Tupelo MississippiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Tupelo, Mississippi.
1. Elvis Presley Birthplace
ROCK LEGEND'S HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
The Elvis Presley Birthplace is a well-maintained park featuring the actual birthplace and statue of the legendary singer, complete with historical exhibits. Visitors can explore the Elvis Presley Museum and the church where Elvis was first exposed to the rich, Southern gospel that influenced his music. More than 100,000 visitors from around the world tour this cultural landmark each year, making it one of Tupelo's most popular attractions.
2. Natchez Trace Parkway
SCENIC HISTORIC DRIVE
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic drive through tranquil landscapes, dotted with historical markers and picnic spots. Visitors can enjoy hikes, waterfalls, and experience a rich tapestry of America's natural beauty along this historic route. The parkway offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and historical significance, making it a must-visit attraction in Tupelo.
3. Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo
WILDLIFE AND EXOTIC ANIMALS
Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo allows visitors to get up close to animals with the Monster Bison Bus and see exotic animals like giraffes that eat right from your hand. The park features a variety of wildlife including buffalo and numerous other exotic species in a family-friendly environment. Visitors can also enjoy a petting zoo area where they can interact with more approachable animals.
4. Relics Antique Marketplace
VINTAGE SHOPPING HAVEN
Relics Antique Marketplace covers two floors and holds over 100 vendor booths all in a 16,000 square foot facility. Shoppers can browse through antiques, collectibles, vintage clothing, furniture, and just about anything else imaginable. This marketplace has become a destination for both serious collectors and casual browsers looking for unique items with history and character.
5. Vietnam Memorial Replica Wall
HONORING FALLEN HEROES
The Vietnam Memorial Replica Wall in Tupelo is a beautiful park dedicated to remembering fallen heroes. This replica provides locals and visitors the opportunity to pay respects without traveling to Washington D.C. The memorial creates a powerful and moving experience for all who visit, earning it a near-perfect rating from visitors.
6. Tupelo Veteran's Museum
MILITARY HISTORY COLLECTION
The Tupelo Veteran's Museum offers visitors personal tours given by the curator Tony Lute. This military museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and memorabilia honoring those who served. Visitors consistently praise the museum for its detailed exhibits and the personal touch that makes each visit educational and meaningful.
7. Ballard Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION SPACE
Ballard Park is a popular recreational area offering various outdoor activities for Tupelo residents and visitors alike. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and spaces for community events throughout the year. Its well-maintained grounds and facilities make it a favorite spot for families seeking outdoor enjoyment in Tupelo.
8. Trace State Park
NATURAL LAKE GETAWAY
Trace State Park offers visitors a natural retreat featuring a lake and various outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and camping in this serene natural setting. The park provides a perfect escape from urban life while remaining conveniently accessible from Tupelo.
9. Oren Dunn City Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Oren Dunn City Museum is housed in a 1937 dairy barn, offering a unique view into the region's past. The museum's collection reflects the local and regional history of Tupelo and northeast Mississippi through various exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can gain insight into the cultural heritage and historical developments that shaped the community over generations.
10. GumTree Museum of Art
CULTURAL ART GALLERY
The GumTree Museum of Art showcases various artistic expressions with regularly changing exhibits featuring local and regional artists. This cultural institution serves as a hub for art appreciation and education in the Tupelo community. Visitors can experience diverse artistic styles and mediums while learning about the creative talents of Mississippi artists.
11. Queen's Reward Meadery
MISSISSIPPI'S UNIQUE MEAD
Queen's Reward Meadery is Mississippi's only meadery, offering a unique beverage experience for visitors to Tupelo. The meadery produces honey-based alcoholic beverages with various flavor profiles for tasting and purchase. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about the mead-making process, and sample this ancient beverage with a modern twist.
12. Barnes Crossing Shopping District
PREMIER RETAIL HUB
The Barnes Crossing Shopping District is one of Tupelo's three main shopping areas, offering a wide range of retail options. Shoppers can find department stores, specialty shops, and dining establishments all in one convenient location. This shopping hub serves as a commercial center for both Tupelo residents and visitors from surrounding communities.
13. Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery
AQUATIC CONSERVATION CENTER
The Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery is a conservation facility dedicated to preserving and restoring native fish populations. Visitors can tour the hatchery to learn about fish breeding programs and ecological conservation efforts. The facility offers educational opportunities about aquatic ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity in Mississippi's waterways.
14. Tupelo Visitors Center
TOURISM INFORMATION HUB
The Tupelo Visitors Center serves as the first stop for many tourists exploring the birthplace of Elvis Presley and beyond. Staff provide comprehensive information about local attractions, events, dining options, and accommodations to enhance visitor experiences. The center often features exhibits and materials that highlight Tupelo's unique cultural heritage and contemporary offerings.
15. Elvis Presley Museum
KING'S LIFE JOURNEY
The Elvis Presley Museum chronicles the life and career of Tupelo's most famous son through various exhibits and memorabilia. Located near his birthplace, the museum provides context to Elvis's humble beginnings and his rise to international stardom. Visitors gain insight into the cultural and personal influences that shaped the King of Rock and Roll during his formative years in Mississippi.