Ridgeland, Mississippi at a Glance
Location
Approximately 12 miles north of Jackson
Access
Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport; Interstate 55
Major Meeting Spaces
Embassy Suites Jackson North Ridgeland
Hotel Rooms
Approximately 1,400
Off-Site Venues
Waller Craft Center, The Stellar Venue
Contact Info
Explore Ridgeland
800-468-6078
Ridgeland, Mississippi, offers attendees the best of both worlds. The small city of about 24,000 residents shows off the lush greenery of the Natchez Trace region and boasts an unexpected array of dining, retail and lodging options.
Ridgeland is just north of Jackson, the state capital and the state’s largest city, and sits on both Barnett Reservoir and the historic Natchez Trace Parkway. Explore Ridgeland President and CEO Chris Chapman said small groups and meetings are the specialty of the vibrant community. With 16 hotels and over 140 restaurants — and a wealth of award-winning chefs — Ridgeland’s culinary experience rivals that of much larger cities, Chapman said.
While its pastoral landscapes make Ridgeland feel far removed from metropolitan hustle and bustle, its locale smack dab in the center of Mississippi near the state capital makes it easily accessible, whether attendees are coming by plane or by car. Additionally, the community’s setting along the west shores of Barnett Reservoir offers scenic views aplenty, plus a gamut of opportunities for groups feeling outgoing and adventurous.
Another appealing aspect for attendees and planners alike is a layout that places most of Ridgeland’s lodgings within an easy stroll of the city’s six shopping districts and range of restaurants. The local nightlife presents plenty of after-hours fun, with live music around every corner and numerous options for attendees to cut loose after meetings and events. The team at Explore Ridgeland points out Pelican Cove Grill — a welcoming waterside restaurant — and the popular Shuckers Oyster Bar as two top picks. They also highly recommend the inviting Dogmud Tavern, with brews and lots of fun on tap, as groups can bond while playing one of the establishment’s 250-plus board games.
Dynamic Downtime
For between-meetings fun — or an easy group excursion — Ridgeland is home to a pair of sprawling retail hubs that should offer something for every attendee to explore. Northpark Mall has a reputation as the state’s top indoor shopping hub and comprises more than 120 stores and outlets. The open-air shopping village Renaissance at Colony Park is a popular destination for dining and upscale merchants. Attendees can unwind at a day spa, kick back at a cantina with a margarita, or enjoy a movie and a meal at the Malco Renaissance Cinema Grill and Bar, which offers recliner seating and a full dining and wine menu.
A Swing at Group Fun
Whether planners are seeking top-notch team building or just a lively dining experience, Topgolf can tee up memorable group experiences. The all-weather venue means guests can golf rain or shine from the comfort of a lounge area, and chef-crafted catering menus are available for events. An endless array of draft beer, colorful cocktails — including shareable “Golfbags” that come in a take-home mug — and handheld pub fare make it easy to network while noshing. Another big bonus is the variety of group spaces planners can use, from a semi-private covered patio and lux group suites with customizable options (like A/V and a portable bar) to a lush nine-hole mini-golf course.
Eventful Settings
The shining star of event spaces is likely the Waller Craft Center, set along the Natchez Trace Parkway. The snazzy venue, operated by the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi, is highlighted by a dramatic glass staircase and includes the opportunity for a venue buyout with capacity for 150 to 250 guests. Smaller affairs may consider the upstairs Harbor Room, with space for 50 to 75, and all events at the Waller held Monday through Thursday receive a 25% discount. Another intriguing possibility is The Stellar Venue, a stylish 3,000-square-foot blank canvas with vaulted ceilings and large windows that can be modified to suit any affair.
Hotel Haven
Planners bringing groups to Ridgeland have a wealth of lodgings to consider, including the Embassy Suites by Hilton Jackson North Ridgeland, with a ballroom that can host 310 and an intimate boardroom. The city is also home to a Residence Inn, a SpringHill Suites, two Hilton properties, a Hampton Inn and Suites and numerous other reliable name lodgings. One of the best choices for events is the AC Hotel Jackson Ridgeland, which has four meeting spaces, including a configurable ballroom that can host up to 64 attendees theater style. Another promising possibility is a Hyatt Place, with two meeting rooms that can be conjoined to host up to 85 attendees.
