Information
Landmark: Tupelo Buffalo Park and ZooCity: Tupelo
Country: USA Mississippi
Continent: North America
Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, Tupelo, USA Mississippi, North America
Overview
Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, at 2272 North Coley Road in Tupelo, Mississippi, is the state’s largest, spanning 210 acres of green pastures, shaded woods, and lively wildlife displays.Once a cattle ranch, the park started bringing in American bison in 1997, and now their hoofbeats rumble across one of the largest herds east of the Mississippi.It opened its doors in November 2001, and ever since, families, school groups, and wildlife lovers have flocked there-some still recall the crisp scent of pine along the trails.The zoo houses more than 260 animals from 125 different species, a lively mix of native creatures and exotic wonders-a bright macaw’s flash of blue among them.The American bison, its most famous residents, wander freely across wide pastures where the grass sways in the wind.Hop on a guided Bison Safari Tour and get close enough to hear the low rumble of these giants, often spotting playful calves sticking close to the massive bulls and cows.You’ll also spot some exotic mammals-giraffes stretching their necks sky-high, zebras with crisp black stripes, plus camels, llamas, alpacas, sturdy yaks, and the striking Watusi cattle.In certain spots, visitors can feed the animals or give them a gentle pat, maybe even feel the warmth of a goat’s nose against their hand.Big cats like African lions and Bengal tigers roam in open-air enclosures built to feel like the wild, with sun-warmed rocks and tall grass swaying in the breeze.Visitors can watch the animals roam, play, and interact inside lively, hands-on enclosures.Capuchin monkeys-like Oliver, the crafty escape artist of 2007-live in spacious, enriched enclosures where they can climb, forage, and act just as they would in the wild.Reptiles and birds-like alligators basking in the sun, slow-moving tortoises, sleek pythons, and bright-feathered parrots-offer plenty to see and learn from.In the zoo’s aviary, bright parrots chatter while sleek, exotic waterfowl glide across a shallow pool.The zoo has a petting area where kids and parents can hand-feed goats, sheep, and deer, feeling the warm brush of fur as they learn up close.Beyond the usual zoo enclosures, Tupelo Buffalo Park invites guests to dive into hands-on adventures like the Bison Safari Tour-a guided ride through wide, grassy pastures where the ground trembles under the hooves of towering buffalo.Zip Line: Soar high above the park on a winding cable, catching glimpses of tree tops and winding trails below.Pony rides let younger visitors climb into the saddle for a safe, well‑supervised trot, with the warm leather reins snug in their hands.Pillow Jumper: a big, bouncy inflatable where kids can leap, tumble, and laugh until their cheeks turn red.Playground and teepees blend into the trees and grass, inviting kids to dream up adventures under the open sky.Seasonal Pumpkin Patch: Each October, the park bursts to life with a cozy pumpkin patch, where families climb onto hayrides, wander through rustling corn mazes, and choose pumpkins straight from the field-a perfect mix of farming and fun.Visitors can wander along shaded paths and wide-open lawns at their own pace, pausing for an easy stroll or to watch a heron glide over the pond.Shaded benches and picnic tables offer a place to relax, chat, and share a meal under the cool rustle of nearby trees.At Tupelo Buffalo Park, education comes alive through hands-on activities and live demonstrations-you might feed a goat or watch a keeper train a bison.Staff often step in to feed the animals and give lively talks, showing visitors how a penguin dives for fish while explaining behavior, conservation, and habitat.School field trips often head to the park for hands-on lessons in biology and ecology-students crouching to examine tiny beetles in the grass-while community events like themed festivals and holiday gatherings draw local families together.Planning a visit?We’re open Monday–Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday–Saturday until 5, and Sundays from 11 to 4.Admission runs $11 for adults, $9 for seniors 65+, and kids under a year get in free.Military guests enjoy 10% off all year, plus free entry on Veterans’ Day.Extra adventures include a bison tour ride for $3, a zip line for $2, and a giant pillow jumper for $5.With plenty of parking and smooth paths under shady trees, the park welcomes families, travelers, and wildlife lovers alike.At Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, you’ll find the calm of a wildlife sanctuary, the curiosity of an educational zoo, and the easy fun of a park where kids chase peacocks along the path.With bison roaming freely, exotic creatures just steps away, hands-on attractions, and sweeping natural views, the place pulls you into an experience you won’t forget.
