Critter Alley

Critter Alley

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Memphis-Part 2

In addition to Beale Street there are a few other places to check out in Memphis.

We took the first-time-visitor-mandatory tour of Graceland.  It's a huge operation that still brings in countless guests each day. The house surprised me with rooms that were small and surprisingly modest.  Though Elvis added on as needed, Graceland lacks the spacious luxury of today's mansions.  Still, it's a fascinating time capsule of the 1970's complete with shag carpet and a faux fur family room.
















I couldn't find a hound dog anywhere, but I did see the famous pink cadillac in a garage full of Elvis's collectible cars.

















We checked out his airplanes, which were also in 1970's decor.  How would you like to nap in this queen sized bed while flying to your next destination?  It's hard to see, but FAA regulations required the bed to contain a seat belt.  I could say something...but, no.  This is a family friendly blog.  Elvis relics are plastic-covered for protection.  No one is allowed to touch anything upon pain of death...or being forced to listen to Elvis impersonators for five solid hours. 

















Musicians and music lovers alike would enjoy the Gibson factory tour. We saw craftsmen hard at work on every step in the creation of the world famous Gibson guitar.  No photography allowed inside, but as you can see, the building took up an entire block.
















Back on Beale Street, the sidewalks feature musical notes that include the name of an artist or music company.  My favorite was situated right outside his famous restaurant.  Love ya, B!

















This band rocked the street.  The young bass player was exceptional.  When we asked her how long she'd been playing, she nonchalantly replied, "About ten months."























Seriously!  I know young people pick things up faster than we oldsters, but that's just plain wrong.

I hoped to see the Peabody ducks parade, but never made it to their hotel.  I understand the pampered critters are marched from roof top to lobby with an elevator ride in between. If you want to check them out, get there early.  The ducks always command an enormous crowd.

We had a few other adventures, some better left unshared. Suffice it to say that the trip to Memphis was a blast. 

I'm ready to go back again any time, y'all!

21 comments:

Two French Bulldogs said...

Cool place...never been but wanna go
Snuggles & snorts,
Benny & Lily

Deborah said...

WOW, I have never been to Memphis, but I would love to go! I would have thought Elvis's house would have been HUGE! I'm surprised in a way. He must have been a nice guy! You know I did see him in Boston last week! LOL
Thanks for sharing your vacation with us!
xxoo
Deborah

Linda O'Connell said...

Oh, you're giving me wanderlust. It sound like you had a great time. My cousin lived in Memphis when Elvis did. I've never been inside the house, just outside.

NAK and The Residents of The Khottage Now With KhattleDog! said...

Mom says she bets the Gibson place was fun!

(She nevFUR got Elvis so Graceland doesn't interest her)

I bet Gussie and Teka would have showed woo all the bestest khanine spots had they still lived there!

Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra

Doris Sturm said...

I've never been to Memphis and it sure looks like an interesting and fun place to experience. Street musicians always make me happy, especially when they rock!

What a great experience you're having. Thanks so much for sharing it with us.

Frankie Furter and Ernie said...

My mom and dad stayed in the Peabody. They got to watch the ducks several times. Sorry you missed that.. Better than the Avacado GREEN Shag at Graceland. the Gibson place Mom says was grrrreat.

The Daily Pip said...

Very cool. We have never been there, but hopefully we will get there some day!

Your pal, Pip

Oskar said...

My mom person was listening to Elvis Presley all day today.

It looks like a cool place!

Nubbin wiggles,
Oskar

Kat_RN said...

I have driven through Memphis several times, but never got to spend any time playing tourist. Looks like fun. I came over from the three for thurs blog hop. Nice to "meet" you.
Kat

Cattis said...

Sounds as you have had a great trip.

Cattis

Baby Rocket Dog and Hootie said...

Looks like you had a blast. That pink car was cool! Now that song "Talk Memphis" is playing in mommy's head. hehe.
XXOO-
BRD & Hootie

Sage said...

Elvis was so cool! Never been to Memphis, but it sounds great. Thanks for sharing.

Cyndi and Stumpy said...

We'll be heading to Tennessee in a few weeks! Thanks for the tips!

Roscoe said...

Sounds like yu is hasin a wonerful vacashun!
giant wet kisses,
Roscoe

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Mimi

Sioux said...

And isn't Reverend Al Greene there in Memphis?

I would love to spend some time in Memphis. I too love B.B. King. (and I see from your quotes that you're a fan of The Little Prince, as well!)

It was a great meeting of the Saturday Writers, wasn't it?

Ann Summerville said...

Lovely overview of Memphis. I'm enjoying the series with Jason Lee and getting a glimpse of the city.
Ann

BECKY said...

I think this calls for a Gal Trip to Memphis!! I'm ready! :)

ocmist said...

Thanks for sharing your vacation pics and stories with us. Sounds like you had a great time! Grammy from CC

Tammy said...

Sounds fun! Great pics as usual!

Unknown said...

Went to Graceland a looonng time ago on a trip with my cousin, Aunt, and Uncle. It was so much fun. My favorite memory...the guitar shaped swimming pool.

Hope Indy is feeling better!

Happy Trails,
Marlene
RMKK Companion