You might know Tupelo as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, but this vibrant town has so much more to offer. As one of Mississippi’s fastest-growing cities, you’ll discover a perfect blend of history, culture, and Southern charm.
When you visit this charming place, you’ll find a downtown area that’s full of life, with unique shops, restaurants, and colorful murals that showcase the town’s creative spirit. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Tupelo is an ideal destination for families, solo travelers, or anyone looking to experience the authentic charm of the South.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top picks for things to do in Tupelo, from Elvis-themed attractions to outdoor activities and local dining spots that make this town special.
Discover Elvis Presley’s Birthplace and Legacy
Tupelo, Mississippi, is not just any city; it’s the birthplace of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley. As you explore this charming town, you’ll discover a rich musical heritage that continues to captivate fans worldwide.
Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum
The Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum is a must-visit attraction in Tupelo. This historic site showcases the humble beginnings of Elvis Presley, where he was born in a two-room house in 1935. The museum features memorabilia and artifacts from Elvis’s life, offering a glimpse into his early years and rise to fame.
Tupelo Hardware Company – Where Elvis Got His First Guitar
Tupelo Hardware Company holds a special place in Elvis’s history as the store where he bought his first guitar. This iconic store is now a popular stop for Elvis fans, who come to relive the memories of his early days.
Elvis Homecoming Statue and Guitar Trail
The Elvis Homecoming Statue commemorates Elvis’s 1956 concert at the Tupelo Fairgrounds, a pivotal moment in his career. As you explore downtown Tupelo, you’ll also discover the Elvis Guitar Trail, featuring over 25 colorfully painted guitar sculptures designed by local artists. This fun scavenger hunt experience takes you through the charming streets of downtown, highlighting various aspects of Elvis’s life and career.
As you follow the Guitar Trail, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive tour of downtown Tupelo, naturally leading you to many of the town’s other attractions, shops, and restaurants. The statue and the trail together provide a unique and memorable experience, celebrating the legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll in his hometown.
Explore Downtown Tupelo’s Vibrant Scene
As you step into downtown Tupelo, you’ll discover a vibrant scene that blends art, history, and entertainment. The area is filled with unique attractions that showcase the city’s charm and character.
Self-Guided Downtown Tupelo Mural Walk
Take a stroll through downtown Tupelo and explore the vibrant murals that adorn the city’s buildings. The self-guided mural walk is a great way to experience the local art scene and learn about the city’s history and culture.
Shopping on Main Street
Main Street in Tupelo is a shopper’s paradise, offering a variety of unique stores and boutiques. You’ll find everything from local handicrafts to antiques, making it a great place to spend an afternoon browsing.
Relics Antique Marketplace
For those who love antiques and vintage items, Relics Antique Marketplace is a must-visit destination. This two-story relics antique treasure trove is housed in the former garment factory where Gladys Presley worked during her pregnancy with Elvis, adding a layer of history to your shopping experience. As you browse through the aisles, you’ll find a vast collection of antiques, collectibles, and handmade goods from multiple vendors. The marketplace overlooks the train tracks, creating an authentic atmosphere that transports you back in time. With so much to see, plan to spend at least an hour or two exploring the relics antique marketplace.
Experience Tupelo’s Unique Food Scene
Tupelo’s unique food scene is a must-experience, with eateries that serve everything from traditional Southern comfort food to innovative fusion dishes. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a night out with friends, Tupelo’s restaurants have something for everyone.
Neon Pig Cafe – Home of America’s Best Burger
The Neon Pig Cafe is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts, boasting a menu that features America’s best burger. With a focus on using high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations, this cafe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Talbot House Bakery and Cafe
For a taste of something sweet, head to Talbot House Bakery and Cafe, where you can indulge in artisanal pastries and bread. Their menu also includes a selection of savory dishes, making it a great spot for breakfast or lunch.
Jobos and Blue Canoe
Jobos Tupelo offers a unique dining experience with its Costa Rican-inspired surf and turf menu, featuring dishes like shrimp baskets, ginger scallion noodles, and seared ahi tuna. Located inside Hotel Tupelo, it’s the perfect spot for dinner and cocktails. For live music and a laid-back atmosphere, visit The Blue Canoe, which features Mississippi musicians on weeknights and weekends, along with an impressive selection of beers and award-winning food.
Whether you’re in the mood for dinner at Jobos, enjoying live music at The Blue Canoe, or simply exploring the local food scene, Tupelo’s unique restaurants and cafes are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Stay at Hotel Tupelo
Discover the ultimate in Southern hospitality at Hotel Tupelo, perfectly located for exploring downtown. Hotel Tupelo is the epitome of a comfortable and convenient stay, offering a unique blend of style and accessibility in the vibrant Fairpark District.
Accommodations and Amenities
Hotel Tupelo’s decor is inspired by the King of Rock, Elvis Presley, with a chic and modern feel. You’ll enjoy free parking and bike rentals for exploring the city. The hotel is also pet-friendly, making it the perfect spot for travelers with furry friends.
Location and Convenience
The hotel’s prime location puts you within easy walking distance of downtown’s best restaurants and shops. You’re just steps away from the Cadence Bank Arena and the Tupelo Visitor’s Center, which is located directly across the street, providing you with local expertise and recommendations.
- Hotel Tupelo’s prime location in the Fairpark District puts you within easy walking distance of downtown’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions.
- Enjoy the convenience of free parking, a rarity for centrally-located hotels.
- The Tupelo Visitor’s Center is located directly across the street.
- Quickly walk to Cadence Bank Arena for concerts and events.
- The hotel’s central position makes it easy to return to your room throughout the day.
Tupelo, Mississippi: Best Things to Do for Coffee Lovers
Tupelo, Mississippi, is a haven for coffee lovers, offering a diverse range of local coffee shops that are sure to delight. As you explore the city, you’ll find that the coffee scene is just as vibrant as its music heritage.
Strange Brew Coffeehouse
Strange Brew Coffeehouse is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts. This cozy cafe offers a variety of specialty drinks and a warm atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to spend some time while you’re in downtown Tupelo.
Tupelo River Coffee
Tupelo River Coffee is another standout in the city’s coffee scene. With its expertly crafted brews and inviting ambiance, it’s an ideal place to plan your day of exploring Tupelo’s many attractions.
Other Local Coffee Spots
In addition to Strange Brew and Tupelo River Coffee, Tupelo is home to several other great coffee shops. Some highlights include Crave on East Main Street, Lost + Found Coffee Co., Mae’s To-Go Cup, and Popsy. Each of these cafes offers something unique, from artisanal coffee to delicious treats, making them great places to discover during your visit to Tupelo.
| Coffee Shop | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Strange Brew Coffeehouse | Downtown Tupelo | Variety of specialty drinks |
| Tupelo River Coffee | Near the river | Expertly crafted brews |
| Crave | East Main Street | Cozy atmosphere |
Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a great place to start your day, Tupelo has something for everyone. Be sure to explore the city’s many coffee shops and discover the things Tupelo has to offer.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty
Tupelo, Mississippi, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities amidst its natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Tupelo’s parks and recreational areas have something for everyone.
Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic road that spans over 444 miles, passing through Tupelo. This historic parkway offers a picturesque drive with numerous stops for hiking, biking, and sightseeing.
Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo
For a fun day out with family, visit the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo. The park is home to a variety of animals, including bison, deer, and exotic birds. Kids can enjoy the playground and picnic areas.
Ballard Park and Trace State Park
Ballard Park is a 153-acre recreational area featuring a 3-acre lake, a 2.75-mile trail for hiking or biking, and a cross-country course. The park also includes a skatepark, playgrounds, disc golf course, and sand volleyball courts. For a more immersive experience, head to Trace State Park, which offers miles of hiking trails, a 565-acre lake for water sports, and an 18-hole golf course. You can stay overnight at one of the 76 developed camping sites, including tent sites, cabins, and cottages.
In summary, Tupelo’s outdoor scene is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its numerous parks, recreational areas, and scenic drives, you can enjoy a variety of activities in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or simply relax, Tupelo has something for everyone.
Indulge in Unique Tupelo Experiences
Whether you’re looking for art, adventure, or relaxation, Tupelo is the perfect destination. This charming city offers a variety of unique experiences that make it an ideal weekend getaway.
Queens Reward Meadery
Visit Queens Reward Meadery, a local favorite that offers a taste of traditional mead-making techniques with a modern twist. Enjoy a tour and tasting at this unique venue.
Tupelo Cocktail Trail
Embark on the Tupelo Cocktail Trail, exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife and sampling craft cocktails at various local establishments. This is a great way to experience the city’s art and culture scene.
Midnite Pottery and CharCutie Classes
For a creative experience, head to Midnite Pottery, where you can craft your own ceramics and take home a handmade souvenir. Pair this with a charcuterie class at CharCutie, where you’ll learn to create beautiful and delicious boards. These activities make for a memorable weekend getaway, perfect for girls’ getaways or bachelorette parties.
Both Midnite Pottery and CharCutie offer unique experiences that showcase Tupelo’s collaborative creative community. By participating in these activities, you’ll not only have fun but also support local businesses, making your weekend getaway even more special.
Enjoy Live Music and Entertainment
Tupelo’s vibrant music scene is a must-experience when visiting this Mississippi city. With a variety of venues hosting live music and events, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
The Blue Canoe – Tupelo’s Live Music Venue
The Blue Canoe is a popular spot for live music in Tupelo, offering an intimate setting to enjoy local and regional artists. With its unique atmosphere and diverse music selection, it’s a great place to experience the city’s thriving music culture.
Cadence Bank Arena Events
Cadence Bank Arena is a premier event venue in Tupelo, hosting a wide range of events including concerts, sporting events, and performances. The arena is within walking distance from Hotel Tupelo, making it convenient for guests to enjoy evening entertainment.
- Cadence Bank Arena hosts major concerts and performances throughout the year, featuring national touring acts and regional talent.
- The arena frequently features shows that celebrate Tupelo’s musical heritage, including Elvis tribute performances.
- Beyond music, the venue hosts diverse events from family shows to sporting competitions.
Planning Your Perfect Tupelo Getaway
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, Tupelo is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a longer, more leisurely trip. You can plan a trip that’s relaxed and low-key, or wild and crazy and jam-packed with fun. Tupelo has a way of making you feel at home, with its generous spirit and molasses-drippin’ southern drawls.
A perfect Tupelo getaway can range from a quick weekend trip to a more leisurely four-day exploration. Consider visiting during spring or fall when the weather is mild, ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and downtown on foot. Balance your itinerary between Elvis-related attractions, outdoor activities, culinary experiences, and creative workshops to get a full sense of what makes Tupelo special.
When planning your trip, keep in mind that many restaurants and shops are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Hotel Tupelo offers a central location, but there are other options like Tru by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn. Tupelo’s resilient spirit and genuine Southern hospitality will make your visit memorable, creating connections and memories that will last long after your getaway ends.
