In 2027, Memphis will be turning up the volume as the world marks 50 years since the passing of music icon Elvis Presley on 16 August 1977, giving fans a very good reason to return to sender and head straight to the home of the King.
For Australian and New Zealand music lovers, it’s now or never to put Memphis on the travel playlist, with a three-night stay offering the perfect chance to experience Elvis’ Memphis while discovering the city that gave birth to blues, soul and rock ’n’ roll.
Memphis Tourism is encouraging travellers to take care of business and allow at least three nights to experience the city properly, combining the ultimate Elvis pilgrimage to Graceland and Sun Studio with legendary music, Southern food, civil rights history and the unmistakable Memphis spirit.
Memphis Tourism Australia and New Zealand Director, Chris Ingram said, “The 50th anniversary will unite Elvis fans from around the world in Memphis, but the most rewarding visit goes well beyond a single attraction.
“Three nights gives travellers time to experience Graceland and walk in Elvis’ footsteps, while also discovering the blues, soul, civil rights history, barbecue and Southern hospitality that make Memphis unlike anywhere else,” Ingram said.
Take a journey back in time at the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum, before heading to legendary Sun Studio, where a young Elvis Presley made his first commercial recordings and began his extraordinary musical journey. Then it’s time to walk in the King’s footsteps with a full day at Graceland, exploring Elvis’ iconic home, personal history and enduring legacy.
Visitors can discover the roots of American soul at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, explore the historic sounds of Beale Street, experience live music pouring from clubs and bars, visit the National Civil Rights Museum and, of course, tuck into some legendary Memphis barbecue. After all, Elvis may have left the building, but the music never did.
Three nights is just enough to get a taste of the city, but visitors who have more time can really let themselves go and follow the music beyond Memphis. Memphis and Nashville make a natural pairing, with at least three nights in each city connecting Graceland and Sun Studio with Nashville’s Historic RCA Studio B. For an extra dose of Elvis, Tupelo, the birthplace of the King, can be added as a full-day private or small-group excursion. For visitors who can’t get enough of the King, continue the journey south through Mississippi to New Orleans, creating a Deep South road trip packed with music, food, history, Southern hospitality and wide open roads.
The 50th anniversary is expected to generate significant international interest in Elvis Week, held annually in Memphis. Official 2027 event dates, ticket packages and accommodation allocations are yet to be released, but fans can already start planning their Memphis adventure.
Year-round Memphis itineraries can also be planned and contracted now, with three nights providing the perfect foundation for discovering both the Elvis essentials and the wider story of the city.
For Australian travellers, Dallas Fort Worth can provide a convenient gateway when Qantas and American Airlines schedules align. For New Zealand travellers, Houston offers an option via Air New Zealand and United Airlines, with onward service to Memphis.
