Nacogdoches is located in East Texas and is known as the oldest town in Texas as well as the Garden Capital of Texas. This charming town is home to Stephen F. Austin University (SFA) and the perfect weekend getaway. Enjoy antique shopping, historic architecture, museum visits, flower-filled trails, and outdoor recreation in or near the city of Nacogdoches.
This city has been named the “oldest city in Texas,” because it is teeming with historical significance from early Native American settlers to the Texas Revolution. The town’s earliest residents were the Caddo and Nacogdoche Indians in approximately 1250 A.D. However, it wasn’t until 1779 when Spanish settlers created the city of Nacogdoches.
For those interested in learning more about the history of this town, your first stop should be at the Charles Bright Visitor Center. Not only will the center guide you through the city’s historic landmarks, but it also has a showcase of historic artifacts too. History buffs will enjoy the Stone Fort Museum, an 18th-century museum with a collection of Native American tools. Or Texas history aficionados may love to stroll through Oak Grove Cemetery, the burial location of four signees of the Texas Declaration of Independence.
Now don’t think that this town is all about history. The red brick streets and colorful shop fronts make for a perfect day out in the city, whether you want to shop, have tea, or enjoy a home-cooked meal from a local restaurant. Twigs & Tin and Brick Street Antiques and Collectibles are two must-visit shops while strolling downtown Nacogdoches.
After learning about the town’s history or shopping downtown, spend a moment with nature by strolling through one of the town’s gardens or nature trails. You can’t visit the Garden Capital of Texas without visiting a garden. So head to the most extensive azalea garden in Texas, the Ruby M. MizeAzalea Garden, located on the SFA campus, has over 7,000 azaleas within 8 acres. The Nacogdoches Azalea Trail is also a popular option in town. However, those aren’t the only spots to get your nature on in Nacogdoches. This town has three other nature centers, Pineywoods Native Plant Center, SFA Mast Arboretum, and the Gayla Mize Garden.
With several attractions to please any traveler, Nacogdoches is truly a Texas treasure. The town is even located near several lakes, Toledo Bend Reservoir, Lake Livingston, and Lake Sam Rayburn, for visitors who need a day away from the city. No matter what you choose to do in the Nacogdoches area, you will find a new appreciation for this Piney Woods gem.
Nacogdoches Information:
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Charles Bright Visitor Center website: https://www.visitnacogdoches.org/plan-your-stay/charles-bright-visitor-center/
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Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden website: http://sfagardens.sfasu.edu/index.php/about-us-sp-27214
