Elvis

This was my first trip to Memphis and quite the experience.  First, we stayed at a Holiday Inn Express which in itself was different to say the least.  It was barred and gated, and had lots of security cameras, and security people.  But, other than our first intrepidation, the hotel was good.  It was clean, the staff was wonderful, and the breakfast fair.  On our first day, we went to Sun Studio.  This was an excellent tour, the tour guide was not only knowlegable but lots of fun.  This is the original building with the original recording studio for such great talents as Elvis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and too many others to list.  Parking was a challenge, too few spaces in a tight area. 

Corky's Barbecue is a must for any one who loves ribs.  I felt the prices were fair for the large  amount of food we received.  I took half of mine with me and had another whole meal. 

What can I say about Graceland...........It was a wonderful tour!!!  I recommend you get there early.  The first tour is at 9:00 a.m. and we didn't have to wait long.  We purchased the Platinum Tour which for $30 was well worth it, if you go early the only difference between it and the $68 VIP tour was the back stage pass keepsake.  Again, go early, by 11:00 the lines were long and the tour was crowded.

The Arcade was not what I expected.  My food was burnt, the wait staff overtaxed.  It took forever to get our food, and then my husband was done eating before I could get the waitresses attention to return my order.  My husband had the Memphis Thang which was a turkey sub and his was fine.  I had the deluxe burger, which looked like charcoal on a bun.  I did finally get a more edible burger, and the waitress was kind enough to remove the charge from my bill.  I think breakfast may be the way to go at the Arcade, as everyone around us ordered it and it looked good.

We also checked out Beale St.  It was o.k. but not really what I expected.  I did enjoy the historical A. Schwab store.  It was like going back in time to the five and dime.  There is band playing  in just about every bar, and one in the park, which we stopped to enjoy. 

I think Memphis is a great city with a lot of potential.  It could use revitalization and beautification.  This would help greatly with the tourist trade.  On the whole, a good trip.