Did you know that Ruston Hills is home to one of the most acclaimed mountain biking trails in the entire United States? Lincoln Parish Park’s trail system has been ranked among the top 10 in the country by mountain biking enthusiasts, despite being tucked away in this charming North Louisiana town that many travelers simply drive past on I-20. Beyond this hidden outdoor gem, Ruston Hills offers a delightful blend of Southern hospitality, peach-infused delicacies, vibrant arts, and a thriving college town atmosphere that makes it worth much more than just a quick stopover.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Ruston Hills is conveniently located along Interstate 20 in North Louisiana, making it easily accessible by car from major cities. The closest commercial airports are:
- Monroe Regional Airport (MLU) – 45 km (28 miles) east
- Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) – 113 km (70 miles) west
- Alexandria International Airport (AEX) – 145 km (90 miles) south
For those driving, Ruston is positioned almost exactly halfway between Dallas and Jackson, Mississippi on I-20. The town itself is compact and easy to navigate, with most attractions within a 10-15 minute drive of each other.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Recommended Seasons
Spring (March-May): Ideal weather with temperatures between 15-26°C (59-79°F). Spring brings blooming azaleas and dogwoods, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The Rock Island Greenway is particularly beautiful during this season.
Fall (September-November): Another excellent time with pleasant temperatures ranging from 13-29°C (55-84°F) and lower humidity. Fall foliage creates picturesque scenery, especially in Lincoln Parish Park.
Seasons to Avoid
Summer (June-August): While the annual Peach Festival in June is worth experiencing, summers can be extremely hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 32°C (90°F). If visiting during summer, plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening.
Winter (December-February): Generally mild but can be unpredictable with occasional freezing temperatures. Some outdoor attractions may have limited hours.
Local Tip: If you’re a peach enthusiast, plan your visit for early June to experience the Louisiana Peach Festival, celebrating the region’s famous peach harvest with food, music, and community events.
Getting Around Locally
Ruston Hills is a car-friendly destination with ample parking available at most attractions. Here are your transportation options:
Personal Vehicle
The most convenient way to explore Ruston Hills and the surrounding areas. Most attractions are spread out enough that having your own transportation is beneficial.
Tech Trolley
During Louisiana Tech home football games, the Tech Trolley provides free transportation between downtown Ruston and the stadium. It’s a convenient option for game days to avoid parking hassles.
Biking
Downtown Ruston is relatively compact and bike-friendly. The Rock Island Greenway offers a 9.7 km (6-mile) paved path perfect for cycling through town.
Rideshare Services
Limited Uber and Lyft services are available in Ruston, though availability may vary. It’s best to check the apps for current options.
The Rock Island Greenway connects many of Ruston’s key attractions, making it possible to walk or bike between downtown, Louisiana Tech University, and several parks.
Where to Stay
Ruston Hills offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets:
Hotels & Motels
- Hampton Inn Ruston – Modern rooms with free breakfast, located 1.5 km from Louisiana Tech
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Comfortable accommodations with pool and fitness center
- Sleep Inn & Suites – Budget-friendly option with good amenities
Bed & Breakfasts
- The Butler House – Historic B&B with Southern charm and homemade breakfast
- The Cottage – Cozy accommodation with private gardens
Camping & Outdoor
- Lincoln Parish Park – Offers primitive campsites and RV hookups near the lake and trails
- Lake D’Arbonne State Park – 30 minutes away with cabins and camping facilities
Dining & Local Cuisine
Ruston Hills’ food scene combines traditional Southern comfort food with creative local twists. Don’t miss these culinary experiences:
Must-Try Local Specialties
Peach Delicacies
As Louisiana’s peach capital, Ruston offers numerous peach-inspired treats:
- Mitcham Farms’ peach ice cream – Widely regarded as the best in the region
- Peach cobbler at Ponchatoulas
- Peach preserves and jams from local producers
Southern Classics
- Crawfish dishes at Ben Christmas Crawfish (seasonal)
- Cajun and Creole specialties at Ponchatoulas
- The famous MJ Sandwich at Sundown Tavern
Top Dining Spots
Heard Freighthouse Food Truck Park
A collection of food trucks offering diverse cuisines:
- Grown and Grazed – Local, scratch-made meals
- Staple Sandwich Co. – Artisanal sandwiches on house-made focaccia
- Bad Wolf BBQ – Texas-style BBQ with Louisiana flair
Downtown Dining
- White Lightnin’ – Craft cocktails and elevated Southern cuisine
- Utility Brewing – House-made craft beer and brick-oven pizza
- Trio’s – Fine dining with steaks and gourmet specials
Casual Eats
- Common Goods – Coffee, pastries, and breakfast items
- Sundown Tavern – Pub fare and local favorite for post-game gatherings
- Eskamoes – Delicious frozen custard
“The peach ice cream at Mitcham Farms is worth the trip to Ruston Hills alone – creamy, fresh, and bursting with authentic peach flavor you won’t find anywhere else.”
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Downtown Ruston
The heart of Ruston Hills spans 18 charming blocks designated as a Louisiana Historic District. Stroll through this walkable downtown area to discover:
- Colorful murals depicting local history and culture
- The Bulldog Project – painted bulldog statues throughout downtown
- Railroad Park – a community gathering space for concerts and events
- Boutique shops offering unique gifts, clothing, and local crafts
Louisiana Tech University
Just a few blocks west of downtown, the 113-hectare (280-acre) Louisiana Tech campus features beautiful Colonial Revival architecture and grand oak trees. Don’t miss:
- The Quadrangle with its Lady of the Mist fountain
- Historic buildings like Keeny Hall and Howard Auditorium
- Sporting events – the Bulldogs football team plays at Joe Aillet Stadium
Lincoln Parish Park
This outdoor recreation hub northeast of downtown is renowned for its world-class mountain biking trails. The park features:
- Over 16 km (10 miles) of mountain biking trails for all skill levels
- Hoogland Lake with a 2 km (1.25-mile) paved walking path
- Fishing piers and non-motorized boating
- The world’s first MTB Waterfall Hub (opened 2024)
- Camping facilities for tents and RVs
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Museums & Historic Sites
Lincoln Parish Museum
Housed in the historic Kidd-Davis home (built 1886), this museum showcases Lincoln Parish history through period furniture, antiques, and fascinating artifacts. Don’t miss the “Walls That Talk” exhibit featuring seven murals depicting parish history.
Location: 609 North Vienna Street
North Louisiana Military Museum
This comprehensive museum houses memorabilia from conflicts ranging from the French and Indian War to Desert Storm. The collection includes three Congressional Medals of Honor, uniforms, weapons, and military vehicles displayed outside.
Location: 201 Memorial Drive
Eddie G. Robinson Museum
Located at Grambling State University (10 minutes from Ruston), this museum honors legendary football coach Eddie G. Robinson who led the GSU Tigers for an incredible 57 years. The museum features memorabilia, photographs, and interactive exhibits detailing his 408 NCAA Division I victories and the 200+ players he sent to the NFL.
Location: 126 Jones Street, Grambling
Annual Festivals & Events
Louisiana Peach Festival
Held annually since 1951 on the first Saturday in June, this beloved festival celebrates the local peach harvest with:
- Live music at Railroad Park
- Juried arts market
- Peach-infused treats and food vendors
- Family-friendly activities and contests
Downtown Ruston May Days
Every Saturday in May, downtown Ruston comes alive with:
- Performances at Railroad Park
- Art shows featuring local talent
- Food trucks and special restaurant offerings
- Family activities coinciding with the farmers’ market
Loyal Blue Weekends
During Louisiana Tech football season, these special weekends feature:
- Pre-game tailgating at Bulldog Village
- Live music and entertainment
- Special events in downtown Ruston
- Free Tech Trolley transportation
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond the renowned mountain biking trails, Ruston Hills offers numerous opportunities to connect with nature:
Water Activities
- Hoogland Lake at Lincoln Parish Park – Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing (non-motorized boats only)
- Lake D’Arbonne – Located 30 minutes away, this 6,070-hectare (15,000-acre) lake offers excellent fishing, boating, and water sports
- James Lake Birding Trail – Features a viewing platform overlooking the lake, perfect for birdwatching
Hiking & Walking Trails
- Rock Island Greenway – A 9.7 km (6-mile) paved multi-use path following the historic railroad corridor
- Lincoln Parish Park Walking Trail – 2 km (1.25-mile) paved path around Hoogland Lake
- Tree Identification Trail – Educational path highlighting different tree species in Lincoln Parish Park
- Driskill Mountain – Louisiana’s highest point at 163 m (535 feet), located about 30 minutes from Ruston
Agricultural Experiences
Mitcham Farms – Louisiana’s largest peach orchard offers:
- Fresh peaches during harvest season (typically May-August)
- The famous peach ice cream that locals rave about
- Peach products including preserves, cobbler mix, and pies
- Farm store with local goods and gifts
Outdoor Tip: The mountain biking trails at Lincoln Parish Park are suitable for all skill levels, with sections marked for beginners, intermediate, and advanced riders. Bike rentals are available in town if you don’t bring your own.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Ruston Hills is generally a safe, friendly community with traditional Southern hospitality. Here are some tips to enhance your visit:
Safety Tips
- Summer heat can be intense – stay hydrated and use sun protection
- Thunderstorms can develop quickly, especially in spring and summer
- Ticks and mosquitoes are common in wooded areas – use insect repellent
- When hiking or biking, let someone know your planned route and return time
Local Etiquette
- Greeting strangers is common practice – a simple “hello” or “how are you” is appreciated
- College football is taken seriously – showing respect for local teams is welcomed
- Pace of life is slower – embrace the relaxed atmosphere
- “Yes ma’am/sir” and “no ma’am/sir” are commonly used and considered polite
During football season, especially for big games, expect increased traffic and crowds around Louisiana Tech University. Plan accordingly and consider using the Tech Trolley if attending a game.
Visitor Comments About Ruston Hills
“We almost drove past Ruston Hills on our cross-country trip, but decided to stop for a night. What a wonderful surprise! The mountain biking trails at Lincoln Parish Park were world-class, and the peach ice cream at Mitcham Farms was the best I’ve ever tasted. We ended up staying three days!”
“As international visitors, we found Ruston Hills to be the perfect place to experience authentic Southern culture. The locals were incredibly welcoming, and the food trucks at Heard Freighthouse offered amazing variety. Don’t miss the murals downtown – they tell fascinating stories about the region.”
“Lincoln Parish Museum was the unexpected highlight of our trip to Ruston Hills. The historical exhibits were fascinating, and the staff shared stories that brought local history to life. We also loved exploring the Rock Island Greenway – perfect for morning walks before the summer heat set in.”
Additional Nearby Destinations
Extend your Ruston Hills adventure by exploring these nearby destinations:
Monroe & West Monroe (45 km/28 miles)
- Biedenharn Museum & Gardens – Former home of the first Coca-Cola bottler
- Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo
- Antique Alley – Shopping district with unique finds
- Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Grambling (10 km/6 miles)
- Grambling State University campus
- Eddie G. Robinson Museum
- Grambling Hall of Fame Museum
Shreveport (113 km/70 miles)
- Louisiana Boardwalk – Shopping and entertainment
- R.W. Norton Art Gallery
- Sci-Port Discovery Center
- Riverboat casinos
Practical Travel Tips
Local Resources
- Ruston Visitors Center – Pick up maps, brochures, and local advice
- Ruston Farmers Market – Open year-round on Saturdays (9am-1pm)
- Lincoln Parish Library – Free Wi-Fi and community resources
Visitor Center Phone: (318) 255-2031
Money Matters
- Major credit cards are widely accepted
- ATMs available throughout town
- Some smaller vendors at farmers markets or festivals may be cash-only
- Tipping (15-20%) is customary at restaurants
Connectivity
- Cell service is generally good throughout the area
- Free Wi-Fi available at most hotels, cafes, and the library
- Download maps before visiting remote areas like Driskill Mountain
Is Ruston Hills suitable for family travel?
Absolutely! Ruston Hills offers numerous family-friendly activities including Lincoln Parish Park (with playground and beach area), the splash pad at Spirit Park, and interactive exhibits at local museums. The annual Peach Festival is particularly popular with families.
How many days should I plan to stay in Ruston Hills?
A weekend (2-3 days) allows time to explore the main attractions. Add an extra day if you want to include nearby destinations like Monroe or participate in outdoor activities like mountain biking or hiking.
Are there any alcohol restrictions in Ruston Hills?
Ruston is not a dry town, but alcohol sales are regulated. You can purchase alcohol in restaurants, bars, and certain retail locations, though there may be restrictions on Sunday sales or during certain hours.
Discover the Hidden Gem of North Louisiana
Ruston Hills may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a Louisiana trip, but this charming college town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, Southern hospitality, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. From world-class mountain biking trails to sweet peach treats, from vibrant murals to fascinating museums, Ruston Hills rewards travelers who venture beyond the interstate with authentic experiences and warm welcomes. Whether you’re passing through on I-20 or seeking a destination with small-town charm and surprising diversity of activities, Ruston Hills deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Come discover why this hidden gem of North Louisiana captivates visitors and keeps them coming back for more.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
0 Comments