4 tourist spots in Tupelo, USA, the town of Elvis Presley!

Tupelo is a city located in the northeastern part of Mississippi, USA, near the towns of Verona and Richmond. It’s best remembered as the birthplace of Elvis Presley. More recently, it gained attention when the nearby village of Blue Springs was selected as the site for Toyota’s 11th plant in the United States. Located between Memphis, Tennessee and Birmingham, Alabama, it will also be connected by Highway 22. Let’s take a look at some of the top recommended attractions in the city of Tupelo.

1. Tupelo Automobile Museum

The Tupelo Automobile Museum is a place where you can explore and deepen your knowledge of automotive history. Inside, over 100 antique, classic, and collectible vehicles are displayed in chronological order, showcasing the evolution of car design and engineering over more than 100 years. The timeline begins with the 1886 Benz and peaks with the 1994 Dodge Viper. Newly restored vehicles are added to the exhibit over time. The collection, worth over $6 million, includes cars once owned by Elvis Presley and Abraham Lincoln, as well as rare models used in movies. Comparing these vintage cars with today’s vehicles is a fun experience. This museum is an enjoyable destination for all ages.

2. Elvis Presley’s Birthplace

Elvis Presley, born in 1935, was a musician from Tupelo. Although he grew up during difficult financial times, he was introduced to gospel music through church and even won awards in contests. His musical talent is highly regarded, and he is one of the most respected figures among the citizens of Tupelo. In 1957, Elvis held a benefit concert to help build a youth center and park in Tupelo. With the proceeds, he purchased his birthplace and created the Elvis Presley Birthplace Park for local children. The park includes the house where he was born, a museum, a chapel, a gift shop, a statue of Elvis at age 13, a fountain of life, a walk of life, and the Memphis Bound car exhibit along with a story wall. The museum showcases early photos and statues of Elvis, offering insights into his life. It’s a must-visit for any Elvis fan.

3. Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo

The Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo is a famous zoo known by nearly everyone in the city. It is home to more than 260 animals, including wildlife, zebras, yaks, and many others, and offers guided tours for close encounters with them.

Unlike most zoos where you walk around, this one focuses on immersive tours. Visitors can take the Monster Bison Bus to explore the buffalo area, enjoy an open-air trolley where they can feed and interact with animals, go on pony tours, guided trail tours, or even a VIP tour in a compact vehicle. You can get up close with buffalo, giraffes, zebras, cassowaries, capuchin monkeys, and more. This zoo’s signature experience is the close interaction with animals—don’t miss the chance to see the buffalo!

4. Tupelo Hardware Company

Tupelo Hardware Company is a family-run local business located in downtown Tupelo. For nearly 90 years, it has specialized in supplying factories and industrial parts, small engine components, and retail hardware products. They sell a variety of items like pliers and hammers, and are also known for their wide selection of guitars—you might just find your favorite one here. This shop is famous as the place where Elvis Presley bought his first guitar. It’s a great spot to casually stop by.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced some of the most charming tourist spots in Tupelo. From museums to zoos, the city is full of fascinating places to visit. In addition to the ones mentioned, Tupelo is home to several more museums, which are rich with information essential to understanding the city’s history. Touring the museums would be a great way to deepen your knowledge of Tupelo. Be sure to check them out during your visit!