Featured Image: Explore Ridgeland
Traveling both internationally and domestically–along with the many new cuisines, eateries, and cocktails that come along with it–is a beautiful thing we get to plan and experience as human beings. However, with all its pomp and circumstance, there is nothing quite like the bodily backlash that comes along with such indulgences.
If the travel bug has bitten you but you’re weary of another trip with a three-day recovery period, planning a wellness-centered trip is the perfect solution, and Ridgeland, Mississippi is the perfect place to do it.
Nourish Yourself
Local 463
The upscale American fare found at Local 463 is hard to beat, especially when it comes to their knack for sourcing local ingredients. Down to the edible flowers found on their cocktails and plate presentations, this spot is known for their fresh eats–and you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. But, if you need a push, the tamales from the “first bites” portion of their menu are fantastic.
Whirl Smoothie Bar
Nothing says health like hiding your vegetables in a smoothie, right? Whirl Smoothie Bar is the perfect one stop shop for anything blended, juiced, or brewed. Whether you are in need of a thick acai bowl to keep you full, a juice to help you feel rejuvenated, or a coffee to wake you up, you’ll be set here. In honor of the king himself, get the “Skinny Elvis,” a smoothie featuring banana, milk, peanut butter, hemp hearts, vanilla, and honey.
Aplo’s Simple Mediterranean
It’s hard to go wrong at fusion restaurants, and Aplo’s Simple Mediterranean blends Mediterranean, Italian, and Middle Eastern flavors to deliver the best possible experience. Whether you want something fresh and veggie-forward like one of their classic bowls, or something more filling like one of their Neopolitan pizzas, Aplo’s has every appetite and craving covered.
Zea Rotisserie & Bar
Rotisserie cooking, as in the world-famous Costco chicken, is a method that involves slow roasting, allowing proteins to drip excess fat and leaving behind tender, juicy meats. Zea Rotisserie & Bar is a master of the craft, offering both poultry and red meat options. You can also find delicious, fresh starters on the menu, such as Mediterranean hummus and Kung Pao cauliflower.
Move Yourself
Whether you need an energy boost, want to soak in the sunshine, or enjoy exploring new places in the wild, Ridgeland is home to some of the South’s most beautiful trails and views, making it the perfect place to move your body. Old Trace Park is the perfect place to stretch your legs and take in the view. Located on the banks of the Barnett Reservoir, you can walk the shores or take part in other recreational activities on the premises.
The Chisha Foka Trail, located along the renowned Natchez Trace Parkway, is a 10-mile stretch that offers trail-goers opportunities to walk, bike, jog, and more. It’s the perfect place to push yourself or take a leisurely stroll, depending on your activity level and vibe.
Treat Yourself
J. Olive Co.
Good quality olive oil, as you would find at J. Olive Co., is packed with healthy fats, improves heart health, and fights overall inflammation in the body. Whether you want a bottle for yourself, for your kitchen, or as a gift, you’ll find plenty of flavors, blends, and varieties here. You can also shop for boutique-curated gifts, such as candles and kitchen accessories, here.
CW Organics Apothicaire & Tea Room
If you’re looking to nourish body, mind, and soul, look no further than CW Organics Apothicaire & Tea Room. You can enjoy their traditional tea service, which offers brewed loose-leaf teas and accompanying refreshments, and stay after to shop their organic skincare line–you’ll definitely leave feeling tranquil and refreshed.
| One of our favorite crowd-pleasing recipes comes from our friends at CW Organics. Find it here.
Boxwood Shoppe
Shopping for your home and garden is a wellness practice, right? At Boxwood Shoppe, you can find all kinds of goodies to adorn your porch, garden, and around your home. Items are hand-selected before being sold in the store, so you know you are shopping for quality no matter what you are shopping for. Good health starts with a cozy, comforting atmosphere after all.
Fischer Galleries
Time to unwind and tear your mind away from screens is a very important part of wellness. Fischer Galleries curates artwork from local and regional artists alike in a variety of mediums including paintings, photography, sculptures, and more. Walk through the space and enjoy the beautiful examples of contemporary art.
P.S. Check the schedule for Roux Pilates, which meets inside the gallery, allowing you to take mat classes amongst the artwork–a true mind-body-connection experience if there ever was one!
Find more Southern travel inspiration here.
| This article is presented in partnership with Explore Ridgeland, a Modern South Founding Partner.
