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pageant. The possible configurations or room spaces on property are vast, like the legacy of Elvis himself. Graceland has a new hotel adjacent to the Elvis Estate. The Guest House at Graceland Hotel has 430 spacious guest rooms with king and double-queen size platform beds, and themed suites. Inspired by the upstairs of Graceland, the luxury resort hosts a spa and 464 seat theatre. At almost 11,000 sq. ft., the Grand Ballroom is the largest meeting and special events space — ideal for hosting conventions, corporate meet- ings, weddings or any gathering of up to 1,350 people. The lasting impression of Memphis is one of rhythm and verve: Blues, soul, R&B, Rock and Roll run through the city. The cross roads of blended culture, spices, make Memphis a city to enjoy for a day or week or longer. From the Havana Mix Cigar Emporium, to the restaurants, there is a level of hands on care, business acumen and professionalism in the deliv- ery of services and experiences by the people of Memphis. As the scheduled meetings come to a close their are things to do in Memphis that include Riverboat Cruises, enjoying a show at the 2,300-seat Orpheum Theatre, or the Hilton Memphis Ballroom that has a capacity of 1,100. In addition, the B.B. Kings Blues Club can host 400, and for an even more intimate gathering, Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center at St. Mary's School seats 288. Excellent music, and delicious food can be found in many spaces. For exam- ple, Tin Roof Memphis is located on Historic Beale Street in the heart of downtown Memphis conveniently locat- ed next to Fed Ex Forum and walking dis- tance to the Memphis Rock and Soul Museum, Autozone Park, hotels and many popular attractions. With 11,900 sq. ft. of interior space and a large patio, it can accommodate up to 800 guests. There are more award winning Barbecue restaurants, over 100 total, than you can shake a menu at. Memphis Tennessee delivers the heat in more ways than one. The food is undeniably a magnet for Southern Hospitality deliv- ered in both traditional, and spaces in modern style. New restaurants like The Bishop, in tribute to COGIC leader Rev. G.E. Patterson sits adjacent to the his- toric Arcade Restaurant, operating since 1918. BB King's Blues Club and Grill on Beale Street, has an upstairs experience that is both intimate and could be a set for a movie. The World Famous Gus' Fried Chicken over delivers on delicious- ness. The Central Station Hotel has a backdrop of speakers that fits perfectly in this Music city. The STAX Museum is a must see attraction. Music icons album covers, 45 records and CD's line the walls. When you see the historic music equipment and walk into the recording studio words fail to communicate the feeling. The history of music oozes from this city, and so does good food you can bring back home. For example, Cristina McCarter and Lisa Brown, the minds behind the Memphis City Tasting Box, have the right idea. As the COVID pan- demic began, these two entrepreneurs began curating a collection of items from a selection of the city's chefs, restaura- teurs, and food artisans. Spices, flavors, food, t shirts and so much more are included. Professional sports teams in Memphis include NBA's Memphis Grizzlies, AAA Minor League Baseball's Memphis Reds, The University of Memphis and Memphis Kings in the North American football League allow for seasonal offerings to complement meetings in town. In addition there are eight municipal tennis courts, over 30 Golf courses, and Memphis International Speedway has hosted NASCAR races. Rugby, and roller derby can be experienced in Memphis. Shelby Park is also available for outdoor events, particularly helpful during era of COVID. B M & T ••• March/April 2021 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 27