According to the CDC, 28% of adults over 50 are physically inactive, and this affects not only your physical health but also your mental well-being. Traditional exercise can be boring though, and you may not be in good enough health to do vigorous activities anyway.
Another way to get moving is to explore your local surroundings. So if you’re now wondering about things to do in Nacogdoches, TX, then head over to the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, where nature awaits.
This article will give you a comprehensive guide of what to expect so you’re prepared for your trip.
About Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden
The Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden is an 11-acre garden that showcases over 8,500 taxa of flowering plants, ornamental trees, and shrubs. It’s located at 2404-2498 N University Dr, Nacogdoches, TX 75965, and you’ll find it just south of the SFA Johnson Coliseum on University Drive, inside the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University.
The garden is truly magical since it’s found within a 50-year-old Loblolly pine forest. As far as botanical gardens in Texas go, it’s one of the most spectacular ones since it’s the largest azalea garden in the state, so don’t miss out.
The Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden is open every day from dawn to dusk. It’s free to go in, but consider becoming an SFA Gardens member for just $50 (levels go all the way up to $10,000). The money you pay will support the gardens and you’ll get perks like members-only events and early access to plant sales.
Accessibility
Usually, visitors and buses can drive north of the garden and park in the parking lot behind Johnson Coliseum. The alternative is the parking lot at the corner of Starr Avenue and University Drive. Both of these parking lots are free on weekends.
You can also get a free visitor’s parking pass from SFA’s Parking and Traffic Office. This allows you to park on the premises.
If you have limited mobility and need handicapped parking, there are some spaces on the west side of the garden, entering from University Dr.
There are well-maintained, wide, and level pathways in the garden. However, some areas may have uneven surfaces, so make sure to wear comfortable, supportive shoes and/or bring mobility assistance if needed.
If you don’t want to walk at all but would like to see the beauty of this area with your senior living community, then you’ll be pleased to know that there are 25 miles of driving routes that take you through residential neighborhoods that are just as vibrant.
What to Bring
In addition to comfortable footwear, you should bring a walking stick or cane if needed. If you’re visiting in early spring, a light jacket can be useful too.
Otherwise, you’ll want adequate sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Plus, stay hydrated with a filled water bottle.
And don’t forget your camera or smartphone! You’ll want to snap plenty of pretty pictures.
The Collections
Now for the main attraction: the collections! Below are the gorgeous areas you can explore while doing outdoor activities for seniors at the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden. These are accessible nature trails that are easy to walk.
Azalea Collection
These flowers are what this garden is named for. There are over 54 evergreen hybrid groups here, as well as native, deciduous azaleas. The latter are bright orange to yellow, and are large, so you can’t miss them. They have a unique fragrance too.
The best time to visit is late March to early April since this is azalea season.
Camellia Collection
To see the Camellias, go on the Camellia Trail. You’ll view over 200 cultivars, which all bloom at different times of the year.
For example, the Camellia sasanqua blooms in the fall, while the C. japonica blooms in the winter. This ensures that there’s always something to see when you visit the gardens.
Japanese Maple Collection
The Japanese maple is an exquisite tree that’s a smaller, more delicate version of the North American maple. The Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden has over 230 specimens on the premises, and they’re spread all throughout the garden.
Like with the Camellias, the different varieties of Japanese maples change appearances in each season, giving you contrasting views each time you come.
Special Collections
The garden is constantly acquiring new unique specimens, so you never know what you’ll find when you visit.
For instance, it currently has the Japanese Plum Yew, which is the only evergreen yew that can grow in East Texas. There’s also Chinese witch hazel, hydrangea, and magnolia that add bursts of color and texture to the grounds.
The Azalea Trail
The Azalea Trail is a fun way to explore Nacogdoches, so it’s likely that you’ll see it on a senior living activities calendar.
There are actually two Azalea Trails: Evergreen and Fashion. The first is nine miles long and the second is eight miles long. Neither takes you to the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, but it’s still a fantastic way to see the beauty of the city while exploring the gardens.
For instance, you’ll see places like:
- Oak Grove Cemetery
- Sterne-Hoya House Museum & Library
- Zion Hill Baptist Church
- Mast Arboretum
- Gayla-Mize Garden
If you get tired at any time, you can always stop off at one of the many cafes and restaurants to rest, use the restroom, and have some delicious food.
Check Out the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden
The Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden is where to go if you’re seeking senior-friendly attractions in Nacogdoches. It’s a wonderful place to experience nature’s beauty in a peaceful and accessible setting.
Whether you go admire the vibrant azaleas or rest under the shade of towering trees, you’ll have a rejuvenating experience. Just make sure that you plan carefully and don’t push yourself too hard while out walking about.
Contact us now to hear more about an excellent senior living community in Nacogdoches. If you’re a veteran, you’ll get half off your first month’s rent at Meadowview Place Assisted Living!
