Explore Ridgeland Launches Digital Passports 
with New Cocktail & Culinary Trails

Ridgeland, Miss. — Explore Ridgeland has officially launched a new way for visitors and locals to experience the city’s culinary offerings with the debut of its Digital Passport program, powered by Bandwango. The new virtual passport kicked off with two immersive, self-guided experiences: the Explore Ridgeland Cocktail Trail and the Explore Ridgeland Culinary Trail, designed to drive exploration, support local businesses and reward participants along the way.

The Digital Passport program allows users to check in at participating restaurants and bars using their smartphones, earn points and unlock exclusive prizes as they explore Ridgeland’s dining and nightlife scene. The technology also provides Explore Ridgeland with valuable data insights, helping track engagement, measure visitation and better understand traveler behavior.

“These new digital trails allow us to connect visitors and locals with our restaurants and bars in a fun, engaging way while giving us meaningful insight into how people are experiencing Ridgeland,” said Shane Aldridge, President and CEO of Explore Ridgeland. “Bandwango allows us to elevate our destination offerings, drive real revenue for our partners and create experiences that feel modern, interactive and rewarding. It’s another way we’re continuing to invest in making Ridgeland a must-visit destination.”

The Explore Ridgeland Cocktail Trail showcases craft cocktails and signature drinks from popular bars and restaurants across the city, while the Explore Ridgeland Culinary Trail highlights signature dishes from a wide range of Ridgeland eateries, from casual favorites to fine dining staples. Participants earn points for every location they visit, which can be redeemed for Explore Ridgeland-branded prizes, including motel key chains, Explore Ridgeland trucker hats, bento boxes and t-shirts.

To further encourage participation, Explore Ridgeland will also host a Dinner-for-Two giveaway during the first two months of the program, awarding a $150 gift card to one lucky passport holder who completes visits along either trail.

The Digital Passports are free to sign up for and accessible on any smartphone. Participants can join, view participating locations and start earning rewards by visiting:

The Explore Ridgeland team hopes to roll out additional trails and experiences later this year as the destination continues to expand its digital tourism offerings.

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In Ridgeland, Mississippi, small-town southern charm meets big-city luxury and travelers have near-endless possibilities to explore their passions. Just north of the capital and along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway is a paradise for cyclists, with nationally recognized trails and a vibrant biking community. “The Rez” beckons water lovers for boating, fishing and more on its sprawling 33,000 acres. Guests can discover unique art at the Bill Waller Craft Center, indulge in diverse culinary delights and enjoy top-tier shopping or high-end spas. www.exploreridgeland.com