A Walking Guide to Downtown Nacogdoches
One of our favorite things about the Hardeman House isn’t just the house itself – it’s the neighborhood. Step off the front porch, and within minutes you’ll find coffee, shopping, restaurants, history, and the charm that makes downtown Nacogdoches so special. Here is our guide to the places and things you can easily walk to during your stay!
EAT + DRINK:
We have you covered for breakfast. For lunch, dinner, dessert, and everything in between, the rest of the day is an opportunity to explore the local flavors that make downtown Nacogdoches worth savoring.
Roma’s Italian Kitchen
If you ask us where we would go for dinner, this is our answer. Our favorite spot downtown, Roma’s serves authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Alban, the owner from Montenegro, is known for his hospitality, and the patio is, in our opinion, the best place in town to enjoy dinner on a beautiful East Texas evening!
Brendyn’s BBQ
When you are in Texas, barbecue is a must. Brendyn’s BBQ has earned a spot on Texas Monthly’s 2025 Top 50 BBQ Joints in Texas, and one bite will tell you why! Expect perfectly smoked brisket, ribs, sausage, and creative specials that have made this a favorite with both locals and visitors. If you’re looking for an authentic East Texas barbecue experience, this is the place.
Aperitivo Café & Gelato
If you are looking for an afternoon gelato or a place to unwind with a glass of wine, Aperitivo is hard to beat. Inspired by the Italian tradition of slowing down and savoring the moment, the café serves handcrafted espresso, fresh pastries, chef-inspired plates, small-batch gelato, and a thoughtfully curated selection of wine and cocktails. It is one of our favorite places to relax downtown and an easy stop during an afternoon of exploring!
Dilly Dally
Housed in one of downtown’s charming historic homes and just two doors down from Hardeman House, Dilly Dally is worth a visit for the atmosphere alone. Grab a delicious coffee, settle into your seat or enjoy the indoor playroom and outdoor playground, making it an easy stop for families exploring downtown.
Susu’s Popcorn
Part old-fashioned candy shop, part hometown treat stop, Susu’s is a downtown favorite for all ages. Browse shelves of nostalgic candy, pick up a bag of fresh popcorn, treat yourself to homemade fudge, or cool off with a scoop of Blue Bell ice cream. It’s the kind of place that’s hard to leave empty-handed!
Fredonia Brewery
Just a short walk from Hardeman House, Fredonia Brewery is a great place to spend a laid-back afternoon or evening. The Brewery offers a rotating selection of craft beers, a spacious outdoor beer garden, frequent live music, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re meeting friends or winding down a day of exploring, it's one of downtown’s favorite gathering spots.
Pemberley’s at The Jones House
For a classic afternoon tea experience, make a reservation at Pemberley’s. Located in the historic Jones House, it offers tea service and a seasonal lunch menu in a beautiful historic home! Reservations are recommended, especially for the tea.
1st City Café & Nine Flags Bar
Just a short walk from the Hardeman House, the Fredonia is home to both 1st City Café and Nine Flags Bar. It is a great spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner, followed by a handcrafted cocktail, glass of wine, or local beer at Nine Flags. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or an evening out downtown, it’s an easy favorite just minutes from the inn.
THINGS TO DO:
Exploring Historic Nacogdoches
One of the things that makes Nacogdoches so special is that history isn’t tucked away in a museum. It’s woven into the streets, buildings, and landmarks throughout the downtown. These are a few of our favorite places to discover the stories that shaped the oldest town in Texas.
Old Nacogdoches University Building
Originally built in 1859, the Old Nacogdoches University Building now serves as a museum dedicated to the city’s remarkable past. Wander through exhibits filled with historic artifacts, photographs, and stories that trace the people and events that built Nacogdoches!
The Statues of Downtown Nacogdoches
One of our favorite ways to explore downtown is by keeping an eye out for the bronze statues scattered throughout the historic district. Each one tells a piece of Nacogdoches’ story, honoring the people and the lessons they left behind. Take your time, read the plaques, and see how many you can find along the way! You can pick up a free statue map from the Charles Bright Visitor Center to make sure you don’t miss any along the way.
Oak Grove Cemetery
One of the oldest cemeteries in Texas, Oak Grove cemetery is the final resting place of four signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence, including Thomas Jefferson Rusk, one of the Republic of Texas’ most influential leaders. You’ll also find the graves of architect Deidrich Rulfs, who built Hardeman House, as well as many members of the Hardeman family, early settlers, and generations of Nacogdoches families. Towering trees, beautiful monuments, and nearly two centuries of history make it one of the most fascinating places to explore in town!
Charles Bright Visitor Center
The Charles Bright Visitor Center is part visitor center, part local history museum. Located inside the beautifully restored United States Post Office and Federal Building, in the heart of the downtown square, it features exhibits that tell the story of Nacogdoches while also offering maps, brochures, local recommendations, and information about attractions and events throughout the city.
Eugenia Sterne Park & the Nine Flags
Just a short walk from Hardeman House, Eugenia Sterne Park is one of the best places to experience the story of Nacogdoches. The park’s nine flags represent those that have flown over the city throughout its history, a distinction unique to Nacogdoches and a reminder of its role in establishing Texas.
ANTIQUING AND SHOPPING:
Antiquing
If you love antiques, you’re in the right place. Downtown is filled with shops offering everything from vintage furniture and home décor to books, records, artwork, and collectibles. Auntie Q’s, Fredonia Vintage House, The String Shop, and several others are all within an easy walk of Hardeman House.
Both Bloom & Parcel on Main
Owned by the same talented team and sharing one beautiful space in the heart of downtown, Both Bloom & Parcel on Main is a must-visit while you’re exploring Nacogdoches. Both Bloom offers fresh florals and plants, while Parcel on Main features a thoughtfully curated collection of clothing, gifts, home décor, and everyday favorites. Whether you’re searching for the perfect bouquet, a unique souvenir, or a little something to take home, you’ll likely leave with more than you planned.
Boutique Shopping
If shopping is on your itinerary, downtown Nacogdoches has several locally owned boutiques worth visiting. Stop into Spring & Prince and COR Boutique for women’s clothing, accessories, gifts, home décor, and seasonal collections. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit, gifts, or simply enjoy browsing local shops, it’s easy to spend an afternoon exploring downtown’s boutiques.
The best way to experience downtown isn’t by checking off a list — it’s by taking your time. Browse a few shops, linger over lunch, step inside a museum, and enjoy the character that makes the oldest town in Texas feel like home.