Oak trees draped in Spanish moss line U.S. 61 headed north to St. Francisville fromBaton Rouge.

France, England, and Spain each claimed this area for a time.

Slavery, wars, and hurricanes all left lasting scars.

Afton Villa Gardens in St. Francisville, LA

Small-town charm in St. Francisville.Credit:Courtesy of Miles Partnership/West Feliciana Parish Tourist Commission

Here are the top things to do during your weekend visit to St. Francisville.

The riverboat is gone, replaced in 2012 by the John James Audubon Bridge.

Founded in the early 1800s, the once profitable port still touts many homes and structures from that era.

Bikers in St. Francisville, Louisiana

Small-town charm in St. Francisville.Credit:Courtesy of Miles Partnership/West Feliciana Parish Tourist Commission

Shops such as hot spotSage Hill Giftsare catnip for the design-forward set.

Stop by theDistrict Mercantilefor unique jewelry, clothing, gifts, and local products.

For European antiques and fine consignment, head toBirds of a Feather.

Sage Hill Gifts in St. Francisville, Louisiana

Credit:Courtesy of Explore Louisiana

Travelers flock to the area’s natural attractions, a testament to the booming ecotourism industry.

Its picturesque terrain features some of the state’s most diverse flora and fauna, plus topflight bird-watching.

The majestic wonder measures a jaw-dropping 96 feet tall and 17 feet in diameter.

Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area in St. Francisville, Louisiana

Credit:Courtesy of Explore Louisiana

But that’s only the beginning of the refuges exceptional sights.

“It’s a beautiful sight to see and never gets old.”

In past decades, the area has leaned heavily on the pomp and pageantry of these historic homes.

Afton Villa Gardens in St. Francisville, LA

Azaleas in bloom at historic Afton Villa Gardens.

Hang out for conversation and live music throughout the week.

These restored motor court cabins retain the character of the 1930s while incorporating modern conveniences.

3-v-tourist-court.edan.io;5687 Commerce St, St Francisville, LA 70775; 225-721-7003

Afton Villa Gardens in St. Francisville, LA

Birdman Coffeehouse and Eatery in St. Francisville, Louisiana

Credit:Courtesy of Birdman Coffeehouse and Eatery

The Saint in St. Francisville, LA

Credit: Alison Gootee

Restaurant 1796

Credit:Courtesy of Explore Louisiana

St. Francisville Inn in St. Francisville, LA

Credit: Alison Gootee

V Tourist Courts Cabins in St. Francisville, LA

Credit: Alison Gootee