Elvis-a-Rama Museum
In the middle of the Las Vegas desert arose a legendary icon that no one seems able to forget. The flashy bejewelled jumpsuits and stylish black hair are all that's required to get the hips swinging and your foot stomping to rock 'n' roll music of yesteryear.
The Opening
November 5, 1999 marked the grand opening of the five million-dollar Elvis-A-Rama Museum, to celebrate the life and times of entertainer, Elvis Presley.
Entering the Museum
For every Elvis fan, wannabe or those merely bemused by the whole Elvis culture, the unique Elvis-a-Rama Museum, located behind the Fashion Show Mall, is a ‘must see’ while in Las Vegas. Visitors are greeted by a "talking" Elvis on the self-guided tour where you’ll travel through Elvis’s almost surreal transformation from simple and humble southern rock and roll singer to the gargantuan media icon that became larger than life whilst viewing over 2,000 personal Elvis memorabilia.
How It Began
The idea all began when Chris Davidson first met Elvis at the Las Vegas Hilton (in 1975), and through the years, became convinced that it was his destiny to somehow become more connected with The King's legacy. Chris purchased his first Elvis pieces (two cheques and a personal letter, for $8,000) at an auction held by Memphis Mafia mate Jimmy Velvet. "From there, the collection took on a life of its own," recalls Davidson, who scoured the country in his search for more memorabilia. Chris Davidson is now the single largest private collector of Elvis material in the world!
The Kings Collection
The Museum contains the world’s largest private collection of Elvis material, much of it never seen before by the public. It includes every 45, EP and LP recorded by the King, his piano, costumes from various movies, posters from all 29 of his movies, original handwritten lyrics, an army uniform, cars, stage outfits, photos, various letters and documents, Elvis’ ‘62 Glastron powerboat, an autographed pair of blue suede shoes, his Army fatigues and trunk, correspondence from Colonel Parker, a jacket from Sun Records (where his first five records were recorded), his jump suits including the famous gold one, the Peacock, the Turquoise Phoenix, and the mighty Cisco Kid suit, featured on the 1971 'He Touched Me' album sleeve.
Beyond the Ordinary
The museum goes beyond the ordinary though, with items such as Elvis' Social Security card (a $14,000 auction purchase), scarves, guns, sporting goods and more. Even the man's American Express card and application (on which he listed an annual income of $3 million in 1969) are on display, as well as a letter to a former girlfriend denying that he was dating Priscilla Beaulieu.
The Kings Jewels
The jewellery section has more than 20 pieces on display, with a value of more than $500,000. Rings and jewellery, both from the King's early days to the more elaborate diamond-studded gold bands he wore later in life.
Live Show
A live show, performed by one of the omnipresent Elvis impersonators, is also included with the admission on the hour every hour. Although produced on a smaller scale than most Elvis-impersonator gigs on the Strip, the shows are definitely not to be missed.
The Gifts
Last but not least is a visit to the museum's gift shop, which contains the largest and most diversified collection of Elvis merchandise. Open 11am-6pm daily.
Location
Elvis-A-Rama Museum is conveniently located at 3401 Industrial Road, one block west of the Las Vegas Strip. You can't miss the giant neon gold record and guitar bursting out of the rooftop. Operating hours are seven days a week, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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