Graceland to close temporarily as coronavirus pandemic spreads

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Elvis Presley's Graceland was closed to the public Friday, in response to the spread of the coronavirus.

Graceland hopes to reopen April 3, according to a statement released Friday.

Memphis' signature tourist destination, the former Presley home and its associated attractions — including the Elvis Presley's Memphis complex of exhibits, shops and restaurants, located across the street from the mansion  — had been just about the last holdout among the city's museums and other public lures for visitors, whether local or from out-of-town.

The last mansion tour was Friday afternoon. Shops and other public spaces were closed at about the same time. 

The 13.8-acre Graceland estate was purchased by Elvis in 1957, and served as his home until his death on Aug. 16, 1977. The house was opened to the public on June 7, 1982, and is reckoned to be the second-most-visited house in the U.S., after the White House.

Graceland generally attracts between 500,000 and 750,000 tourists a year. Many of these visitors arrive in August for the "Elvis Week" commemorations that include the famous "Candlelight Vigil" procession to the Presley gravesite on the mansion's grounds. 

In a statement released Friday afternoon, Graceland officials said: "In line with Federal and CDC guidance and with the absolute best interest of our Guests and Staff in mind, Graceland will be temporarily closed beginning March 21 through April 3 due to the COVID-19 pandemic."

It continued: "We will vigilantly monitor the situation and remain in regular contact with the appropriate officials and health experts. Please continue to check this page and our social media for updates."

Some concerts and events at Graceland already had been rescheduled.

Business had been brisk at the mansion this week, as fans who already had traveled to Memphis did not cut short their plans to pay homage to the King of Rock 'n' Roll.

"We will continue to make adjustments to our operations as appropriate and look forward to welcoming Guests back to Graceland as soon as it is advisable," the statement concluded. "Thank you for your patience and understanding."

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a pandemic. Reported illnesses range from very mild to severe, including death. Agencies anticipate widespread transmission will occur in the U.S. in coming months and recommend social distancing among other measures to slow the spread. Call your doctor and stay home if you are sick. Get more information at CDC.gov/coronavirus or contact the Tennessee Department of Health coronavirus information line at 877-857-2945 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT daily.