Tupelo Hardware Company
Historic hardware store where Elvis Presley bought his first guitar, preserving a century of local commerce and music history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal feel
Tupelo Hardware Company
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal feel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic hardware store where Elvis Presley bought his first guitar, preserving a century of local commerce and music history.
"A living piece of music history, still serving the community after 100 years."
🎯 The Elvis Connection
Don't miss the 'X' on the floor where Elvis bought his first guitar!
🤝 Friendly Local Staff
Chat with Floyd and the team; they know all the history!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'X' Marks the Spot
Floor near the guitar display
Stand where Elvis Presley stood when his mother bought him his first guitar. A simple 'X' marks this iconic spot.
Historic Counter and Shelves
Main store area
Experience the charm of original counters and shelves, transporting you back to a bygone era of general stores.
Guitars Galore
Guitar display area
See the guitars sold today, a nod to the legendary instrument purchased here by Elvis himself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
More Than Just Elvis
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 The Elvis Connection
Don't miss the 'X' on the floor where Elvis bought his first guitar!
🤝 Friendly Local Staff
Chat with Floyd and the team; they know all the history!
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Grab a T-shirt or a unique item to remember your visit.
🕰️ Step Back in Time
Appreciate the original counters and shelves for a true vintage feel.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 The Elvis Connection
Don't miss the 'X' on the floor where Elvis bought his first guitar!
🤝 Friendly Local Staff
Chat with Floyd and the team; they know all the history!
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Grab a T-shirt or a unique item to remember your visit.
🕰️ Step Back in Time
Appreciate the original counters and shelves for a true vintage feel.
🎸 More Than Just Guitars
They still sell a wide range of hardware and goods for the community.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tupelo Hardware Company for its rich history, particularly its connection to Elvis Presley's first guitar. The well-preserved vintage atmosphere and friendly, knowledgeable staff are frequently highlighted. While some note it's a functioning store and not solely a museum, most appreciate the authentic experience and the opportunity to support a long-standing local business.
"What a great place to visit. The Tupelo hardware Co. was made famous because Gladys Presley bought her son Elvis Arron Presley his first guitar there. But it is pretty special for another reason, it will be celebrating it's 100th anniversary next year. And it is owned by the same family the whole time. That in itself is a very special attribute. Floyd I believe has been there for 40 years and can help you with everything you need. The staff are very friendly and that is even with a lot of the Elvis fans coming in and sometimes not buying a thing. But it's Tupelo and friendly is the way. I bought a guitar there, not my first guitar but knowing the history, I had to do it. Another item off the bucket list."
Joseph Monte
"Just like the General Stores that were in the Old West. Pretty cool. I bought a T Shirt and Screwdriver as a souvenir.
Gladys Presley brought her son Elvis to the store to buy a birthday gift. Elvis wanted a rifle, but instead left with Guitar—a moment many view as the starting note of his legendary music career. The original counter and shelves remain in place, and an “X” marks the spot where Elvis stood."
Rod McCarthy
"You can’t come to Tupelo without visiting the Tupelo Hardware Store. So much history here and Floyd knows it all. Enjoy."
John Kasper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tupelo Hardware Company is located in downtown Tupelo, Mississippi. It's easily accessible by car, with ample street parking available. If you're visiting other Elvis-related sites, it's often a walkable distance from the Elvis Presley Birthplace Museum.
Yes, it's conveniently located near the Elvis Presley Birthplace Museum and other downtown Tupelo attractions, making it easy to combine with a broader exploration of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Tupelo Hardware Company is a functioning retail store, so there's no admission fee to enter and browse. You can freely explore the historic space.
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or call ahead. However, they are generally open during regular business hours on weekdays and Saturdays.
Visiting on a weekday morning can offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, allowing you to better appreciate the historical aspects and chat with staff.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The 'X' marks the exact spot where Gladys Presley purchased Elvis Presley's first guitar for $7.75 in January 1946. It's a poignant reminder of a pivotal moment in music history.
Yes, Tupelo Hardware Company still sells guitars today, continuing the legacy. They reportedly sell about one guitar a day, honoring the store's most famous transaction.
Beyond the Elvis memorabilia, you can admire the original counters and shelves, which have been preserved, offering a glimpse into a classic general store.
While it's a business, the staff are generally friendly and accustomed to visitors interested in the history. However, supporting the store by making a small purchase is always appreciated.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, downtown Tupelo offers several dining options, from casual cafes to local eateries. Johnnie's Drive-In, a favorite of Elvis, is also nearby and worth a visit for a nostalgic bite.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, yes, you can take photos inside to capture the historic atmosphere and the famous 'X'. However, always be mindful of other shoppers and staff.
The 'X' on the floor is a must-capture shot. Also, try to get photos of the vintage counters, shelves, and any guitar displays to showcase the store's unique character.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the Elvis connection, the store's vintage feel and the variety of items on display can be interesting for kids. It's a chance to see a different kind of shop than they might be used to. Consider making a small purchase, like a souvenir T-shirt, to make the visit memorable for them.
🎸 Music Enthusiasts & Elvis Fans
Beyond the 'X', take time to appreciate the store's atmosphere, which has remained largely unchanged. You can even purchase a guitar, continuing the legacy of this iconic location. The staff's knowledge of Elvis's connection to the store adds another layer of depth to the visit.
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
It's a great place to pick up a unique memento that tells a story. The historic setting itself adds to the shopping experience, making it more memorable than a typical retail stop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Elvis Presley Connection
+1Today, a simple 'X' is marked on the floor, indicating the very spot where young Elvis stood. Visitors often pause here, reflecting on the historical significance of the moment. The store embraces this legacy, continuing to sell guitars and often sharing stories of Elvis's visit with eager fans.
While the Elvis narrative is central, it's important to remember that this was a genuine hardware store serving the Tupelo community. The store's enduring presence and the family's stewardship over a century add another layer to its historical importance, making it a unique intersection of local commerce and global music history.
A Century of Service: The Hardware Store Experience
Walking into the store is like stepping back in time. The original counters and shelves are still in place, evoking the charm of old-fashioned general stores.
Visitors often find unique souvenirs here, from T-shirts to practical tools, allowing them to take a piece of Tupelo's history home. The store's ability to maintain its traditional character while continuing to serve its customers highlights its resilience and its importance as a community hub.
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