Treading Ancient Ground in Tupelo
As the headquarters of one of the country's most popular national parks (plus numerous trails, Native American sites, and more), Tupelo's outdoor recreation is unmatched.
Tupelo has you covered when it comes to the great outdoors. The headquarters of one of the most visited national parks in the country, an array of parks and walking trails, and one of the largest zoos in the state make Tupelo the perfect place to get outside and experience the wonders of nature.
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic byway that extends from Nashville, TN, to Natchez, MS. Headquartered in Tupelo, visitors can explore the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266 to learn about the history of this All-American Road or check out the hiking trails that surround the center. Just south of the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center, at milepost 261.8, the Chickasaw Village site offers a glimpse into what life was like for this unconquerable tribe whose homeland was centered in Tupelo. Beautiful hiking trails make this a top pull off along the Trace and it is the future home of the Chickasaw Heritage Center. Cyclists and motorcyclists will revel in the beautiful winding road that is the Natchez Trace Parkway, making it a bucket list trip for those who enjoy exploring on two-wheels.
Tupelo is full of parks and trails that make getting some exercise as much fun as exploring the city where anything is possible. The Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail is a 1.5-mile trail that connects Downtown Tupelo with the Elvis Presley Birthplace. Those looking to delve deeper into the life of Tupelo’s favorite native son can try the Elvis’ Tupelo Self-Guided Bicycle Tour. The tour takes you to fourteen places, including the Elvis Presley Birthplace, that were influential in Elvis’ life growing up in Tupelo. While you’re out and about, take a walk through the trees along the Music Bend Trail, a 2.5-mile nature trail that winds through the wooded area along Mud Creek and marks the spot where young Elvis Presley liked to swim.
Home to over 260 animals, the Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo lets visitors get up close and personal with buffalo, zebra, camels, and many other animals. The park has a petting zoo, pony rides, zip lines, and offers a drive-through experience where visitors can feed the animals that roam the expansive 210-acre park. The Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo shares the history of the buffalo and Native Americans who lived in this area, including a Chickasaw Native American village.
From city parks that offer walking trails, splash pads, and disc golf, to dog parks and everything in between, Tupelo’s outdoor offerings are an explorer’s dream. Visit tupelo.net to learn more about all of the city’s unique outdoor experiences and get outside.
Sponsored by the Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau