St. Francisville, LA is a quaint historic town located 30 minutes north of Baton Rouge. This is an area where families of generations have resided for hundreds of years. It is a place rich with civil war history, English influence, and antebellum plantations.

The charm of St. Francisville lures history buffs, birdwatchers, and celebrities. Many of John James Audubon’s sketches were done during his time as a tutor at Oakley Plantation.

How to Get There

The nearest airport is Baton Rouge Metro Airport. Car rentals are available near the airport. St. Francisville is located north of Baton Rouge on US Hwy 61.

Where to Stay

Lamplighter Suites – http://www.lamplightersuites.com
One bedroom suites start at $75/night

Barrow House – http://www.topteninn.com
Halle Barry stayed in the Victorian Suite while filming Monster’s Ball

The Shade Tree – http://www.shadetreeinn.com
This is by far the most romantic place to stay while in St. Francisville. Rooms start at $145/night, but it is well worth the splurge.

Where to Eat

Que Pasa – Located on Main Street down towards the Mississippi River, this unassuming establishment serves up authentic Mexican cuisine. Watch out for those margaritas, they sneak up on you.

The Bluff’s on Thompson Creek – htttp://www.thebluffs.com
The Restaurant at the Bluff’s offers a delicious Sunday Buffet for less than $20/person.

Varnedoe's - http://www.varnedoes.com
Located at The Carriage House on The Myrtles Plantation, Varnedoe's offers Southern Fushion Cuisine in a romantic setting. This establishment offers something for every taste. Looking for Fried Green Tomatoes? Chef Varnedoe has put his own twist on this traditional dish, topping the tomatoes with boiled shrimp, jumbo lump crab meat remoulade, and red onion tasso preserves served on a bed of baby spinach. Mmmm!

Update 01/21/09: Varnedoe's is now located at The Bluff's on Thompson Creek.

Things to Do

St. Francisville offers an array of activities for any interest. There are hiking trails, bird watching, an Arnold Palmer golf course, and many places for cycling enthusiasts.

The Myrtles Plantation – http://www.myrtlesplantation.com
One of the most haunted houses in America, daily mystery tours are offered. Brave souls can even spend the night, if they dare!

Rosedown Plantation – This plantation home was purchased by the state of Louisiana after a restoration. The gardens and grounds are breathtaking. This is one of my favorite plantations in the south.

Oakley Plantation at the Audubon Historic Site – Oakley Plantation was Audubon’s home for a short while during his time as a tutor. He sketched many birds while at this residence. It is now a park that offers a nice spot for a picnic.

Tunica Falls – There are hiking trails north of St. Francisville where you can see some waterfalls.

Port Hudson Historic Site – This historic park offers miles of well-kept trails, an interpretive area, and picnic sites. There are scheduled re-enactments of the Battle of Port Hudson which offers a historic view into camp life and trade days.

For more information about St. Francisville and the surrounding area, visit http://www.stfrancisville.net