Discover how elegant Old New Orleans differed from the countryside on a Louisiana plantation tour along the Great River Road. Be sure to allow half a day to explore and experience one of these beautifully preserved antebellum mansions. They only tell part of the story about the agricultural heart of the state. Visitors are usually most interested in discovering how the lives of plantation owners differed from that of their slaves.
Start Preparing a Louisiana Plantation Visit In New Orleans
If you’re visiting New Orleans, wander into the main museum of the Historic New Orleans Collection in the French Quarter. This is the place to study historic documents and wonderful old maps up till the Louisiana Purchase. The changing fortunes and boundaries between French, Spanish and American masters in the region is fascinating. Adults will find it a helpful background on plantation tours.
Drive or hop a streetcar along St. Charles Avenue for self-guided look at the picturesque Garden District. We loved rumbling past hundreds of stunning homes. Admire the alleys of enormous Live Oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Note all the manicured gardens tucked behind walls of pink and white crepe myrtle. The 13-mile-long St. Charles Avenue trolley provides a memorable and bargain tour of the district and its manor houses.
Choosing the Louisiana Plantation Tour That Interests the Family
Size is what makes the Louisiana plantations different from other local architecture. Farmers planted large parcels along the Mississippi River stretching up to Lake Pontchartrain. Plantations flourished growing on cotton, sugar cane and other crops vital to the region’s economy.
Plantation tours reveal how the plantation owners lived and how their homes are used today. Read on to decide which one or two to visit. Get the kids involved in the choice and they’ll be much better companions on the tour.
Here are some of our favorites, though newly restored plantations may be open at your visit.
Evergreen, A Living Sugar Plantation in Vacherie
Eager to see the Mississippi of Huck Finn, we drove about one-and-a-half-hours’ south to River Road in Vacherie. At Evergreen, we joined a fascinating 90-minute Louisiana plantation tour of what was originally a sugar plantation’s Great House. Farmers still operate as a sugar plantation to this day. The successful immigrant German farm family who built it learned from the local Creoles how to build. They constructed this Louisiana plantation above ground to avoid flooding. High-ceiling rooms vented the heat, and deep covered porches shaded all the walls.
They rebuilt the Evergeen you see today, the French Parterre, during the 1830’s. The classic Greek Revival home dates to the same era as slaves brought in to help with the land. Therefore, this Louisiana plantation tour provides more insight into social history than architecture. Evergreen claims to be the most intact plantation complex in the South with 37 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, including 22 slave cabins.
The kids loved the Garconnieres. These adjacent cottages were reserved for boys once they became teens, and could no longer sleep 10 to a bed with sisters. Evergreen’s slave quarters and other out buildings, intact and restored, are also well worthwhile.
Oak Alley, Hollywood Plantation on the Mississippi
Nearby is Oak Alley, a much haughtier version of Louisiana plantation life. It was originally scoffed at by locals as belonging to “Americans.” That’s because those who settled after the Louisiana Purchase paid little regard to the native Creole building styles.
Oak Alley is often photographed for it entryway allee of 28 majestic Live Oak trees. They predate the brick mansion at their head and governed its style. This plantation tour reveals Oak Alley’s own tale of woe and fallen fortunes. Children will appreciate the costumed tour guides and their anecdotes of that era. Teens will like hearing that Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt have both slept here (Interview With The Vampire.) Guides also share tales of the production of other things, from Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte to Primary Colors, filmed there, too.
In keeping with our quest for Southern culture, we stayed to dine at their popular restaurant. The plantation’s Oyster Po’Boy sandwiches came on thick soft buns filled with fried breaded oysters, sliced tomatoes and heaps of sweet mayonnaise. If you’re really into the days of old, you can rent one of nine century-old cottages on the property. Or, join one of the many escorted tours that depart from New Orleans. They provide a brief overview of the plantation economy during its heyday.
Laura Plantation, Where Slave Quarters Tell the Story
The Laura Plantation focuses on the Louisiana Creole lifestyle. Louisiana plantation tours began focusing on the fascinating slave quarters after fire destroyed the main house. Guided tours now showcase the history of four generations of women, both free and enslaved, who lived there.
Did you know that after Emancipation, many plantation slaves stayed on to farm their ancestral homes as paid laborers? Of course, times were hard for many and there were few choices for Blacks. The Laura Plantation’s tour guides give a very moving account of their daily lives.
Destrehan Plantation, Founded by French Nobility
In 1787, the colony’s treasurer to the King of France, Jean Baptiste Destrehan, built the largest sugar plantation in Saint Mary’s Parish. It was an eight-mile plot between the Mississippi and the Lake which took his name. Neglect ravaged the original Destrehan. Many changes included ownership by a freed slave. A terrific plantation tour makes the fully restored Greek Revival house an interesting attraction. We learned how the owners’ children would eat with the house cook and slaves. Not only did they dine together, everyone worked together to make the harvest a success.
There is a “hands-off” one-hour house tour. Kids, however, most appreciate the rambling grounds and enormous Live Oaks draped in Spanish moss. Check for daily demonstrations, ranging from traditional African-American herbal medicine to woodworking or indigo dyeing. It’s one of the closest properties to New Orleans — accessible by Lyft or Uber. Several scenes from 12 Years A Slave were filmed at Destrehan.
Whitney Plantation Focuses on The Story of the Enslaved
This non-profit Louisiana Plantation focuses on the history of slavery, both at the site and in the southeast region of the state. At no cost, you can tour their exhibits on the trans-Atlantic slave trade and slavery in Louisiana. The Whitney was an active plantation that produced sugar, indigo and rice between 1752-1975. Lifelike bronze statues who appear in many settings throughout the plantation tour bring the era to life.
Foreign visitors appreciate that the self-guided audio tour is available in six languages, to better explain more than 12 historic structures. They also offer interpreter-guided tours and have staff on hand to answer your questions. The public is welcome to peruse their extensive research database to discover the background and family relationships among the enslaved living there.
Several Families Worked to Restore St. Joseph Plantation
Louisiana Creoles built the Saint Joseph Plantation in 1830. The main house at 1,000-acre sugar plantation was for the plantation’s French doctor. Other prominent local families such as Josephine Ferry used it. Joseph Waguespack bought it after the Civil War. His descendants who have restored it authentically.
St. Joseph’s, a modest size house, showcases the sugar cane industry. Learn about the daily lives of slaves as seen through its slave cabins and remaining out buildings. Look out for the “Mourning Tours” in which they have live characters portraying some of the people that lived at St. Joseph and their mourning customs.
Trip Planning Details for a Louisiana Plantation Tour
You can dive into Louisiana’s plantation culture for a few hours or a long weekend, depending on your family’s appetite. Be sure to double check websites when planning, since most homes are closed at least one day of the week. Some have reduced hours in the summer; many have holiday celebrations with festive decor during winter.
Visit Louisiana Plantations for more information on the variety of plantations open for tours. Here are rural accommodations and hotels between New Orleans and Baton Rouge that are nearby.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
1 Reply to “Best Family Plantation Tours Along Louisiana’s Great River Road”
Comment on this article
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Harbin Ice Festival seems exciting. I want to join.
Hello! I’ve been following your web site
for some tme now and finally got the bravry to go
ahead and give you a shout out from Austin Texas!
Just wanted to mention keep up the fantastic job!
wow ..enjoyed.looking forward for next blog..
Choosing the Best Travel Backpack is essential for a pleasant experience. Pick based on your travel needs, style, and interests. You may confidently and easily plan for your next vacation with the best travel backpack.
I want to do this type of ski , because I want to do this activity one time in our life
Thanks for finally talking about >Family Cruise Vacations Directory: Setting Sail for a Fun Adventure <Liked it!
Thank you so much for your great article..This is giving us clues for our future tourism perspective and keeping us updated.. Thanks a lot.
Hello! I could have sworn I’ve visited your blog before but after going through many of the posts I realized it’s new to me. Anyways, I’m definitely delighted I came across it and I’ll be bookmarking it and checking back often!
Thank you for providing these details.
My brother recommended I might like this website. He was totaly right.
This post actually made my day. You cann’t imagine just how much time I
had spent for this information! Thanks!
whoah this weblog is wonderful i like studying your articles.
Keep up the great work! You understand, many people are searching round for
this information, you could hellp them greatly.
Have you ever thought about writing an ebook or guest authoring on other blogs?
I have a blog based upon on the same topics you discuss and would love to have you share some stories/information. I know my subscribers would
value your work. If you are even remotely interested, feel free to shoot me an e-mail.
Planning a bucket-list adventure? Let’s dive in! From secret flight deals to off-peak gems, these hacks are our compass. Picture sunrise hikes, hidden cafes, and maps scribbled with dreams. So pack light, dream big, and let the world unfold, one hack at a time!
In the quiet of night, meteors streak across the sky, a celestial dance choreographed by the universe. And then there are fairy rings, circles of mushrooms, whispered secrets from the forest floor. But amidst these wonders, there’s another magic: fatherhood. It’s like RVing through life, a journey of discovery, laughter, and love. So let’s embrace the art of wonder, both cosmic and familial.
As a family, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the planet. From reusable water bottles to supporting local artisans, our journey leaves a gentle footprint. Let’s explore, learn, and protect—because sustainable travel isn’t just a trend; it’s our legacy.
Picture this: wheels rolling, laptop humming, and the open road as our office. For a year, our family worked remotely from our cozy camper. It wasn’t just about Wi-Fi signals; it was about sunrises over mountains, campfire brainstorming, and shared laughter. We learned that work isn’t confined to cubicles, it’s wherever our hearts roam.
In Salem, MA, October casts a bewitching spell. Amid historic streets, the Witches of Salem weave magic—psychic fairs, spirited soirees, and sacred rites. It’s a season where history whispers, and the veil between worlds thins.
As a family, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the planet. From reusable water bottles to supporting local artisans, our journey leaves a gentle footprint. Let’s explore, learn, and protect—because sustainable travel isn’t just a trendk, it’s our legacy.
When wanderlust calls, these sites answer. From Expedia to Kayak, they weave magic into your getaways. Picture flights, hotels, and car rental. All bundled up like a gift waiting to be unwrapped. So go ahead, chase sunsets and collect memories. Your dream vacation awaits!
Picture this: snow-capped peaks, crisp air, and the thrill of gliding down pristine slopes. That’s what awaits at South America’s ski resorts. From Chile’s Portillo to Argentina’s Cerro Catedral, these resorts weave magic for snow enthusiasts. So grab your gear, chase the powder, and let the Andes embrace you!
Legoland California isn’t just a theme park; it’s a canvas where kids paint their dreams with Lego bricks. From the Technic Coaster’s gentle thrill to the Dragon Coaster’s whimsical castle ride, every moment is a memory etched in joy. And as parents? We pedal, laugh, and become part of the magic. Legoland, you’ve got our hearts, one brick at a time!
Summer vacations are a canvas for unforgettable family adventures. From exploring Alaska’s glaciers to savoring Parisian cuisine the possibilities are endless.
Watching rocket launches is an exhilarating experience that fuels our curiosity about the cosmos. ? Whether you’re at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida or gazing from afar the thrill of liftoff transcends age and ignites wonder.
Celestyal Cruises offers an unforgettable journey to the heart of Greece and the Mediterranean. With warm hospitality, authentic experiences, and award-winning service, they make every moment aboard a heavenly escape.
Awesome places to go to
This post iis priceless. How can I find out more?
Excellent site. Plenty of useful information here. 68971741
Love travelling with my family as well! Thank you for sharing your stories!
Insightful and useful – that’s what I admire about
your posts. This one on this subject is no different.
The tips and recommendations you offer are practical and create
a real impact.
Heya i’m forr the firsxt time here. I came across this board and I find It
really usefu & it helped me out much. I hope to give something back and aid
others like you aided me.
Very nice article, totally what I was looking for.
check out this best tours in Canada for you or for your family https://seasonalholidaysinn.com/
A very helpful website! A good article to share the beautiful places suitable for all types of vacations.
La meilleure facon de s’enrichir rapidement !
A good website! A good article to share the beautiful places suitable for Spring Break. I think Tibet China, is also a good place for Spring Break.
Greetings! Very useful advice in this particular article!
It’s the little changes that make the biggest changes. Thanks
a lot for sharing!
Thank you for posting this.
For family travel I would advise to go to Switzerland. For example, the Berner Oberland is perfect also for kids. Best place I’ve ever been.
They have made significant investments in technology upgrades, port and destination projects, and more to achieve net carbon-neutral operations. They have committed to using innovative solutions to reduce their carbon footprint, including using new propulsion fuels and special hull paint to reduce friction. They are also working with ports to support their shore power development efforts.
Planning an Alaska adventure can be a daunting task but it sounds like you’re looking for some fun activities for kids in Alaska. The trip is guaranteed to be one for the memory books. Carnival cruise passengers get an up-close view of glaciers on an Alaska adventure aboard Native American canoes.
Galveston is a great place for family reunions. If you’re looking for a fun and affordable place to host your family reunion, Galveston is definitely worth considering!
This trip is designed to provide a fun and engaging experience for the whole family, with activities that cater to both kids and adults. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable family vacation, a family magic rafting trip is definitely worth considering!
If you’re looking for a unique and indulgent way to explore Halong Bay, the Ambassador Overnight Cruise is definitely worth considering!
If you’re looking for a unique and sustainable adventure that your family will never forget, UnCruise Adventures is definitely worth considering!
It sounds like you’re looking for a last-minute summer vacation deal. You can find some great deals on destinations across the USA, from California to Florida, New York, Las Vegas, and more. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and plan around 6 weeks ahead of departure. You may even find incredible deals on last-minute vacations up to 1 week before you plan to travel if you are flexible with your destination. From budget-friendly breaks to vacations that are all about pure indulgence.
It sounds like San Diego is offering some great deals and fun festivals for kids. Some of the attractions that are offering free admission for kids include the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego. Additionally, there are other fun activities such as axe throwing and film festivals that are sure to keep kids entertained. If you’re looking for a fun family outing, San Diego is definitely worth considering!