Ridgeland, Mississippi: 10 Must-Do Activities Near This Charming City

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Ridgeland, Mississippi

Planning a trip through central Mississippi and wondering what to do in Ridgeland? This friendly Madison County city sits just north of Jackson and is packed with outdoor adventures, shopping, and good Southern food. Whether you’re road-tripping down I‑55, spending a weekend in the Jackson metro area, or visiting friends and family nearby, Ridgeland makes a relaxing base with plenty to explore within a short drive. Below are 10 things to do in and near Ridgeland, MS that showcase the best of this part of the state.

1. Get Outside at the Barnett Reservoir (“The Rez”)

Locals simply call it “the Rez”, and it’s the crown jewel of outdoor fun near Ridgeland. The Ross Barnett Reservoir is a huge 33,000‑acre lake that sits right along the east side of town. You can:
  • Go boating or jet skiing
  • Try your luck fishing for bass, bream, and catfish
  • Enjoy a picnic by the water
  • Watch the sunset from the shoreline
If you don’t own a boat, no problem. Look for marinas and outfitters around the lake that offer rentals. Even just sitting on a bench with a cold drink and feeling that lake breeze can be the perfect slow Southern afternoon.

2. Walk or Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the South, and Ridgeland has one of the best access points. This historic route once served as a travel path for Native Americans, traders, and explorers. Today, it’s a beautiful, slow-paced road with no billboards and very little commercial traffic. In Ridgeland, you can:
  • Hop on the paved multi‑use trail for walking, jogging, or biking
  • Stop at overlooks for views of forests and the reservoir
  • Enjoy peaceful picnic spots just off the parkway
If you like cycling, bring your bike or rent one locally. The trail is mostly flat and great for families. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear birds instead of highway noise.

3. Shop and Stroll at Renaissance at Colony Park

If you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy, Renaissance at Colony Park is Ridgeland’s stylish outdoor shopping center right off I‑55. It’s built in a charming Old World style, with brick walkways, fountains, and string lights. You’ll find:
  • National brands and local boutiques
  • Casual and sit‑down restaurants
  • Coffee shops and dessert spots
  • Seasonal events and live music on certain weekends
It’s a nice place to stretch your legs on a road trip, grab a bite, or do a little window shopping. In the evening, the lights and fountains make it feel extra cozy.

4. Explore Ridgeland’s Multi‑Use Trails and Parks

Ridgeland puts a big focus on being bike and pedestrian friendly. Around the city you’ll find a network of multi‑use trails that connect neighborhoods, parks, and the Natchez Trace area. A few local favorites include:
  • Ridgeland Wildflower Fields along the multi‑use trail in season
  • Friendship Park for playgrounds and open space
  • Small neighborhood parks perfect for a quick walk
If you like to start your day with a walk or run, Ridgeland makes it easy. The trails feel safe, and you’ll see plenty of locals out with dogs, strollers, and bikes.

5. Enjoy Local Flavor at Ridgeland’s Restaurants

One of the best things to do in Ridgeland is simply eat like a local. For a city its size, Ridgeland has a surprisingly strong food scene, with everything from down‑home Southern cooking to fresh seafood and classic barbecue. You can expect:
  • Hearty Mississippi comfort food (think fried catfish, hushpuppies, and mac & cheese)
  • Casual grills and pubs for burgers and wings
  • Tex‑Mex and Latin flavors
  • Sweet shops and bakeries for dessert
If you’re not sure where to start, ask someone at your hotel or a local barista, “Where do you go on Friday night?” You’ll usually get a much better answer than any search engine.

6. Hit the Water at Old Trace Park and Lakeshore Park

On the Ridgeland side of the Rez, you’ll find Old Trace Park, a spacious waterfront park that’s great for families. On the opposite side, near Brandon, is Lakeshore Park. Both are easy drives from Ridgeland and give you simple, affordable lake access. Things to do:
  • Let kids play on the playgrounds
  • Spread out a blanket for a lakeside picnic
  • Walk along the water and watch boats cruise by
  • Look for local events and festivals held in the parks
On a warm Mississippi evening, these parks really come alive with families, walkers, and folks just enjoying the breeze off the water.

7. Take a Day Trip into Jackson

One major perk of staying in Ridgeland is how close it is to Jackson, Mississippi—usually just a 10–20 minute drive depending on traffic. You can enjoy Ridgeland’s quieter vibe at night and explore the state capital during the day. In Jackson, check out:
  • Mississippi Civil Rights Museum
  • Mississippi Museum of History
  • Mississippi Children’s Museum (great if you’re traveling with kids)
  • Mississippi Museum of Natural Science with its aquarium and nature trails
After a full day of museums and city exploring, it’s nice to head back to Ridgeland for a laid‑back dinner and an easier night’s sleep.

8. Sample Local Events and Festivals

Ridgeland and Madison County host several seasonal events throughout the year. These can really give you a taste of local life, especially if you enjoy live music, arts, and food. Depending on when you visit, you might find:
  • Art shows and craft fairs
  • Outdoor concerts near the reservoir
  • Holiday markets and seasonal celebrations
If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking the city of Ridgeland’s event calendar or the Madison County tourism site. You might be able to time your visit around a fun weekend festival.

9. Explore Madison, the Neighboring “Small Town” City

Just up the road, the city of Madison offers more things to do within the same county. It has a polished, small‑town feel with nice neighborhoods, local shops, and more dining options. While you’re there, you can:
  • Stroll through charming shopping centers and local boutiques
  • Grab coffee or ice cream and wander around
  • Enjoy well‑kept parks and pretty neighborhoods
Ridgeland and Madison flow into each other, so it’s easy to explore both in the same afternoon without driving far at all.

10. Relax and Recharge: Make Ridgeland Your Base

Sometimes the best thing to do on vacation is simply slow down. Ridgeland is the kind of place where you can:
  • Book a comfortable hotel right off I‑55
  • Wake up, walk the trails, and grab a leisurely breakfast
  • Spend your day on the water or exploring nearby attractions
  • Come back for a quiet evening and a good meal
If you’re driving across the South, using Ridgeland, Mississippi as a base lets you enjoy the outdoors, easy highway access, and quick trips into Jackson—without the busyness of staying right in the city.

Plan Your Ridgeland Getaway

Ridgeland may not be the biggest city in Mississippi, but that’s exactly what many travelers love about it. With:
  • The Natchez Trace Parkway at your doorstep
  • The wide‑open waters of the Ross Barnett Reservoir
  • Shopping, dining, and trails all close by
it’s an easy, relaxing stop on any Mississippi road trip. If you’re looking for things to do near Ridgeland, MS, think lakeside sunsets, quiet bike rides, good food, and friendly locals who are happy to point you in the right direction.

Share Your Ridgeland Experience

Have you been to Ridgeland or Madison County? What was your favorite spot—the Rez, the Natchez Trace, or maybe a local restaurant? Drop a comment with your tips and stories so other travelers can discover new things to do in Ridgeland, Mississippi. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a trip through central Mississippi—it might inspire their next stop.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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