Tupelo ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Tupelo, Arkansas.
1. The Goose Guys
GUIDED NATURE TOURS
The Goose Guys offer guided nature and wildlife tours in the scenic surroundings near Tupelo. This attraction is popular with bird watchers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the local ecosystem up close. Their tours provide unique opportunities to spot waterfowl and learn about the region's natural history.
2. Jacksonport State Park
HISTORIC RIVERFRONT PARK
Jacksonport State Park in nearby Newport preserves a significant slice of Arkansas' history along the White River. Visitors can explore a restored courthouse museum, enjoy riverside trails, and learn about the town's role as a steamboat hub in the 1800s. The park also hosts picnicking, fishing, and Civil War reenactments.
3. Parker Pioneer Homestead
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Parker Pioneer Homestead is a living history museum where visitors can step back in time and experience pioneer life firsthand. The attraction features original log cabins, demonstrations of traditional crafts, and seasonal festivals that highlight local culture. It's a favorite for families and history buffs alike.
4. Elvis Presley Birthplace
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
The Elvis Presley Birthplace is a renowned cultural destination located in Tupelo, Mississippi, just a short drive from Arkansas. Guests can tour the modest home where Elvis was born, explore a museum filled with memorabilia, and stroll the landscaped grounds that include a chapel and reflection areas. This site celebrates the early life and legacy of the King of Rock and Roll.
5. Natchez Trace Parkway
SCENIC HISTORIC DRIVE
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a nationally recognized scenic drive that passes through Tupelo, offering stunning views and numerous historical stops. Travelers can enjoy hiking, biking, and staging picnics at several designated sites along the parkway. The route highlights Native American history, early pioneer settlements, and natural beauty.
6. Vietnam Memorial Replica Wall
REMEMBRANCE LANDMARK
The Vietnam Memorial Replica Wall in Tupelo stands as a moving tribute to the soldiers who served in the Vietnam War. The site features a detailed replica of the iconic Washington, D.C. wall and provides a somber place for reflection. Visitors can walk along the wall and participate in special ceremonies honoring veterans.
7. Brices Crossroads National Battlefield Site
CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD
Brices Crossroads National Battlefield Site commemorates a pivotal Civil War battle fought in 1864. The site includes interpretive displays, a memorial, and scenic walking areas amidst historic landscapes. It attracts history enthusiasts and those interested in learning about the region's military past.
8. Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo
FAMILY WILDLIFE PARK
Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo is a family-friendly destination offering encounters with bison and a variety of other animals. The park provides tram tours through wide-open habitats and features petting zoos and an educational center. It's an ideal spot for children and animal lovers seeking an interactive wildlife experience.
9. Oren Dunn City Museum
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Oren Dunn City Museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Tupelo and the surrounding area's development. Housed in a rustic barn, the museum covers topics from early settlements to industrial growth. Special events and educational programs make it engaging for visitors of all ages.
10. Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery
AQUATIC EDUCATION CENTER
The Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery offers insight into fish and wildlife conservation efforts. Visitors can tour the hatchery, learn about breeding programs for endangered species, and observe aquatic life up close. The grounds also provide picnic areas and nature trails.
11. Downtown Tupelo Main Street
SHOPPING & DINING DISTRICT
Downtown Tupelo Main Street is a lively district filled with unique shops, local restaurants, and vibrant street art. Visitors can enjoy exploring boutiques, sampling Southern cuisine, and attending seasonal festivals. This area is the cultural heart of Tupelo's shopping and nightlife scene.
12. Tupelo Hardware Company
HISTORIC RETAIL STORE
Tupelo Hardware Company is famously known as the place where Elvis Presley bought his first guitar. Today, it operates as a working hardware store filled with memorabilia and friendly service. Fans of music history and vintage shopping enjoy visiting this iconic establishment.
13. Blue Canoe
LOCAL FAVORITE EATERY
Blue Canoe is a much-loved local restaurant offering a menu of Southern-inspired dishes, craft beer, and live music. Known for its laidback atmosphere and quirky décor, it's a popular gathering spot for both visitors and residents. The eatery frequently features performances by local and regional musicians.
14. Relics Antique Marketplace
VINTAGE SHOPPING HUB
Relics Antique Marketplace is a sprawling shop featuring vendors specializing in antiques, collectibles, and unique décor. Shoppers can browse an ever-changing inventory of treasures from various eras. It's a destination for collectors and those looking to uncover hidden gems.
15. Fairpark District
URBAN GREEN SPACE & EVENTS
The Fairpark District is a central urban area home to public green spaces, fountains, and a lively schedule of outdoor events. It serves as a community gathering spot for concerts, food festivals, and family-friendly activities. This district adds a vibrant, modern flair to downtown Tupelo.