New Albany brings together the literary history of William Faulkner with trails along the river and a long paved trail. The writer was born here; a museum, literary garden and sculpture route explore different cultural themes. This gives you a mix of local history and outdoor activities to consider when planning your trip.
Faulkner, Literary and Musical History
The Union County Heritage Museum devotes its extensive collection to the history of local communities. Its permanent exhibits include a horned dinosaur tooth excavated from a creek near New Albany. The museum also houses the William Faulkner Library, a public reference library.
The public William Faulkner Literary Garden features plants and quotations from the Nobel laureate. It is part of Frenchman’s Bend, an outdoor exhibit area within the museum complex. In New Albany, Faulkner’s birthplace and a garden connected to his literary work thus come together. The Sculpture Trail & Scavenger Hunt adds art in the city to a museum visit: visitors can discover almost 20 sculptures across two blocks around the museum.
Blues and gospel are also part of the city’s musical history. The Mississippi Blues Trail entry on Sam Mosley and Bob Johnson describes their creative partnership, which began in 1967 and lasted 31 years. Both worked in New Albany as musicians, producers and songwriters. Another entry introduces gospel musicians Roma Wilson and Leon Pinson, whose music also resonated with blues and folk audiences.
River Trails and Longer Routes
In New Albany, the Tallahatchie Trail runs along the banks of the Little Tallahatchie and through the city’s recreation corridor. In Union County, it passes through Park Along the River. There, nearly three miles of walking trails through wooded areas and across the Tallahatchie River offer a different way to experience the river landscape. The Tallahatchie Trail also makes it possible to enjoy family walks along the river.
The paved Tanglefoot Trail is considerably longer at 43.6 miles and is suited to cyclists, walkers and nature lovers. In addition to Union County, it runs through Pontotoc and Chickasaw counties; the route connects New Albany, Ecru, Pontotoc, Algoma, New Houlka and Houston. It follows the route of the Gulf and Ship Island Railroad, built by Col. William C. Falkner. A riverside trail and a regional route with railroad history thus offer distinct experiences.
Activities and City Life
In addition to its walking trails, Park Along the River has a pavilion with picnic tables and restrooms, as well as a stage for concerts and other events. Those interested in disc golf can visit NAPC Disc Golf Course, which covers more than 15 acres and winds through trees and grassy areas. Crossing on the Green Railroad Park has a train viewing platform and a picnic area.
You can also explore downtown through its specific points of interest: its streets are lined with boutiques, antique shops, jewelry stores and specialty shops. The historic Magnolia Civic Center & Theater serves as a venue for performances, receptions and community gatherings.
The Tallahatchie Riverfest takes place annually in New Albany. The festival includes outdoor concerts, arts and crafts, food vendors and family-friendly entertainment. If you’d like to plan your trip around Riverfest, check the latest dates and program in advance.
For the broader travel overview: Union County.
