ZooMississippi, US

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo offers an interactive wildlife adventure in Mississippi.

About

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo offers an interactive wildlife adventure in Mississippi. This expansive 210-acre park and zoo is home to over 260 animals, providing a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages to get up close and personal with majestic creatures from around the world. Guests can embark on an unforgettable journey through drive-through safari exhibits, witness a large herd of American bison roaming freely, and even participate in hands-on feeding encounters with animals like giraffes and zebras. Beyond the thrilling drive-through safari, the park features a variety of walk-through exhibits, a charming petting zoo, and playgrounds for younger visitors. Enthusiasts can marvel at diverse species such as African lions, Bengal tigers, Capuchin monkeys, and two-toed sloths, making it a truly immersive animal encounter. The zoo is dedicated to preserving the health and enrichment of its animals while educating the public through interactive experiences, ensuring a memorable and informative visit. A visit to Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo is more than just observing animals; it's an opportunity for unique interaction and discovery. Whether you're feeding a curious giraffe, seeing the famous Oliver the Capuchin monkey, or taking a Monster Bison Bus tour through herds of buffalo and Watusi cattle, the park provides an adventurous and educational outing that highlights the beauty and diversity of wildlife. It's a fantastic destination for families seeking an outdoor adventure and a chance to connect with nature in a captivating setting. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.

The Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo was founded by Dan Franklin, officially opening its doors in November 2001. The location originally served as a cattle ranch. In 1997, Franklin began introducing buffalo to the ranch, gradually removing the cattle, and his buffalo herd eventually grew to become one of the largest east of the Mississippi River. This initial fascination with buffalo evolved into the creation of the comprehensive wildlife park and zoo that stands today.

What to do here

Enjoy the drive-through safari, explore walk-through animal exhibits, feed various animals, take a pony ride, experience the zip line, and visit the playgrounds. There's also a snack bar and souvenir shop.

Seasonal info

During October, the park hosts an annual Pumpkin Patch event featuring hay rides and a corn maze. Summer visits can be hot, with animals often seeking shade, so early morning or late afternoon are ideal. Winter might see reduced hours.

Accessibility

The park boasts wheelchair-friendly trails and well-maintained pathways, making it accessible for visitors with mobility impairments. Visitors are also allowed to bring their own food and drinks, adding convenience for families.

Don't miss

Buffalo Safari Tour

Ride in an open-air vehicle (Monster Bison Bus or Open-Air Trolley) or your personal car through sprawling pastures to see American bison, zebras, water buffalo, and Watusi cattle up close, with opportunities to feed them.

Giraffe Feeding Encounter

Get the unique chance to feed these gentle giants, a memorable experience for all ages.

Petting Zoo

Interact with friendly pygmy goats, sheep, and other animals.

Reptile Exhibit

Discover a variety of reptiles, including Ricardo the Burmese python and Allison the American alligator.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

American Bison

Giraffes

Zebra

Capuchin Monkey

African Lion

Tiger

Burmese Python

Yak

Oats

American Alligator

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Plan your visit for Spring or Fall

These seasons offer milder temperatures, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Go early on a weekday

Arriving earlier in the day or on weekdays can help avoid crowds and increase your chances of seeing more active animals.

Bring cash for animal feed

Bags of animal feed are available for purchase, allowing for interactive feeding experiences with many animals. Note that giraffes eat a special type of food.

Consider the Monster Bison Bus tour

For the most immersive safari experience, hop on the guided Monster Bison Bus to get close to the larger grazing animals.

Don't forget your camera

With numerous photo opportunities during the drive-through safari and walk-through exhibits, a camera is a must-have.

Check the website before you go

Always consult the park's official website for the most current operating hours, any special events, or potential closures.

Leave straws and plastic lids at home

For the safety of the animals, plastic lids and straws are not permitted inside the park.

Frequently asked questions

: The Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo is renowned for its interactive experiences, including the opportunity to feed various animals such as giraffes, goats, sheep, deer, buffalo, and zebras. The drive-through safari also provides close-up encounters as animals often approach vehicles.
: Visitors to the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo can see a diverse collection of over 260 animals. Highlights include a large herd of American bison, zebras, giraffes, African lions, Bengal tigers, Capuchin monkeys, ring-tailed lemurs, two-toed sloths, kangaroos, Watusi cattle, yaks, and various exotic birds and reptiles like Ricardo the Burmese python and Allison the American alligator.
: Yes, Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo is considered highly accessible, featuring wheelchair-friendly trails and well-maintained landscapes that minimize effort for visitors with mobility impairments.