Buffalo may not be too common in Mississippi, but the state is actually home to a huge herd of the majestic creature. And since the herd resides in a park, you can visit and learn all about them. But it’s not just buffalo you’ll have a chance to come face to face with. The park is home to hundreds of animals, including several exotic species and reptiles! Take a look:

Yearning for a home where the buffalo roam? Then you’ve got to head to Tupelo, where you’ll find Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo.

sprimike/TripAdvisor

The 210-acre park started off in 1997 as the private herd of Dan Franklin. Eventually, the herd grew to more than 300, and at one time, was the largest east of the Mississippi River.

Visit Mississippi/Flickr

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo officially opened in 2001. Since opening, the grounds have grown to include dozens of animals – but the buffalo are still a crowd favorite.

Ryan Beverly/Google

The park even offers guided tours, so you can get close-up and personal with the park’s beloved buffalo.

Rho. M/TripAdvisor

You’ll also learn all the history of the buffalo and Native Americans during the tour.

Maria Smith/Google

But buffalo aren’t the only animal you’ll come face to face with while exploring the grounds.

Kyle Poe/Google

There are also zebra, Watusi cattle, and many other animals.

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo/Facebook

Tours aren’t the only way to get close to the animals, though. You can also feed some of them.

Ryan Beverly/Google

In addition to an expansive range of exotic animals, the park also features a reptile exhibit, petting zoo, playgrounds, and a Chickasaw Indian Village.

Shirley Wear/Google

The best part is a visit is pretty affordable. Admission is just $11, while a tour is an additional $3 - $10 depending on which tour you choose (the options include a standard tour and VIP tour).

Angel Duster/Google

 

sprimike/TripAdvisor

Visit Mississippi/Flickr

Ryan Beverly/Google

Rho. M/TripAdvisor

Maria Smith/Google

Kyle Poe/Google

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo/Facebook

Shirley Wear/Google

Angel Duster/Google

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo is open Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Friday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. For more information, call (662) 844-8709. You can also visit the park’s website or Facebook page.

Address: 2272 N. Coley Road, Tupelo, MS, 38801

This isn’t the only place you can have some wild fun. Read about another here.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.