Memphis, Tennessee -
Elvis's Apartment

The tour of Lauderdale Courts was the best $10 I ever spent. This apt. complex was Elvis Presley's first residence when he moved to Memphis from Tupelo, Ms. Although the units have been remodeled, it is decorated reminiscent of the '50s when his family lived there. The day we went, it turned out we were the only ones there, so we got a personalized tour in which we learned inside information about when Elvis lived there, were able to take interior photos, and sit on the sofa and just take in the atmosphere. [Cheri Woods, 09/12/2007]

Second only to Graceland, Lauderdale Courts is the Memphis home Elvis lived in the longest. In 1949 Vernon Presley moved his family to 185 Winchester Apt. #328. It was here Elvis practiced his guitar in the basement, played music to passersby from his bedroom window or in the courtyards and mall with other young musicians. The two-bedroom apartment's location was key to Elvis' exposure to the Memphis music culture near the bluesmen of Beale Street, southern gospel concerts at Ellis Auditorium (since-razed), his favorite record store, Pop Tunes (the first to sell his records and still open), and Sun Studio. It is the only place on earth you can sleep where he lived.

Open twice a year (Elvis Birthday Week/January and Elvis Week/August) for public tours ($10). Open year round for overnight stays (Four adults/2 night minimum to 6 night maximum). Vintage furniture and fixtures, including working 1951 refrigerator, plus hidden modern conveniences (wireless internet access, Plasma HDTV/DVD/CD, microwave oven). Access to surrounding apartment community's outdoor pool plus fitness, business and media center. [Kim, 04/27/2005]