Located in the heart of Mississippi, Ridgeland is a lively town offering the perfect blend of Southern charm, family-friendly fun, and vibrant communities. Whether you’re looking for a serene getaway or an action-packed adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are six reasons to add Ridgeland to your must-visit list — plus a bonus attraction that just opened its doors!
Premier Lodging Options
Perhaps the most important component of travel planning is deciding where to stay. Luckily, Ridgeland offers a variety of high-quality hotels.
A popular option that offers comfort and style, AC Hotel by Marriott is equipped with well-appointed guest rooms, complete with comfortable beds, plush linens, and full bathroom suites.
Just minutes from some of Ridgeland’s best shops and restaurants at Renaissance at Colony Park, Embassy Suites by Hilton Jackson North Ridgeland offers more than cozy guest rooms. Enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant, Township Grille, or take an afternoon dip in the indoor pool.
Also known for its premier location, SpringHill Suites Jackson Ridgeland/The Township at Colony Park is in close proximity to top attractions like Ridgeland Wildflower Field & Art Park, Freedom Ridge Park, Northpark indoor shopping center, and Renaissance at Colony Park. In addition to spacious guest rooms, the hotel offers complimentary daily breakfast, a 24-hour fitness center, and a pristine outdoor pool.
Exciting Events & Attractions
Whether you’re visiting Ridgeland in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, there’s always plenty of fun to be had! While mapping out your adventures, check out Ridgeland’s online events calendar to see what might be happening during your visit. Popular annual events include the Township Jazz Festival, Celebrate America Balloon Glow, Euro Fest Classic European Auto & Motorcycle Show, and Wrap It In Ridgeland.
If you can’t make it to one of the seasonal events, don’t fret! Ridgeland is also home to popular attractions that are open year-round. For example, the self-guided Ridgeland History Trail includes 22 trail markers that offer a glimpse of the area’s rich heritage. Stops include the Ridgeland City Hall, Northpark, and Natchez Trace Parkway.
Vibrant Arts & Culture Scene
Ridgeland’s vibrant arts and culture scene adds to its charm and beauty. From unique museum exhibits to handmade goods and more, this is the perfect place to immerse yourself in authentic creativity.
Conveniently located right off the Natchez Trace Parkway, the Bill Waller Craft Center is a 20,000-square-foot space displaying works from over 400 Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi members. Here, you’ll find everything from hand-crafted jewelry to quilts, baskets, and glass artwork for sale.
SB Tip: Check out the events calendar before visiting, as the center is also known to host interactive art classes and demonstrations!
Outdoor Adventures
Ridgeland is a popular destination among cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride along a paved trail or a more challenging mountain biking expedition, there are plenty of options to choose from!
Before embarking on your cycling adventure, take advantage of the Explore Ridgeland Bikeshare Program. The easy-to-use Koloni app allows you to effortlessly hop on a bike from locations at the Ridgeland Visitors Center and The Bike Crossing.
For a leisurely ride accompanied by beautiful scenery, explore Ridgeland’s section of the Natchez Trace Parkway. The Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail is popular among all skill levels, offering a 10-mile paved path through historic Choctaw homelands.
If you’re a more experienced cyclist or want more of a challenge, consider riding along any of Ridgeland’s mountain biking trails. There are 14 distinct options across 10 miles, and popular choices include the Tribute Trail, the McGee Way/Rollercoaster Trail, and the Down and Out Trail.
Unique Shopping Opportunities
For some retail therapy, spend an afternoon exploring the unique shopping districts along the Ridgeland Retail Trail. From hand-crafted goods to high-end retailers, you’re sure to find something to bring home to remember your Ridgeland adventures!
For a blend of local boutiques, specialty stores, and well-known national brands, Renaissance at Colony Park offers a bit of everything. In addition to stores like The Commissary, Free People, and J. Crew, you can refuel at restaurants like Local 463 Urban Kitchen and Zea Rotisserie & Bar.
A popular mixed-use development, The Township at Colony Park is home to residential neighborhoods, hotels, restaurants, and, of course, shopping. Popular retailers include Arco Avenue, Hemline, and Boxwood Shoppe.
Located along West Jackson Street, Ridgeland’s Railroad District is a walkable shopping district combining Southern charm and vibrant history. Here, you’ll find a mix of specialty shops that offer everything from apparel and accessories to unique gifts and home decor.
Last but certainly not least, Northpark is an epicenter of entertainment, offering a variety of unique stores and a movie theater. You can also visit the food court, which offers cuisine ranging from American to Asian.
Delicious Food & Drink
Whether you’re looking for an upscale meal to celebrate a special occasion or something more laid back, Ridgeland offers a variety of delicious dining options. From high-end steakhouses to waterfront dining and more, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings!
As the steakhouse capital of Mississippi, Ridgeland offers the most (and the best!) steakhouses of any Mississippi city. Koestler Prime provides nearly half a dozen unique steak toppings, while Kathryn’s Steakhouse is known for its filet medallions and live music.
If steak isn’t your forte, restaurants like Amerigo, CAET [seafood | oysterette], and Anjou are known for delicious cuisine in upscale yet easygoing atmospheres.
Ridgeland is also home to a handful of tranquil waterfront restaurants! These include restaurants like Pelican Cove, Crab’s Seafood Shack, Cock of the Walk, and Shucker’s Oyster Bar.
JUST OPENED: Topgolf Ridgeland
As if the reasons above weren’t enough to convince you to visit Ridgeland, the city recently welcomed its very own Topgolf. Located off Highland Colony Parkway, the attraction offers 60 all-weather hitting bays, a nine-hole mini golf course, a bar and restaurant, and over 100 HD televisions! To plan your visit to Topgolf Ridgeland, click HERE.
Ready to start planning your Ridgeland getaway? Visit exploreRidgeland.com to begin mapping out your adventures!
This article is sponsored by Explore Ridgeland.
