Did you know that Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site houses one of the most intact, original plantation collections in the United States, with an astonishing 90% of its furniture and artifacts being original to the home? This remarkable preservation offers visitors a rare, authentic glimpse into the antebellum South that few other historic sites can match. Built in 1835 by cotton planters Daniel and Martha Turnbull, this magnificent estate stands as a time capsule of 19th-century plantation life in Louisiana.

Set on 28 acres of meticulously restored formal gardens in St. Francisville, Rosedown Plantation combines stunning architecture, historical significance, and botanical beauty to create an immersive experience for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Let’s explore everything this remarkable state historic site has to offer and how to make the most of your visit.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site is located at 12501 LA-10, St. Francisville, LA 70775, about 45 minutes north of Baton Rouge and approximately 2 hours northwest of New Orleans.

Nearest Airports

• Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) – 57 km (35 miles)
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) – 169 km (105 miles)

By Car

The most convenient way to reach Rosedown Plantation is by car:

• From Baton Rouge: Take I-110 N to US-61 N toward St. Francisville. Continue for about 30 minutes, then turn left onto LA-10. The plantation entrance will be on your right after about 3 km (2 miles).
• From New Orleans: Take I-10 W to I-55 N, then US-61 N toward St. Francisville. Follow signs to LA-10 and the plantation.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Recommended Seasons

• Spring (March to May): The ideal time to visit when the formal gardens burst with color from azaleas, camellias, and other flowering plants. Temperatures range from 18-29°C (65-85°F).
• Fall (October to November): Another excellent time with pleasant temperatures of 15-26°C (60-80°F) and beautiful autumn foliage.

Seasons to Avoid

• Summer (June to September): Extremely hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 32°C (90°F). Garden blooms are past their peak, and outdoor exploration can be uncomfortable.
• Winter (December to February): While milder than northern states, temperatures can drop to 4-15°C (40-60°F). Some garden features may be dormant.

Getting Around Locally

The plantation grounds cover 28 acres, and exploring them requires some walking. Here’s what you need to know about getting around:

• Self-Guided Garden Tours: You can explore the extensive gardens at your own pace. Maps are available at the visitor center.
• Guided House Tours: The main house can only be visited with a guided tour, which runs hourly from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• Accessibility: The gardens feature gravel and brick pathways that may be challenging for wheelchairs. The main floor of the house is wheelchair accessible, but the second floor is not.
• Walking Time: Allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a complete visit, including both the house tour and garden exploration.

Where to Stay

While there’s no accommodation at Rosedown Plantation itself, St. Francisville and the surrounding area offer several charming places to stay:

Dining & Local Cuisine

St. Francisville offers several dining options where you can enjoy authentic Southern and Cajun cuisine:

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities at Rosedown Plantation

The Main House

The centerpiece of Rosedown Plantation is the magnificent main house, a Greek Revival masterpiece completed in 1835. What makes this home truly special is that approximately 90% of the furnishings are original to the Turnbull family, offering an authentic glimpse into plantation life.

• Guided Tours: Expert guides lead hourly tours through the house, sharing fascinating stories about the Turnbull family and plantation life.
• Original Artifacts: Marvel at the European furnishings collected by the Turnbulls during their grand tours, including pieces from France, Italy, and England.
• Architectural Details: Notice the 23-foot ceilings, hand-painted decorative elements, and period-appropriate restoration work.

The Historic Gardens

Martha Turnbull personally designed and supervised the creation of Rosedown’s formal gardens over a 40-year period, keeping detailed garden diaries that guided the modern restoration.

• Formal Parterres: Geometric garden beds featuring seasonal plantings and boxwood hedges.
• Alley of Live Oaks: A stunning avenue of ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss.
• Gazebo and Fountains: Ornamental structures that showcase 19th-century garden design principles.
• Rare Plant Species: The gardens feature numerous historic plant varieties, including camellias and azaleas brought to Louisiana in the 19th century.

Outbuildings and Grounds

Several original and reconstructed outbuildings help tell the complete story of plantation operations:

• Milk House: Used for dairy processing and storage.
• Doctor’s Office: Where a physician would treat family members and enslaved workers.
• Garden Dependency: Housing Martha Turnbull’s garden tools and plant specimens.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

On-Site Museum

The visitor center at Rosedown houses a small but informative museum that provides context for your plantation visit:

• Historical Exhibits: Displays featuring artifacts, photographs, and information about plantation life, the Turnbull family, and the enslaved people who worked the land.
• Martha’s Garden Diaries: Reproductions of Martha Turnbull’s detailed garden journals that guided the restoration of the historic gardens.
• Gift Shop: Offering books on Louisiana history, plantation architecture, and Southern gardening, along with locally made crafts and souvenirs.

Nearby Cultural Attractions

St. Francisville and the surrounding area offer several complementary cultural experiences:

• West Feliciana Historical Society Museum: Located in town, this museum provides broader context about the region’s history. (2.4 km/1.5 miles from Rosedown)
• Audubon State Historic Site: Former home of naturalist John James Audubon, who painted many of his famous bird studies while staying here. (6.1 km/3.8 miles)
• The Myrtles Plantation: Known for its alleged hauntings, this plantation offers historical and mystery tours. (2.7 km/1.7 miles)

Annual Events

If your visit coincides with these events, they can enhance your Rosedown experience:

• Audubon Pilgrimage (March): A weekend celebration of spring with home tours, historical reenactments, and special access to private historic properties.
• Christmas at Rosedown (December): The plantation is decorated in period-appropriate holiday style, with special evening tours by candlelight.
• Southern Garden Symposium (October): Lectures and workshops for garden enthusiasts, often including special tours of Rosedown’s historic gardens.

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Beyond the formal gardens, the natural surroundings of Rosedown and nearby areas offer additional outdoor experiences:

At Rosedown Plantation

• Bird Watching: The gardens and grounds attract numerous bird species, including cardinals, mockingbirds, and seasonal migrants.
• Photography Walks: The changing light throughout the day creates different moods across the property, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
• Seasonal Blooms: Different plants flower throughout the year, with peak displays in spring (azaleas, camellias) and fall (chrysanthemums).

Nearby Natural Areas

The St. Francisville area offers several opportunities to experience Louisiana’s diverse ecosystems:

• Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge: Home to the largest bald cypress tree in the United States, measuring over 25 meters (83 feet) tall and 5 meters (17 feet) in diameter. (11.5 km/7.1 miles)
• Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area: Rare hill country habitat with hiking trails through forests and ravines. (20.3 km/12.6 miles)
• Mary Ann Brown Nature Preserve: A peaceful 45-hectare (110-acre) preserve with walking trails through hardwood forests. (8 km/5 miles)

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Safety Considerations

• Weather Preparedness: Louisiana’s climate can be hot and humid. Bring water, wear sunscreen, and consider a hat, especially when exploring the gardens.
• Insects: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent, particularly in warmer months. Insect repellent is recommended.
• Uneven Surfaces: The garden paths and historic floors may be uneven. Wear appropriate footwear and watch your step.

Photography Guidelines

• Photography for personal use is permitted in most areas of the plantation.
• Flash photography is not allowed inside the main house to protect the historic artifacts.
• Commercial photography requires prior permission from management.

Cultural Context

Rosedown Plantation, like many historic plantations, presents complex history that includes the institution of slavery. The site strives to present a complete historical narrative that acknowledges the contributions and experiences of all people who lived and worked there, including enslaved individuals. Guided tours address this history with sensitivity and historical accuracy.

Visitor Comments About Rosedown Plantation

Additional Nearby Destinations

While in the St. Francisville area, consider visiting these nearby attractions:

Practical Travel Tips

Admission and Tours

• Admission Fee: $12 per adult, $10 for seniors (62+), $6 for students (K-12), free for children under 3.
• Tour Schedule: Guided tours of the main house run hourly from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• Tour Duration: House tours last approximately 45-60 minutes. Allow additional time for exploring the gardens.

Visitor Amenities

• Visitor Center: Includes restrooms, a gift shop, and informational exhibits.
• Accessibility: The visitor center and first floor of the main house are wheelchair accessible. Gardens have gravel paths that may be challenging for some mobility devices.
• Picnic Areas: Limited picnic facilities are available near the parking area.

Planning Your Visit

• Time Needed: Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring the house and gardens.
• Parking: Free parking is available on site.
• Cell Service: Cell phone reception can be spotty in rural St. Francisville. Download maps or information before your visit.

Stepping Back in Time: The Enduring Legacy of Rosedown

Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site offers more than just a glimpse into the past—it provides an immersive journey through one of America’s most well-preserved plantation estates. From the stately main house with its remarkable collection of original furnishings to the meticulously restored gardens that showcase Martha Turnbull’s horticultural vision, every aspect of Rosedown tells a story of Louisiana’s complex history.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, garden lover, architecture buff, or simply seeking to understand more about America’s past, Rosedown delivers an educational and visually stunning experience. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful setting, and thoughtful preservation efforts combine to create a destination that leaves visitors with a deeper appreciation for both the beauty and the complicated legacy of plantation life in the antebellum South.

As you plan your visit to Louisiana, make Rosedown Plantation a priority stop on your journey. The magnificent oaks, historic architecture, and stories of those who lived and worked here will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.