Plan a Big Day in a Small Town: Ridgeway

Sometimes big things come in small packages. In that spirit, a day spent in Ridgeway is like unwrapping a tiny box bursting with a ridiculous number of sparkly gemstones.

From historic points of interest to exciting shops and home-grown dining finds, this little town is full of sweet surprises.

Here are a few ideas to help you plan a banner day in Ridgeway. Be sure to call ahead to confirm hours of operation before you go.

Morning: Sightseeing and Shopping

Explore the historic buildings of the Palmer Street Business District, including the World’s Smallest Police Station. This postage-stamp-sized precinct, circa 1940, served as the town’s law enforcement headquarters until 1990, when a larger station was built.

Be sure to visit Ruff & Company. Operated by the Ruff family for seven generations, this circa 1840 living museum and mercantile is packed with vintage artifacts, taxidermy, nails by the pound, tools, farm equipment and other necessities.

Don't forget to check out the local shops for antiques, fashions and more. Find one-of-a-kind gifts and decor at Eclectic Station. Check out the clothing boutiques Over the Top and Bella & Blue for the latest Southern styles. Get lost for an hour or two while hunting for treasures at vendor malls Ridgeway Marketplace and Grama’s Attic.

Midday: Looking for Lunch

Don a vintage hat, poke out your pinkie and do it up dainty with high tea service in quaint surroundings at Laura’s Tea Room. (Note: Must reserve in advance.) The cafe menu is sure to please, too, with a variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, cold drinks and, of course, pots of hot tea.

Dine on polished pub grub, steaks, pasta, chicken and fish at Olde Town Hall Restaurant & Pub, which was once the town hall and jail. Tip: The shrimp and grits is a local favorite.

Afternoon: History & Scenery

Immerse yourself in Ridgeway’s past at the Isaac C. Thomas Historic Museum. A community quilt project depicts local landmarks and events. See artifacts from the Ridgeway jail, Thomas Company Store and Ridgeway School, as well as photos of hometowners-turned-celebrities, including an astronaut, authors, a fashion designer and a woman baseball player.

While you're there, pick up a map of historic homes (or see it here) and then hit the sidewalk. Among the many notable structures are the ca. 1910 home of physician Augusta Tally Moore, the Queen Anne-style Reid H. Brown House—the oldest home in Ridgeway—and Ruff Chapel ca. 1873.

Late Afternoon: Fuel the Drive Home

Sarah N’ Geo’s is responsible for those pizza aromas perfuming the air along Palmer Street. Cap off your big day in this small, casual Italian cafe with New York-style pies, two-handed subs, garlic knots, pasta, cannoli and, if you’re in luck, Sarah’s melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls.

Time to head home. Take turns driving so you can grab a little nap on the way.