Small-Group Louisiana Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience a pilgrimage back in time to the Antebellum South on this small-group van tour. Visit two Louisiana plantations, including an elegant lunch at Houmas House on the famous Mississippi River Road! Enjoy a narrated scenic drive out of New Orleans and along the shores of Lake Ponchartrain.
Available options
Destrehan and Houmas House
Pickup included
What's included
Guided tour of Houmas House plantation
Guided admission to 1811 Slave Revolt Exhibit at Destrehan
Transport by air-conditioned 14-passenger van
Guided tour of Destrehan plantation
Hotel pickup and drop-off, with exact pick up time provided
Unlimited gourmet buffet lunch with gratuity (vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Travel to the historic Destrehan Plantation on Louisiana's Old River Road for a guided tour. During your tour of Destrehan Plantation, professional guides will bring to life the stories of generations who lived on and worked this land. Your guides will share every detail of this mansion’s storied history with you. You’ll also hear tales of the lives of both its owners and slaves. They will also tell you about its wonderfully restored Greek Revival architecture.
2
Stop 2
A short ride upriver through sugar cane fields brings you to Houmas House Plantation. Refreshing Mint Juleps are available for purchase on arrival.
Enjoy a gourmet lunch (included) in the grand dining hall at Houmas House Plantation.
Houmas House River Road Buffet Lunch Menu:
* Chicken and Andouille Gumbo
* Caesar Salad (GF)
* Cornmeal Fried Catfish
* Chili Glazed Roasted Chicken (GF)
* Crawfish Étouffée
* Red Beans, Sausage and Rice (GF)
* Shrimp and Mushroom Pasta
* Roasted Vegetables (GF)
* White Chocolate Bread Pudding
* Non-alcoholic Drinks and Coffee (included)
After lunch, experience the southern splendor of this Sugar Palace. Your tour guide, in antebellum dress, will lead you into 16 rooms filled with period antiques and Louisiana artwork. Upon completion in 1840, Houmas House was the crown jewel of Louisiana's River Road. Its heroically columned Greek revival exterior is stunning. It was topped by a belvédère that surveyed the oak alley leading south to the sweeping bend in the river. From it, you could also see miles and miles of cane fields extending from the Mississippi River to the back swamps!
Enjoy the breeze off of the Mississippi River and stroll the stunning grounds through the shadows of ancient oaks.
What's not included
Beer, wine and cocktail drinks (available for purchase)
Gratuities for guide
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
76 reviews
5★
54
4★
16
3★
4
2★
2
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
56 reviews
5★
56
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Service animals are permitted. Please advise at time of booking to arrange accommodations
Child rate applies to all children and infants
Gluten-free and Vegetarian lunch options available
Important notes
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• If bringing an infant, please advise if you will be providing your own car seat, or if you will need to borrow one at no additional cost
• Tour cannot accommodate wheelchairs of any kind
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time. Tours by Isabelle will contact you the day prior to provide your exact pick up time.
About New Orleans
New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique Creole and Cajun cuisine. It's famous for its annual Mardi Gras festival, historic French Quarter, and the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street.
Top Attractions
French Quarter
The heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Garden District
A picturesque neighborhood known for its antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, tours available
National WWII Museum
A world-class museum dedicated to the history of World War II, featuring immersive exhibits and personal stories.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate to expensive
City Park
A vast urban park featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and cultural attractions.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, attractions vary
Frenchmen Street
A lively street known for its live music venues, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.
Entertainment
Evening
Varies by venue
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gumbo
A rich and flavorful stew made with a dark roux, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery).
Main Course
Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Jambalaya
A one-pot dish made with rice, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables, seasoned with a variety of spices.
Main Course
Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Beignets
A deep-fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar, often served with café au lait.
Dessert
Contains gluten and dairy.
Po' Boy
A classic New Orleans sandwich made with French bread, filled with fried seafood, meat, or vegetables, and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.
Sandwich
Can be made with various fillings, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Popular Activities
Swamp tours
Kayaking
Biking
Spa treatments
Park picnics
Café hopping
Museum visits
Historic site tours
Best Time to Visit
February to April
This is the best time to visit New Orleans, with pleasant weather and major events like Mardi Gras. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.
15-25°C
60-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: French, Spanish, Vietnamese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
New Orleans is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis and rideshare services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance
Getting there
By air
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from downtown
By train
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city, but can be slow due to traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
French Quarter
Garden District
Warehouse District
Faubourg Marigny
Mid-City
Day trips
Plantation Country
30-40 miles (48-64 km) • Full day
Explore the historic plantations of Louisiana, with tours and exhibits showcasing the region's complex history.
Swamp and Bayou Tours
30-50 miles (48-80 km) • Half day to full day
Take a boat tour through the Louisiana swamps and bayous, with opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
Baton Rouge
80 miles (129 km) • Full day
Explore the capital of Louisiana, with its historic sites, museums, and universities.
Festivals
Mardi Gras • February or March (varies by year)
Jazz & Heritage Festival • Late April to early May (two weekends)
French Quarter Festival • April (four days)
Pro tips
- Visit during the off-peak season for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
- Try local cuisine and support local businesses and restaurants
- Use public transportation, such as buses and streetcars, to get around the city and save money
- Be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
