As the sweltering heat of summer finally gives way to the cool, crisp air of fall, St. Francisville and West Feliciana Parish come alive with the colors and joys of the season. Nestled in the rolling hills and scenic bluffs just off the Mississippi River, this area offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and local traditions that make autumn a special time to visit. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a traveler eager to experience Southern fall at its finest, here’s how to embrace everything this season has to offer.
1. Explore the Great Outdoors
Fall is the perfect time to get outside and explore the stunning landscapes that surround St. Francisville. The cooler temperatures make hiking and outdoor activities more enjoyable, and the changing foliage adds an extra layer of beauty to your adventures.
Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area: Known for its dramatic terrain and breathtaking vistas, Tunica Hills is a must-visit in the fall. The area’s trails are perfect for hiking, with paths that wind through forests filled with vibrant fall colors. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching—keep an eye out for migrating species as they make their way south.
The West Feliciana Sports Park: For a more structured outdoor experience, The Sports Park offers everything from walking and biking trails to fishing and playgrounds, making it a great spot for families to enjoy a fall day.
Picnicking at Oakley: Part of the Audubon State Historic Site, Oakley Plantation not only offers rich history but also picturesque grounds perfect for a relaxing picnic surrounded by autumn hues and more birding trails.
National Champion Bald Cypress: Visit the largest bald cypress tree in North America, The National Champion Bald Cypress. Located in Cat Island National Wildlife Refruge, the drive to the trail that leads to the tree offers beautiful scenes of how a Louisiana swamp changes with the cooler weather.
Garden Strolls: St. Francisville is home to some beautiful gardens and parks that are opened to the public, like Rosedown or Afton Villa Gardens. Afton Villa Gardens, which is open for their autumn season until November 30th, is home to acres and acres of gardens that will enchant you with its rainbow of colors. The fall season brings in new florals and foliage for everyone one to enjoy.
2. Fall Festivals & Events
West Feliciana Parish is home to a variety of fall events that capture the spirit of the season. These festivals are ideal for enjoying local culture, art, and of course, delicious Southern food.
Angola Prison Rodeo (Every Sunday in October): A unique and thrilling event that’s become a local tradition, the Angola Prison Rodeo is the longest-running prison rodeo in the country. Held on Sundays in October, this event features everything from inmate rodeo events to arts and crafts, and it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in some unique culture. Get your tickets here.
Yellow Leaf Arts Festival (October 26th-27th): Celebrate the creativity of local and regional artists at the Yellow Leaf Arts Festival. Set under the shade of hundred-year-old oak trees in Parker Park, this festival brings together artisans who showcase handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more. Live music, great food, and a sense of community make this a quintessential fall event in St. Francisville. For more information, click here.
Music on the Mount (November 2nd): Fellowship, music, and a 5k make Music on the Mount a fun family-friendly event every year. The day starts out with a 5k run around St. Francisville. End the day with a fall festival at Mt. Carmel Catholic Church that is filled with music, food, and fun. Get your tickets here.
St. Francisville Food & Wine Festival (November 8th-10th): Now in its seventh year, the St. Francisville Food & Wine Festival has become one of the most sought out events in the area. This year, the festival is introducing more events to the already wine-filled weekend, like Bubbles and BBQ on Saturday, November 9th at The Mallory. Delicious food, exquisite pairings, and a great time is what the event is known for. Get your tickets here.
Christmas in the Country (December 6th-8th): While technically not a fall event, this beloved St. Francisville tradition marks the transition into the holiday season. With beautifully decorated shops, tours of homes, and Christmas concerts, it’s a great way to kick off the cooler months. The weekend is filled with great shopping, holiday activities for the whole family, and a festive spirit that fills the air. For more information, click here.
To keep up with all of the events this fall, check out our events calendar.
3. Scenic Drives & Fall Foliage
Nothing says fall quite like a leisurely drive through the countryside, with the windows down and the trees ablaze in reds, yellows, and oranges. The rolling hills and winding roads of West Feliciana Parish make for some of the most scenic drives in the state.
The Feliciana Backroads Trail: These winding, hilly backroads are some of the most beautiful drives in Louisiana, especially in the fall. The golden foliage and views of the surrounding forested hills make for a peaceful and picturesque journey, perfect for a Sunday afternoon drive. The Feliciana Backroads Trail is also a great way to see some of the rural attractions that West Feliciana Parish has to offer.
6. Ghosts & Legends
If you’re a fan of the spooky season, St. Francisville’s haunted history is sure to intrigue you. From ghost tours to eerie local legends, fall is the perfect time to explore the legendary side of the area.
The Myrtles: Known as one of the most haunted homes in America, The Myrtles is a popular spot for those interested in the paranormal. Take a tour of the plantation, or stay overnight if you’re feeling brave, and hear the stories of ghostly encounters that have been passed down for generations.
Halloween activities: The West Feliciana Sports Park hosts an annual Trunk or Treat for families looking to stock up on holiday treats and show off their best costumes. The Witches Ride is an annual fundraiser and all around witchy time for those that love to don their pointy hats and sleek broomsticks.
Fall in St. Francisville and West Feliciana Parish is a magical time. Whether you’re enjoying the crisp air on a scenic hike, sampling the flavors of the season at a local restaurant, or immersing yourself in the area’s rich history and festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to experience autumn here. So grab a sweater, pack your camera, and come explore the beauty and charm of fall in this corner of Louisiana!
