Nacogdoches, TX 

The oldest town in Texas and one of the friendliest places you’ll visit, Nacogdoches is the perfect crossroads of beauty and history. Situated in the East Texas Piney Woods and home to Stephen F. Austin State University, this picturesque place attracts visitors with its lush gardens and trails, historic downtown and annual events that flex its college town vibe. Not too big and not too small, this “just right” destination will make you feel right at home.  

Start the journey at the Charles Bright Visitor Center downtown to get a sense of Nacogdoches’ fascinating history and its many things to do. Local history dates back 1,200 years to the Caddo Indians, and it’s even been said that the tribe’s word for friend, taysha (or tejas in Spanish), inspired the name of the Lone Star State itself!  

Learn more about the Caddos at the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site, where life-size replicas of dwellings and burial grounds illuminate how this important tribe lived. More history comes to life at the one-of-a-kind Millard’s Crossing Historic Village. Explore 19th and early 20th century buildings that include a log schoolhouse, general store, parsonage, chapel, residences, and much more. You’ll feel like you’re in a time machine!  

Plan to spend plenty of time outdoors because Nacogdoches is known for its natural wonders. Lush gardens, walking trails, and conservation areas make it easy to get out and enjoy nature without taking a long drive. The Lanana Creek Trail is one of many walking paths located right in town that make it possible to immerse yourself amid seasonal blooms and a pine forest backdrop. Don’t miss a visit to Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, Texas’ largest azalea garden and one of several local garden attractions. Marvel at colorful azaleas in the spring, camellias in the winter, and changing leaves in the fall. 

Annual festivals filled with music, food, and fun are a big part of the Nacogdoches scene. It’s home, after all, to the Texas Blueberry Festival, the only state sanctioned blueberry festival in Texas. About 19,000 folks come out every year to celebrate everyone’s favorite local berry with a wide variety of activities including a 5K run, live music, and even a no-hands pie-eating contest! Throughout the year, numerous other arts and culture events take place downtown and at local historic sites. In Nacogdoches, there’s no shortage of fun! 

With red brick-lined streets and quaint historic storefronts, downtown Nacogdoches is about as charming as it gets. Explore loads of trendy shops with all sorts of interesting items, from books and records to art and antiques. Grab a bite at one of many local eateries serving homestyle southern flavors, Texas barbecue, Asian fusion, and many other cuisines. Stay in the luxury boutique Fredonia Hotel for a restful night’s sleep and a gourmet meal or craft cocktail in one of three onsite restaurants.  

Kids will clamor for some time at Splash Kingdom Timber Falls, where the Texas heat is neutralized by a refreshing trip down the park’s numerous water slides. Open between Memorial Day through Labor Day, the park also features grills and rental cabanas. Nacogdoches has something for golfers, too. Hit the links at Woodland Hills Golf Club, an 18-hole course with beautiful tree-lined fairways. Warm up for your game on the putting green and driving range.  

No matter your age or interests, a stay in Nacogdoches restores the soul and brings a smile to your face. Visit Nacogdoches today for more information on planning the perfect getaway.