New Orleans: Houmas House Plantation Tour
Orleans Parish, New Orleans
Drive just under 1 hour to the heart of plantation country and visit the Crown Jewel of Louisiana’s River Road. Guides in period dress lead you through the fully restored mansion, educating you about life on this plantation in the 1800s.
Houmas House Estate near New Orleans offers guided mansion tours and expansive garden visits, ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Hands-on mansion tour with full access to every room
- Expansive gardens open for self-paced exploration
- Opportunities to photograph grand architecture and colorful gardens
Description
Visiting Houmas House Estate provides an immersive experience exploring Louisiana plantation architecture, culture, and agriculture shaped by the Mississippi River. This sugarcane plantation offers insight into 1800s plantation life.
Located about one hour from New Orleans along the lower Mississippi River, the mansion has been restored to reflect its antebellum 1880s wealth. Costumed guides lead a one-hour tour through 250 years of history, focusing on the architectural evolution and plantation life supported by rare period artwork and artifacts.
The 38-acre gardens are open for self-guided tours, featuring water elements, secluded garden areas, sculptures, and ancient Live Oak trees. Ample shaded spots provide places to rest and take in the surroundings.
Film enthusiasts may recognize Houmas House as a location for the 1964 film 'Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte' and scenes from the 2019 film 'The Green Book.' The estate also has a reputation for unexplained paranormal events.
Includes
- 1-hour guided mansion tour
- Full access to 38 acres of gardens
- Self-guided garden tour
- Local taxes
Excludes
- Transportation to the plantation
- Food and drinks
- Gift shop merchandise
Important Information
- Allow at least 3 hours to fully experience the property
- Photography is permitted throughout the house and grounds
- On-site restaurant open daily until 8:00 PM
- Lunch buffet available at an additional cost
- Lunch and dinner served seven days a week, walk-ins accepted
- Visitors must arrange their own transportation
- Dogs on leash are allowed on the grounds, but may need to wait outside if other guests are uncomfortable
- All main plantations including Houmas House are about a 1-hour drive from New Orleans
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and plan your visit during daylight hours to fully explore the gardens.
