Pulaski offers several ways to explore history and culture: from the history of the Cherokee removal to the historic downtown and performances at the STAAR Theatre. During your stay, you can choose between historical topics, a walk around town, and nature experiences without having to combine them into a set itinerary.
Cherokee History and Places of Remembrance
The Bell and Benge detachments passed through Pulaski in October and November 1838 along the Trail of Tears. The interpretive center in Pulaski has indoor and outdoor exhibits about these two detachments and the broader history of the Cherokee removal. The visitor experience therefore ranges from the specifically named detachments to the wider historical context.
Other places of remembrance offer their own perspectives. A bronze statue depicts a child looking up at a USCT soldier. As part of a citywide installation, a statue with a plaque was erected at Cave Spring Heritage Plaza. These depictions add different forms of remembrance to the exploration of historical topics.
Historic Downtown and Architecture
Pulaski’s historic downtown is defined by its preserved appearance, local shops, welcoming storefronts, and lively gathering places throughout the year. A walking-tour brochure is available for exploring the area. It gives you a starting point if you’d like to discover downtown on foot.
The Giles County Courthouse is located downtown and is a Neoclassical building dating from 1909. The Sam Davis Monument stands on the south side of the courthouse lawn. The building and monument can be viewed as two distinct historical landmarks in the same described area of town, without implying a specific walking route.
Another perspective can be found at Milky Way Farm in the vicinity of Pulaski, along the road toward Lynnville. It combines scenic rural surroundings with a storied past. The contrast with the historic downtown lies in the different themes described: architecture and urban character here, rural landscape and history there.
Performing Arts and Nature Experiences
The STAAR Theatre in Pulaski is a 140-seat venue. It presents plays, musicals, magic shows, and concerts. It also offers educational programs in dance, singing, acting, songwriting, costume design, and improvisation. Alongside historical sightseeing, visitors can explore performances and a range of creative disciplines.
For those who prefer the outdoors, Wolf Gap offers opportunities for walking and birdwatching: the area attracts walkers and birdwatchers. Kayaking on the Elk River is a peaceful way to spend an afternoon on the water. These are different ways to spend time outdoors; choose whichever suits you better, walking and observing or heading out on the water.
Festival Dates and Practical Planning
The SunDrop Festival features more than 50 arts and crafts and food vendors, as well as live performances. The program also includes yoga on the courthouse lawn and parades of vintage cars, Jeeps, and Broncos. The 2026 edition was scheduled for June 13, the second Saturday in June, in historic downtown Pulaski. Check the date and program again for future editions.
For most of 2026, the Giles County Historical Society is temporarily closed because of the Giles County Public Library expansion project, which began on January 2, 2026. Check its reopening status before visiting. Some exhibits are being moved to the Wolf Gap Education & Nature Center, 2718 Tarpley Shop Road, Pulaski, Tennessee. Check in advance whether the exhibit you’re interested in is available there.
Discover more destinations: Frankewing
For the regional travel overview: Giles County.
