After the Civil War, when the railroad came to northern Louisiana, settlers began making the area their home. After World War II, soldiers taking advantage of the G.I. Bill brought families into the area to obtain their college education. Since that time, Louisiana Tech University has become the major economic driver in the town. Today, more than 22,000 people call Ruston home.
Ruston boasts quaint shops, restaurants, and several hotels. While hotel option aren't terribly expensive inside of Ruston city limits, they do fill rather quickly. There are many more hotels to choose from in the surrounding area.
When to Visit Ruston, LA
The off-season in Ruston occurs in the early summer months, when university enrollment is lower. Summer months are hot and humid with high temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit almost every day. Summers aren't typically rainy with precipitation falling one in four days a month, on average. Even when it rains, it doesn't rain much, with most rains coming in at around a half-inch. Hotel rates are less expensive during the summer, and you're more likely to find deals in June and July, except for a short peak when the Peach Festival occurs. This event includes several peach-themed activities, like craft shows, a parade, and vendors peddling goods. In August, when students return, rates will increase and rooms will fill quickly.
Fall in Ruston is mild with temperatures in September averaging in the mid-80s and falling to the mid-60s in November. Low temperatures don't necessitate a jacket until late October. During fall months, university activity picks up creating an influx of traffic from visitors and sports teams. Hotel rates stay steady, with rooms booking fast. Notable events in the fall include the Mainstreet Monster Mash, the Dog Trail Run, and Holidays in Cedartown. There are also several outdoor events and football games.
Winter months in Ruston are generally mild with only short cold spells that last a few days. Average highs from December through February are near 60 degrees with lows in the mid-30s. Lows only dip below freezing about 35 days a year. Measurable snowfall occurs about once a year, with many years not getting snow at all. Wintertime in Ruston is packed with basketball games and holiday events. In January, the Annual John Simoneaux Memorial Jam draws visitors for this musical event that raises money for the guitar scholarship at LA Tech.
Springtime in Ruston is mild with temperatures warming from the upper-60s in March to the 80s in May. It's the rainiest time of year with rain falling about every three to four days. Some thunderstorms in spring are strong with wind and hail. You'll enjoy plays and concerts at the university, as well as spring festivals and events.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Ruston, LA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average rate trends by star rating class in Ruston, LA. Analyze these charts to determine the least expensive time to book a room in Ruston for any future trips.
Higher-End Hotels in Ruston, LA
For superior service and great rooms, consider Days Inn Ruston. Conveniently located on I-20, this hotel is easy to find and easy to access. You'll save with free tea, coffee, newspapers, and Wi-Fi. Each rooms features a microwave, fridge, and cable programming including HBO. Take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool after a long day exploring. Top off your visit with a free Daybreak Breakfast.
At Courtyard by Marriott, you'll enjoy what travelers called a "modern hotel with an awesome vibe." Rooms include sofa beds, refrigerators, flat-screen TVs with cable, and free wired and wireless internet. Enjoy a meal from the "Bistro-Eat. Drink. Connect.," the on-site restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner, as well as Starbucks beverages and cocktails. Work up a sweat in the fitness center before an invigorating dip in the outdoor pool. Visit with friends in the outdoor courtyard with fire pit.
Affordable Hotels in Ruston, LA
3 Star Average Prices: $106.28
For great deals on simple rooms, check out America's Best Value Inn. It's just off I-20 and is within minutes of either college. Rooms include free local calls, Wi-Fi, cable, and premium channels. Save on simple meals and snacks using the in-room fridge and microwave or cook on the barbecue grill outside. Start your day right with a complimentary breakfast. Value Club members receive discounted rates, free upgrades, and later check-out times.
Fellow travelers said the Super 8 Ruston has "friendly service and great reception." Simple, yet functional rooms feature free Wi-Fi, cable channels, and complimentary toiletries. Keep your food budget down by using the fridge and microwave in your room. Family travel is easier with adjoining rooms and an outdoor pool the kids will love. Other perks include free parking and breakfast.
At Country Inn & Suites in Ruston, you can choose from regular rooms or home-like suites. All rooms include free Wi-Fi, 32-inch TVs with 70 channels, fridges, and microwaves. The suites include sleeper sofas and separate seating or living areas. Some boast whirlpools, separate bedrooms, and dining areas. Working travelers enjoy the 24-hour business center and free newspapers. An outdoor pool and fitness center helps you stay on track. Finish your stay with a free, hot breakfast.
2 Star Average Prices: $79.56
Hotels with Discounts in Ruston, LA
Ruston is full of hotels offering discounts for AAA members, seniors, and large groups. At Holiday Inn Express & Suites, AAA members will save 10 percent. Rooms feature mini fridges, microwaves, flat-screen TVs with satellite programming including premium channels, and free wired internet. Keep your fitness regimen intact at the fitness center or in the outdoor pool. Complimentary breakfast includes eggs, sausage, bacon, omelets, and the chain's signature cinnamon rolls.
At Fairfield Inn & Suites Ruston you'll save 10 percent as a AAA member. You stay will feel more like home with the terrace, picnic area, and barbecue grills. Pick up snacks and drinks at the on-site grocery and convenience store. All rooms include computer stations and wired internet, making work trips easier. Let the kids splash in the indoor pool while you soak in the spa tub or work out in the fitness center. Group discounts of up to 30 percent are available.
Best Value Hotels in Ruston, LA
At Hampton Inn Ruston, you'll enjoy the comforts of home at a fair price. Each room includes an LCD TV with cable channels, free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom with free toiletries. Have a simple lunch outside at the picnic area or cook dinner on the barbecue grills. Free self-parking, including room for buses, and free breakfast make this hotel a great value. Breakfast includes meats, waffles, eggs, pastries, and fruit. On weekdays, a Grab-n-Go breakfast bag is perfect for busy mornings.
At Quality Inn Ruston, choose from two double beds or single kings. Rooms include free Wi-Fi, fridges, microwaves, and cable channels. Save even more when kids under age 18 stay free in a parent's room. Soak up the sun outside beside the pool. Business travel is simpler with a fax, copier, and multiple phone lines. Other perks include free parking, even for buses and RVs, free newspapers, and free breakfast.
At Sleep Inn & Suites Ruston, you can choose from recently renovated rooms or suites. Suites offer sofa beds, microwaves, fridges, desks, and iPod docking stations. Make downtime entertaining with pay-for-movies, free Wi-Fi, and cable channels on flat-screen TVs. Lounge on the sun deck before eating a picnic lunch. Take a dip in the indoor, heated pool or soak in the hot tub. A hot breakfast is available every morning, with tasty options that include biscuits and gravy, eggs, waffles, bacon and sausage, and more.
Things to Do in Ruston, LA
Besides tailgating games and seeing performances at the universities, there are plenty of fun things to do in Ruston. Shop the Ruston Farmers' Market for fresh goodies to take with you to Lincoln Parish Park. Spend the day hiking or biking along the trails winding through Louisiana's Red Mountains. Kayak or swim in the park's pristine waters or test your skills while fishing for that night's meal.
Dive into the area's history at the Lincoln Parish Museum, where artifacts and exhibits highlight the region's past. Listen to the audio experience, dubbed "Walls that Talk," or enjoy a guided tour from the museum director. History buffs will delight in the rare items found in the Louisiana Military Museum. Relics from the Civil War through the War on Terror, including weapons, vehicles, and uniforms, take visitors through varying conflicts.
Grab a bite at Roma Italian Bistro or Ponchatoulas before taking in a show at the Dixie Center for the Arts. Performances include plays by the local community theater and Dixie performing arts and live music from local bands.
Whether you're visiting your college student, seeing a football or basketball game, or just getting away, Ruston is a great place to stay. With help from HotelPlanner, you'll find the best hotels at the right price. Now, you just have to plan your trip to Ruston!
FAQs about hotels in Ruston
How much does a cheap hotel in Ruston cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Ruston can be as cheap as $79.56 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Ruston cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Ruston has been $106.28 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)