memphis

Memphis, Tennessee, is, without a doubt, home to the legacy of a royal. Not a crown-wearer, but a blue-suede-shoes-wearer. Elvis Aaron Presley passed away on August 16,1977, but has continued to leave his mark on the greater Memphis area in the 40 years since. His influence on Memphis, the city nestled right next to the delta of the Mississippi River, is unmistakable. From souvenir trinkets to restaurant menus, Elvis’s name and image are everywhere.

Travelers have long since sought out places associated with classic artists: Stratford to visit Shakespeare’s hometown, Giverny to tour Monet’s house, and Salzburg to bask where Mozart composed his music.

In autumn, the Tennessee hills blaze with color. Red, orange, and yellow leaves brighten the landscape. The air remains warm but is cooled by a pleasant breeze. It is an enchanting place, buzzing with creative energy. There is little wonder why this region is famous for attracting musicians.Think about it: so many musical genres have roots in Tennessee—blues, gospel, country, and rock and roll. Between Memphis and Nashville you can find memorials celebrating B. B. King, the Reverend Al Green, Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and the King himself—Elvis Presley.Locals relish their rich musical history. This pride is demonstrated by a state senate bill passed in 1999 that officially designated the region of Interstate 40 between Memphis and Nashville as the “Music Highway.” Today, there are signs along the road celebrating this title and directing travelers to musical landmarks such as murals, monuments, and museums. Just a sampling of sites includes a rich variety of destinations.