Fall in Love with Tupelo: A Couples’ Guide to the City
From cozy boutique hotels to scenic trails and award-winning local eats, Tupelo, MS, is positively the place for couples looking to relax, explore, and make lasting memories together. Image: Tupelo CVB
As fall’s crisp air rolls in and the leaves begin to turn, Tupelo, MS, becomes the perfect place for a cozy couple’s getaway. This charming Southern city offers a warm, inviting escape from the everyday hustle and bustle, promising shared experiences and lasting memories. Offering a blend of history, nature, and delicious food, we’re breaking down why Tupelo is the ideal town for your next couple’s getaway.
Stay in Style: Tupelo’s Best Accommodations
Finding the perfect place to stay in Tupelo is easy, as it’s home to over 2,200 well-appointed hotel rooms. For example, Hotel Tupelo is a boutique property in Downtown Tupelo’s Fairpark District. With 79 stylish rooms, an on-site restaurant and bar, and a prime location within walking distance of local attractions, dining, and shopping, it’s a cozy home base for couples.
Tupelo offers many other accommodations that promise a great night’s sleep, like Tru by Hilton and Home2 Suites. Visit tupelo.net/stay to peruse all of Tupelo’s cozy lodging options.
Step Back in Time
A trip to Tupelo is never complete without a visit to the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum. The historical site invites visitors to delve into Elvis’ formative years, offering insights into his journey to stardom and his lasting influence on pop culture.
Explore the modest two-room shack where he was born, discover his life story in the museum, and experience a service in the Assembly of God Church that nurtured his passion for gospel music. Afterward, take a short walk or drive to the Becoming statue for sweeping views of Downtown Tupelo, and pause at Reflections, the serene lake on the property, to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Discover History & Nature
History lovers will enjoy exploring 10,000 years of history along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a breathtaking 444-mile scenic byway headquartered in Tupelo. At the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center, located at milepost 266, you can dive into the story of this All-American Road through interactive exhibits, an informative film, and a gift shop. Park rangers are also on hand to answer questions and enhance your visit.
For a touch of outdoor adventure, wander the Blackland Prairie at the Chickasaw Village Site or take in panoramic views from the Old Town Overlook. These spots offer a perfect blend of history and nature, making them ideal for couples to explore together.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
When it comes to shopping, Tupelo has something for everyone in its three distinct shopping districts. Downtown Tupelo is home to local favorites like Reed’s, one of Mississippi’s oldest department stores. The Midtown District features home furnishings, gift shops, and a florist, while the Barnes Crossing District offers national brands and popular restaurants. Whether you’re after boutique finds or mainstream staples, Tupelo’s shopping scene has you covered.
Take a Taste of Tupelo
When it’s time to eat and drink, Tupelo doesn’t disappoint. At Queen’s Reward Meadery, Mississippi’s first and only meadery, couples can tour the facility, sample award-winning small-batch meads made from 100% Mississippi honey, or enjoy a famous mead slushie on the expansive lawn.
For dinner, there are more than 200 restaurants to choose from, so deciding where to dine might be the most challenging part of your trip. Not to mention the city offers plenty of options for al fresco fall dining. Book a rooftop table at Park Heights Restaurant, where Chef Dan Schroeder’s Southern-inspired cuisine sets the stage for an intimate evening.
You can also sit on the patio at Forklift, where Chef Cooper Miller serves legendary fried chicken and succulent lamb tenderloin with truffle jus. Or, for a more casual night out, Loco Taco’s outdoor tables (along with street tacos and margaritas) provide the perfect relaxed vibe.
Explore Interactive Trails
After dining, explore Tupelo’s interactive trails for a fun twist on sightseeing. The Tupelo Cocktail Trail invites you to sip craft cocktails at seven Downtown Tupelo bars and restaurants, while the All Shook Up: Elvis’ Tupelo Experience offers an in-depth look at Elvis Presley’s enduring legacy.
Art lovers can stroll the It’s Electric: Neon Lights trail, enjoying a visual journey through Tupelo’s artistic heritage and vibrant culture. Meanwhile, foodies will love the Taste Tupelo digital trail, which offers samples of dishes from 11 local restaurants.
Download your pass for each trail and discover how to claim your prize for completing them at tupelo.net/things-to-do/experiences.
Seasonal Fun & Events
Tupelo ushers in the fall with an array of seasonal festivals and special events. The fun kicks off with Dancing with the King (October 17-19), which honors Elvis with a weekend of dance at the Tupelo Furniture Market. Meanwhile, Celebration Village (October 22-25) is Tupelo’s annual holiday market, inviting you to jump-start your Christmas shopping.
You also don’t want to miss Fall into Tupelo, a two-day event that kicks off on October 24, with Chili Fest. Held in Fairpark, you can try chili recipes from local cooking teams as you listen to live music.
In Tupelo, every corner offers a chance to make memories together. Whether you craft your own itinerary or choose a preplanned romantic escape, explore the city this fall and experience the charm, history, and flavors that make Tupelo the perfect couples’ getaway. Plan your trip at tupelo.net.
This article is sponsored by Tupelo CVB.
