laura plantation visit

Old River Road   Plantation Adventure

504-671-8687

 laura plantation tours new orleans, enjoy a narrated journey through scenic cypress swamps with a professional historian. hear of a land of creoles, pirates, slaves, and voodoo. view evergreen, whitney, felicite’ columbia, and st. joseph as you travel the old river road to visit laura, a creole plantation whose charm is as rich as her history. based on the “plantation memoirs” of laura lacoul, a young creole girl who grew up on the plantation, the tour narration centers on the charmed and tragic lives of this sugar plantation's women, slaves, and children. the tour of the manor house gardens and slave quarters is accompanied by the compelling narration that has earned laura a “louisiana’s top travel attraction” designation..

Hotel Pick Up at 8:45 am 

Hotel Return is around 5 pm

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Laura Plantation Tour with Swamp Adventure 

$150.00 adult

$130.00 child 12 and under

Laura Plantation Tour with Airboat Ride

$190.00 adult

( must be 48 inches or taller )

Do it all in one trip Plantation Tour -  Swamp Tour  -  Cajun Cuisine

SWAMP Adventure with Laura Plantation Tour

Package includes hotel pickup to most downtown New Orleans Hotels

Cajun Lunch at Segnette Landing

1hr 45m to 2 hour Bayou Segnette swamp tour by covered tour boat or airboat

Laura Plantation Tour

• Whitney Plantation Tour
• Oak Alley Plantation Tour
• Combo Plantation Tour
• Combo Swamp & Plantation Tour

Laura Plantation Tour

• Private Tours

Group Tours

• Transportation

Laura Plantation Tour “Louisiana Creole Heritage Site”

*Book Now* Save $5.00 off each adult ticket. Enter Promo Code Save5 at checkout.

The Laura Plantation tour near New Orleans is considered by many in the tour industry as the best historical plantation tour along the Great River Road. The plantation was led by four Creole women, most notable, was Laura, from where the plantation gets its name. The women led the plantation over sixty years, using slave labor. You will get to view and enter the 1840’s slave quarters, as part of this tour. You will hear stories of all aspects of the plantation life including the fact that the book “Bier Rabbit” was written here. The Plantation house was nearly destroyed by fire back in 2003, but it was rebuilt to the original design using building materials from antique homes that was disassembled and sold off in pieces. The rebuilding process, is a story in itself.

TOUR DETAILS:

• Availability : Daily
• Duration : 5 1/2  Hours
• Tour Time : 10:00 a.m. or 12 p.m.
• Pick up time begins at 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. we ask for you to be ready at 8:00 a.m. the thirty minute window is for the driver to complete all pickups.
• Return time approximately  1:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m.
• Price includes roundtrip transportation and admission from Central Business District and Warehouse House District Hotels. French Quarter Hotels has designated pickup locations.

Laura Plantation TOUR PRICES:

• Adult $79.00 per person
• Child 5-12 years old $45.00 per person
• Child 0-4 years-old Free

TICKETS, PAYMENT,  SAFETY AND CANCELLATION POLICY: 

• All reservations must be pre-paid by credit card and are subject to availability which is a minimum of five guests.
• 24-hour minimum cancellation notice must be given to receive refund.
• Guests purchasing tour will receive confirmation by email .
• We recommend all guests call to confirm your reservation 24-hours prior to the day of your tour.
• If you reserve less than 24-hours in advance, please call 504-471-1499 to confirm your reservation.
• Mask  are optional.
• Our vehicles are washed and sanitized daily . After we check into the Plantations our driver sanitize ”The” van-bus while you’re on tour. We also have hand sanitizer on board for our guest throughout the day.

Self- Guided Tour

Book now * save $5.00 off each adult ticket. enter promo code save5 at checkout..

The everyday life of slavery through the lens of Whitney Plantation enslaved. Within the boundaries of the “Habitation Haydel,” as the Whitney Plantation was originally known, the story of the Haydel family of German immigrants and the slaves that they held were intertwined. In 2014, the Whitney Plantation opened its doors to the public for the first time in its 262 year history as the only plantation museum in Louisiana with a focus on slavery. Through museum exhibits, memorial artwork, restored buildings and hundreds of first-person slave narratives, visitors to Whitney will gain a unique perspective on the lives of Louisiana’s enslaved people. To reserve click on the link below or call 504-471-1499.

• Availability : Wednesday through Monday
• Duration : 5 1/2 Hours
• Tour Time : Self-guided  Upon arrival you will be given a handheld device to listen to the tour.
•  Pick up time begins at 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. for the 10:00a.m. Whitney Plantation Tour we ask for you to be ready at 8:00 a.m. the thirty minute window is for the driver to complete all pickups.
• Pick up time begins at 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for the 12:00 p.m. Whitney Plantation Tour we ask for you to be ready at 10:00 a.m. the thirty minute window is for the driver to complete all pickups.
•  Return   Time approximately 1:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Morning Tour
• Return   Time approximately 3:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m.   Noon Tour

WHITNEY PLANTATION TOUR PRICES:

TICKETS, PAYMENT, SAFETY AND CANCELLATION POLICY: 

• Mask are optional.
• Our vehicles are washed and sanitized daily . After we check  into the Plantations our driver sanitize ”The” van-bus while you’re on tour. We also have hand sanitizer on board for our guest through out the day.

The Sugarcane Plantation

A powerful testimony to the rich history of the antebellum south, Oak Alley invites visitors to explore all facets of her plantation past. The Slavery at Oak Alley exhibit, Civil War exhibit, Sugarcane Theater and Big House offer an experience as compelling as the plantation’s 25 historic acres and 300 year old allee of oaks. reserve click on the link below or call 504-471-1499.

• Tour Time : 10:00 a.m.  Pick up time begins at 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. we ask for you to be ready at 8:00 a.m. the thirty minute window is for the driver to complete all pickups.
•  Return time approximately  1:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m.

Oak Alley Plantation TOUR PRICES:

Spend the day exploring two of three famous plantations along River road that’s listed on National Register of Historic Places, a tour to the Beautiful Oak Alley, Creole Laura the Iconic Whitney Plantations allows you to step back into history and a quarter century of architectural and agricultural significance. The tour focuses on the struggle and determination of the slaves and freed African-Americans who operated the plantations. To reserve click on the link below or call 504-471-1499.

• Availability : Everyday except Tuesdays
• Duration : 7 Hours
• Tour Time : 10:00 a.m.
• Pick up time begins at 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. we ask for you to be ready at 8:00 a.m. the thirty minute window is for the driver to complete all hotel pickups.
•  Return time approximately 3:30 p.m.
• Price includes roundtrip transportation and admission.

COMBO TOUR PRICES:

• Adult $110.00 per person
• Child 5-12 years-old  $65.00 per person

TICKETS, PAYMENT, AND CANCELLATION POLICY: 

• Guests purchasing tour will receive confirmation by email.
• We recommend all guests to call to confirm your reservation 24-hours prior to the day of your tour.
• If you reserve less than 24-hours in advance, please call 504-471-1499 to confirm your reservation.

Discover the best of Louisiana in a single day! Start your adventure with a visit to one of the historic plantations along the Great River Road. Choose from the iconic Whitney Plantation with its self-guided audio tour, the Creole Laura Plantation, or the stunning Oak Alley. After immersing yourself in the rich history, head to the bayous for a wildlife experience. Select from a variety of boats: a large airboat accommodating sixteen passengers, or a comfortable pontoon cruiser boat. To reserve click on the link below or call 504-471-1499.

• Duration : 7 1/2 Hours
• Whitney Plantation  is a Self-guided  upon arrival you will be given a handheld device to listen to the tour.
• Oak Alley is a Guided Tour
• Laura Plantation is a Guided Tour
•  Pick up time begins at 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
•  Return   Time approximately 5:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.
• Price includes roundtrip transportation and admission into the Plantation and Swamp site from Central Business District and Warehouse House District Hotels. Designated pickup locations are available for French Quarter hotels.

COMBO PLANTATION & SWAMP TOUR PRICES:

• Large Airboat & Plantation Adult $199.00 per person lunch included without lunch $170.00
• Large Airboat & Plantation  Child $175.00 lunch included without lunch $150.00
• Pontoon Swamp boat cruiser Adult  $160.00 lunch included without lunch $135.00
• Pontoon Swamp boat cruiser Child  $135.00 lunch included $ 115.00 without lunch

Note: For airboat tours children must be 48 inches or taller. Guest will choose lunch entree the day of their tour.

Group tours can be arranged calling 504-471-1499. We can accommodate up to 200 guest upon availability. We recommend booking in advance of your group’s visit to assure availability. You can […]

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(504)-834-1770

Save 10% When you book a swamp and plantation tour with code: 10offcombo

Laura Plantation Tour

Laura Plantation has a rich and unique history, from the home itself to the stories of the women who ran it. As you walk through the house, banana grove, garden, and slave quarters, you’ll glimpse the plantation as it looked over 200 years ago, with period furnishings and photos of its original residents. Initially built and run by a French Creole family, Laura Plantation later passed to a German family who ran it for nearly 100 years. Stories by a West African freedman in the 1870s, “Compair Lapin & Compair Bouki” (known in English as “Tales of Br’er Rabbit”), were recorded in the original 1840s slave cabins.

Our Plantation tours

Oak Alley Plantation Tour

Uncover the rich history of Oak Alley Plantation on our exclusive tour. Stroll through the majestic oak-lined pathways and explore the grand mansion, surrounded by stunning landscapes that highlight the beauty of this iconic estate.

Whitney Plantation Tour

Delve into the deep and powerful history of Whitney Plantation with our immersive tour. Engage with thought-provoking exhibits and well-preserved structures that vividly portray the lives and stories of the enslaved.

Laura & Oak Alley Tour

Join us on a unique journey through the contrasting histories of Laura and Oak Alley Plantations. At Laura Plantation, experience the vibrant Creole culture and personal stories of its residents. Then, be awed by Oak Alley’s beauty.

What you'll See

A historic home.

Delve deeply into the history of Laura Plantation by exploring its meticulously restored main house. Each room is adorned with authentic period furnishings and artifacts that vividly depict the lives and customs of the Creole families who resided here. The house is not just a dwelling but a rich narrative of the plantation’s storied past, offering an intimate look at the daily lives, traditions, and personal stories of its former inhabitants.

Banana Grove & Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the plantation’s lush gardens and banana grove. This verdant area showcases the agricultural practices of the 19th century, illustrating how the plantation thrived and contributed to the local economy. The gardens are a peaceful haven filled with a variety of plants, each with its own historical significance, providing a serene and educational experience that connects visitors with the land’s past.

Slave Quarters

Visit the preserved slave quarters, a deeply moving part of the plantation that tells the poignant stories of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked here. These quarters are not only historical relics but also the birthplace of the famous “Tales of Br’er Rabbit,” recorded in these very cabins. This area offers a powerful, educational insight into the lives, struggles, and resilience of the enslaved people, making their stories an integral part of the plantation’s history.

HEAR FROM OUR CUSTOMERS

The best tour ever! Pick up was on time! Very convenient! They offer multiple pick up locations! We did Laura plantation + Oak Alley plantation! We had the absolute best driver Michelle! She was extremely knowledgeable & friendly! She made the drive feel short & sweet! The best driver ever!

Excellent tour of the laura and oak alley plantations . Bus driver was very friendly and informative, the young woman at the laura plantation was a history teacher and was the best tour guide we had during our entire trip to new orleans. would definitely recommend to anyone visiting the area.

Hands down the best tour I’ve taken. Derek was a tremendous host/driver/tour guide. Gave great tips on food, restaurants, and day/night life. Would definitely recommend this tour company/driver. Very enriched history in Louisiana! Thank you Derek for your hospitality!

Michelle is absolutely amazing bus driver. She was very personable and provided knowledge about the different plantations! Oak Valley was an absolutely breathtaking plantation .  I highly recommend Cajun Encounters Tour Company!

Michelle picked us up promptly and treated us to NOLA history and places of interest during the ride. The Laura Plantation and Oak Alley Plantation are beautiful and full of history. The guides at both were wonderful story tellers. Highly recommend.

Derek picked us up on time and had so many helpful tips to give during our stay in NOLA. He was very knowledgeable about things to do and places to eat around the area. He kept us entertained during our travels to the tour and was a blast. The plantation was gorgeous with so much history. Highly recommend.

Why book with us?

Your safety is our top priority at Cajun Encounters. We adhere to the highest safety standards and regulations, ensuring that every tour is conducted with your well-being in mind.

Flexibility

For your convenience, we offer multiple pickup locations around New Orleans, including the most popular spots and hotels. This ensures that starting your journey is as easy and hassle-free as possible.

Book Your Next Adventure Today!

• Easy Pickup Locations

Oak Alley & Laura Plantation Tour

History of laura plantation.

Laura Plantation, located in Vacherie, Louisiana, is one of the most well-documented plantations in the Southern United States. Established in 1805 by Guillaume Duparc, a French naval veteran, Laura Plantation initially encompassed 12,000 acres of land along the Mississippi River. Duparc utilized enslaved labor to cultivate sugarcane, a lucrative crop in the region. Following Duparc’s death in 1808, his widow, Nanette Prud’homme Duparc, and later their daughter, Élise Duparc, managed the plantation. This matriarchal management continued to define Laura Plantation’s operations for many years, a distinctive feature among Southern plantations.

The plantation house, completed in 1805, is a classic example of Creole architecture, characterized by its raised brick basement, expansive galleries, and brightly colored exterior. It was built using local cypress wood and features a symmetrical facade with dormer windows and a hipped roof. The house’s interior was designed with French and Creole influences, showcasing elegant woodwork, detailed paneling, and high ceilings.

Laura Plantation’s history is notable for its extensive documentation of the lives of both the owners and the enslaved people who lived there. The plantation’s historical records include the memoirs of Laura Locoul Gore, the great-granddaughter of Guillaume Duparc. Her memoirs, written in the early 20th century, provide a vivid account of life on the plantation, detailing both the personal and business aspects of running such an enterprise.

One of the most significant aspects of Laura Plantation’s history is its role in preserving and documenting Creole culture. The plantation operated under French Creole customs, which differed significantly from the Anglo-American practices of other Southern plantations. These differences were reflected in the plantation’s language, cuisine, social customs, and management style.

In 1891, Laura Locoul decided to sell the plantation, marking the end of over 80 years of Duparc family ownership. The new owners, the Waguespack family, continued to cultivate sugarcane but eventually sold the property in the late 20th century. The plantation then transitioned from a working agricultural site to a historical landmark.

Today, Laura Plantation is a well-preserved historical site open to the public. It offers guided tours that explore the rich and complex history of the plantation, focusing on the lives of both the plantation owners and the enslaved people. Visitors can explore the main house, the gardens, and the original slave quarters, which provide a sobering insight into the conditions and lives of the enslaved workers.

The plantation is also significant for its connection to the Br’er Rabbit tales, which were recorded in the 1870s by Alcée Fortier, a Louisiana folklorist. These stories, told by the enslaved people of the plantation, are a crucial part of African American folklore and have had a lasting impact on American culture.

Laura Plantation’s commitment to historical accuracy and cultural preservation has made it an important site for understanding the diverse history of Louisiana and the broader Southern United States. Its extensive records and personal memoirs offer a unique window into the past, making it a valuable resource for historians, researchers, and visitors interested in the complex history of American slavery and Creole culture.

laura plantation image gallery

504.834.1770

Laura Plantation – A New Orleans Plantation Tour

This post was most recently updated on August 28th, 2019

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and touted as one of the best New Orleans Plantation tours in the area, Laura Plantation is a must visit. What makes this New Orleans Plantation tour so special is the focus on its people. You will go beyond the explanation of the main house and will be transported to the past and into the heart of a creole Plantation. At Laura Plantation you will hear the compelling accounts of the charming and tragic lives of those who lived there, both the free and the enslaved.

Pin Now to Read Later – Laura Plantation, A New Orleans Plantation Tour  

What is creole in louisiana.

Creole is a non-Anglo-Saxon culture and lifestyle that was predominant in Louisiana. With a French heritage and Roman Catholicism a big part of their identity.  And a very elitist structure class, not necessarily about race, determined the social status. It is actually a big mix of West African with European and some Native American as well. Women could run business and own property and family and tradition were highly valued.  Understanding what Creole meant is important because it is a very big part of the history of Louisiana and its Plantations.

Laura Plantation a Brief History 

Acquired in 1804 by Guillame DuParc Laura Plantation is a creole plantation. The main house was completed  11 months later  by highly skilled slaves using pre-fabricated methods. At Duparc’s death in 1808, the  Plantation  consisted of 10 buildings, including quarters for 17 slaves and a sugar mill.

One of the most interesting aspects I learned during this New Orleans Plantation tour, was that Laura Plantation was run by four generations of women until it was sold by Laura Locoul (the great-granddaughter of Duparc) in 1891. Much of what we know about it is thanks to Laura’s memoire.

The family lived on the plantation from spring, when sugar cane was planted, till right after it was harvested late December.  Then they move back to New Orleans for a few months of city life.

Each member of the family played an important role in the business.  Extended family would also have a role and some other outsiders were hired as managers or overseers.  But it was the slaves who accounted for about 80% of the population. And after their emancipation many continued to live there as they were so indebted to the owners they had no way of living anywhere else. Such is the story at most of the New Orleans Plantations.

A New Orleans Plantation Tour – Laura Plantation a Creole Plantation

The guided tour takes about 75 min and the guides are passionate and knowledgeable. The tour includes the Maison Principale or the Main House as well as the French gardens & kitchen gardens, barn and original 1840 slave cabins. Furthermore, additional areas of the plantation are being restored and in total there are 12 buildings on the National Register.

On the tour you will learn the history of the Plantation and about Laura’s family tree. Including the stories of the family and of the slaves.  Guides will present the rigors of daily life and the dark aspects of the history of slavery which lasted over 140 years with Louisiana being the last place in North America where slavery was legal.

The Maison Principale

The tour starts in front of the Maison Principale where you learn all about what being Creole is.  And if you have been on another New Orleans Plantation tour, like Oak Alley, you will be able to see right away how different Laura Plantation is.  Laura is much more colorful and less grand if you will. Read More about Oak Alley Here. 

Next stop is the basement where you get an introduction to the history of the plantation. In addition you will be introduced to the main members of the family and learn how the slaves built the house.

The tour continues on the colorful second floor porch and quickly moves inside, where air-conditioning has been installed for comfort (thank goodness because it was hot as hell).

Inside the tale of each family member is recounted as you move through the restored rooms. Some fun quirky surprises await you inside but I won’t spoil the fun by telling you. You will have to visit and go on this New Orleans Plantation tour yourself to find out.

Here are a few pictures of the inside of the house:

Slave Quarters

The guide then takes you from the main house through the gardens, banana leave forest, and the barn to the slave quarters.

As you walk your way to the back of the property the guide will stop at the Barn to impart even more information about the slaves and their lives.  And finally at the slave quarters you can see how poorly they lived and learn even more about the harsh reality of what life was like for a slave in Louisiana.

To me this is one of the things that really sets this plantation tour apart from the rest.  They do a great job of enlightening people to the other side of life on a Plantation. Additionally, they share openly the stories of slavery and how even after slavery was abolished many had no choice but to stay. Furthermore, they do not romanticize the place and they provide a great historical view of all sides of life.

This is by far one of the best New Orleans plantation tours I have ever been on. Therefore, I urge you to visit and listen to the stories directly from the guides. Their passion for history shines in their eyes and through their words as they make the past come to life through their stories.

Essential Information

Located midway between New Orleans and Baton Rouge in a town called Vacherie, Louisiana.  For those coming from New Orleans it takes about 1 hr to get there.

Address: 2247 Hwy. 18, Vacherie, LA; Phone number:  225.265.7690 or 888.799.7690

How to Get There

Best way to get there is by car. The area has many plantations that you can visit in one trip . 

However, if you do not have a car, several tour companies can take you there.  Cajun Encounter and Cajun Pride are two popular ones.  But you can check trip advisor for reviews and to see other tour operators in the area.

Hours of Operation

Daily 9:30 am to 5:00 pm  with first tour starting at  10:00 am .  Tours are available in English and French.

Closed on: New Years Day, Mardi Gras Day, Easter  Sunday , Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. PLease visit their website for more information on tour times and schedules.

Admission Cost

At the time this article was updated the cost of admission was as follows:

Adults: $25;  Children: 6 – 12: $10 and 13 -17: $15;  Under 6: FREE

Some discounts for AAA, National Trust and military personnel For more information visit https://www.lauraplantation.com/discover/the-plantation  

I had a coupon that came in my Visit New Orleans book therefore I was able to save a few dollars on admission cost.  You can receive your own book by requesting one online. The book has great information about New Orleans as well as many valuable coupons you can use during your visit.

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Have you ever visited a Plantation? Would love to hear your thoughts so please leave me your comments below or lets get social on Facebook or Instagram . 

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42 comments.

I love the dining room table and the dishes so beautifully shown. You did a good job, again – yes we still have wifi

All the furniture is beautiful

Love this! Looks exactly like a creole house here in Mauritius. These houses are just so beautiful and i love the architecture

Love this, such a fascinating historical tour. Intersting how women played such predominant role on running the plantation.

Yes that was a unique aspect of this plantation for sure.

Looks really inviting. Especially the dining room, wow!

Plantation was life was not easy and it is a time period in history that is not exactly our best. It is always good to learn and remember the past.

Thanks for this educational read. Although I’ve visited New Orleans a few times, I’ve never been to one of the plantations. Mainly because I’ve heard that they romanticize plantation life and ignore the whole slavery aspect–which is not OK. It sounds like this place is different in that regard, so maybe I’ll pay a visit on my next trip to New Orleans. Thanks!

Yes this one is different and for that it is my favorite. It is part of our past and we must never forget lest it repeats itself.

Beautiful article, very detailed! We add this place on our bucket list.. thank yo

Your very welcome. Hope you get to go there soon.

This looks like a fascinating and really informative tour. It’s great that they don’t sugarcoat plantation life and really delve into the history and conditions in which the slaves lived. Other than that, the house itself looks beautiful – so colourful!

I was so pleased with this plantation tour. A real gem in Louisiana and well worth the visit. Hope you get to go one day

I would so love to do a historical tour of America and visit somewhere like this. It would be a fantastic and insightful history lesson for our kids and also just a fascinating day out. I’m glad the realities of the history weren’t smoothed over, we need to remember and educate our children on their abundant privilege.

Yes it is important to learn the history and make sure it does not repeat itself. I am not proud of some of this past but it shaped who we are today and hopefully we learn and become better.

I’m so happy you posted this! I’ve never been to the South but would like to at some point. Doing a plantation tour makes my stomach a bit wonky. It’s good to know that this tour does a great job of showing both sides of plantation life. I know it’s big part of US history. I’m going to keep this in mind and this sounds like the one plantation tour I could get excited about!

Yes some do a better job that others. It is a hard part of our past but we need to learn it and remember it. It should not be buried and forgotten. I am sure you won’t be disappointed with this one.

I have a trip planned to New Orleans and wanted to visit a plantation. This looks like the perfect one to visit! I’m so glad this place openly talks about the slavery, it’s exactly the kind of tour I want.

You can make a day of it and visit at lest two plantations if you start out early. It is really nice to see the difference between them and their different histories. Or you can combine a plantation with a swamp tour those are also fun. Hope you enjoy your visit.

Thank you for the history lesson. I’ve always wanted to visit the Plantation. I hope one day we will make it there.

I do hope you get to visit New Orleans and the Plantations in the area. It is a great place and I am sure you will enjoy it.

I’m loving the pictures of this plantation. Although I haven’t been to New Orleans or anywhere in Louisiana, this type of house is exactly what I picture. The southern plantations have so much rich history, it’s really cool to hear that the tour guides can keep it alive during their tours!

It is not as grand as some of the other plantations in the area but it is colorful and well maintained and the tour is very informative. I really think they have one of the best tours in the area and I trulls loved every minute. We need to learn our history and make sure the horrible events do not repeat themselves.

I really enjoyed the stories and history of this plantation. I always wondered about Creole, and you’ve explained it really well. Thanks I learnt something new now. Looks like a cool place to check out.

Bee it is a great historic plantation and they really do a fabulous job explaining its history. Well worth the visit.

What an amazing place the Laura Plantation looks like! I’ve been to New Orleans several times, but have not been here. The photos are really enticing, and I enjoyed learning more about the history and Creole lifestyle.

Patti next time you are in the area you should visit. It makes for a great day and I am certain that you will love it.

New Orleans is definitely on my list of places to visit so when I do I’m going to do this plantation tour. I love history and historic places and this one sounds so enjoyable and informative. It looks like they were able to preserve history very well and I imagine it takes you right back as soon as you enter!

Yes they did a great job preserving the history and it really is worth visiting so I hope you get to go.

I know nothing about creole heritage or the plantation, so this is very interesting. Your photos are almost like stepping back in time, it’s so historic! Are there other things to do in the area to make a day of it?

It is a short drive from New Orleans and there are quite a few plantations in the area you can visit as well as some tours of the Bayou where you can see gators and other wildlife. Plenty to see and do.

This is such an awesome read! So much information, I hope more people get to read it! My grandmother is from New Orleans and she’s told me many stories. A very horrific time in deed for many people

How amazing you got to hear the stories from your Grandmother. I bet she had amazing ones to tell.

Plantations always give me chills. Partially because how beautiful the grounds are, along with the details and decor, and partially because of the horrible history behind the beauty. I’m glad you were able to take this tour and share what you learned with us. Louisiana is on our list for next spring, so we’ll probably take a tour as well to hear the details for ourselves. 🙂 Thanks for sharing (and for the tip about the coupon book for Visit New Orleans, that’s awesome)!

So much to see and do and many plantations to chose from. Each one with its own history. I hope you enjoy your visit in the spring and if I can help with anything else please let me know.

I have done a few plantation tours in India, but I am quite fascinated by the stories behind the Laura Plantation tour. I am amazed to know that it was run by women till the fourth generation. It must have been a great experience to re-live a few moments in the plantation and the house during your tour. I loved the decor of the house a lot.

Yes it was fascinating to learn the role of women in this plantation. Unfortunately the role of slaves was still quite predominant and their conditions deplorable. It is however a big part of history and one we need to learn from. I loved how the really focused on the people both the women who ran the plantation and the slaves and we learned both of their stories.

Thanks for this insight- we missed this place as we only had half an afternoon here and tried to squeeze in Oak Alley and the Whitney (both outstanding for different reasons.) Next time… such important and thought provoking history.

Next one you are in town you should visit. The tour is a bit lengthier but so worth it

What a great post Jo, really interesting. I feel like I’ve learnt so much from your post but I can imagine how fascinating it must’ve been with the guides sharing the stories!! 🙂

The guide was so much better. There is only so much I could remember and the stories were so much interesting as told by the guide.

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How to enjoy the Laura Plantation tour with family and friends

The word plantation brings a lot of things to mind. Some think of big houses with white columns, wrap-around porches, and antebellum-style dresses. Some think of the enslaved that worked there and the hardships they faced. What usually doesn’t come to mind are brightly colored single-floor homes.

That is unless it’s a Creole House. The Laura Plantation in Vacherie is also a creole heritage site. The home is a wealth of information about the misunderstood culture and the history of the home. The only way to gain access is by taking on the Laura Plantation Tour.

This post is sponsored by the Laura Plantation a Louisiana Creole Heritage Site . There may be affiliate links within the post. Clicking on them doesn’t cost you anything more. But I do earn a small commission. I never promote things I don’t stand behind.

Whenever I hear anyone is going to New Orleans, I always recommend visiting a plantation. It’s a part of history that everyone needs to learn from.

I feel that even though there were unjust actions taken place on the grounds, what remains is a testament to those that built them. The Laura Plantation’s Creole Culture, in particular, is fast disappearing. It’s very important.

Laura Plantation Tour: Louisiana’s Creole Heritage Site

The Laura Creole Plantation shares the longstanding Creole culture that once thrived in Louisiana. Creole is the non-Anglo-Saxon culture and lifestyle that flourished before Louisiana was sold to the United States in 1803.

They mostly spoke French and practiced Roman Catholicism. You could be of all races. They functioned in an elitist structure and valued family ties.

European customs were thrown out. Value in public education and the rule of law was cast aside. This culture is what helped the Laura plantation to survive, with women running the plantation.

The grand house, unlike other plantations that people visit, lacks grandeur. In actuality, this is where the family lived. This is not where they would entertain guests. That would happen back in the city of New Orleans.

The house was built by 30 enslaved people in the year 1805. The foundation extends to a depth of 18 feet. The tour starts in the basement, learning about the home itself and the family history.

After a view of the basement, you’ll venture up to the main entrance and tour the main living quarters.

Laura Plantation History

So much is known, thanks to Laura Locoul Gore’s memories. Laura’s father named the plantation after her when she was just 13 years old. Knowing the heavy burden it was, he left the plantation at 29 years old.

She made a final return to the plantation in 1931 at the age of 69. In creole culture, she was the one responsible for passing down her family’s history and legacy.

In her day, she learned by stories. She decided instead to pass down the stories to her next generation with a book. It took her nearly five years to write it all. This is where we get most of the information and history about the plantation.

Because it was intended to be read by her own children, not much is talked about the conditions of enslaved. The guided plantation tour does go through the slave cabins.

At one time there were 69 houses on the property. The plantation produced sugar cane and sat along the Mississippi River. The plantation is on the list of the US National Register of Historic Places.

From the Big House to the Quarters: Slavery on Laura Plantation

The Laura Plantation tour is 80% about the family’s legacy and how they lived. Whenever they get the chance, they do talk about the enslaved. It’s not until you leave the main house, you’ll see how they lived.

They have two slave quarters that were lived in as late as 1977. After emancipation, many enslaved people signed contracts with their former owners, choosing to stay and work on the land. However, this time they received payment for their work.

The last people living there had to move because the property was sold due to changes in Louisiana Law. If you want to get more information about the enslaved, you need to check out the auxiliary museum.

Inside the gift shop, take the door to the left. It holds a wealth of information about the enslaved. Starting at capture, to the civil war and even their legacy after their freedom.

This piece of the museum gets overlooked completely and it’s a shame. Without these people, there would be no plantation. The only other plantation that compares is the Whitney Plantation.

The Laura Plantation Tour Tips

I highly recommend buying your tickets before you leave. This is one of the more popular plantation tours. Tour companies often frequent the home, making it hard for those that wish to walk up.

Tickets can be purchased online for those that want to drive themselves to the plantation. You can also do an Oak Alley Plantation and Laura Plantation combination tour with a tour company.

Or drive yourself; it’s only 7 minutes away. Unlike Oak Alley you cannot tour the ground without being on a guided tour. If you love the grand houses, also consider visiting the Houmas House .

Wear comfortable shoes. While there isn’t a lot of distance to cover, you are on your feet for the full 70-minute tour. Also, dress appropriately for the weather. You will be inside and outside for portions of the tour.

This tour is family friendly. I was traveling with a group of four kids and four adults, and it was able to hold everyone’s interest.

If you are getting close to lunchtime, you may want to get give your kids a snack before it starts. They also do a good job of introducing the life of the enslaved and the hardships they faced without being too graphic.

The Dirty Facts about the Laura Plantation

Tours are available in French or English. Tickets cost $28 for adults, $20 for Teens and $15 for kids. Tours run every day from 10am – 3:20pm. They are closed on major holidays and Mardi Gras Day.

How long is the Larua plantation Tour?

The tour lasts about 75 minutes. You’ll be taken through the inside of the homes, gardens, and slavery quarters. The tour moves at a leisurely pace and is about a quarter of a mile in length.

How many slaves did the Laura Plantation have?

The Larua plantation had 186 slaves living on property by the end of the civil war. After the emancipation, the majority of the enslaved continued to live on the property.

During your tour, you’ll get more information about the contracts they signed to keep them running the plantation.

What do you wear to a plantation tour?

When deciding what to wear to the plantation tour, prepare to be on your feet and in the sunshine. All plantation tours have a mix of both inside and outside time.

A good pair of walking shoes, and comfortable clothing. Sunscreen or an umbrella may be necessary. Plantation buildings are not normally equipped with air conditioning.

Would I do a Laura Plantation Tour Again?

This was my second time taking the Laura Plantation Tour. Each time I do I learn a little more about it. This was the first time getting to take my family there.

I think it did a great job of showing a different side of plantation life that isn’t normally depicted. What I love about the plantation is that they are always adding things when they discover new pieces of history.

The entire Slavery portion was missing from the first time I stopped by. In 5 years, it’s probably going to be a completely different tour altogether.

I highly recommend visiting and even picking up your own copy of Memories of the Old Plantation Home by Laura Locoul Gore . In another few years, when kids are older, I will take them to the Whitney Plantation where there is a larger focus on the enslaved. The plantation sits along the river road, making it great to drive to.

Minnesota native and Midwest travel expert Jennifer provides insider tips and budget-friendly trip ideas for families looking to explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Through her travel blog DayTripper28, she draws on first-hand experience to recommend the best hidden gems, outdoor adventures, road trips, and weekend getaways around Minnesota and the Midwest. With her passion for uncovering local flavors and culture along the backroads, Jennifer shares affordable itineraries for creating memorable experiences across the region.

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See California's Missions, All 21!

Few take the journey along the El Camino Real (which is mostly Highway 1 & 101) in California to see California's 21 missions . Beginning in the 1700's the missions were built, each a day's journey away from the next, mostly near the California coast. From San Diego to Sonoma, most have been rebuilt to maintain a part of history that easily could be lost. Usually made of adobe style brick, earthquakes and the hands of time have taken their toll on the missions throughout California. But thanks to civic groups, the missions that have been rebuilt, reinforced and made safe are generally open to to tourists for a fee, allowing you to wander and look at displays dedicated to the history of each place.

If you can see all the missions, you have done very well. Just visit one or two if you can, and you quickly become a fan, learning about important names in history like Father Junipero Serra who was responsible for establishment of the California missions. Some favorites that aren't difficult to miss include off Interstate 101 on the Central California coast-Mission Santa Barbara, Mission Santa Ynez, Mission La Purisima Concepcion, and Mission San Miguel.

NAME OF MISSION - ADDRESS - YEAR BUILT 1 Basilica San Diego de Alcala 10818 Mission Rd., SD 1769 11 La Purisima Concepcion Near Lompoc, off 101 1787, rebuilt by original methods 13 Nuestra Senora de la Soledad off 101 1791, stood in ruins for 100 yrs. 3 San Antonio de Padua off 101 1771, one of largest restored missions - San Antonia de Pala .. 1816, to help San Luis Rey Misison 9 San Buenaventura Main&Figueroa, Ventura 1782, last one from Fr. Serra 2 San Carlos Borreomeo Lausen Dr.,Carmel 1770,Fr.Serra buried here 17 San Fenando Rey de Espana 15151 SF Mission Blvd. 1797, Restored in 1971 6 San Francisco de Asis Dolores & 16th 1776 21 San Francisco Solano Spain & 1st 1823, northernmost & final mission 4 San Gabriel Arcangel 1120 Old Mill Rd 1771, at crossroads in California 14 San Jose 43300 Mission Blvd. 1777, noted for outstanding music 15 San Juan Bautista off 101 1797 7 San Juan Capistrano off 1-5 at Ortega 1776, swallows return annually 5 San Luis Obispo Choro & Monterey St. 1772, first to use tile tools 18 San Luis Rey de Francia off Hwy 76 1798, most successful of missions 16 San Miguel Arcangel 801 Mission 1797, last mission secularized 20 San Rafael Arcangel A & 5th 1817, founded to aid sick Indians 10 Santa Barbara Laguna & Los Olivos 1786, called most beautiful 8 Santa Clara de Asis Grant & Franklin 1777, bell dated 1798 still clangs 12 Santa Cruz School & Emmet 1791, rebuilt in 1931 19 Santa Ines 1760 Mission Dr. 1804, favorite for many - Santa Ysabel Hwy 79 near Julien 1818, Indian burial grounds

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Insider's Tips, Customs & Courtesies

Things to know before visiting.

• TRANSPORTATION - DO NOT take a TAXI, UBER or LYFT service to the plantation unless you have arranged for your driver to provide transportation back to your starting point.  Laura Plantation is located in a rural area outside of these car service areas. Click here for driving directions and here for daily transportation companies. 
• GUNS, ALCOHOL, DRUGS or ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES  - are strictly prohibited and can not be consumed on the property.
• PARKING - Free.  We can accommodate RVs for daytime parking (no overnight).
• ARRIVAL - Upon arriving at Laura Plantation, report to the admissions window on the porch of the Plantation Store Gift Shop. If you purchased your tickets online, present verification to redeem your tour tickets.    
• LENGTH OF TOUR - The tour is approximately 75-80 minutes.   There is considerable walking throughout the house, grounds, gardens and slave quarters.  It is about 1/4 of mile (400 meters) walk.  Tours are leisurely paced and seating is provided in designated areas.   Wear comfortable shoes and dress accordingly for the weather.
• CELL PHONES - must be silenced and muted during the entire tour.   IF you must take a phone call, you will be asked to leave the tour so as not to distract other guests.
• TOURS - Visitors are asked to stay with their tour guide at all times.  Wandering the property or self-guiding is NOT allowed. Our tour guides work very hard to provide everyone with an enjoyable experience.  If you enjoy your tour, please feel free to tip your tour guide!
• CHILDREN - The material presented during the 75-80 minute tour is best suited for those ages 12 & up. If you are visiting with infants, toddlers & pre-school children, we kindly ask that if at any time during the visit your child becomes over-active, loud or distracting to please take your child to adjoining space away from the tour so that other guests can enjoy their visit. The tour guide reserves the right to request that you remove the child from the tour.  During peak times, there may be multiple, consecutive tours and there may be no place for you to go with such a child.  You may take turns babysitting your child by going on separate tours or we can offer you a complete refund.   All children 12 & under should be accompanied by an adult at ALL times while on Laura Plantation property.  Small, umbrella strollers are permitted when group sizes are small. 
• PETS - Small dogs under 10 pounds may be taken on the tour only if they are small enough to fit into a bag or pet carrier. They may not be allowed out of the bag / carrier during any portion of the tour, inside or outside. For the safety & comfort of other guests, as well as the security of the historic furnishings, artifacts, rugs, etc., larger dogs on leashes are not allowed on the tour. Appropriately trained & identified service animals are welcome in compliance with ADA guidelines. *If your dog barks, you will be asked to remove it from the tour. Also, if any other guest indicates an allergy or fear of dogs, you will be asked to go on a later tour. 
• FOOD & DRINK - Bottled drinks are permitted on the tour as long as the bottle cap remains screwed tight inside of the house and slave quarters.    Other food, gum and drinks in open cups or cups with lids/straws are PROHIBITED.   During summer months we recommend bringing bottled water & a fan with you.   
• PICNICS & CONCESSIONS - Are permitted at designated tables near the parking lot and gift shop.   Laura Plantation sells chips, granola, candy and other local snacks.   We ask that all trash be disposed of in proper receptacles.  Please recycle in proper bins any paper, aluminum or plastics as designated.
• HANDICAP ACCESSIBILITY - The main house was built in 1805 in the raised Creole style.  Therefore, the basement is ground level; however, the main floor of the house requires 15 steps up/down to enter/exit.   The slave cabin is 3 steps up/down.  There are no elevators or ramps.    If a guest can manage the stairs and have their companions carry their wheelchair or walker up the stairs that is feasible.   Laura Plantation does not provide wheelchairs.   The gift shop & restroom buildings are accessible by wheelchair and ramps.    Pathways are either bricked or graveled.
• WEATHER - In South Louisiana we can receive approximately 80+ inches of rain per year.   We do not close for rain and tours will continue.   In a subtropical climate most times rain showers are heavy, but brief.  The sun will come out soon.   We do recommend that you be equipped with a poncho or umbrella or purchase them in the gift shop.   We will pause tours during lightning or extremely strong winds as precaution to safety.   During heavy rain, the guides will not "stand" in the rain, but it will be necessary to go quickly through the rain from one building to the next.  While temperatures in January average 52º F (11º C), we have high humidity which makes the “feel-like” temperature much colder.  Dress with warm jackets, gloves, hats & scarves as needed.
• PERSONAL ITEMS - For the protection of our historic house & museum site and our collections, handbags and backpacks are not allowed on the tour. This includes camera bags, diaper bags, etc.  Tripods & Selfie sticks are PROHIBITED.  Backpacks and motorcycle helmets may be checked in at the front desk.  Ask for a claim ticket.
• PHOTOGRAPHY - Still photography for personal use is allowed during the tour.   All photographs must be taken during the tour and guests are not allowed to go back onto the property for any photos.  While still photography is allowed, video and or recording of any kind, using any electronic devices is PROHIBITED.   Please contact us for commercial, engagement, bridal, high school senior or family photo shoots.
• HEARING IMPAIRED - If you are deaf or hearing impaired please ask for a written transcript to borrow during the tour.
• INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGES - Laura Plantation is bilingual with English and French staff on a daily basis.   Written translations are available in French, Spanish, Italian, & German.    We do NOT allow translating to occur during the tour.   Speaking at the same time as the guide, even at a whisper, is a distraction to the guide and other guests.   We ask that you briefly summarize & translate into other languages as the guide transitions and the group is walking from one tour station to the next.
• NO SMOKING - Laura Plantation is a smoke free-site.  Prohibited are all forms of tobacco or synthetic tobacco: cigarettes, cigars, marijuana, electronic, smokeless or vaping devices.   Disposing of cigarettes in flower beds or parking lot is disgusting and prohibited.   Please help to keep Laura Plantation clean.
• GARDENS & GROUNDS - Visitors should not pick flowers, fruits, vegetables, or nuts.   When seasonal fruits or nuts are ripe, they will be harvested by our gardening staff and placed in baskets near the gift shop for visitors to sample.   Laura Plantation is not responsible to reactions from food allergies.
• CALL IN ADVANCE if you have any other questions (225) 265-7690.