Viva More Than Las Vegas! Celebrate the King at These Elvis Movie Locations Javier Peinado January 10, 2025 Arts & History Few individuals have had as big an impact on world culture as Elvis Aron Presley. Known simply as “The King” for his musical output, Elvis also had a whirlwind movie career with locations spanning some of the most sunny and iconic destinations in the United States. From the white sand beaches of Hawaii to the bright lights of Las Vegas, moviegoers got a chance to follow the King on a wild ride of adventure, storytelling, and, of course, amazing musical performances. Let’s take a look at some of the most important filming locations in Elvis’s career as an actor and see what they offer for those hoping to walk in the footsteps of the King of Rock and Roll’s blue suede shoes! Las Vegas Elvis Presley Boulevard in Las Vegas Las Vegas was one of the most important places in Elvis’s career. Along with the filming location of one of his most iconic movies, Viva Las Vegas, the King also had an incredible 8-year residency in the city, wowing audiences with powerful performances and classic songs. The International Hotel Few places in Las Vegas are as synonymous with Elvis Presley as the International Hotel. Now known as the Westgate Las Vegas, it was Elvis’s home during his Vegas residency. From 1969 until 1976, the King performed 636 sold out shows at the hotel’s theater, a stunning reminder of Elvis’s incredible star power. Today, visitors to the Westgate are welcome to explore Elvis’s legacy through a vast memorabilia collection curated by the hotel’s team of historians and experts. Entering the hotel lobby, guests are greeted with a larger-than-life bronze statue of the King, a favorite photo-op spot for those hoping to wow their friends with a creative selfie. The Flamingo Hotel Flamingo Road and casino in Las Vegas A casino and hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, the Flamingo was one of the most important filming locations in 1964’s Viva Las Vegas, a favorite of most lovers of the King’s filmography. The Flamingo Hotel was featured prominently in the opening minutes of the film, when Elvis’s character Lucky first meets the beautiful Rusty, played by Ann-Margaret, by the hotel’s pool. Later in his career, Elvis also liked to take in shows at the Flamingo’s theater and was once photographed with a then up-and-coming Tom Jones. The Riviera Hotel (now closed) The Riviera Hotel has the distinct honor of being the spot where Elvis performed one of his most noteworthy jam sessions with legendary pianist Liberace. On November 16, 1956, Presley joined Liberace backstage for a night of music and impromptu fun. In photographs used to promote both musicians’ forthcoming projects, Elvis and Liberace traded instruments and clothes, with the King of Rock and Roll playing Liberace’s piano and Mr. Showmanship strumming on Elvis’s guitar. Now a part of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Riviera is remembered as an iconic Las Vegas institution. The Neon Museum Neon Boneyard Park Few Las Vegas locations take visitors back to the city’s golden age as much as the Neon Boneyard at the Neon Museum. The resting place of many famous resort and casino signs from the city’s past, the Neon Boneyard contains several relics from Elvis’s storied career. In particular, the museum is the home of the Flamingo Hotel sign from Viva Las Vegas, as well as the sign from the Frontier Resort, the venue that hosted Elvis’s first Las Vegas performance in April of 1956. Elvis diehards will also want to be on the lookout for the sign from the Aladdin Hotel, the spot where Elvis and Priscilla were married in 1967, and Elvis’s star from the Riviera Hotel’s Walk of Stars. The MGM Grand Although the King himself never performed at the MGM Grand, no Elvis-centric trip to Las Vegas can be complete without a stop at the iconic hotel and casino. Why? Well, for decades, the MGM Grand has been the unofficial gathering place of the city’s Elvis impersonators. Whether you’re looking to get your picture taken with an Elvis impersonator in the King’s iconic white jumpsuit or hoping to enjoy a pitch perfect rendition of “Hound Dog” or “All Shook Up,” Elvis faithful will delight in a visit to the MGM Grand. Hawaii Much like Las Vegas, Hawaii is one of the most important destinations for those with an interest in the King. As an actor, Elvis filmed three movies in Hawaii and later filmed the legendary documentary and concert Aloha From Hawaii at the Honolulu International Center in 1973. Waikiki Beach, Oahu Oahu, Hawaii Waikiki Beach was featured in all three of Elvis’s Hawaii movies, most prominently in 1961’s Blue Hawaii. Among the standout locations for Elvis fans on Waikiki Beach is Hilton Hawaiian Village, Elvis’s favorite hotel on Oahu. Throughout his life, Elvis stayed at the at Hilton Hawaiian Village seven times. During filming, the resort served as an important meeting place for the King and his fans. When word spread that Presley was staying at the hotel, legions of his most committed admirers would wait to meet him by the resort’s helipad. Ever intent on honoring the legacy of Elvis, Hilton Hawaiian Village invites visitors to check out photographs of Presley at the Tapa Tower History Wall, while guests with more expensive tastes can book the King Suite, the room where Elvis stayed while visiting the hotel. Diamond Head Diamond Head One of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring locations in all of Hawaii, Diamond Head has special significance among admirers of the King for its use in one of the most iconic Elvis photographs. Elvis filmed several scenes at Diamond Head, an extinct volcanic crater, for Blue Hawaii in early 1961. During a break in the production, Elvis stopped to have his picture taken holding a ukulele with Diamond Head in the background, a photograph that has since become one of his most famous images. Music-loving visitors checking out Diamond Head often enjoy recreating that iconic photograph, a trend that has become a viral sensation. Maui Black sand beach on Maui’s Road to Hana Road, Hawaii Elvis fans looking to indulge in their love of the King while also enjoying Hawaii’s breathtaking tropical splendor should head to Maui and partake in an excursion down the wondrous Road to Hana. A 64-mile drive down the Maui coast, the Road to Hana lets visitors enjoy some of the most beautiful views in the Aloha State. Elvis fans heading down the road will find a special surprise at Wailua Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls on Maui. Other Destinations As one of the most iconic entertainers in history, Elvis had an influence that extends far beyond the confines of Las Vegas and Hawaii. Next time you’re traveling through the South or California, consider a stop at two of these amazing Elvis destinations. Memphis, Tennessee Graceland Mansion in Memphis, Tennessee Memphis is a veritable holy of holies for devotees of Presley. Elvis’s hometown, Memphis is the location of Graceland, Elvis’s 17,000-square-foot mansion and one of the most famous places in rock music history. Now a museum, Graceland offers a variety of exhibits centered around the King, including his signature pink Cadillac, and the Lisa Marie, Elvis’s very own private plane. Also, be sure not to miss the Hall of Gold, which displays many of the platinum and gold records bestowed on the King by the RIAA. After touring Graceland, head to Downtown Memphis and pay a visit to Sun Studio, the place where Elvis recorded his first hits at only 18 years old. You Might Also Enjoy: Discover The Musical Legacy of Memphis at its Amazing Museums Hollywood, California No city celebrates Elvis’s contributions to filmmaking quite like Hollywood, California. Among the top-tier destinations for Elvis devotees in the city is Paramount Studios, the movie house that awarded the King his first acting contract. It was at Paramount Studios that Elvis filmed his favorite acting part in 1958’s King Creole along with 8 other films. Next, head to TCL Chinese Theater to explore Elvis’s continuing legacy in film. Shortly before the release of the critically acclaimed biopic Elvis in 2022, the King’s surviving family members were invited to immortalize their handprints in wet cement outside of the theater to honor and acknowledge Elvis’s contributions to cinema. Before heading home, be sure to check out Elvis’s star on the Walk of Fame, which appropriately sits next to The Beatles’ star at the corner of Hollywood and La Brea. FAQs: Q: What is the best time of year to visit these Elvis filming locations? A: The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from fall to spring, when the weather is more comfortable. For Las Vegas, consider visiting in spring or fall to avoid the extreme summer heat. Hawaii is pleasant year-round, though winter can be a little wetter. Q: Are there guided tours available for Elvis-related sites? A: Yes, many of these locations, such as Graceland and the Westgate Las Vegas, offer guided tours. You can also find specialized Elvis tours in Memphis, Las Vegas, and Hawaii, which provide a deeper dive into his history and legacy. Q: Can I visit these sites on my own, or do I need to join a group? A: Many of these sites, like Graceland, the Neon Museum, and Waikiki Beach, are open for self-guided visits. However, for a more immersive experience, joining a guided tour is recommended at places like the Westgate and Sun Studio. Q: How long should I plan to spend at Graceland? A: A visit to Graceland usually takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits. If you want to explore more deeply, such as the Hall of Gold and the Lisa Marie plane, you might want to allocate a half-day for your visit. Q: Are there any Elvis-themed events or festivals? A: Yes, events like Elvis Week in Memphis (August) celebrate his life and music with concerts, tributes, and more. You can also find annual Elvis-themed festivals in Las Vegas, Hawaii, and even internationally, where fans gather to honor the King. Q: Are there any other Elvis landmarks in California besides Hollywood? A: Yes, in California, you can visit locations like the Elvis Presley Memorial at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale. Additionally, the Palm Springs area is home to places where Elvis spent some time living, and you can also check out the Elvis Presley Foundation Museum in Anaheim. Q: How accessible are these locations for travelers with mobility challenges? A: Most of the major Elvis-related attractions, such as Graceland, the Westgate, and the Neon Museum, are wheelchair accessible. It’s recommended to check with each location in advance for specific accommodations and availability. Are you a hardcore Elvis fan? Have you visited any of these destinations? 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