Your Elvis Presley journey begins in Tupelo, Mississippi. The town that gave rise to the world’s greatest entertainer still inspires visitors today! Incredible attractions detail Elvis’ first 13 years, including a 14-stop tour that looks into the life of the boy who would be “The King.” There are so many ways to explore Elvis’ Tupelo.
The city celebrates its favorite native son throughout the year, but especially during the annual Tupelo Elvis Festival from June 3 to 7, 2020. With over 160 restaurants, three distinct shopping districts, 11 live music venues and an array of accommodating hotels, anything is possible when you plan your trip to Elvis’ Tupelo.
ASK
Lynn Waddle
Group/Visitor Services
lwaddle@tupelo.net
662-841-6521
tupelo.net
TOUR
Credit: Ash Taylor, @badashactor
Elvis Presley was born January 8, 1935, in a two-room shack in East Tupelo. Groups can tour the humble home where he was born at the Elvis Presley Birthplace. Also located on the grounds is the original Assembly of God Church, where Elvis was deeply influenced by gospel music. Visitors can experience what a worship service would have been like when Elvis was attending the church. The museum here chronicles what Elvis’ life was like growing up in Tupelo.
EAT
Credit: Tupelo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
Eat like the king at Tupelo’s oldest restaurant, Johnnie’s Drive-In. Elvis was known to eat here and groups visiting Tupelo can, too. Sit in the Elvis booth and try the “Johnnie burger,” a dough-burger that is considered a delicacy in Northeast Mississippi. Be sure to save room for one of their famous milkshakes.
LEARN
Credit: Tupelo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
The Tupelo Visitors Center is the perfect starting point for a trip to the city where anything is possible. Interactive exhibits highlight Tupelo’s top attractions and a collective timeline of the city’s rich history. Displays focus on Elvis’ childhood in Tupelo as told like never before. The Tupelo Visitors Center will fully prepare visitors for exploring this unique, southern town.
SEE
Credit: Nathan W. Bingham, @nwbingham
Explore Tupelo Hardware Company, where Gladys Presley purchased Elvis’ first guitar. Stand on the “X” where musical history was made and hear the account of Elvis’ visit to the store for his eleventh birthday. Visitors to Tupelo Hardware Company can still purchase guitars at the store today.
