New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation Tour

Gulf Coast, USA, New Orleans



Tour the oldest documented plantation in the lower Mississippi Valley and the most historical. Only 25 minutes away from New Orleans and 10 minutes away from the New Orleans International Airport.

Destrehan Plantation Tour near New Orleans

Visit Louisiana's oldest plantation, located 25 minutes from Downtown New Orleans, suitable for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore Louisiana's oldest plantation and learn about the American slave trade
  • View an original document signed by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison
  • Experience a guided tour with a descendant of Jean Destrehan (optional)
  • Photograph live oak trees draped with Spanish moss on the grounds

Tour Description

Upon arrival, enter through the Destrehan Plantation store and gift shop. Exit through the back door onto the grounds where you will meet a personal interpreter to begin the tour. The interpreter shares stories about the people who lived on the plantation, both free and enslaved.

See the original document signed by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, and learn its significance in Louisiana history. You may choose a guided tour led by a descendant of Jean Destrehan, providing insight into the various peoples who shaped the 'German Coast.'

After the house tour, enjoy a folk-life demonstration and explore dependency buildings including:

  • Slave cabin with enslavement registry
  • Overseer's cabin featuring the 1811 Slave Revolt and Rost Home Colony exhibits
  • Outdoor kitchen and washroom
  • Trapper's cabin
  • Legacy Room with original documents and family artifacts

Includes

  • Entrance fees
  • Free parking

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Gratuities

Important Information

  • Scooters are not allowed inside the plantation home

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, wear comfortable shoes and plan your visit during daylight hours. Advance booking is recommended during weekends and holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Destrehan Plantation Tour is a guided visit to Louisiana's oldest plantation, located just 25 minutes from Downtown New Orleans, focusing on local heritage and the American slave trade.
Destrehan Plantation is located about a 25-minute drive from Downtown New Orleans along the Mississippi River.
Visitors can view an original document signed by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison during the Destrehan Plantation Tour.
It takes approximately 25 minutes to drive from Downtown New Orleans to Destrehan Plantation.
Yes, the tour is ideal for history enthusiasts interested in Louisiana's heritage and the American slave trade.
Yes, guests can photograph live oak trees draped with Spanish moss and other features on the plantation grounds.
It is recommended to check the official website for booking details and availability before visiting from New Orleans.
Visitors should follow the plantation’s guidelines to preserve the site, with details provided upon booking or arrival.
The tour covers Louisiana's oldest plantation history, the American slave trade, and local cultural heritage near New Orleans.
Accessibility details should be confirmed on the plantation’s website, as provisions may vary.

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