New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation, Houmas House & Lunch

A visit to Louisiana’s historic plantations offers a window into the grandeur and complex past of the Antebellum South. This 7.5-hour guided tour from New Orleans, priced at $219 per person, takes you to Destrehan Plantation, the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi River valley, and Houmas House, known locally as The Sugar Palace. The tour is designed for those interested in architecture, history, and authentic Louisiana cuisine, featuring full guided visits to both historic mansions, a gourmet Creole lunch, and scenic drives through sugar cane fields.

The tour combines engaging storytelling from enthusiastic guides with carefully selected stops, making it a well-rounded experience of the region’s opulent past and rural beauty. While the focus is on history and architecture, the delicious Creole lunch with a variety of entrees and desserts adds a flavorful highlight. It’s worth noting that the tour is limited to 13 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.

Key Points

• Visit two of Louisiana’s most historic plantations: Destrehan and Houmas House, with guides leading you through each mansion’s interiors and gardens.
• Learn about the 1811 Slave Revolt at Destrehan, plus the history of the oldest plantation in the Mississippi River valley.
• Enjoy a full gourmet Creole lunch in a grand dining hall, with options like shrimp Po’ Boy and grilled chicken Caesar salad.
• Experience scenic drives along the Mississippi River, Lake Pontchartrain, and through miles of sugar cane fields with narration about Louisiana’s geography.
• Small group setting (up to 13 people) guarantees personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Includes entrance fees to both plantations, guided tours, and taxes, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.

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The Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in New Orleans in a 13-seater high-roof van. The driver, known for being enthusiastic and knowledgeable, sets the tone with lively narration as you head upriver. The drive offers views of Lake Pontchartrain and stretches of sugar cane fields, providing context about Louisiana’s landscape and history.

Guides share insights about the geography, geology, and historic significance of the region, making the journey as educational as the stops. This setup ensures guests are comfortable and well-informed before stepping onto the plantations.

Destrehan Plantation: The Oldest Mississippi River Valley Plantation

Destrehan Plantation, constructed in 1787, is the first major stop. As the oldest documented plantation in the region, it offers a vivid glimpse into Louisiana’s early plantation life. The site is especially notable for its connection to Charles Deslondes, who led the 1811 Slave Revolt. Visitors learn about the dramatic outcome of this uprising, adding depth to the historical narrative.

The guided tour of the mansion reveals interior rooms filled with period antiques and shares stories about life on the plantation. Outside, the gardens and grounds display historic architecture and lush landscaping, perfect for photo opportunities. The site also features informative exhibits about the revolt and plantation history.

Passing the Ruins of Tezcuco Plantation on the Old Mississippi Road

After Destrehan, the journey continues upstream along the old Mississippi River road. The drive offers views of Tezcuco Plantation ruins, where guides recount its history and significance. This stop, though in ruins, adds a layer of rural Louisiana charm and historical context to the trip.

The drive between plantations underscores the regional importance of sugar cane cultivation and the landscape that shaped plantation life. This stretch of the tour connects the historical dots between different plantations along the Mississippi.

Houmas House: The “Sugar Palace” with Greek Revival Elegance

Houmas House, often called The Sugar Palace, is renowned for its distinct architecture, which reflects a blend of styles from the 1840s. The mansion’s Greek Revival design and opulent interiors showcase Louisiana’s plantation wealth and craftsmanship.

Guests enjoy a guided visit led by guides dressed in period attire, who walk through rooms decorated with antiques and Louisiana artwork. The gardens surrounding Houmas House are equally impressive, shaded by ancient oaks and carefully landscaped for a tranquil stroll.

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Gourmet Creole Lunch in the Grand Dining Hall

A highlight of the tour is the full Creole lunch served in the mansion’s elegant dining hall. The meal includes home-baked bread, butter, and a choice of entrees such as shrimp Po’ Boy, grilled chicken Caesar salad, or vegetarian pasta. The dessert options include White Chocolate Bread Pudding and Turtle Creole Cream Cheese Cheesecake.

The lunch experience offers a taste of authentic Louisiana cuisine in a setting that reflects the grandeur of the region’s plantation lifestyle. For an extra touch of Southern flair, Mint Juleps are available for purchase.

Exploring Houmas House Gardens and Gift Shop

After lunch, visitors are encouraged to stroll through the gardens that form the estate’s picturesque backdrop. The gardens feature shaded pathways and scenic views of the mansion, making it a perfect spot for photos and relaxation.

The gift shop offers souvenirs, Louisiana artwork, and plantation-themed keepsakes, giving visitors a chance to take home a memento of their experience.

Small Group Dynamics and Practical Details

The tour’s small group size (limited to 13 participants) ensures a personalized experience. The hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward, and entrance fees to both plantations are included.

The tour operates rain or shine, with ponchos and golf umbrellas provided if needed. It has a duration of 7.5 hours, making it a comprehensive day trip, with timing arranged to fit various schedules.

Guests should be aware that luggage, large bags, and non-folding wheelchairs are not permitted, and there is limited walking involved at the plantation sites.

Why This Tour Excels: Guides, Food, and Views

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Gisele and Renee, who make the history come alive with engaging storytelling. The lunch is often highlighted as delicious and well-presented, especially the Creole flavors.

The scenic drives along the Mississippi River and through sugar cane fields offer a visual feast, complementing the historical insights. The small group setting and comprehensive visit to two plantations make this tour a solid choice for those interested in architecture, history, and Louisiana cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in New Orleans.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is 7.5 hours, offering enough time for visits, lunch, and scenic drives.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $219 per person, including entrance fees, lunch, and taxes.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Guests should inform the local tour operator of food allergies or dietary restrictions at the time of booking, as the lunch menu might vary.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves limited walking around the two houses. It does not accommodate non-collapsible wheelchairs, but limited mobility guests who can use a van seat or carry a collapsed wheelchair may participate.

What should I wear or bring?
Guests should wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring an umbrella or poncho if rain is expected.

Can I purchase alcohol during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are not included, but Mint Juleps can be bought separately at Houmas House.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it suits those interested in history, architecture, and local cuisine. However, physical activity is limited, so check individual needs beforehand.

This guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Louisiana’s historic plantations, blending architecture, history, and culinary delights. With expert guides, scenic drives, and a gourmet Creole lunch, it forms a well-rounded day for anyone eager to learn about the region’s cultural richness.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby