35 Must Visit Places In Tupelo

Discover Tupelo’s Rich History

You’ll find Tupelo’s best mix of history, nature, and Southern culture in just a few square miles, with the top 35 spots ranging from Elvis’s birthplace to a scenic parkway that stretches across three states. The city’s signature attractions cluster around the downtown core, so you can easily hit a dozen highlights in a single day.

1. Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum
   This iconic site is where the King of Rock ’n’ Roll was born. The museum features his humble two-room house, a museum with memorabilia, and a chapel.

2. Tupelo Automobile Museum
   Car enthusiasts once loved the Tupelo Automobile Museum, which showcased over 100 classic and antique cars before its permanent closure in 2019. From vintage models to modern marvels, it was a journey through automotive history.

3. Natchez Trace Parkway
   This scenic drive offers breathtaking views and historical landmarks. Perfect for a leisurely drive, hiking, or biking, it connects Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee.

4. Tupelo National Battlefield
   History buffs can explore this Civil War site where the Battle of Tupelo took place. It’s a small but significant park that commemorates the conflict between Union and Confederate forces. For those interested in broader regional history, the site connects to secret Civil War and frontier sites in Mississippi.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

Tupelo is also a haven for nature lovers. From parks to trails, there’s plenty to explore.

5. Ballard Park
   This family-friendly park features playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas.

6. Tombigbee State Park
   Offering camping, fishing, and hiking, this state park is a nature lover’s paradise. The serene lake and lush forests provide an escape from city life.

7. Elvis Presley Lake and Campground
   Named after Tupelo’s most famous son, this lake offers fishing, boating, and camping.

8. Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo
   Home to buffalo, zebras, and other exotic animals, this park is a hit with kids and adults alike. The petting zoo and pony rides add to the fun.

Dive into Local Culture

Tupelo’s vibrant culture is reflected in its art, music, and community events.

9. GumTree Museum of Art
   This museum showcases regional and national artists. With rotating exhibits and art classes, it’s a hub for creativity.

10. BancorpSouth Arena
    Hosting concerts, sporting events, and shows, this arena is the heart of Tupelo’s entertainment scene. Check the schedule for upcoming events during your visit.

11. Tupelo Community Theatre
    Located in the historic Lyric Theatre, this community theatre offers a variety of performances, from plays to musicals.

12. Farmers’ Depot
    Open seasonally, this farmers’ market features fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.

Savor the Flavors of Tupelo

From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, the city’s dining scene is diverse.

13. Johnnie’s Drive-In
    One of Elvis’s favorite spots, this classic diner serves up burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

14. Kermit’s Outlaw Kitchen
    Known for its farm-to-table approach, this restaurant offers Southern dishes with a modern twist.

15. Blue Canoe
    This laid-back eatery features live music and a menu full of comfort food. Try the famous “Crack Dip” and enjoy the local tunes.

16. Neon Pig Cafe
    A butcher shop and cafe in one, Neon Pig is famous for its Smash Burger. The fresh, locally sourced ingredients make every bite memorable.

Shop ’Til You Drop

Tupelo offers a variety of shopping experiences, from quaint boutiques to bustling malls.

17. The Mall at Barnes Crossing
    This large shopping center features a wide range of stores, from fashion to electronics.

18. Reed’s Department Store
    A local favorite since 1905, Reed’s offers clothing, accessories, and gifts.

19. Antique Mall of the South
    Treasure hunters will love this antique mall, which features a vast collection of vintage items. From furniture to collectibles, there’s something for everyone.

20. Tupelo Hardware Company
    This historic store is where Elvis bought his first guitar. It’s still a functioning hardware store, but fans visit to see where musical history was made.

Family Fun in Tupelo

Tupelo is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.

21. HealthWorks! Kids Museum
    This interactive museum teaches kids about health and wellness through fun exhibits and activities.

22. Veterans Park
    Featuring playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails, this park is perfect for a family day out. The splash pad is a hit during the summer months.

23. Skate Zone
    Roller skating, arcade games, and a snack bar make Skate Zone a popular spot for kids and teens.

24. Tupelo Aquatic Center
    With indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, and a lazy river, this aquatic center offers hours of water fun.

Unique Experiences

Tupelo has some unique attractions that you won’t find anywhere else.

25. Oren Dunn City Museum
    This museum showcases Tupelo’s history through exhibits on Native American culture, early settlers, and the city’s development. The outdoor village features historic buildings and artifacts.

26. Tupelo Veterans Museum
    Dedicated to honoring military veterans, this museum features memorabilia from various wars and conflicts.

27. Tupelo Murals
    Scattered throughout the city, these vibrant murals depict Tupelo’s history, culture, and famous residents. Take a self-guided tour to see them all.

28. Buffalo Park and Zoo
    This unique park is home to a herd of buffalo, as well as other exotic animals. The guided tours and petting zoo make it a fun and educational experience.

Festivals and Events

Tupelo hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.

29. Tupelo Elvis Festival
    Held annually in June, this festival celebrates the life and music of Elvis Presley. It features concerts, competitions, and a parade.

30. Dudie Burger Festival
    This quirky festival honors the Dudie Burger, a local culinary legend. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and a burger-eating contest.

31. GumTree Festival
    This arts and crafts festival takes place every May. It features artists from around the country, live music, and food vendors.

32. Tupelo Film Festival
    Showcasing independent films from around the world, this festival is a must for movie buffs. Screenings, workshops, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers make it a dynamic event.

Day Trips from Tupelo

If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to explore the surrounding areas.

33. Oxford, Mississippi
    Home to the University of Mississippi, Oxford is known for its charming downtown and literary history. Visit Rowan Oak, the former home of author William Faulkner.

34. Corinth, Mississippi
    This historic town played a significant role in the Civil War. Explore the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center and the historic downtown area. The region around it includes several Civil War battlefields in Mississippi worth visiting.

35. Tishomingo State Park
    Located about an hour from Tupelo, this state park offers stunning natural beauty. Hike the trails, explore the rock formations, and enjoy the scenic views.

Tupelo’s Timeless Charm

From Elvis Presley’s Birthplace to the Natchez Trace Parkway, the city blends history, nature, and culture. Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo offers family fun, while the former Tupelo Automobile Museum site now stands as a memory of revved-up history. Don’t miss the GumTree Museum of Art for a dose of creativity. Local eateries serve up Southern comfort food. Shopping at The Mall at Barnes Crossing or exploring Veterans Park adds more layers to your visit. Each spot tells a story. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a good time, Tupelo’s got you covered.