21 Best & Fun Things to Do in Nacogdoches (Texas)

While in Nacogdoches, Texas, you can start enjoying your stay by exploring the magnificent structures, such as the Sam Rayburn Reservoir and the Davy Crockett center. These are within a radius of 35 miles.

In Nacogdoches, Texas, there are a variety of activities to keep the whole family entertained, including walking around the historic downtown and experiencing the Oldest Town in the state.

In addition to the main downtown area, there are also various shopping areas outside the city. 

Many of the city’s college students enjoy eating at fast food chains like Panda Express and Chipotle. The article covers all the fun things to do in Nacogdoches, Texas.

Where is Nacogdoches, Texas?

Nacogdoches, Texas, is located in East Texas and is the county seat of Nacogdoches County. According to the census conducted in 2020, the city’s population was 32,147.

According to the local promotional materials, Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the settlement date back to 10,000 years.

The city has a total area of 25.3 square miles. The U.S. Census Bureau states that this area includes land and water.

However, the agency also noted that the land makes up 25.2 square miles while 0.1 square miles is water.

See Also: Fun Things to Do in Lufkin Texas

Fun Things to Do in Nacogdoches, Texas

1. The Fredonia Hotel & Convention Center

One of the best things to do in Nacogdoches is to visit the Fredonia Hotel and Convention Center. 

This facility is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys having fun and attending various events.

The Fredonia Hotel and Convention Center are located in Nacogdoches’ central business district. 

This facility offers a unique and intimate atmosphere that will enhance your stay in the area.

The Fredonia Hotel and Convention Center feature various features such as two outdoor pools and a variety of restaurants and bars. 

Address: The Fredonia Hotel & Convention Center is located at 200 N Fredonia St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

2. Ruby M. Mize Azalea Gardens

One of the most popular attractions in Nacogdoches is the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Gardens, which features a variety of flowering plants.

This garden features over 7,000 azalea plants from 500 different species. 

The magnificent blossoms of these plants will provide you with a beautiful view as you walk through the garden. 

In addition to the azaleas, this Nacogdoches facility has various other garden features. 

Address: This garden is located at 2404-2498 N University Dr, Nacogdoches, TX 75965.

3. Splash Kingdom Water Park

A water park is fun to spend time with family and friends on a hot day. 

If you are in Nacogdoches, Texas, and want a good time, head to the Splash Kingdom Water Park. This facility is one of the top attractions in the area.

The water park features multiple slides and other features that will provide you and your friends with an enjoyable experience.

Aside from the water park, you can also enjoy the multiple pools in the area. These pools allow you to get away from it all and have a good time. 

Address: The Splash Kingdom Water Park is at 01 N University Dr, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

4. Banita Creek Park

The Banita Creek Park also has a dog park that features various breeds of dogs. 

This facility is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys having fun and being in pets’ company.

The park is only open for day use, except on special occasions. It is also free for children and adults and is always full. 

This facility is considered one of the top attractions in Nacogdoches.

The park features various recreational activities, including a soccer field, a disc golf course, and multiple picnic tables and equipment. 

Address: The Banita Creek Park is located at 439 Pearl St #379, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

5. The Blueberry Place

One of the best ways to spend time with family and friends in Nacogdoches is picking berries. 

The Blueberry Place is a local establishment that offers a variety of activities for people of all ages.

It is located in Nacogdoches, Texas, and offers a variety of activities for people of all ages. One of the most popular activities at the facility is picking berries.

The farm, which spans about 10 acres, is open from May to June each year. People of all ages can visit it. 

Address: The Blueberry Place is located at 451 County Rd 2052, Nacogdoches, TX 75965.

6. S.F.A. Mast Arboretum

The S.F.A. Mast Arboretum is a magnificent garden that features several gardens that are designed to be thrillingly different. 

The university’s pioneer class carried out this project in 1985.

This garden is also known for its conservation efforts. It features a variety of plants that are designed to provide a tranquil and peaceful environment for visitors. 

Address: The S.F.A. Mast Arboretum is at 1924 Wilson Dr, Nacogdoches, TX 75964.

Are you visiting other parts of Texas, try checking out Fun Things to Do in Temple, Things to Do In Grapevine, and Fun Things To Do In Killeen.

7. Nacogdoches Railroad Depot

One of the best things to do in Nacogdoches is to visit the Nacogdoches Railroad Depot. 

This facility is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys having fun and learning about history.

The railroad has been essential in developing various parts of the country. If you are a train enthusiast, this is a must-visit area in Nacogdoches.

The Nacogdoches Railroad Depot was constructed in 1911. It features various artifacts and memorabilia which tell the story of the railways in the area.

Family members can enjoy this facility as it allows them to learn about history while having fun. 

There are many different things to see and do in Nacogdoches while visiting the train depot. 

Address: The Nacogdoches Railroad Depot is located at 101 Old Tyler Rd, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

8. Old University Building

The Old University Building in Nacogdoches was constructed in 1859. It stands tall and is considered one of the area’s most significant buildings.

Due to its historical significance, the Old University Building has been listed on the N.A. Historic Places list. It has played various roles in the community’s history.

Initially, the building was known as a university. It was later given to the Nacogdoches Independent school district in 1904. 

This facility served as the school district’s administrative center.

During its history, it has been used as a Confederate hospital. It was also the headquarters of the federal regiment stationed in the area. 

Address: The Old University Building is located at 515 N Mound St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

9. Pineywoods Native Plant Center

The Piney Woods Native Plant Center is a magnificent garden that people of all ages can visit. 

It features a variety of plants that are designed to provide a tranquil and peaceful environment for visitors.

Take a break from your busy schedule and visit the Tucker House, the center of this area’s attractions. 

This house is situated on a beautiful and accessible trail system. After exploring the house, take in the gardens and native forest. 

Address: The Piney Woods Native Plant Center is located at 2900 Raguet St, Nacogdoches, TX 75965.

10. Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors Bureau

Getting to know more about the town you visited is also a fun way to spend some time in Nacogdoches and check out some of its various attractions. 

One of the most influential organizations that can help you plan your trip is the Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The Visitors Center in Nacogdoches is a historical structure constructed in 1917. 

It features multiple exhibits that talk about the history of the town. Even though this building was initially used as the city’s post office, it still serves as a museum. 

Address: This attraction is located at 200 E Main St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

11. The Cole Art Center at the Old Opera House

The Old Opera House in Nacogdoches has been one of the city’s most prominent landmarks since the 1880s. 

This historic structure is on the main street of the town.

The Cole Art Center is an impressive facility that people of all ages can visit. It features multiple galleries that are designed to exhibit international and regional art.

The Cole Art Center can accommodate groups and individuals from various universities and communities through its gallery usage policy. 

Address: The Old Opera House is at 329 E Main St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

12. Judy B. McDonald Public Library

The Nacogdoches Public Library is another popular facility that people can visit. 

It offers a wide variety of scientific and technological information. It is also a great addition to your list of fun things in Nacogdoches.

The library also features various programs and events that provide multiple learning opportunities. 

These include special training programs for children and adults, S.T.E.A.M. workshops, and adult events.

You can also use the library’s online services, such as the Curbside Order-Ahead & Pick-Up. 

This allows you to order books and other materials you need to study anywhere in the world.

Address: The Nacogdoches Public Library is located at 1112 North St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

13. Zip Nac

One of the most popular activities that people can do in Nacogdoches is taking part in a zipline adventure. 

This activity is a fun way to spend some time in the town.

The Nacogdoches Zip Nac offers five zip lines that reach up to 900 feet. 

You can go through the course independently, but if you prefer to be with someone, you can do so. 

Address: The Nacogdoches Zip Nac is located at 199 Brother John Rd, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

14. S.F.A. Planetarium

One of the most popular activities people can do in Nacogdoches is to visit the S.F.A. Planetarium, a unique facility that features a variety of educational programs related to astronomy.

The S.F.A. Planetarium is a magnificent facility that features various state-of-the-art equipment. One of these is a 4K Digistar 6 projection system. 

This facility also has a 50-foot dome that can be viewed from multiple vantage points.

The facility has a seating capacity of about 114. It also has various features designed to accommodate people with different abilities. 

Some of these include a modern listening system for those with hearing impairments and wheelchair users. 

Address: The S.F.A. Planetarium is at 1720 Clark Blvd, Nacogdoches, TX 75965.

15. Millard’s Crossing Historic Village

Millard’s Crossing Historic Village was named after a railroad track crossing the Millar family’s property.

One of the most popular attractions in Nacogdoches is Millard’s Crossing, which features various historical buildings. Some of these include Victorian-era houses.

The late Lera Thomas established the Nacogdoches open-air museum, which was used to preserve and display the various artifacts and art pieces collected from the area. 

Address: Millard’s Crossing Historic Village is at 6020 North St, Nacogdoches, TX 75965.

16. Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market

During your time in Nacogdoches, you can also visit the Farmer’s Market on the town’s north side. 

This facility offers a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and other seasonal products. 

Address: Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market is located at 107 Pearl St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

17. Fredonia Brewery, L.L.C.

One of the most popular attractions in Nacogdoches is the Fredonia Brewery, established in the 1820s. 

This establishment has been a part of the town’s cultural and historical attractions since the late 1820s. 

Address: The Fredonia Brewery is located at 138 N Mound St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

18. Oak Grove Cemetery

One of Nacogdoches’ historic cemeteries is Oak Grove Cemetery. The Spanish cemetery is another notable historical site in the area. 

Address: The Oak Grove Cemetery is located at Nacogdoches, TX 75961.

19. Fortney Home

Photo by Seth Granville via Flickr

Fortney Home, which dates back to 1897, is currently used as a home for multiple unique items.

These include various art pieces, furniture, and architectural artifacts. 

If you are interested in purchasing one of these items, go to this home to check out the multiple available options. 

Address: The Fortney Home is at 310 N Mound St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961, United States.

20. Pecan Acres Park

The park also features an estimated 24-acre pecan orchard. This area has fantastic views of migratory warblers, the common warbler, and the yellow-bellied sapsuckers. 

Other birds that can be seen in this park include the pileated woodpeckers and the American-bellied woodpecker.

Address: The Pecan Acres Park is in Nacogdoches, TX 75961, United States.

21. Lake Nacogdoches East Side Park

The East Side Park is a great place for families to gather and enjoy the various activities that are available in this area. Nacogdoches, TX 75964.

It features various picnic tables and grills. This park is also perfect for hosting a picnic. 

Address: The Lake Nacogdoches East Side Park is located at 127925 FM 225.