Top Things to Do in St. Francisville
St. Francisville promises a charming small-town feel packed with Louisiana history, culture and beautiful views.
At a Glance
- St. Francisville is a charming small town in Louisiana known for its historic homes, scenic landscapes and rich Southern heritage.
- Popular attractions include historic estates, museums, churches and cultural landmarks that showcase the area's past. Outdoor lovers can hike, birdwatch and enjoy nature at nearby parks, gardens and wildlife areas.
Tucked into the rolling hills of Louisiana’s Feliciana region, St. Francisville is a hidden gem where Southern charm meets scenic beauty. From historic plantations and a quaint downtown to nature trails and bluff-top views, this storybook town offers plenty of things to do for history lovers, birders, bikers and weekend wanderers.
Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site
Get an up-close and personal peek into the lives of Louisiana’s wealthy planters circa 1835. Rosedown Plantation was built by the Turnbull family, whose entrepreneurship in the cotton business made Daniel Turnbull one of the wealthiest men in the nation. At this historic site, see many of the original furnishings and artifacts the Turnbulls collected during their travels throughout Europe and walk through 28 acres of formal gardens. After your guided tour, stop into Rosedown Plantation’s gift shop for Louisiana souvenirs to take home.
Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area
Think all of South Louisiana is low-lying swampland? Think again. The 6,500 acres that comprise Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area contain hills, bluffs, ravines and remote waterways, showcasing some of the state’s most remarkable vistas. Sharp-eyed birders may spot migratory warblers, woodpeckers and even bald eagles, as the area's diverse elevation and vegetation attract more than 100 species of birds. Hiking and biking on the park’s numerous trails are also popular.
Afton Villa Gardens
You certainly won’t see another plantation like this in Louisiana. Afton Villa Gardens, named for a Gothic mansion destroyed by fire in 1963, cover the grounds on and around the ruins of historic buildings. The dramatic scenery of what’s known as the “ruins gardens” is just one of the charms of Afton Villa. The daffodil valley and family cemetery are worth visiting, as are the formal English garden and the oak tree-lined entryway to the site, which fills with awe-inspiring blooming azaleas in spring.
4. Downtown St. Francisville
Any list of Louisiana’s most charming small towns must include St. Francisville, the seat of West Feliciana Parish. Downtown St. Francisville is easily walkable or bikeable, with most attractions, restaurants and accommodations on Commerce Street and Ferdinand Street. Start your journey at the West Feliciana Historical Society Museum, also the home of the Main Street and Tourist Commission offices. There you’ll find info on local attractions, as well as the history museum.
The Myrtles Plantation
Billed as “America’s most haunted plantation,” the Myrtles Plantation is a destination for ghost hunters and history enthusiasts alike. Join a guided group tour or private tour of the big house, hear the ghostly stories of previous owners and enslaved individuals — or go on a self-guided tour of the grounds. Overnight guests can sleep in the cozy, on-site cottages or in rooms with a garden view. And no visit is complete without enjoying a meal at the new Restaurant 1796 or breakfast at Elta Coffee.
Locust Grove State Historic Site
Locust Grove State Historic Site is a small cemetery with a big story to tell. Its interred occupants include the daughter of President Zachary Taylor, and the plots are located on the grounds of a former home whose history is tied into Civil War lore — Confederate President Jefferson Davis’ sister’s family once owned Locust Grove Plantation.
Biking Trails
West Feliciana Parish is filled with biking trails that will take you through the region’s gorgeous hill country, over the Mississippi River and into small, off-the-beaten-path towns and attractions. Check out the ambitious 30-mile St. Francisville to Morganza route, with stops at Not Ya Mama’s Café & Tavern in Morganza and a Mississippi River ferry; the Jackson to St. Francisville loop that links two historic towns and takes riders past Centenary State Historic Site and The Republic of West Florida Museum; and The Beast Trail, a heart-pumping, adrenaline-fueled ride through steep bluffs, deep ravines and wooden bridges.
Audubon State Historic Site
John James Audubon is one of the nation’s most revered naturalists, made famous for his paintings of wildlife during the early 1800s. In 1821, he arrived at Oakley House, which makes up part of the Audubon State Historic Site. Audubon completed 32 paintings of birds while at Oakley House, and today you can walk the same grounds that he did.
Dine in St. Francisville
Whether you're looking for something casual to enjoy with the family on a Saturday afternoon or a five-star meal to celebrate a special occasion, you can find it in St. Francisville. Stop by Magnolia Cafe for a tasty lunch in a charming setting, hit the spectacular patio at The Francis Southern Table & Bar, or dine at the haunted Myrtles Restaurant 1796. If you need a jump-start from all of the exploring, visit Birdman Coffeehouse + Eatery for a caffeine fix and peruse the Louisiana book selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is St. Francisville, Louisiana known for?
St. Francisville is known for its historic homes and plantations, scenic gardens, outdoor recreation, charming downtown district and rich Louisiana history.
What are the best things to do in St. Francisville?
Popular activities include touring historic plantations, exploring Afton Villa Gardens, hiking in Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area, visiting Audubon State Historic Site, taking a ghost tour at The Myrtles, biking scenic routes through West Feliciana Parish and enjoying local restaurants and shops downtown.
What is the best time of year to visit St. Francisville?
Spring is especially popular because of blooming azaleas, gardens and mild weather. Fall also offers comfortable temperatures for hiking, biking, and exploring historic sites. Seasonal events such as the St. Francisville Food & Wine Festival attract additional visitors throughout the year.
Is St. Francisville a good destination for outdoor activities?
Yes, outdoor enthusiasts can hike and bike through Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area, explore rolling hills and bluffs, enjoy birdwatching, and discover scenic backroads throughout West Feliciana Parish. The area offers some of Louisiana's most unique landscapes.
Is The Myrtles really haunted?
The Myrtles is widely known as one of America's most famous haunted plantations. Visitors can take historical tours, mystery tours, and evening experiences that explore the property's legends, folklore, and documented history.
Is downtown St. Francisville walkable?
Yes, downtown St. Francisville is easily explored on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can browse local shops, visit museums, enjoy restaurants and coffeehouses, and experience the town's historic architecture within a compact, pedestrian-friendly district.
