s become a pilgrimage site for rock-and-roll fans from around the world. The boy who would become the King lived here until he was three years old. After that, his family moved around Tupelo until they relocated north to Memphis when he was 13. When you visit the home, you’ll get a feeling for just how tough life must have been for the small family. The Assembly of God church where Elvis and his family worshipped was later moved to the museum complex and is open to visitors as well. It was there that the King first heard the gospel tunes that would influence his music. Beyond the birthplace museum and church, you’ll see plenty of reminders of the King in Tupelo, including statues, murals, and historic markers that all pay homage to the city’s favorite son. Overnight in Tupelo, MS.
Day 6: Tupelo, Memphis, Hometown (100 miles)
Depending on your flight schedule you may have some time for last souvenir shopping. When ready, drive to Memphis airport in time to return your car and board your flight back home.
Note: Due to COVID-19 restrictions some of the attractions in this itinerary may be closed. Check before planning your trip.
