Jackson has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy right here in the city limits. First, though, fuel up for your adventure at tried-and-true coffee and breakfast staples like Broad Street Cafe or Belhaven Height's Urban Foxes.

At LeFleur's Bluff State Park, enjoy picnic tables and nature trails throughout the 305-acre state park. There's even direct access to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. If you have little ones in tow, be sure to visit the new LeFleur's Bluff Playground, which features the Wedra, the first play structure in the world with its design.

The city's new multi-use Museum Trail connects downtown Jackson to Lefleur's Bluff State Park, with access to the Mississippi Farmer's Market, three parks, and six museums. Take a walk or bike ride and catch glimpses of the beautiful and unique architecture of the Belhaven and Belhaven Heights neighborhoods.

Take a short drive to West Jackson and enjoy exotic wildlife of all shapes and sizes at the Jackson Zoo if you have time. On a budget? $2 Tuesdays are the perfect excuse to have some fun and not break the bank.

If you're looking for a world-class selection of shopping destinations, head over to Highland Village, where local and national boutiques shine alongside local dining favorites like Aplos Simple Mediterranean, Tuk Tuk Boom Thai Restaurant, and La Cour Kitchen and Bar.

Tour the historic Mississippi State Capitol in downtown Jackson, which has been described by the National Park Service as "…an exceptional example of the Beaux-Arts style, vividly illustrating the nationwide spread of academic classical revival architecture in the early 20th century."

While you're in the heart of the city, the International Museum of Muslim Cultures is a stone's throw from state government buildings. It is America's thought-provoking center for education on Islamic history and contributions and diverse Muslim communities.

Want to get your steps in and experience Jackson's architectural wonders? The Mississippi Department of Archives and History's Jackson Walking Tour Guide outlines the best of the city's historic sites, including the Old Capitol Inn and Standard Oil Building.

Wrap up your afternoon at Keifer's, a longstanding, casual Mediterranean favorite located in both downtown and Belhaven (we recommend ordering the mouthwatering cottage fried potato with creamy feta dressing for the table).

Your local adventure doesn't have to stop at sundown. Head over to Fondren and stop into one of its many standbys. Saltine is always a good choice, especially with their ever-changing weekly ramen night specials.

Or, try Highball Lanes, "a restaurant with a bowling alley," featuring an elevated menu and craft cocktails. There's a tiki bar here, too (The Pearl) and the revived Capri Theatre, showing first-run movies and serving dinner and drinks from your seat. As part of this entertainment complex, visit The Station for wood-fired pizza and, behind it, the outdoor hotspot Fondren Yard for games on the giant LED screen or concerts from local and regional musicians.

Top off the day with a show at Duling Hall, and grab a late-night drink at Fondren Public.