Guide for a Day Trip to Ruston

Turn a short stay into a lasting experience with a day trip to Ruston, LA.

Ruston is known for its thriving college-town atmosphere, walkable historic downtown district, and the incredibly sweet peaches grown in this scenic part of Louisiana. Here’s a look at what you can pack into a day during your next visit to Ruston.

Eat

Coffee and Breakfast at Common Goods

A true hometown coffee shop, Common Goods proudly serves its delicious coffee. Indulge in a seasonal latte paired with their avocado toast on fresh bread. With a homey atmosphere and friendly staff, a morning at Common Goods is sure to be the perfect start to your day in Ruston.

Grab a Bite at Uptown Downtown

While you’re in the downtown district, we recommend making a stop at Uptown Downtown for lunch and treats. From light wraps to specialty grilled cheese sandwiches, their menu has something that is sure to hit the spot. And it wouldn’t be a trip to Uptown Downtown without a cupcake, cookie, or salted caramel brownie to end the meal.

Dinner at Log Cabin Grill & Market

Log Cabin is a local favorite, known for its mesquite-grilled meats and Tex-Mex cuisine. This crowd-pleasing restaurant also offers tasty barbecue, seafood, salads, sandwiches and so much more. Located inside the restaurant, the market is stocked with take-and-bakes, fresh meat, cracklins, seafood, and seasonings for those looking to take items back home.

Drinks at White Lightnin'

With its speakeasy atmosphere and friendly bartenders, White Lightnin' is the place to end your Ruston day trip. Unwind with a craft cocktail while enjoying some delicious appetizers. We almost guarantee you’ll walk away wanting to go back with all of your friends again – it’s just that kind of place.

See

James Lake Birding Trail

Put on your walking shoes and get ready for an adventure. Located just 10 minutes north of Ruston, James Lake Birding Trail is one of Louisiana's best places to see a wide variety of birds and area wildlife. Nature lovers can view these magnificent creatures from three locations - the viewing platform, the bridge, or the lakes' wooded walking trail.

Hideaway Park

After a morning stroll and a tasty lunch, it’s the perfect time to lay back and relax. We recommend an afternoon hammock session in Hideaway Park, located right next to Louisiana Tech’s campus and athletic facilities. If you’re looking for a little more activity, the park also features a paved walking path, an 18-hole frisbee golf course, covered pavilions, and a 7-acre pond for fishing.

Ruston Mural's

Want to get a look at Ruston’s art scene? Head to downtown, where you will discover a mural on nearly every block – all commissioned by local artists. These murals add a touch of eye-popping vibrance to any Instagram or Facebook feed, so they are the perfect backdrop for your day trip photo opp. Be sure to catch that golden hour lighting for the best shot.

Experience

Visit Mitcham Farms & the Peach Store

No trip to Ruston is complete without a visit to Mitcham Farms, the largest peach orchard in Louisiana. During peach season, you can see the processing of Ruston peaches for yourself under the peach shed. Year-round, visitors can shop the Peach Store for delicious peach treats, gourmet foods, and gifts. Don't forget to grab of cup of famous homemade peach ice cream before you leave!

Shop & Stroll in Downtown Ruston

Ruston’s walkable downtown makes it a perfect location for a mid-morning stroll, with some shopping along the way, of course. Among the dozens of locally-owned shops, you can find women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing, gift shops, book stores, home décor and more. Be sure to stop by Fine Line Supply or Cotton Top Print Shop for a Ruston souvenir.

For more information on any of these attractions, or for other trip ideas, visit https://www.rustonlincoln.com/