Nacogdoches, known as the Oldest Town in Texas, features brick streets and a photo-worthy backdrop of local businesses on the original streets of the El Camino Real.
Designated “The Garden Capital of Texas,” Nacogdoches is home to the most extensive azalea garden in the state. The Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden boasts one of the most diverse azalea collections in the United States. The Ruby Mize Azalea Garden in Nacogdoches is known for having more than 550 varieties of azaleas and trails for flora lovers of all ages and abilities. Encompassing eight forested acres along the historic Lanana Creek on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University, the impressionistic-style garden features over 7,000 evergreen and native azaleas accented with vibrant Japanese maples, camellias and other unique collections.
The gardens bring visitors from all over the world, but they stay for the unique charm that Nacogdoches has to offer. From shopping and dining to exploring the historic roots of the Oldest Town in Texas, there is something for everyone. Build your perfect itinerary using the “Visit Nac!” app and add fun activities like a Sip & Stroll or tour of the gardens. Take a walking tour of the statues, historic sites and oldest buildings, and grab lunch at the 1st City Cafe inside the landmark Fredonia Hotel, recently renovated and restored to a mid-century modern masterpiece.
Walk up and down Main Street and shop ‘til you drop at the local boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries. Head down Mound Street to the Fortney Home, a gorgeous Victorian Home filled to the brim with antiques and eclectic collectibles. Eat and drink like a local at one of Nacogdoches’ many libation locations like Front Porch Distillery, Fredonia Brewery, Red House Winery and Naca Valley Vineyard, all of which feature a wide array of food trucks and live music weekly.
Nacogdoches is a wonderful place to visit all year, but time your trip during annual events like the Texas Blueberry Festival on the second Saturday in June or the Nine Flags Lighted Christmas Parade & Festival on the first Saturday in December to get the full experience.
The Texas Blueberry Festival is our biggest event of the year, where 20,000 people fill Downtown Nacogdoches with blueberry-themed food, crafts, goods and more. Visitors travel from all over Texas and beyond to enjoy the family-centred fun the festival brings. Make it a weekend trip to enjoy the free Bluegrass Concert in Festival Park the night before.
The Nine Flags Festival is a magical day of shopping, small-town charm and Christmas cheer. Experience the tradition of celebrating the Nine Flags that flew over the oldest town in Texas. Shop Nacogdoches’ unique downtown businesses and vendors around the plaza. Enjoy food truck fare, hot cocoa and treats while taking in the views of the lighted parade on the historic brick streets.
No matter what time of the year you visit, your trip to Nacogdoches will be one to remember. If restoration and relaxation are what you’re looking for, we have a Nac for that.
Learn more at visitnacogdoches.org
