5 Secret Rooms in Elvis Presley's Graceland, Locked Away for Over 40 Years!
Graceland, in Memphis, Tennessee, stands as one of America's most iconic homes and a pilgrimage site for millions of Elvis Presley fans. Each year, countless visitors step inside the legendary "King of Rock and Roll's" residence.
But here's a secret many don't know: there are parts of this house that have been strictly off-limits to the public—five private rooms that have been locked away since his untimely death in 1977.
These rooms were Elvis's personal sanctuaries, places where he could shed the "King" persona and simply be a man. Here’s what was found (and not found) behind Graceland's forbidden doors.
I. The Upstairs: The King's Private Domain
While touring Graceland, you'll explore the living room, the kitchen, and even the famous Jungle Room. However, the entire main second floor is kept strictly under lock and key. The upstairs was Elvis's absolute domain, a place where he sought solace and privacy.
1. Elvis's Master Bedroom
Elvis's master bedroom was a sanctuary reflecting his unique 70s style.
Bold Decor: The room featured thick, dark red shag carpet and walls clad in dark, sound-dampening faux leather.
Luxury Entertainment: At the room's center stood an enormous 8x8 foot bed. But the most striking feature was two television units mounted in the ceiling directly above the bed, allowing Elvis to watch without lifting his head.
Spiritual Side: This is where Elvis spent countless hours reading spiritual and religious books, which he kept stacked beside his bed.
2. The Master Bathroom
This room holds a tragic significance and is the primary reason the upstairs remains closed to the public.
The Reason for Closure: This bathroom is where Elvis was found unresponsive on August 16, 1977. Graceland officials decided to honor the privacy of his final moments by not including this room in the tour.
The Toilet Tale: In an earlier incident, Elvis, in a fit of frustration, once shot his black toilet to pieces, causing a severe leak into the foyer downstairs!
3. Elvis's Office (The Office)
Located adjacent to the master bedroom, this room served as Elvis's personal workspace.
The "Chainsaw" Sofa: This room is famously known for a remarkably long sofa that was custom-built to stretch from wall to wall. When Elvis decided he wanted it replaced, a problem arose: the sofa was too large to fit through the doorway or down the narrow staircase. The solution? Elvis's father, Vernon, had someone cut the sofa in half with a chainsaw just to remove it from upstairs!
4. The Wardrobe Room
Another bedroom was completely transformed into a massive walk-in closet.
Closet Bedroom: This room housed Elvis's innumerable collection of stage outfits and personal clothing. Even in his closet room, Elvis indulged himself. He installed a white faux fur bed in the center of the room, complete with a stereo and TV discreetly mounted beneath its canopy.
II. The Hidden Room in the Racquetball Building
Beyond the main mansion, the Graceland property includes a Racquetball Building, constructed in 1975. While the public tour grants access to the court and lounge area on the ground floor, the second floor of this building is also entirely off-limits.
5. Elvis's Private Lounge & Spa
This is perhaps the least known of the five private, restricted areas.
Lavish Facilities: The second floor was a luxurious private lounge and dressing area, built exclusively for him and a few close friends.
"King-sized" Features: This area included:
A large Jacuzzi hot tub.
A multi-head shower with steam capabilities.
Gold-plated fixtures.
A private lounge complete with a massage table.
Why Do These Rooms Remain Closed?
The decision to keep these five rooms locked is rooted in respect and privacy.
Elvis was incredibly generous, sharing much of his home with family and friends. However, he also desperately needed sanctuaries where he could be himself, away from the glare of cameras and public demands.
By keeping these rooms closed, Graceland honors that desire, preserving the mystery and the remnants of the King's private life that were not meant for public display. These rooms serve as a poignant reminder that beneath the glamor and fame, even the King of Rock and Roll needed a place to call home.
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