Priscilla Presley Explains Why Graceland Still Attracts Crowds

Elvis' Memphis home is the second-most visited in the country.

More than four decades after it opened to the public for the first time, Elvis Presley's Graceland remains one of the most significant homes of the 20th century. Each year, 600,000 visitors make the pilgrimage to the property on the outskirts of Memphis, Tennessee. The 17,552-square-foot home is the second-most visited in the country, behind only the White House. See what draws crowds to this iconic home.

Why Is Graceland So Popular?

Compared to other famous homes like Biltmore Estate, The Breakers, and even Monticello, the 23-room Colonial Revival-style residence is decidedly modest. Some might even consider its kitschy décor garish.

So, what is it about Graceland that calls to so many, year after year? Perhaps it's because it serves as a time capsule of interior design trends. Or maybe it's morbid curiosity about the cultural icon who was taken too soon. Most likely, it's a combination of both.

Elvis' ex-wife Priscilla, who lived at Graceland for many years, shared her theory on why people are drawn to the home during an interview with Architectural Digest.

Priscilla, who said she can still recall countless memories of laughing until she cried within those walls, told the publication that she thinks people flock to Graceland to feel connected to the King of Rock and Roll. Even with all the time that's gone by since his death, there's still an air of mystery around him.

"Elvis didn't fit the mold, he marched to his own drum," she explained. "But when people walk in that front door there is a reverence, respect, a quietness. It's as if his spirit is there. They come back time after time to experience…him."

What To Expect At Graceland

If Memphis is in your travel plans this year, add Graceland to your itinerary. You’ll see the famous Jungle Room complete with an artificial waterfall and shag carpets where Elvis recorded two of his albums, flashy jumpsuits the King was known for, and the kitchen, which was always stocked with peanut butter, rolls and biscuits, Pepsi, and pickles. During your visit, stop by the Meditation Garden to view Elvis’ grave and bring a Sharpie to sign the Graceland wall. After the tour, enjoy a peanut butter and banana sandwich at one of Graceland’s on-site restaurants. Overnight guests can stay at the Guest House at Graceland nearby.

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