Food, Music, and Elvis
Words by Lousia Martin
Photos by @kendallgrace_8, @degustinglygood, and @mollylinc
Whether you come for the music, stay for the food, or know every word to “Blue Suede Shoes,” there is many a reason to take a detour in Tupelo, Mississippi. Here is what y’all need to know to enjoy your visit and why you’ll be back soon.
It is hard to enjoy most things on an empty stomach. Tupelo is no exception. The city is stocked full of restaurants featuring a variety of cuisines and price points. For a finer dining experience, stop by Forklift. Forklift features a line up of refined southern staples and original cocktails. Spots similar include Park Heights Restaurant or Fairpark Grill. Both menus feature seafood and indulgent entrees with extensive bars. Not too shabby!
Dining on the casual side is pretty fabulous as well. Neon Pig is all local, all the time. This renowned butcher shop specializes in meat, seafood, and craft beer. Their “Smash Burger” was named “Best Burger in America” by thrillist.com. This notable recognition has led to numerous features including the Travel Channel.
But the buzz doesn't stop there, Tupelo attracts eager artists (old and new) and local venues have a knack for spotting exciting talent.
If you are craving a more casual music scene, consider many of the local spots. Highly beloved spots, Steele's Dive and Blue Canoe provide the perfect segue between food and music, both of which are highly prioritized in Tupelo. Steele’s Dive promotes their delicious and casual menu and live music almost every night. Blue Canoe is “Tupelo’s home for original live music,” not to mention over a hundred different beers to choose and a “good mood food” menu, including their famous Connie’s Blueberry Bread Pudding voted as “Best Dessert” by Mississippi Magazine.
Next up on the itinerary is Bancorp South Arena. With almost 10,000 seats, this venue hosts major players from the likes of Elton John, Jason Aldean, and Rascal Flatts.
It’s impossible to talk Tupelo without talking about The King of Rock ’n' Roll. For experiencing all things Elvis, be sure to make a stop at the Tupelo Hardware Company where Elvis bought his first guitar, and his historic birthplace. Beloved for generations, The Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum features the home where the star was born, a museum honoring his life, the church his family attended, and a park dedicated in his name. Guided tours of the Presley house provide a behind the scenes peek into Elvis’ childhood that every member of the family will enjoy. Next up is the actual building where his family attended church, The Assembly of God Church. Here, the singer learned to play the guitar and was influenced by gospel music. The onsite museum recounts his life and displays some exciting Tupelo artifacts. The center has plenty to offer like interactive exhibits, a scenic park, and so much more.
While the birthplace does act as the epicenter of all things Elvis, Tupelo is much more than Elvis’ hometown.
Tupelo, Mississippi is something special, and you can’t help falling in love with what this Southern gem of a city has to offer. Imagine what you can do here! #MyTupelo!