Tupelo Time: A Family Weekend for the Ages

Tupelo, Mississippi, is positively the place for a family getaway. The birthplace of Elvis Presley, this city offers more than just a strum of rock ‘n’ roll history. It invites your family to step into history, wander the wild, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Check out our list of the top five reasons why Tupelo is the perfect family weekend getaway.

Explore 10,000 years of history along the Natchez Trace Parkway. This 444-mile scenic byway traverses three states and is headquartered in Tupelo. Make your way to the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266, where interactive exhibits, a film, and hiking trails await. Hike through the Blackland Prairie at the Chickasaw Village Site at milepost 261.8, the future home of the Chickasaw Heritage Center, or explore the Old Town Overlook at milepost 263.9.

A visit to the Elvis Presley Birthplace is a must when visiting Tupelo. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the early life of Elvis, providing insights into his rise to fame and his lasting impact on music history. Walk through the humble two-room shack where he was born, explore the museum that chronicles his life, and enjoy a church service in the Assembly of God Church that inspired his love for gospel music. Take a stroll or drive up to the overlook to visit the “Becoming” statue with breathtaking views of Downtown Tupelo below. Finish your visit by taking in the scenery at the property’s lake, called Reflections, a perfect resting spot before concluding your visit.

Beyond Elvis, discover Tupelo’s rich history by exploring the city’s heritage trails. The Civil War Trail highlights sites from the final battles of the Civil War in Mississippi, fought in and around Tupelo. The Civil Rights and African American Heritage Trail tells Tupelo’s Civil Rights story, highlighting the people and places that played a pivotal role in the movement. The Chickasaw Trail highlights stories of the unconquerable tribe in this area.

Your family safari awaits at the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo. Home to over 260 animals, visitors can feed the exotic animals on the drive-thru tour or walk through the zoo and discover the unusual creatures that call the park home. With special events held throughout the year, from hands-on experiences to seasonal celebrations, there is always something in store at the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo.

All of that exploration is bound to work up an appetite, and Tupelo’s restaurants have you covered. Enjoy some of the city’s best barbecue at Clay’s House of Pig. Sit in the Elvis booth at Johnnie’s Drive-In and eat like the King in Tupelo’s oldest restaurant. Grab a slice of house-made pizza at Vanelli’s Bistro in Downtown Tupelo. Chow down on the famous smash burger at Neon Pig Cafe. Just be sure to save room for dessert, with a visit to Crave, home of the famous skillet cookie. With over 200 options from which to choose, visit tupelo.net/food-drink and let your mouth water.

With so many exciting adventures for your family to enjoy, start planning that epic family getaway today at tupelo.net. Imagine what you can do here!