Experience Ruston Blog

Ruston, LA Named One of the Best Historic Small Towns in America

Experience Ruston is excited to share that Ruston, Louisiana is a winner of the 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice travel award for Best Historic Small Town. This recognition was announced by USA TODAY on April 10 at 11:00 a.m. CST after four weeks of voting took place from March 4-April 1.

Photo Credit: Henry McCoy

“It is a real honor to be voted in the top 5 Best Historic Small Towns in America,” said Mayor Ronny Walker. “Thanks to all those who voted and to USA TODAY for their interest in recognizing small towns in America.”

The top ten winners in this category are as follows:

1.           Ludington, Michigan
2.           Wickford, Rhode Island
3.           Abilene, Kansas
4.           Ruston, Louisiana
5.           San Elizario, Texas
6.           Winslow, Arizona
7.           Berkeley Springs, West Virginia
8.           Cumberland, Maryland
9.           Jonesborough, Tennessee
10.         Winterset, Iowa

In addition to historic sites, long-standing businesses, and notable museums throughout the city, Ruston is home to a thriving 25-block historic downtown that serves as a hub for culture and commerce. The district itself is on the National Register of Historic Places and features public art installations, local shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cultural events year-round.

“To be recognized among the top 5 Best Historic Small Towns by USA TODAY is more than just an accolade; it's a reflection of our town's deep-rooted history, cherished traditions, and an invitation to explore and experience its unique character,” said Amy Stegall, Main Street Director and Community Coordinator for the City of Ruston.

Nominees for all categories are chosen by a panel of relevant experts, which include a combination of editors from USA TODAY, editors from 10Best.com, relevant expert contributors, and sources for both these media and other Gannett properties.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of the City of Ruston, Downtown Ruston, and all the merchants, businesses, and community organizations whose hard work make Ruston a thriving destination,” said Amanda Carrier, President & CEO of Experience Ruston. “Landing on this list means more than just bragging rights - it also provides us with some unique marketing opportunities to position Ruston & Lincoln Parish as a top small-town destination in the South.”

While the 10Best Readers' Choice Award contest lives on 10Best.com, a standalone travel media site, it is promoted across USA TODAY Travel Media Group's digital and mobile products, as well as via social media. Nominees are also announced and/or promoted across relevant USA TODAY departments, and through Gannett media outlets.

More information on the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice travel award for Best Historic Small Town and this year’s winners can be found at https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-historic-small-town-2024/.

Tori Davis

Tori is a Shreveport native who planted roots in the piney hills of Lincoln Parish in 2017. She has a passion for destination development and marketing and aims to spend every bit of her free time making memories with her husband and two daughters. As Director of Marketing and Communications, Tori supports the President/CEO of Experience Ruston in implementing new marketing plans and content strategies to help promote Ruston/Lincoln Parish as a premier tourist destination.