Wrap It in Ridgeland! 🎁
When the holidays come knocking, we all look forward to meaningful family time, lively get-togethers, and plenty of spirited cheer. In addition to dazzling light displays, fresh-baked gingerbread, Nutcracker performances, and cozy nights in, the start of the season also brings the start of the yearly gift-buying frenzy.
For many, gift buying has become a burden or simply a thing to check off a busy holiday to-do list. No matter how convenient, clicking “buy” on an Amazon order just doesn’t have the same charm as hand-picking the perfect gift for a loved one.
This year, put the joy back in gift shopping by dedicating a weekend to the pursuit in a charming setting sure to bring on the holiday cheer. There’s no better place to find something for everyone on your nice list than Ridgeland, Mississippi. The Hallmark-esque Southern town is the perfect holiday shopping destination. The city’s Wrap It in Ridgeland promotion encourages visitors to create the perfect weekend itinerary complete with plenty of shopping, as well as delicious eats and spirited drinks to keep you joyful no matter how heavy your bags get.
Shop ‘til You Drop!
From your picky mother-in-law to your sports-obsessed nephew, Ridgeland’s lineup of local retailers and charming boutiques has everything you may need. Here’s where to shop for everyone on your list:
For the Self-Care Slayers
Know someone who could use a little self-care? Have any ladies in your life who are always up-to-date on the latest skincare trends? For the self-care kings and queens, a spa experience at one of Mississippi’s premier pampering destinations is the perfect gift. Voted Mississippi’s best spa for the past 20 years, Aqua Day Spa is all about rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. The 6,000-square-foot spa offers massages, facials, scalp treatments, manicures and pedicures, body peels, hand and foot treatments, and more. Be sure to check out the Aqua’s holiday gift card specials to get even more bang for your buck. For the lash and brow lovers, opt for a gift card to Drench Day Spa and Lash Lounge.
For the Fashionistas
While it may not be Paris or New York, Ridgeland has more than its fair share of stylish boutiques stocked with the season’s hottest trends and styles. Head to Hemline for women’s designer apparel, accessories, and shoes from favorite brands like Love Shack Fancy, Nicole Miller, Citizens of Humanity, Diane Von Furstenberg, Show Me Your MuMu, Alice & Olivia, and more. We all know a shoe addict, and you can feed their addiction at Arco Avenue. From smart leather loafers to thigh-high boots and playful sneakers to sophisticated pumps, there’s something for everyone. Libby Story is a great place to pick up trendy tops and chic skirts for teens and young adults looking to dress to impress for a college tailgate, sorority event, or night out. And since everyone needs a great coat to rock once the temperatures drop, head to CoatTails to for something cozy, chic, or a bit of both.
But it’s not just women’s fashion that Ridgeland can help with. At Kinkade’s Fine Clothing, men are the stars, and the mission is to make every man look dapper no matter the occasion. From office wear to casual fashion and even wedding attire, Kinkade’s has it all. The store’s team of fashion consultants can help you pick out your husband’s new favorite shirt, your father’s new lucky tie, or the best pair of pants your brother has ever worn.
For the Active Adventurers
Because we all know someone who just can’t seem to sit still, this is the category for them. Whether they’re running a half marathon, hitting the slopes, or catching a wave, Ridgeland’s sports stores have them covered. Fleet Feet specializes in running shoes for every type of runner, from ultramarathoners to trail runners and those just getting into the sport. In addition to their huge selection of shoes, you can also pick up other athletic apparel and accessories that will keep them fully outfitted and ready for adventure. Sportique is all about two extremes: sunny sand and surf and frigid slopes. Head to this outfitter for top-of-the-line ski gear and apparel, as well as a huge selection of swimsuits perfect for catching some rays.
For the Treasure Hunters
There are those special people in our lives who are too unique to be put in a box. And often, you have no idea what to buy them until the moment you see it. For the eclectics who seem to march to the beat of their own drum, as well as any antique or vintage lovers, your digging will best be done at Repeat Street or Antique Mall of the South. Repeat Street offers 17,000 square feet of hand-selected furnishings and fashion. Explore the booths of dozens of vendors displaying gifts, food, clothing, furniture, and much more. Antique Mall of the South is the perfect place to shop for one-of-a-kind home and décor items. From collectible china to vintage furnishings, you’ll definitely experience the thrill of the hunt while perusing the megastore’s many aisles.
For the Home Chefs
Whether it’s your grandma who specializes in comforting homemade casseroles or your sister-in-law who’s recently been inspired by the “Great British Bake Off,” Ridgeland has your home chefs covered. The Everyday Gourmet has everything you could possibly need for the kitchen, including common tools, tableware, cutlery, gadgets, and even cookbooks. For the home cook who has it all, inquire about one of the shop’s private or public cooking classes. Your favorite foodie can take time to sharpen his or her skills while learning to make a new recipe.
For a gift of the edible variety, look no further than J. Olive Fine Oils and Balsamics. Specializing in top-quality oils and balsamic vinegars, your loved one will be forever thankful for the way these bottles of magic will elevate their dishes. While truffle, harissa, or wild Fernleaf olive oil—if you can dream it, J. Olive probably makes it.
Once you’re sufficiently starving from a long day of shopping, it’s time to wine and dine! Here’s where to go for dinner, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or late-night cocktails.
Refueling in Ridgeland
Similar to Ridgeland’s shopping scene which has something for everyone, the town’s dining scene is just as diverse. If you prefer a casual atmosphere but intend to make no concessions for the quality of food, Walk-On’s or Crab’s Seafood Shack are ideal. At Walk-On’s, Drew Brees’ lively restaurant and sports bar, experience a taste of the Big Easy with traditional Cajun and creole dishes like duck and andouille gumbo, crawfish etouffee, catfish Atchafalaya, and bayou pasta. Talk about soul-warming food and spirited good times! If you’re looking for more of a picturesque vibe for post-shopping supper, don’t miss Crab’s Seafood Shack. Located on the Reservoir, Crab’s Seafood Shack offers dinner and a view. It’s all about the seafood at this waterfront eatery that boasts the “best legs in town” and offers a huge menu of fried, steamed, and grilled fish, oysters, crab, and more.
If you’re looking to celebrate a successful day of shopping with a little more fanfare, trust chef Derek Emerson to make your dinner plans. His upscale restaurants Caet and Local 463 are both excellent choices for chef-driven food and expertly paired drinks. At Caet, opt for fresh seafood or a decadent steak. At Local 463, the Dr. Pepper-Braised Beef Short Ribs or a specialty burger are the way to go.
When you’re ready to toast to a fairytale holiday weekend in Ridgeland, raise a glass at Dogmund Tavern or E.A.T.S. Diner. Both offer their own distinct vibe, but each offers just as much fun. Dogmund Tavern is known for its craft beer selection and commitment to creative cocktails in a kitschy atmosphere complete with board games and science fiction references galore. If you like a sweeter drink, the Sugar Pony, made with Irish cream, blue curacao, banana liquer, lemon and cotton candy, should do the trick. For something a little stronger, the Mister Tall Hat packs a punch with habanero-infused bourbon, sugar, and bitters (perfect for warming you up on a chilly winter’s evening!). In search of a bit of nostalgia? Step back in time at E.A.T.S. Diner, a classic diner serving up the best burgers and dogs, blue plate specials, and breakfast offered all day. At the E.A.T.S. bar, order from a list of old-school cocktails and five frozen drinks. For the most festive way to celebrate, try the Poinsettia (cranberry and champagne).
Ready to plan your holiday shopping weekend in Ridgeland? Visit www.visitridgeland.com/wrapit for more information.
Jackson’s museums are where it excels. You can explore many significant facets of American history through a local perspective. I began at the International Museum of Muslim Cultures, which links Islamic civilizations worldwide with the earliest enslaved Muslims who came to Mississippi plantations. The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, Mississippi History Museum and Civil Rights Museum tell the stories that touch the heart and soul.
For those ready to dive into the culinary scene, Jackson is a city for foodies. You’ll be in heaven if you enjoy Southern comfort cuisine as much as I do. Many eateries have been around for years. Comeback sauce, a Southern favorite, is thought to have origins at the 1935 Greek-style eatery Mayflower Cafe. Both Big Apple Inn and Bully’s Restaurant are well-known for their pig’s ears sandwiches and award-winning soul food, respectively. But it’s not just dated restaurants. Parlor Market and The Iron Horse Grill serve contemporary cuisine in historical settings. The Fondren neighborhood’s Walker’s Drive-In is also popular local hangouts with excellent options.
