Madison is home to a lot of attractions - it has an impressive state capitol, the storied Camp Randall Stadium, the bustling State Street shopping district, and more. But there’s one attraction that you might have not heard of - it’s almost too weird to believe: the exact place where Elvis broke up a street fight. Yes, this is a thing, and it’s hiding in plain sight in an unexpected place. I passed by it for many years without knowing it existed, but I recently tracked it down. Here’s what you need to know about this weird roadside attraction in Wisconsin.
1977 was not a good year for the King. He passed away on Aug. 16, 1977, at his home, Graceland, after battling substance abuse and other health issues.
But earlier in the year, he was still on the road.
He embarked on what would be his final tour that year, and he stopped in Madison for a concert at the Dane County Coliseum.
He arrived at the Dane County Airport on June 24 and travelled into the city by limo. I did my best to trace his path, although I had no private jet or limo.
Not far from the airport is the intersection of E. Washington Ave. and Stoughton Road.
It’s a busy intersection that’s flanked by a car dealership, a pharmacy, a restaurant and a tire shop. Back in the 70s, there was a gas station here. I found a parking spot on a side street.
Elvis was passing through this intersection in his limo at about 1 a.m. when he spotted something going down.
As the story goes, he saw two young men attacking a teen. Elvis may not have been in his prime, but he decided to take action. He got out of the car, and assumed a karate stance to show he meant business.
Of course, the young men forgot all about the fight, and the altercation was over.
The men shook the King’s hand, a crowd started to gather, and Elvis got back in the limo and drove away. Less than two months later, he was dead.
I found what I was looking for: a marker commemorating the exact spot of this historical event.
It looks a little like a gravestone, and it’s just off the sidewalk. It’s not exactly a dramatic memorial, but if you’re a fan of Elvis, or unusual things, you should pay it a visit!
This roadside attraction in Wisconsin is definitely one of the stranger places I’ve visited. There’s a lot more to discover in Wisconsin. If you hit the road this summer, here are some items that will make travel a breeze. Just don’t run into any street fights - Elvis is no longer there to save the day!
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