We recently spent some time in Mississippi, a state full of interesting and historic places. First up was Tupelo, Mississipppi.

We stayed at Trace State Park, not far from Tupelo. We had a full hook-up site right on the water. While it was chilly when we were there in November, the view was beautiful. The road getting in could use some work, but the site was level and paved.

Toyota Experience

As we traveled to Tupelo south on I-45, we drove by a Toyota factory. I saw that there was a Toyota Mississippi Experience Center that housed a visitor’s center and also offered tram tours of the facility.

The visitor’s center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30-4:00. If you wish to book a tour, I highly recommend doing so in advance. We got lucky and there was a cancellation. Here is the link to schedule a tour: https://www.tourtoyota.com/#/Mississippi

We loved the tour. However, we were not allowed to take photos inside, so here are 2 pics from outside the visitor’s center and the plant.

Tupelo is the Birthplace of Elvis

Tupelo’s most recent claim to fame is that it is the birthplace of Elvis Presley. So of course we had to check out his childhood home.

Elvis Presley’s Birthplace

The museum is open 7 days a week, M-S 9:00-4:00, and Sunday 1:00-4:00. Prices vary because they offer group and other discounts, so check here for more information.

Lunch at Johnnie’s Drive In

Johnnie’s Drive In is the restaurant in Tupelo made famous because Elvis dined here—a lot! It is about .3 miles from his birthplace. We left the truck there and walked down to the restaurant. After lunch, we walked back and finished touring the museum and gift shop.

Elvis’ favorite was the dough burger, which Mike tried. Hamburger mixed with flour didn’t appeal to me, so I chose the regular burger. If you like American diner food, you’ll like this place.

Ask to sit at the blue booth, Elvis’ booth. The waitress is more than happy to take your picture. Our’s said she takes around 75 a day! However, bring cash! That’s all they take in this establishment.

Tupelo Hardware Co

Want to stand on the X that marks the spot where Elvis picked out his first guitar? Head to the Tupelo Hardware Company about a 5-minute drive from the museum. The employees are more than happy to show you where he stood, and yes, there is a taped X on the floor! And you can even buy a guitar there.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Part of the National Park Service, the 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway goes from Nashville, TN to Natchez, MS. Once used by American Indians, “Kaintucks,” settlers, and future presidents, the Old Trace played an important role in American history. Today, you can drive, bike, and even camp along the trail. Our plan was to do some biking in the Tupelo area, but the weather turned colder in late November, so we chose to drive. Be sure to go to the Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266 to watch a movie about the history of the Natchez Trace. And if you have a National Park Passport Book, be sure to get it stamped there!

Conclusion

There is a lot to see in the Tupelo, Mississippi area. Plan to spend a couple of days exploring and learning. We enjoyed our time there.

Next up: Vicksburg, Mississippi

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