My mom is a huge fan of Elvis Presley’s music, so I grew up listening to it. 

As a lifelong fan, I had always dreamed of visiting Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. When I finally made the trip down to Tennessee, it was everything I had hoped for and more. My father, sister and I actually decided to surprise my mom for her birthday and take her down there, so we made a vacation out of it.

From the moment I stepped through the gates of Graceland, I was transported back in time. The house itself is a beautiful and magnificent mansion, filled with now-tattered decor and charming quirks that are as unique as the man who once lived there. 

But what made my visit to Graceland really special, aside from spending quality time with my family, was the deep sense of connection that I felt to Elvis himself.

However, walking through the house and seeing his personal belongings up close — from his iconic jumpsuits to his cherished guitars — I felt a bond with him that I had never experienced before.

Although, the weather wasn’t great and my family and I did a guided tour instead of going at our own pace. 

However, in the coming days after visiting Graceland, my family and I visited other places. We went to other parts of Tennessee, primarily Sevierville, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

In the end, my trip to Graceland was more than just a fun vacation – it was a pilgrimage to the heart and soul of one of the greatest artists of all time. I left feeling renewed, inspired and grateful for the chance to connect with Elvis and his music in such a profound way.

If you’re a fan of Elvis and haven’t yet made the trip to Graceland, I can’t recommend it enough.