Entry 116: Walking with Elvis: A Visit to His Birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi

On my way home from a recent trip, I made a quiet stop in Tupelo, Mississippi—the hometown of one of the most iconic and influential musicians of the 20th century: Elvis Presley.

I didn’t have time to tour the whole town, but I made sure to spend some time at the Elvis Presley Birthplace, a peaceful park dedicated to preserving and telling the story of Elvis’s humble beginnings. The site includes the small two-room house where he was born, a chapel, a restored church building where he first heard gospel music, a visitor center with exhibits, and quiet outdoor spaces like the Reflections Pond—which was especially meaningful to walk around on a sunny Mississippi afternoon.

I’ll be honest—I wasn’t always an Elvis fan. Growing up, I respected his name but didn’t really understand his impact. It wasn’t until my 30s, when I started digging deeper into his life and music, that I really began to appreciate the full picture: a young man born into poverty who possessed unmatched talent, served his country, honored his faith, and transformed American music in ways that still ripple through every genre today.

That’s why I’m a fan.

Elvis wasn’t just about flashy jumpsuits and hit singles—he was a true artist with range, heart, and vision. And if you’ve only heard the classics, I’d encourage you to go further. Below are some of his most underrated and often-overlooked songs—tracks that show just how deep his catalog runs:

10 Incredible Elvis Songs You Might’ve Missed:

• “Any Day Now” – Pure soul and vulnerability.
• “Tomorrow Is a Long Time” – A quiet, emotional Dylan cover.
• “Stranger in My Own Hometown” – Raw, bluesy, and brilliant.
• “I’ll Hold You in My Heart” – A vocal masterclass.
• “Long Black Limousine” – A haunting story told through song.
• “It’s Midnight” – Heartbreak and honesty, late-career Elvis at his best.
• “Clean Up Your Own Backyard” – Sharp lyrics, gospel groove.
• “Only the Strong Survive” – Funky, powerful soul.
• “Reconsider Baby” – Deep blues from the '60 comeback sessions.
• “I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water” – Swampy and energetic.

Spending time at the place where Elvis began—walking where he walked, sitting in the church pews where he once sang—was a powerful reminder of how greatness can come from anywhere. And how music, more than almost anything else, connects generations, crosses boundaries, and brings us back to the core of who we are.

“Until we meet again, may God bless you as He has blessed me.” — Elvis Presley

5 Family-Friendly Attractions Nearby

1. Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum – Tour the home, chapel, church, and museum that shaped the King’s early years.

2. Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo – A fun spot for families featuring bison, exotic animals, and pony rides.

3. Oren Dunn City Museum – Offers exhibits on Tupelo’s history, railroads, and the 1936 tornado.

4. Veterans Memorial Park – A peaceful green space with monuments and trails honoring military service.

5. Tupelo National Battlefield – A small but significant Civil War site preserved by the National Park Service.

5 Local Places to Eat Nearby

1. Kermit's Outlaw Kitchen – Local favorite for Southern-inspired dishes and craft cocktails.

2. Neon Pig Cafe – Award-winning burger joint and butcher shop known for its Smash Burger.

3. Johnnie’s Drive In – Classic diner-style restaurant that Elvis himself used to visit.

4. Fairpark Grill – Upscale but relaxed, offering steaks, seafood, and great service.

5. Cafe 212 – Cozy downtown lunch spot known for soups, sandwiches, and vegetarian options.