Last Updated on November 3, 2023

In collaboration with Mississippi State University Extension, the Mississippi Tourism Association, and the Mississippi Main Street Association, the Mississippi Hills Heritage National Area has launched a brand-new culinary adventure, the Farm to Fork Foodie Trail featuring locally and regionally grown and chef-curated foods from cultivation to presentation.

The project’s mission is to connect people to the community while supporting local agriculture. The organization is working with small-scale farmers and producers to invite visitors and residents to savor the diverse and delectable cuisine, experience local farms, and visit agricultural attractions such as farmer’s markets and corn mazes while embracing the region’s rich culture.

The Mississippi Hills Farm to Fork Foodie Trail has been crafted to enable out-of-town food enthusiasts to experience and connect with local flavors while featuring Southern hospitality at 29 food trail locations. These include restaurants, coffee venues, a variety of farms and farmers markets.

Trail tools offer custom itineraries to destinations such as Starkville, Tupelo and Holly Springs showcasing an array of culinary experiences from farm-to-table dining to farmers’ markets and special events.

Native Son Farm strawberries on the Mississippi Farm to Fork Foodie Trail.
Native Son Farm strawberries. Photo courtesy of Foster Relations

Farm to Fork Foodie Trail Features Include:

Farm-to-Table Eateries: Charming farm-to-table restaurants await, offering seasonally inspired menus featuring ingredients from local and regional producers. Skilled chefs prepare dishes with a creative touch.

Locations can be searched by category, location, and name here.

Farm-Fresh Delights and Agritourism: Locally-owned, family farms provide hands-on opportunities to harvest fresh produce, allowing visitors to pick their own seasonal fruits and vegetables while learning about sustainable farming practices.

Farmer’s Markets and Shops: Shopping destinations with locally-produced inventory, and farmer’s markets with locally-grown produce provide the opportunity to take the Farm to Foodie Trail home.

Starkville, Mississippi Community Market.
Starkville, Mississippi Community Market. Photo courtesy of Foster Relations

“The Mississippi Hills Farm to Fork Foodie Trail is a celebration of our rich agricultural industry and vibrant culinary scene,” Mary Cates Williams, MHNHA executive director, said. “This trail offers a unique opportunity to connect with local producers and experience the true flavors of the Mississippi Hills region. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone simply looking for a unique travel experience, this trail promises to be a feast for the senses.”

Beyond dining, the Farm to Fork Foodie Trail offers opportunities to meet local food experts and delve into the art, history, traditions, and techniques behind Southern dishes. Guests can explore local markets and shops, discovering the unique ingredients and products that define the region.

So, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to expand your culinary horizons, you’re invited to join the food trail and discover the flavors of Mississippi.   

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