Ridgeland

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ridgeland's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Ridgeland and check into your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Spend the morning familiarizing yourself with the area and its unique shops.

afternoon
:

Visit the sprawling Mississippi Museum of Art to soak in some local culture. Spend time wandering through the galleries and perhaps enjoy lunch at the museum café. Afterward, take a stroll in the nearby parks and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

evening
:

Dine at one of Ridgeland's renowned restaurants, savoring local southern cuisine. After dinner, consider catching a live music performance at a local venue. Wind down your day with a relaxing evening walk along the Ross Barnett Reservoir.

day 2
Nature Day
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to LeFleur's Bluff State Park. Spend the morning hiking the trails, observing the local wildlife, and enjoying the lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s scenic spots. After your meal, spend time kayaking or fishing on the serene lake. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views!

evening
:

Return to Ridgeland for dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the reservoir. After your meal, consider visiting a local brewery for a tasting session. End the evening by participating in a fun trivia night at a nearby pub.

day 3
History and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a beloved local diner, indulging in traditional southern dishes. Head to the Mississippi History Museum to learn about the state’s rich heritage and significant events.

afternoon
:

After grabbing lunch, visit the nearby Eudora Welty House and Garden to appreciate the literary history of Mississippi. Explore the beautiful gardens and get insights into the author’s life and work. Take the opportunity to browse local bookstores for unique finds.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a restaurant that features live jazz music. Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Wind down the night by exploring some of the local art galleries, many of which host evening receptions.

day 4
Adventure Day
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast at a café before embarking on an exhilarating morning of zip-lining at a nearby adventure park. Feel the rush as you soar above the ground and take in the beautiful views of the landscape.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local hotspot to replenish your energy after your thrilling adventure. Once revitalized, head over to the Ridgeland Cycling and Hiking Trails for an exhilarating bike ride or hike through scenic routes.

evening
:

After a day filled with activity, relax with dinner at a charming restaurant showcasing regional specialties. Later, unwind at a cozy coffee shop with live music, enjoying a sweet treat to cap the day. Engage with locals and share your adventure stories.

day 5
Shopping and Relaxation
morning
:

Savor a late breakfast at an upscale brunch spot. Spend the morning exploring the upscale boutiques at Renaissance at Colony Park, where you can find unique gifts and trendy apparel.

afternoon
:

After a successful shopping spree, treat yourself to a spa afternoon. Enjoy various wellness treatments to rejuvenate and unwind before an evening of socializing.

evening
:

Dine at a stylish eatery featuring farm-to-table cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the beautifully lit shopping district, appreciating the ambiance. End the evening with a nightcap at a chic bar, reflecting on your day of relaxation.

day 6
Culinary Exploration
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast from a local bakery, indulging in fresh pastries and coffee. Spend the morning attending a cooking class centered on southern cuisine, where you can learn local recipes.

afternoon
:

Savor your delicious creations for lunch before heading to a local wine shop for an afternoon tasting session. Gain insights into Mississippi wines and discover what makes them distinct.

evening
:

For dinner, participate in a culinary dining experience that features multi-course meals paired with wine. Engage with the chefs and other diners, sharing insights about the cuisine. Conclude your culinary journey with dessert at a famous local ice cream shop.

day 7
Art and Craft Day
morning
:

After breakfast, head to the Mississippi Craft Center where local artisans display their work. Spend time browsing the unique art pieces and handmade crafts available for purchase.

afternoon
:

Participate in a hands-on art workshop to create your own masterpiece. Enjoy lunch at the center’s café, surrounded by inspiring artwork.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant known for its artistic interior design and inventive dishes. After dinner, attend an art gallery opening event, interacting with local artists and enjoying some live entertainment.

day 8
Local Festivals and Events
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a quaint local café before heading to any ongoing festivals or markets. Immerse yourself in the local culture, sampling food and crafts from regional vendors.

afternoon
:

Continue exploring the festival atmosphere, engaging in activities like live music, dance, or cultural performances. Grab lunch from food trucks boasting local flavors, enjoying the vibrant outdoor setting.

evening
:

As the festival winds down, find a spot to enjoy the live performances at the main stage. Cap the evening with dinner under the stars, experiencing the joy and camaraderie of festival-goers. Reflect on your day’s adventures over dessert before heading back to your accommodations.

day 9
Leisure and Reflection
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a farm-to-table restaurant. Spend a final morning visiting any remaining attractions that you may have missed earlier, reflecting on your favorite experiences.

afternoon
:

Gather lunch from a local deli and head to a scenic location for a picnic. Take time to journal your experiences and frame your memories from the trip.

evening
:

For your final dinner, choose a restaurant that has become a favorite during your stay. Wind down with a nostalgic walk through the picturesque neighborhoods and reflect on your wonderful memories in Ridgeland before preparing for departure.

Discover Ridgeland

Read more in our Ridgeland 2025 Travel Guide.

Ridgeland Travel Guide