Tupelo, Mississippi Travel Guide: Birthplace of Elvis and More
Planning a Tupelo Mississippi vacation? This northeastern Mississippi gem is more than just the birthplace of Elvis Presley, though that alone is worth the visit. Tupelo blends music history, small-town hospitality, and fun attractions for all ages.
Whether you're a die-hard Elvis fan, road-tripping with kids, or simply craving a laid-back getaway, Tupelo will surprise you with its charm.
Why Visit Tupelo?
Tupelo offers:
- Rich music and cultural history
- Family-friendly museums and outdoor attractions
- A walkable, revitalized downtown
- Great Southern food with a modern twist
It’s the perfect stop on a Mississippi road trip or a great weekend destination on its own.
Top Things to Do in Tupelo, MS
1. Visit Elvis Presley’s Birthplace
No Tupelo vacation is complete without visiting the Elvis Presley Birthplace:
- Tour the two-room house where Elvis was born
- Visit the museum detailing his early life
- Explore the Memorial Chapel, statues, and fountain on-site
- Walk through the Elvis Presley Park and Trail
Plan your visit: elvispresleybirthplace.com
2. Explore Downtown Tupelo
Downtown Tupelo is full of local charm and history:
- Shops and boutiques selling vintage and handmade goods
- Restaurants like Kermit’s Outlaw Kitchen and Café 212
- Tupelo Hardware Co., where Elvis bought his first guitar
- Art galleries, murals, and live music venues
3. Check Out the Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo
A hit with kids and animal lovers, this park offers:
- Over 260 animals, including bison, zebras, and camels
- Safari-style tours
- Petting zoo and pony rides
4. Drive the Natchez Trace Parkway
Tupelo is a key stop along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic route rich in Native American and pioneer history:
- Biking and hiking trails
- Historic landmarks and overlooks
- Great for photography and picnics
5. Visit the Oren Dunn City Museum
This museum showcases Tupelo’s local history with exhibits on:
- The 1936 Tupelo tornado
- Agricultural roots and railroads
- Southern small-town life
Where to Stay in Tupelo
From national hotel chains to boutique inns:
- Hotel Tupelo: A new downtown boutique hotel
- Hilton Garden Inn: Great for families
- Airbnb rentals: Unique stays in and around downtown
Best Places to Eat in Tupelo
Don’t miss Tupelo’s growing food scene:
- Kermit’s Outlaw Kitchen: Southern-inspired comfort food
- Blue Canoe: Local beer, great burgers, and live music
- Neon Pig: Award-winning smash burgers
When to Visit Tupelo
- Spring and Fall: Mild weather and local events
- Summer: Great for family trips and outdoor fun
- January 8 (Elvis’s Birthday): Special celebrations
Travel Tips for Your Tupelo Mississippi Vacation
- Start at the Elvis Presley Birthplace to get oriented
- Wear comfy shoes for exploring the downtown area
- Check local event calendars for live music and festivals
Extend Your Mississippi Adventure
Pair Tupelo with other nearby stops:
- Drive south to Oxford or Vicksburg
Plan Your Trip
Visit tupelo.net for travel guides, events, and visitor maps.
From rock-and-roll roots to family fun, Tupelo is where Mississippi charm meets music legend. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or passing through on a Southern road trip, Tupelo is always worth the detour.
Start your Tupelo Mississippi vacation and walk in the footsteps of Elvis while discovering a vibrant town full of heart.
