A Family Getaway to Tupelo: Top Attractions, Dining, and Southern Hospitality
Picture this: the kids wake up grinning, sunlight filters through the curtains, and that easy sense of adventure fills the room. There’s no rush, no stress, just laughter, curiosity, and time well spent together. In Tupelo, family time unfolds effortlessly, blending small-town charm, big adventures, and genuine Southern hospitality. Whether your crew loves exploring the outdoors, diving into interactive historical sites, or indulging in mouthwatering Southern bites and sweet treats, Tupelo, Mississippi, is positively the place for your next family getaway.
Start Your Day with Tupelo’s Best Family Breakfast Spots
Connie’s Chicken – A Tupelo favorite for more than four decades, Connie’s serves up homemade biscuits, perfectly crispy chicken, and their famous blueberry donuts, a must-try for first-time visitors.
Brick & Spoon – Add a little energy to your morning with live music on the weekends, friendly vibes, and classic breakfast favorites at this upbeat local spot.
Kreecher’s Creation – Wake up to the taste of France in Tupelo! This charming patisserie offers flaky croissants, hearty breakfast sandwiches, cookies, sourdough, and plenty of treats to make everyone smile.
Just Love Coffee Café – Enjoy a meal at this cozy, family-friendly café serving hand-roasted specialty coffee and a fun “waffled” menu all day, every day. Try the Pink Cadillac or The Skinny Caddy, their signature Elvis-inspired sips that pair perfectly with a day of exploring.
Mae’s To-Go Cup – This drive-thru or dine-in coffee shop serves up coffee, smoothies, and pastries the whole family will love. Try their crowd-favorite bagel bombs, and fuel up with a wide selection of delicious, caffeinated creations. With its funky Elvis decor and bright, fun colors, Mae’s To-Go Cup is a great spot for families to kick-start the day.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Tupelo
Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo – Home to over 260 animals, including buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and more, this sprawling park offers exciting animal encounters and family fun for all ages.
Ballard Park – Let the kids run free at this scenic park featuring walking trails, multiple playgrounds (including an accessible one), peaceful lakeside views, and plenty of open space for picnics and playtime.
Backswings Golf & Grill – Enjoy a little family-friendly competition with golf or all-sports simulators, delicious bites, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.
Event Zona – For indoor excitement, Event Zona delivers with bowling, laser tag, trampolines, arcade games, and more. It’s a great spot to burn off energy and make memories together.
Natchez Trace Parkway – Take a scenic drive along this historic 444-mile byway, filled with breathtaking views and over 10,000 years of history. Stop for a short hike or picnic to soak up the natural beauty surrounding Tupelo.
Explore Tupelo’s History Together: Educational & Interactive Attractions
Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum – Step inside the humble two-room house where the King of Rock ’N’ Roll was born and learn how his Tupelo roots shaped music history.
Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center – Make time to check out the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center for a dose of history. This welcoming stop offers engaging exhibits, helpful staff, and curated displays that bring the stories of early Natchez Trace travelers to life. Kids can explore artifacts, pick up Junior Ranger materials, and learn more about the people who shaped the Trace, all in an easy and interactive setting that adds depth to your Tupelo adventure.
Oren Dunn City Museum – Discover Tupelo’s past through an eclectic village featuring a dogtrot cabin, one-room church, and schoolhouse, plus exhibits on railroads, tornadoes, and local Chickasaw culture.
Civil Rights & African American Heritage Trail – Learn about Tupelo’s journey through the Civil Rights era on the Civil Rights & African American Heritage Trail, highlighting the community’s efforts to achieve integration peacefully and honor those who fought for equality.
Mississippi’s Final Stands Civil War Center & Brice’s Crossroads National Battlefield – Visit Brice’s Crossroads National Battlefield, where Confederate forces under General Nathan Bedford Forrest defeated Union troops. The site features a monument, cannons, paved trails, and interpretive signage, with the nearby Visitors Center offering exhibits, a diorama, interactive displays, and a video introduction by historian Shelby Foote. Explore the Civil War Trail in Tupelo to learn more about the final battles of the Civil War in Mississippi.
Where to Eat in Tupelo: Kid-Approved Lunch and Dinner Restaurants
Amsterdam Deli & Grill – Enjoy a meal at this welcoming downtown favorite serving tasty Mediterranean fare. Pair delicious pizzas, wraps, and salads with live music for a fun family atmosphere.
Romie’s Grocery – “Put a little south in ya' mouth" for lunch and dinner with classic southern comfort food like the meat-and-three, sandwiches, salads, and great burgers. Save room and treat yourself to one of their delicious desserts.
Danver’s – A Tupelo staple for over 45 years, Danver’s serves classic American fare with family-friendly options like chicken salad sandwiches, soups, and a generous salad bar, all at great prices.
The Gin – A modern, family-friendly eatery, The gin offers a mix of Mississippi Delta flavors with fresh salads, sandwiches, buffets, and desserts in a relaxed setting.
Johnnie's Drive-In – Another stop on the Elvis’ Tupelo Driving Tour, this iconic spot dishes out burgers, milkshakes, and nostalgia in equal measure, a perfect stop for both kids and parents. Sit in the Elvis booth and soak up the old-school charm. While they’re known for the doughburger, Elvis opted for a classic cheeseburger, fries, and an R.C. Cola!
Sweet Treats and Dessert Stops the Whole Family Will Love in Tupelo
Scoops & Brews – This family-owned ice cream shop serves 32 Blue Bell flavors in cups, cones, and milkshakes, and coffee under one roof. It’s the perfect reward after a day of adventure.
Crave – A downtown gem known for indulgent skillet cookies, creative coffee drinks, and decadent desserts is a hit with both kids and parents.
The Caramel Corn Shop – Tupelo’s original popcorn shop since 1972, this nostalgic spot serves up old-fashioned popcorn in three tasty flavors, along with a variety of sweet treats that make perfect take-home delights.
Funky Cones – Bright, playful, and totally Instagram-worthy, Funky Cones serves up colorful ice cream creations and homemade waffle cones that are as fun to look at as they are to eat.
The Shakery – Known for their over-the-top milkshakes, waffle cones, and creamy ice cream, The Shakery is a sweet treat haven that the whole family will love.
Follow @MyTupelo for Family-Friendly Events in Tupelo
Stay connected and make the most of every season in Tupelo! Follow @MyTupelo on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, X, and Pinterest to discover upcoming events, festivals, and local happenings. From seasonal celebrations to outdoor adventures and community experiences, there’s always something new to explore and enjoy in Tupelo.
Why Tupelo Is Positively the Place for Family Memories
In Tupelo, family time comes easy. It’s the kind of place where days are full, smiles come naturally, and every stop feels like part of a story worth telling. Whether you’re feeding buffalo, tracing Elvis’ footsteps, or sharing ice cream after dinner, you’ll find joy in every simple, shared moment. Tupelo, Mississippi, is positively the place for your next family getaway. Imagine what you can do here!