Maybe you’re coming to stay with us for a romantic stay or looking for adventure. Either way, taking a day trip to charming St. Francisville, known for its small-town, quiet life, may be just what you’re looking for. It is one of those towns we recommend to our guests as a day trip while staying at The Stockade Bed and Breakfast because it is only about an hour’s drive away and is a fascinating place to visit.
This historic town, being established in 1809, has a number of structures from that period still existing. Often called “the town two miles long and two yards wide”, it was developed atop a narrow ridge overlooking the Mississippi River and known for being the commercial and cultural center of the surrounding plantation country. It is located in West Feliciana Parish and is the parish seat.
In recent years, the proud community of St. Francisville has focused on restoration and preservation of the homes, of which there are many. Today it is a popular tourist destination with plantations to tour and several antebellum gardens to enjoy.
There are many places to visit in St. Francisville, but here are some of our favorites:
- The Myrtles Plantation: Touted as being “One of American’s Most Haunted Homes”. See more about this plantation in our Historical Places Which May Be Haunted in South Louisiana blog.
- Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site: A State Historic Site, Circa 1835.
- Oakley Plantation House: John James Audubon painted 32 of his famous bird pictures here.
- Afton Villa Gardens: The gardens at Afton Villa are among the most famous and picturesque in the state, with 20 acres of formal gardens and pleasure grounds.
- Greenwood Plantation: Built in 1830 and considered to be the South’s finest example of classic colonial.
- Audubon State Historic Site: A state park property in West Feliciana Parish between the towns of St. Francisville and Jackson where noted ornithologist and artist John James Audubon spent the summer of 1821. (Photo credit: Little Black Car)
- West Feliciana Historical Society Museum: Their mission is to “Preserve and promote West Feliciana historically, culturally, and architecturally through education and stewardship.”
- West Feliciana Railroad Caboose: West Feliciana Parish proudly boasts that it gave birth to the third oldest railroad in America.
- Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge: Home to the national bald-cypress tree which is the largest tree in North America east of the California Redwoods.
- Also, you will definitely want to shop the antique stores in St. Francisville, as there are several in the downtown area.
Are you a festival-goer? Like many towns in Louisiana, St. Francisville has no shortage of festivals. Here are some of our favorites:
- Angola Prison Rodeo
- The Day the War Stopped Reenactment & Gala
- Vibes in the Ville
- Southern Garden Symposium
- Tunica Hills Music Fest and Jam
While exploring, you’re sure to get hungry. There are many restaurants from which to choose. See TripAdvisor’s suggestions on the best restaurants in St. Francisville, and eat your fill before heading back for a relaxing evening at The Stockade Bed and Breakfast.
Book your vacation any time of year here at The Stockade Bed and Breakfast and plan on visiting St. Francisville, where there’s always something going on.