Postcard from Tupelo, Mississippi
- Oct 9, 2020
- 4 min read
Found in the northeast corner of the state, in the Hills region, Tupelo is perhaps best known as Elvis' birthplace. But, while that is the main draw, that's only half of what you can see, do, experience and eat while here.
Whether it's an overnight trip or a weekend getaway, there's no doubt Tupelo will leave a lasting impression.
Elvis was Here (and Here and Here)
First things first: tour the house where Elvis was born at the Elvis Presley Birthplace. On the original site in east Tupelo is the original two-room 450-square-foot shotgun house. The Presleys lived here until Elvis was three years old. After that, they would live in eight other homes in the area before moving to Memphis.
You can also visit Elvis' Childhood Church, Elvis Presley Museum, Elvis Presley Memorial Chapel, and more on the grounds.
Rent a bike and download the guide to discover the sites that played an essential part in Elvis' life while in Tupelo. Snap a selfie with any of the over 25 Elvis-themed guitars along the Elvis Guitar Trail and with any (or all) of the Elvis murals.
Kick Around Downtown
A visit to Tupelo isn't complete without stopping in Reed's flagship location. The over 100-year-old department store, which consists of four specialty stores, including Reed's GumTree Bookstore, is under one roof. So take your time as you browse and potentially pick up a few items you didn't know you needed until you saw them.
For a one-of-a-kind souvenir, head to Caron Gallery, which features the works of Mississippi artists in various mediums. For an extra art fix, head over to the GumTree Museum of Art. The facility hosts free exhibits, special events year-round and more.
And while on the subject of art, check out the colorful murals that aren't of Elvis throughout downtown.
Time your trip to Tupelo around a local production at the Tupelo Community Theatre or a concert or performance at Cadence Bank Arena and Conference Center.
Sip Some Mead
Discover the world of honey wines with a tasting at Queen's Reward, the state's first meadery. Using honey sourced from Yazoo County, the family-owned operation produces small batches of mead flavors that include RuBee and Pucker Up.
Place Your Order
With over 200 restaurants in the city, the hardest decision you'll face is deciding what and where to eat.
Start your day at Brick & Spoon Tupelo, where you can indulge in Bananas in Pajamas (banana egg rolls with a Foster sauce) or Bananas Foster French Toast, to name a few dishes.
Enjoy the upscale yet laid-back atmosphere at The Grill at Fairpark. Definitely order the catfish lagniappe, featuring farm-raised Mississippi catfish -you won't be disappointed.
At Blue Canoe, come for the live music and stay for the food, with dishes like the fried black eyed peas and the Brown Bag Rag bolonga sandwich.
Cafe 212 is the spot to go if you are craving a sandwich. Its menu includes a "Fit for a King" section with options like the Blue Suede Grill, which features bananas and peanut butter.
Smash burgers are king (just had to add that in) at Neon Pig; however, for those who want a healthier option, there's their power bowl, which has one of the protein options as the smash grind. Neon Pig also offers sandwiches, lettuce wraps and entrees.
Take a break with coffee or tea from Tupelo River Coffee, Lost and Found Coffee Co., or Strange Brew. Treat your sweet tooth to a skillet cookie or another sweet treat at Crave Tupelo.
For libations, check out Tupelo's Cocktail Trail, highlighting locations where you can sip on local artisan cocktails.
See History
Off West Main Street is the Tupelo National Battlefield Site. The park remembers the Battle of Tupelo, the last significant engagement of the state's Civil War. Over 20,000 soldiers fought here for two days in mid-July 1864.
Engaging for all ages, the Oren Dunn City Museum, housed in a converted dairy barn, offers insight into the city's history and personality through exhibits and collections. Be sure to check out Dudie's Diner, the Davis Dogtrot House and more in the area surrounding the museum. Oren Dunn City Museum also hosts events throughout the year.
Delve further into Tupelo's history with The Chickasaw Trail and the Civil Rights and African American Heritage Trail.
Hit the Trace
The 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway winds through three states (Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee), more or less following the "Old Natchez Trace" once used by Indians, settlers and others. Today, the Trace is a scenic route that offers recreational opportunities, historic sites and more.
At Milepost 266 is the Natchez Trace Visitors Center, where you can learn more about the Trace through a short movie. The center also hosts monthly events and exhibits.
Where the Buffalo and Others Roam
It may be hard to believe at first, but seeing buffalo and other exotic animals like Capuchin monkeys in Tupelo is possible. The 210-acre Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo is home to over 260 animals. Select from the safari drive through and feed or the zoo walk-through and feed for the full experience. There's also a petting zoo, pony rides and more.
With smartphones in hand, many people tend to overlook stopping at visitors centers. However, the Tupelo Visitors Center is more than just a place to pick up information and get recommendations on the area. It's an attraction itself. There are interactive exhibits to view, Tupelo swag to purchase, and audio clips of Elvis's childhood musical influence to listen to.
all photos personal collection
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