Things To Do
in Tupelo
Tupelo is a city located in the northeastern part of the state of Mississippi, United States. It is known as the birthplace of legendary musician Elvis Presley and is a popular destination for fans and tourists. Tupelo has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, with several historic landmarks and museums to explore.
The city also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with various festivals and events throughout the year.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo where you can enjoy seeing various animals. Grab breakfast at a local café afterwards for some Southern hospitality.
Explore the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum to learn about the King's early days. Enjoy lunch at a popular diner nearby.
Stroll through the Fairpark District with its lovely shops and restaurants. End your day with some live music at a local venue.
Visit the Tupelo Automobile Museum to see a fascinating collection of classic cars. Have some coffee at a nearby coffee shop.
Head to the Gumtree Museum of Art to admire regional art and craft exhibitions. Grab lunch at a food truck that’s popular with the locals.
Dine at a well-reviewed restaurant that offers a taste of Tupelo’s unique cuisine. Spend the night checking out local breweries for a nightcap.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and vibrant music scene, particularly known for its connection to Elvis Presley.
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages.
- Friendly community with a strong sense of local pride.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities with parks and nearby lakes.
- Good educational opportunities with local schools and community colleges.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries, leading to a lack of economic diversification.
- Higher crime rates compared to some other small towns in the U.S.
- Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable for some residents.
- Public transportation options are limited, making a car necessary for most residents.
- Some may find the town too small or lacking in urban amenities and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Tupelo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a day of outdoor adventure at the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, where you can see and interact with a variety of animals, including bison, zebras, and exotic species. The park also features safari-style tours and picnic areas for a fun family outing.
Explore the great outdoors along the Tanglefoot Trail, a multi-use recreational trail offering scenic views and opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. This 44-mile trail spans through picturesque landscapes and provides a wonderful way to experience nature.
Visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum, an outdoor area that allows visitors to walk through the humble beginnings of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. The site includes a museum, chapel, and a park, providing a cultural and historical outdoor experience.
Places to Visit in Tupelo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a picturesque view and opportunities for photos at the birthplace of Elvis Presley.
Provides stunning views and scenic spots along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway.
Features beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife for photo enthusiasts.
Food in Tupelo
Tupelo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple of Southern cuisine, Tupelo's fried catfish is a must-try. Look for it at local favorites like Shug's or Ramon's.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the classic Southern breakfast dish of flaky biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy at Blue Canoe.
Savor the tender, smoky BBQ ribs at popular spots like Fairpark Grill or Sticky Fingers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Discover local snacks and homemade treats at the Tupelo Flea Market, which often hosts food vendors offering a variety of street food options.
Explore the Farmers' Market for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and a selection of ready-to-eat snacks representing Tupelo's food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tupelo, it's important to be mindful of personal space and to avoid standing too close when interacting with others.
A polite greeting such as 'hello' or 'good morning' is commonly expected when meeting someone in Tupelo.
Respecting local customs and traditions, such as being polite and courteous, is valued in Tupelo.
Safety
Tipping in Tupelo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tupelo, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tip is usually around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Tupelo is commonly done using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and it is rare to encounter a situation where cash is not accepted as a form of payment.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tupelo. Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make for a beautiful visit. It's the season for festivals and events in the city.
Warm and humid weather. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and events such as concerts and fairs. The Natchez Trace Parkway is particularly scenic during this time.
Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the local parks. The city hosts the Tupelo Film Festival in the fall.
Mild and occasionally cold temperatures. Holiday events and decorations create a festive atmosphere in the city. The Elvis Presley Birthplace is a popular attraction year-round.
Tupelo at Night
Hiking in Tupelo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park featuring walking trails and a variety of wildlife, including bison, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
A historic scenic drive with access to numerous hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the forest and wildlife.
Includes walking trails and natural areas, perfect for a casual hike and enjoying a picnic surrounded by nature.
This trail offers a unique hiking experience through the unique Blackland Prairie ecosystem, featuring wildflowers and native grasses.
A nearby state park that provides several hiking trails, along with opportunities for fishing and picnicking near the lake.
Aiports
How to reach Tupelo by plane.
Located approximately 110 miles from Tupelo, this is the largest airport in the region, serving as a major hub for freight and passenger travel.
Situated about 140 miles south of Tupelo, this airport offers passenger services primarily to major cities across the United States.
Approximately 200 miles southeast of Tupelo, this airport serves the Birmingham area and offers flights to various national destinations.
Located about 220 miles northeast of Tupelo, this airport serves the Nashville metropolitan area with numerous domestic and international flights.
Around 300 miles north of Tupelo, this airport serves the Louisville area and provides a range of domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Tupelo, comprising a significant majority of the population.
The second largest demographic group in Tupelo, representing a significant portion of the community.
A growing demographic group in Tupelo, including individuals of diverse Latin American backgrounds.
A smaller yet notable demographic group in Tupelo, consisting of individuals from various Asian cultures.
A demographic group that includes individuals who identify with multiple racial backgrounds.
A smaller demographic group in Tupelo, representing the indigenous population.
A very small demographic group in Tupelo, encompassing individuals from Pacific Island nations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed sport in Tupelo, with local teams and youth leagues that encourage community participation.
Popular among schools and recreational leagues, basketball has a strong following in Tupelo for both boys and girls.
High school football is especially prominent in Tupelo, with passionate fans and traditions surrounding the games.
Gaining popularity in recent years, soccer involves many youth leagues and community events in Tupelo.
Softball is popular among women and young girls, with numerous leagues and local competitions available.
Tupelo hosts various running events and races, promoting fitness and community involvement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tupelo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tupelo's traditional cuisine may lean heavily on meat and dairy, several eateries like Neon Pig and Vanelli's offer creative and satisfying vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating menus at restaurants such as Park Heights and Woody's, known for their gluten-free options.