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!