Natchez Trace Parkway
United States
The oldest road in America, a 715 km National Parkway following a 10,000-year-old trail used by Native Americans, French traders, and flatboatmen walking home from New Orleans, now a billboard-free parkway of cathedral forest, Civil War earthworks, and ancient mounds.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Natchez
The oldest city on the Mississippi and the antebellum cotton capital. Plantation mansions and the Under-the-Hill district mark Trace milepost zero.
- Emerald Mound
The second-largest Native American ceremonial mound in the US, built by the Natchez people between 1250 and 1600 CE, rising from a forest clearing at milepost 10.
- Port Gibson
Grant declared it too beautiful to burn in 1863. The First Presbyterian Church steeple is crowned with a golden hand pointing skyward instead of a cross.
- Elvis Birthplace
The two-room shotgun house where Elvis was born in 1935. Depression-era Mississippi shaped the man who fused gospel, blues, and country into rock and roll.
- Colbert Ferry
The Tennessee River crossing used by flatboatmen since the 1800s. A historic ferry site at milepost 327, now a quiet picnic area on the water's edge.
- Meriwether Lewis Monument
Lewis died here at Grinder's Stand in 1809 under mysterious circumstances. A broken column marks his grave at milepost 385.9 in the Tennessee hills.
- Franklin
One of the South's most intact antebellum town centres. Carnton Plantation is surrounded by the largest Confederate cemetery in Tennessee.
- Nashville
Music City and the Trace's northern terminus. The Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Broadway honky-tonks close out 715 km of American history.
Where to Eat
- The Camp RestaurantAmerican
Overlooking the Mississippi River, this spot offers classic Southern dishes with a modern twist.
- Pig Out Inn BarbecueBarbecue
Renowned for its smoked meats and hearty sides, a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
- The Old Country StoreSouthern
Famous for its fried chicken and buffet-style Southern comfort food in a historic setting.
- AcreSouthern
Farm-to-table restaurant offering innovative Southern cuisine in a rustic-chic atmosphere.
Things to Do
- Natchez National Historical ParkHistoric Site
Explore antebellum homes and learn about the rich history of Natchez.
- Windsor RuinsHistoric Site
Visit the haunting remains of a grand 19th-century mansion, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Tupelo Automobile MuseumMuseum
Discover a vast collection of classic and antique cars, showcasing automotive history.
- Leiper's ForkVillage
Charming village known for its art galleries, antique shops, and live music venues.