Nestled in Louisiana’s “Hill Country,” just 35 minutes north of Baton Rouge, St. Francisville is a charming small town along the Mississippi River. It’s packed with historic bed & breakfasts, lush natural preserves, vibrant local culture, and family-friendly attractions. We invite you to let St. Francisville inspire your summer getaway!
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Escapes
Hike through ravines and bluffs that can’t be found anywhere else in Louisiana, perfect for exploring with older kids and teens. Camping is also available under the stars. If you are wanting to spot some waterfalls, drive about 20 minutes North into Mississippi to check out the Clark Creek Natural Area.
This mixed pine-hardwood preserve abounds with native wildlife—ideal for birding, short walks, and photo ops. Be sure to bring some turtle food to feed the turtles in the pond!
Historic & Cultural Immersion
Tour the opulent 19th‑century mansion and grounds to learn of the history of the plantation. The property has also been the back drop of movies, the most recent on being The Master Gardener. If you’re in town between July 7th and 20th check out their “History MythBusters” series.
Explore where John James Audubon lived and painted his famous Birds of America Series. Take a guided house tour of Oakley to learn of the history of those that lived and worked on the property. There are shaded trails that invite birdwatching (be on the lookout for the wild racoons that are the unofficial mascots of the property). The staff also host different programs for all ages throughout the summer; check them out on our events calendar.
Discover local history, from Native American heritage to St. Francisville’s stint as the Republic of West Florida’s capital. Not to mention, free admission!
Learn about the history of the largest state penitentiary in Louisiana, the history of their rodeo, and the movies that were filmed there!
Pick a daytime tour of this famed house (named one of most haunted homes in North America by USA Today!)! If you’re feeling brave, book a nighttime tour, where they go more in depth of the mysteries surrounding the property. You can also grab a cup of coffee or tea and wander the grounds with their flock of ducks!
Family Fun & Community Recreation
Free summer programs, story times, craft events, and an outdoor playground to let kids run wild.
Enjoy disc golf, tennis, pickleball, skatepark, splash pad, bike paths, and open-play areas. Hike the Beast, the 6-mile-long trail, where you can see local wildlife. All accessible free of charge.
- Summer Camps & Creative Workshops
Youth Soccer Camp (ages 6–13): June 25–27. call 225-784-8447
Arts for All – “Hand‑building Clay”: June classes for adults (Part 2- June 23-25)
Clay Arts for Kids: June 26–27 & July 7.
Song Bird Music School (guitar, ukulele, songwriting) for kids and adults: July 10-13.
Recurring Events
11. Local Farmers Markets
At The Myrtles: Saturdays in June & July (9 AM–12 PM).
St. Francisville Market at the 4-H Barn: every other Thursday (9 AM–1 PM).
St. Francisville Community Market 4-H Barn: First Saturday of every month (9 AM—1 PM).
First and Third Thursday of the month-Trivia Night with Padre at Big River Pizza. Gather your team and test your knowledge at Trivia Night!
Every Saturday at 10:30 AM: a 5K around downtown and half-price pizza/drinks at Big River Pizza afterward.
Seasonal Events & Festivities
- Summer Events:
June 21- John James Audubon Day at Audubon SHS
June 21- Bob Browning Band performs at The Francis Southern Table
June 28- Sip & See at The Mallory
July 4- 4th of July Fireworks
July 5- The 14th Colony at Audubon SHS
July 10 to 12- Summer Art Show at The Corbel
July 12- Bird Walk with Audubon
July 12- “Not a Trace” performing at Grace Church
August 23- Pop & Shop
Check out the full events calendar here.
Picnic & Treat Adventures
15. Let’s do a picnic!
Grab to-go bites from local cafes and swing by parks like Parker Park, Afton Villa Gardens, and Mary Ann Brown Preserve for relaxing picnics. Ice‑cream stops are a must for cooling off—and rating treats can make it a fun scavenger‑style family outing.
Pro Tips & Suggested Itinerary
Thursday Morning: Drive to St. Francisville in time to stop by the Farmer’s Market to grab some local produce (if you can’t make it Thursday, there is a Saturday market at The Myrtles!)
Thursday Afternoon: Explore the Hwy 61 corridor for some great restaurants like, Audubon Cafe, or shops like Patrick’s Fine Jewelry or Cross Quilters.
Thursday Evening: Grab a pizza and your smartest friends at Trivia Night on the first and third Thursdays of the month at Big River Pizza (Once the Oyster Bar reopens, the first Thursday will be held there).
Friday Morning: Order yourself a cup of joe at a local breakfast café like Birdman, Elta, or Basel’s Market, then shop around at some of the antique stores near Hwy 61 to see what treasures you can find.
Friday Noon: After you’re done shopping around town, check out some of the local restaurants downtown (The Magnolia Café, Café Petra, Big River Pizza) for some delicious food and local interactions.
Friday Afternoon: Spend the afternoon checking out the West Feliciana Parish Historical Society Museum and the Historic District of St. Francisville to see why it’s been named one of the most beautiful small towns time and time again.
Friday Night: Treat yourself to a nice dinner and good cocktail at restaurants like The Saint or Restaurant 1796. Then have a nightcap at one of the local dive bars (The Oyster Bar or The Chill Mill) or a speakeasy (Proud Mary’s).
Saturday morning: Let’s get outside and get active before the sun gets too high in the sky! Go on a hike in Tunica Hills or at The Mary Anne Brown Preserve or do a 5K with Big River Running Club in downtown St. Francisville.
Saturday Afternoon: Before you go and shower, grab some plate lunches (The Field House, The Jungle Inn, The Francis Smokehouse or East Dragon) or to-go snacks (Audubon Market, Away Down South) and have a picnic at Parker Park, Audubon State Historic Site, or down by The Mississippi River. After, you can cool off at the Splash Pad at the West Feliciana Sports Park.
Saturday Evening: Do dinner and a show at El Mejor or The Francis Southern table, two restaurants that have regular live music!
Sunday Morning: Spend your last day here by visiting Rosedown State Historic Site to learn more about how plantations have shaped our area. Be sure to grab some lunch on your way out, the Italian burrito at Sonny’s Pizza is a local favorite! Que Pasa is another great spot for families.
Why Summer in St. Francisville Shines
Blissful outdoors: hiking, birding, disc golf—all free and family-friendly.
Living history: museums, plantations, myths and legends await exploration.
Community vibes: lively markets, workshops, music, and celebrations that make the town hum.
Kid-friendly enrichment: summer camps, scavenger games, reading challenges, arts—all designed for families.
St. Francisville offers the perfect blend of summer exploration—whether you’re chasing history, nature, festivals, or simple family fun. From hiking amongst the hills and discovering haunted homes, to weaving through weekend markets and music nights, there’s something for every traveler. Pack comfy shoes, curious minds, and ready smiles—St. Francisville is calling!
Book your stay here.
