The town of Jackson, Louisiana, is approximately 20 miles northeast of the state capital of Baton Rouge. The area has rolling hills, several historic plantation-style homes, and museums and attractions, including Centenary College, Old Hickory Railroad and the Republic of West Florida Museum, showcasing Civil War and military artifacts. Inns and bed-and-breakfast establishments are prevalent in the area, offering generous full breakfasts and plenty of Southern hospitality.
Located in the scenic country hills of historic Jackson, the Old Centenary Inn features eight guest rooms and suites decorated with antiques. Each room has its own private bathroom with Jacuzzi for two, a cable television with VCR, a telephone, and available high-speed, wireless Internet access. For that special occasion, indulge in a "Romantic Fantasy Suite," a larger guest room complete with a private balcony. The inn serves a free, hot Southern breakfast each morning in its dining room, and boasts a ballroom, and a secluded courtyard. The inn also serves an afternoon tea, complete with homemade pastries and fresh fruit each Thursday through Sunday afternoon. Attractions within walking distance include Centenary College, built in 1832, Old Hickory Railroad, Feliciana Cellars Winery, and the Republic of West Florida Museum. Antiques shopping and restaurants, such as the Surrey Restaurant, are also within walking distance. As of October 2010, daily room rates range between $105 to $135.
Old Centenary Inn
1740 Charter St.
Jackson, LA 70748
225-634-5050
oldcentenaryinn.com
Rated as one of "National Geographic Travelers Magazine's Top 25 Southern Hotels," the secluded Millbank Bed and Breakfast is an historic Greek revival-style mansion built in 1836. The Millbank is a so-called Southern plantation experience, with its columned exterior, large shuttered windows and dual-level porches. The bed-and-breakfast features four guest rooms, decorated with antiques, and private bathrooms. Enjoy a complimentary "Plantation Breakfast" each morning in the dining room, and spend a lazy afternoon relaxing or reading on the porch, or in the serene garden area. Walk to the shops and sample local fare at the Surrey Restaurant or Bobby's Drive Inn. As of October 2010, daily room rates start at $115.
Millbank Bed and Breakfast
3045 Bank St.
Jackson, LA 70748
225-634-5901
milbankbandb.com
Located approximately 12 miles southwest of Jackson in the community of St. Francisville, the St. Francisville Inn is one of the most popular bed-and-breakfast establishments in the area. Built in the 1880s, this Victorian Gothic-style historic home offers 10 guest rooms attached to the main house by wide porches, with all rooms opening onto a secluded courtyard and outdoor swimming pool area. Guest rooms are furnished with antiques and replicas, and feature complimentary high-speed, wireless Internet access, cable televisions, direct-dial telephones and private bathrooms. The inn has a bar and lounge, the Wine Parlor, and serves a complimentary, full breakfast each morning in the dining room. As of October 2010, daily room rates start at $90. Seven magnificent plantation homes, all open to the public, are located within a 20-minute drive of the property.
St. Francisville Inn
5720 Commerce St.
St. Francisville, LA 70775
800-488-6502
stfrancisvilleinn.com