New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation, Houmas House & Lunch
Southern United States, New Orleans
Take a guided tour of the Destrehan Plantation, the 1811 Slave Revolt Exhibit, and Houmas House & Gardens. Stop for a gourmet Creole lunch in a grand dining hall.
This guided plantation tour departs from New Orleans and suits history enthusiasts interested in Antebellum South architecture and Louisiana culture.
Highlights
- Learn about the opulent splendor of the Antebellum South
- Marvel at contrasting architecture styles from the 1840s
- Discover the interiors of three different plantation mansions
- Experience Louisiana cuisine with a gourmet lunch
- See rural Louisiana, including sugar cane fields
Description
After hotel pickup in New Orleans aboard a 13-seater high-roof van, an enthusiastic historian driver-guide narrates a scenic drive upriver to two plantations on the Mississippi River. Along the way, you will pass Lake Pontchartrain’s shores and extensive cane fields, learning about Louisiana’s geography, geology, and history.
Your first stop is Destrehan Plantation, the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi River valley, built in 1787. Discover the site’s history, including the 1811 Slave Revolt led by Charles Deslondes and its outcome.
Next, visit Whitney Plantation for a self-guided audio walking tour that reveals raw historical facts and the harsh realities of slavery. See slave cabins, a freedmen’s church, a detached kitchen, and the 1790s owner’s house. The tour includes the Museum of Slavery, which details the lives of enslaved people on the property for over 100 years.
The journey continues upriver along the old Mississippi River road, passing Evergreen, St Joseph, Felicity, and Oak Alley Plantations. You will also see the ruins of Tezcuco Plantation while learning about its history.
Arrive at Houmas House, known as 'The Sugar Palace,' for a gourmet Creole lunch in a grand dining hall. Mint Juleps are available for purchase.
After lunch, enjoy a guided visit of the Greek Revival mansion led by guides in period dress. Explore rooms with period antiques and Louisiana artwork, then stroll the gardens beneath ancient oaks before visiting the gift shop.
Sample Lunch Menu
The buffet includes iced tea or a soft drink, dessert, and coffee. Menu items are subject to seasonal changes.
- Caesar Salad (gluten-free without croutons): Romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan cheese
Entrees
- Chicken and Andouille Sausage Gumbo - dark roux gumbo with chicken and pork sausage
- Chili Glazed Roasted Chicken (GF) - roasted chicken with sweet and spicy chili pepper glaze
- Fried Catfish (GF) - crispy catfish fried in corn flour served with tartar and cocktail sauces
- Crawfish Étouffée and Pasta - Louisiana crawfish stew
- Red Beans and Rice (GF) - slow-cooked red beans with smoked pork sausage and steamed rice
- Corn Maque Choux (GF) - Louisiana smothered corn
Dessert
- White Chocolate Bread Pudding served with brown sugar glaze
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Enthusiastic historian driver-guide with narration
- Entrance fees to all three plantation mansions and gardens
- Full gourmet lunch
- Taxes
Excludes
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips
Important Information
- This is a small group tour limited to 13 people
- Tour operates rain or shine; ponchos and golf umbrellas are provided if needed
- Notify the tour operator of any food allergies or dietary restrictions when booking
- Vans cannot accommodate non-collapsible wheelchairs; limited accommodation available for those who can use a van seat and carry collapsed wheelchairs or walkers
- The tour involves limited walking around two houses
- Pickup time will be confirmed by the local operator at least 48 hours before the tour
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and plan to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
