The Ruston center point is around the area of Louisiana Military Museum and the area of Louisiana Tech University.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Below are reviews of the city of Ruston, LA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Tech Rugby
Cute little town. My daughter loved it and will be attending LA Tech in August.
Suited my family gathering for weekend. Ease of location with great A/C.
The room was clean, comfortable. The staff was friendly. Only visited the Ruston sports complex while in town and it is excellent!!
The room was clean, comfortable. The staff was friendly. I left a day early because of the room accommodations.
Had a large restaurant selection. Easy to get around in.
Close proximity to Grambling.
Excellent library with events center for hosting training events at no cost.
University is there where my grandsons attend.
The hospitality of the people!
The Historical Fire House where the wedding was held had beautiful landscaping.
In town for a wedding - the venue was amazing - White Oak Venue!
The Mexican food that we had at the restaurant was awesome!
Clean room, friendly staff, good breakfast buffet. Went to college there. Great place for peaches.
Loved the old downtown area, especially with the Christmas decorations.
Loved the city. Restaurants were awesome!
Loved the city. Restaurants were awesome!
Friendly well maintained city. Great choices for dining.
Breakfast was done well especially oatmeal with such a wide array of condiments. Well organized. TECH graduation! With WIDE Artsy
Great
The people are kind
Pretty well kept small town.
Gas and food stores was close to the hotels
Beautiful city
Restaurants and stores conveniently located
It was a small town with little touches of southern hospitality around every corner.