Imagine finding the birthplace of Elvis Presley and diving into a city’s rich culture. Welcome to Tupelo, Mississippi, a place with more than just Elvis’s legacy. Every year, thousands visit, eager for an experience they won’t forget.
Tupelo is not just about Elvis. It’s known for its Southern food, lively downtown, and coffee scene. You’ll also find unique spots and a charming hotel. Whether you love Elvis or just want to see the South, Tupelo will amaze you.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the birthplace of the iconic Elvis Presley and explore his childhood homes and the Tupelo Hardware Company where he bought his first guitar.
- Experience the vibrant downtown scene, including the Downtown Tupelo Mural Walk, the Tupelo Cocktail Trail, and the Crave Dessert Cafe.
- Savor the flavors of the South at local establishments like the Neon Pig Butcher Shop, Romie’s Grocery, and Sweet Tea & Biscuits Cafe.
- Immerse yourself in the local coffee culture at Tupelo River Coffee, Lost + Found Coffee, and the Strangebrew Coffeehouse.
- Discover unique attractions like the Queen’s Reward Meadery and the Love Your Selfie Museum.
Uncover the Birthplace of Elvis Presley
Tupelo is famous as Elvis Presley’s birthplace. It’s a top spot for fans and history buffs. The Elvis Presley Birthplace is a simple two-room house where Elvis was born in 1935. It’s part of a historic site that tells Elvis’s early life and career.
Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum
The Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum lets you see Elvis’s early home and the church that influenced him. You’ll find lots of Elvis memorabilia, photos, and interactive displays. It’s a great way to celebrate Elvis’s life and music.
Tupelo Hardware Company
Don’t miss the Tupelo Hardware Company. It’s where Gladys Presley bought Elvis’s first guitar. This old store has been in Tupelo for over a century. It shows the city’s strong tie to the Presley family.
Elvis Presley's Childhood Homes
There are also homes where Elvis lived as a kid in Tupelo. These places let you follow Elvis’s early steps. They help you understand how his childhood shaped his music career.
“I never forget where I came from. Tupelo is my home, and the people here are my people.” – Elvis Presley
Explore the Vibrant Downtown Scene
Tupelo’s downtown is buzzing with life. It’s filled with big murals that show the city’s deep history and culture. Take a stroll on the Downtown Tupelo Mural Walk to see the bright, colorful art. Don’t miss the famous “Welcome to Tupelo” mural that welcomes everyone.
Try the Tupelo Cocktail Trail for a special adventure. It leads you to eight spots downtown where you can try unique cocktails and local drinks. It’s a great way to see Tupelo’s nightlife and enjoy some amazing drinks.
After seeing downtown’s sights, head to Crave Dessert Cafe for a sweet treat. It’s a favorite spot for delicious desserts and friendly service. Treat yourself to a cake, pastry, or milkshake and enjoy Tupelo’s flavors.
Savor the Flavors of Tupelo
Tupelo, Mississippi, is a top spot for food lovers. It has over 160 restaurants for every taste. You can find both local favorites and new places to try.
Neon Pig Butcher Shop
At the Neon Pig Butcher Shop, you’ll find the best smash burger in the U.S. They use fresh seafood and local meats. This makes every dish a flavor explosion. They also have creative specials every day.
Romie's Grocery
Romie’s Grocery is perfect for Southern food. It’s in a old neighborhood market. They serve classic dishes like meat-and-three plates and homemade desserts.
Sweet Tea & Biscuits Cafe
Sweet Tea & Biscuits Cafe offers a fancy dining experience. They use local produce for their dishes. It’s a mix of Southern tastes and modern cooking.
Looking for a great burger, home-cooked meal, or fancy dinner? Tupelo restaurants have it all. Explore the flavors of Tupelo and see why it’s a food lover’s dream.
“Tupelo is a foodie’s paradise, with an amazing array of restaurants that offer something for every palate. From the best smash burger in America to classic Southern comfort food, this city is a true culinary destination.”
Tupelo, Mississippi: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Tupelo, Mississippi, is in the heart of the American South. It’s famous as Elvis Presley’s birthplace. This city is perfect for music fans and history buffs. But there’s more to Tupelo, like its lively downtown, tasty food, and outdoor fun.
The Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum is a key spot. It shows where Elvis was born and his early life. Next to it, the Tupelo Hardware Company is where Elvis bought his first guitar.
Tupelo’s downtown is buzzing with life. The Tupelo Mural Walk features big murals that tell the city’s story. The Tupelo Cocktail Trail lets you try unique drinks at eight spots. Don’t miss the Crave Dessert Cafe for amazing sweets.
Tupelo’s food scene is exciting. Places like Neon Pig Butcher Shop and Sweet Tea & Biscuits Cafe offer great food. They serve everything from meats to homestyle dishes.
Tupelo has something for everyone. It’s great for music lovers, history buffs, or anyone looking for a quaint town. With its many attractions, Tupelo is a top spot to visit.
Embrace the Outdoors at Natchez Trace Parkway
In the heart of Tupelo, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic and historic gem. It spans 444 miles and follows an ancient path used by Native Americans. This path offers a peek into the area’s rich history.
Begin your adventure at the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about the parkway’s importance and plan your trip. The Natchez Trace Parkway caters to all, whether you love hiking, biking, or just enjoying the views.
For a deeper look into the area’s history, visit the Chickasaw Village Site along the parkway. Here, you can explore ancient settlements and learn about the Chickasaw people who lived here.
“The Natchez Trace Parkway offers a truly unique and immersive outdoor experience, allowing visitors to connect with the rich cultural heritage of this region.”
As you explore the Natchez Trace Parkway, look out for the many outdoor activities Tupelo offers. You can hike through forests, see local wildlife, and more. This scenic route is perfect for nature lovers of all ages.
Indulge in the Local Coffee Scene
Tupelo’s coffee scene is buzzing with life. You can find handcrafted espresso drinks or lattes at Tupelo River Coffee, Lost + Found Coffee, or Strangebrew Coffeehouse. Each place offers unique drinks and a cozy spot for work or hanging out.
Tupelo River Coffee
Tucked away by the Tupelo River, Tupelo River Coffee is a peaceful spot for coffee lovers. Their menu includes signature roasts, seasonal drinks, and specialty beverages. Whether you want a bold brew or a creamy latte, they have it all.
Lost + Found Coffee
In downtown Tupelo, Lost + Found Coffee is a hidden treasure. It’s known for its rustic decor and friendly vibe. Here, you can enjoy specialty coffee drinks and delicious baked goods, all made with love.
Strangebrew Coffeehouse
Strangebrew Coffeehouse is a unique cafe that loves coffee. They offer signature roasts and creative seasonal drinks. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a drink and a treat from their bakery.
Looking for a quiet spot, a place for a meeting, or new coffee to try? Tupelo’s coffee scene has it all. Dive into the flavors and warmth of these local spots and enjoy Tupelo’s coffee culture.
Experience Tupelo's Unique Attractions
Tupelo, Mississippi, is full of special attractions. You can try handcrafted mead at the Queen’s Reward Meadery. Or take cool photos at the Love Your Selfie Museum. There’s something fun for everyone in Tupelo.
Queen's Reward Meadery
The Queen’s Reward Meadery uses 100% Mississippi honey to make its mead. You can try different meads, from dry to sweet. It’s a great place to learn about mead-making and its history.
Love Your Selfie Museum
The Love Your Selfie Museum is a blast for fun and photos. It has 20 backdrops for taking amazing selfies. It’s a great spot to show off your photography skills.
Tupelo has attractions for all interests. Whether you’re into mead or love taking selfies, you’ll find something special. Explore the Queen’s Reward Meadery or the Love Your Selfie Museum to see Tupelo’s charm.
Discover Tupelo's Historical Roots
Tupelo, Mississippi, is a city rich in history. Visitors can explore its past at the Tupelo National Battlefield and the Chickasaw Village Site. These sites give a peek into the city’s key moments and the cultures of its people.
Tupelo National Battlefield
The Tupelo National Battlefield marks the 1864 Battle of Tupelo. It was a crucial event in the American Civil War. Here, you can learn about the battle’s strategies and its effects on the area.
Chickasaw Village Site
The Chickasaw Village Site is soon to be the Chickasaw Heritage Center. It lets visitors discover the Chickasaw people’s rich culture. The center will highlight the Chickasaw Nation’s history, traditions, and contributions.
Visiting these sites lets you dive into Tupelo history. You’ll appreciate the city’s past and the people who shaped it. These attractions are perfect for history buffs or anyone curious about the past.
“Tupelo’s history is on full display at the Tupelo National Battlefield and the Chickasaw Village Site, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s past and the opportunity to learn about the significant events and indigenous cultures that have shaped Tupelo over the years.”
Stay in Style at Hotel Tupelo
Hotel Tupelo is in the heart of Tupelo’s Fairpark District. It’s a chic, modern boutique hotel. It has 79 guest rooms and suites, all with an Elvis-inspired design.
The hotel’s on-site restaurant, Jobos Surf + Turf, offers coastal cuisine with a Southern twist. Their weekend brunch is famous for its sweet and savory dishes.
Hotel Tupelo also has a fitness gym and bikes for guests. These amenities make your stay comfortable and fun.
Visiting Tupelo for work or play? Hotel Tupelo is your best choice. It’s close to Tupelo Regional Airport and Memphis International Airport.
The hotel works with local businesses like Queen’s Reward Meadery and Blue Delta Jeans Company. You can explore Tupelo’s culture and enjoy its offerings.
At Hotel Tupelo, you’ll get Southern hospitality and modern comforts. It’s the perfect place for your Tupelo accommodation.
Conclusion
Tupelo, Mississippi, is a city full of life and history. It’s famous for Elvis Presley’s birthplace and its lively downtown area. You’ll find great food and unique spots to explore.
It’s perfect for music fans, history enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a fun trip. Tupelo mixes old traditions with new comforts. This makes it a special place to visit in the South.
When you visit Tupelo, get ready for warm Southern welcomes and exciting stories. There’s more to Tupelo than just famous spots. It’s a place where history, culture, and modern life come together beautifully.