Small-Group Louisiana Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

Key Points

• Full-day small-group experience limited to 12 participants ensures an intimate visit to two historic plantations.
• Visits to Destrehan Plantation and Houmas House showcase stunning architecture, lush gardens, and significant history.
• Gourmet buffet lunch included, offering local dishes such as gumbo, catfish, and bread pudding, with vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free options.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics seamless, with transport in a comfortable 14-passenger van.
• Expert guides share engaging stories, including the 1811 slave revolt exhibit and details about the homes’ architectural features.
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 score from 126 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and delicious food, recommended by 95%.

Exploring the Louisiana Plantations: An Authentic Day of History and Elegance

This small-group Louisiana plantations tour from New Orleans offers an immersive look into the antebellum South, combining history, architecture, and Southern hospitality. Priced at $189.00 per person and lasting approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, it stands out for its personalized experience—limited to just 12 people—making it ideal for those seeking a more intimate visit.

The tour starts with hotel pickup, making the day hassle-free. Over the course of the day, you visit Destrehan Plantation, the oldest documented plantation home in the Mississippi Valley, followed by Houmas House—a grand estate brimming with antiques, artwork, and lush gardens. The inclusion of a gourmet buffet lunch sets this tour apart, offering a true taste of Southern cuisine amid scenic surroundings.

Destrehan Plantation: The Oldest Documented Plantation Home in the Mississippi Valley

At Destrehan Plantation, the tour features a guided tour led by a costumed guide, bringing the estate’s history to life. The mansion’s Greek Revival architecture is meticulously restored, and the guides share stories of its past owners and the lives of enslaved people who worked there.

A significant highlight at Destrehan is the 1811 Slave Revolt exhibit, which provides a somber but important perspective on the estate’s history. Visitors are encouraged to explore the vibrant gardens and oak-shaded paths at their own pace after the guided tour, taking in the peaceful scenery that contrasts with the estate’s complex history.

The admission to the 1811 Slave Revolt Exhibit is included, providing further insight into this pivotal event. The overall experience lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a comprehensive yet manageable part of the day.

Houmas House: The Sugar Palace with Art, Gardens, and Movie History

Following Destrehan, the tour makes its way upriver to Houmas House Plantation, a site known for its lavish architecture, extensive art collection, and beautiful gardens. Visitors enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch in the grand dining hall, featuring dishes like chicken and Andouille gumbo, cornmeal fried catfish, and white chocolate bread pudding.

After lunch, the group explores the house’s decorated rooms, which display a mix of original antiques and artwork. The guide shares stories about the estate’s history, including its architecture and notable occupants. Visitors can also see the room where Bette Davis stayed during filming of “Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte”, adding a touch of Hollywood history to the experience.

The Houmas House tour lasts about 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the grounds, take photos, and relax on the scenic estate.

Guided Transportation and Small-Group Comfort

Transport is provided in an air-conditioned 14-passenger van, ensuring comfort throughout the approximately 1-hour ride between stops. The small size of the group guarantees a more personal experience, with guides able to answer questions thoroughly and provide tailored commentary.

The pickup time is typically around 8:30 am, and the entire day wraps up with drop-off at your hotel in New Orleans, leaving you free to explore further or rest after the day’s sightseeing.

The Gourmet Lunch: A Southern Feast

The included buffet lunch at Houmas House offers unlimited servings of local Southern dishes, with vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free options available. Standout menu items include shrimp and mushroom pasta, roasted vegetables, and the classic bread pudding dessert.

Guests report the lunch as delicious and generous, providing a true taste of Southern hospitality in a relaxed setting. The meal is served without rush, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the day’s history.

Expert Guides Make History Come Alive

Multiple reviews highlight the value of knowledgeable guides, especially praising Giselle and Rene for their storytelling skills, humor, and depth of knowledge. Guides explain the architectural details, the history of the estates, and the significance of the slave revolts with clarity and sensitivity.

Guides also share fun facts, such as details about the filming location of “Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte” at Houmas House, adding a layer of Hollywood lore to the tour.

Flexibility and Accessibility Features

This tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received within 48 hours and options for gluten-free and vegetarian meals. Service animals are permitted, and the tour is near public transportation. The maximum group size of 12 participants ensures a comfortable, unrushed experience.

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, making this tour flexible and low-risk for spontaneous plans.

Review Highlights and Overall Satisfaction

With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 126 reviews, the tour consistently earns praise for its excellent value, friendly guides, and delicious food. Reviewers particularly appreciate the small-group atmosphere, which fosters personal connections and detailed storytelling.

Guests also note the well-organized schedule, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the surroundings without feeling hurried. The lunch receives frequent compliments, often described as home-style Southern cooking that complements the historic experience.

The Tour’s Strengths and Considerations

The main strengths of this tour include expert guides, scenic routes, and the chance to see two very different plantations—Destrehan’s historical architecture and Houmas House’s grandeur and art. The gourmet buffet offers a genuine culinary experience, adding extra value.

However, a few reviews mention that lunch duration can be tight for some, as the buffet is sometimes nearly empty during peak times. Travelers should consider arriving hungry and prepared for a full, enriching day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in the deep South’s culture. It’s perfect for visitors who prefer a small-group setting and appreciate well-informed guides. Food lovers will also enjoy the authentic Southern buffet, making it a comprehensive cultural day trip.

Final Thoughts on the Louisiana Plantations Tour

The Small-Group Louisiana Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and Southern cuisine. The combination of expert guides, intimate group size, and delicious lunch makes it a highly recommended choice for those wanting a meaningful and comfortable day exploring Louisiana’s antebellum past.

While some may wish for slightly longer meal times, the overall experience delivers excellent value and a personalized glimpse into the grandeur and complexities of the Old South. This tour is especially suited to travelers who prioritize small-group intimacy and rich storytelling during their historical excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, including travel, visits, and meals.

What is included in the price?
The price of $189.00 per person includes guided tours of Destrehan and Houmas House, a gourmet buffet lunch, admission to the 1811 Slave Revolt exhibit, hotel pickup and drop-off, and transport in a comfortable van.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free lunch options are available.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers for a more personal experience.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Yes, but in case of poor weather, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or a different date.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Who leads the tour?
Guides such as Giselle and Rene are praised for their knowledgeable, engaging, and friendly approach.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your New Orleans hotel are included, with convenient transportation in a 14-passenger van.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small-group setting, expert guides, two distinct plantations, and delicious Southern buffet all contribute to an engaging, comfortable, and educational experience.