New Orleans: Houmas House Plantation Tour

Visiting Houmas House Plantation near New Orleans is a journey back into Louisiana’s antebellum past. This fully restored estate offers visitors a chance to wander through a grand mansion, stroll timeless gardens, and learn about sugarcane farming, architecture, and Southern life in the 1800s. With guided tours led by knowledgeable guides in period dress, this experience combines education, stunning scenery, and a touch of Hollywood history—all for around $38 per person.

What immediately appeals about this tour is the intimate access to the mansion and gardens. The guided mansion tour takes you through every room, exposing you to period artwork, historic artifacts, and stories of plantation life. Plus, the sprawling gardens are open for exploration at your own pace, filled with sculptures, secret nooks, and towering Live Oak trees that make perfect photo subjects.

A small caveat is that transportation to the estate isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your own way there—about an hour’s drive from New Orleans. Also, the tour duration is around one hour, but to truly soak in everything, many suggest allowing at least three hours for the full experience, including wandering the gardens and possibly enjoying lunch. This tour is best suited for history buffs, photography lovers, movie fans, and those wanting an authentic slice of Louisiana’s history without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Guided mansion tour with full room access offers an up-close look at 1800s plantation life.
• Expansive gardens provide scenic spots for photos and self-paced exploration.
• Learn about sugarcane farming, architecture, and Southern culture from expert guides.
• Historical relevance with ties to classic movies like Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte and The Green Book.
• Affordable value at $38 per person, including access to the grounds and artifacts.
• Accessible for wheelchair users; dogs are welcome on a leash, but may be asked to wait during crowded tours.

The Complete Experience: What You Can Expect

The Drive and Arrival

Just under an hour from New Orleans, Houmas House’s location on Louisiana’s River Road makes for a scenic, easy drive that’s part of the adventure. The estate’s approach reveals a sprawling property with impressive architecture, hinting at its former grandeur. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the reception, and it’s best to arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled tour to allow for check-in and orientation.

The Guided Mansion Tour

The highlight of the visit is undoubtedly the guided mansion tour, which lasts about an hour. Led by guides dressed in period costumes—sometimes with the help of engaging narrations—you’ll step into a fully restored antebellum home that reflects the wealth and elegance of the late 1800s. Guides like Danielle and others have been praised for their knowledge, making history accessible and engaging.

As you move through rooms—each with its own story—you’ll see rare artwork and authentic artifacts that reveal insights into plantation life. Expect to hear details about the architectural evolution of the house, the importance of the sugarcane industry, and stories about the people who lived and worked there. One reviewer noted, “The history of Houmas House is interesting,” and highlighted how guides brought the stories to life.

Gardens and Self-Guided Exploration

After the mansion, you’re free to wander the 38 acres of gardens at your own pace. These gardens are a visual feast—water features, sculptures, lush greenery, hidden corners, and the towering Live Oaks create a peaceful, picturesque environment. Many visitors find it a perfect spot for photography, especially with the abundant shade and scenic views.

One visitor described it as “heaven on earth,” emphasizing how breathtaking the gardens are. Rest areas and shaded seats are dotted around, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery. The gardens’ variety of features, like secret gardens and ornate water features, give you plenty to discover.

Hollywood and Ghost Stories

Fans of movies will enjoy knowing that Houmas House has appeared in films like Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte and The Green Book. This adds an extra layer of intrigue for film buffs. Plus, the estate is reputed to be haunted, with two notable, unexplainable events adding a spooky allure—perfect for those interested in ghost stories.

Practical Details: Price, Accessibility, and Dining

At $38 per person, this tour offers solid value—especially considering the fully guided mansion experience, garden access, and artifacts. It’s a compact experience, but many guests find it enough to leave with a rich understanding of Louisiana’s rice, sugar, and plantation history.

The estate is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs. Dogs on leashes are welcome, adding a friendly touch—although staff may ask dogs to wait during busy tours to keep everyone comfortable.

On-site dining options include a restaurant open until 8 PM, with the possibility to enjoy a buffet lunch (at extra cost) or just relax with a PoBoy or coffee. Keep in mind, transportation to the estate is not included so you’ll need to arrange your own ride.

Reviews and What Guests Love

Most reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and the beauty of the grounds. Valerie C mentioned, “The grounds are gorgeous, and the tour guide was knowledgeable and personable.” Another reviewer, Kasie, called it “heaven on earth,” emphasizing the breathtaking scenery. Many praise the comprehensive stories and friendly guides, making the experience more engaging and memorable.

A notable point from reviewers is that a full appreciation of the estate can take longer than the scheduled hour—many suggest setting aside at least three hours to relax and explore fully.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, photography lovers, movie fans, and anyone interested in Southern architecture and culture. It’s a family-friendly outing for those comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration. If you’re seeking a relaxing afternoon with a blend of history, beauty, and some Hollywood glitz, Houmas House fits the bill perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Houmas House Plantation offers an authentic window into Louisiana’s past—from its architecture and art to its gardens and cultural stories. The guided mansion tour provides detailed insights into plantation life and sugarcane farming, making it a meaningful educational experience.

The grounds are stunning, perfect for snapping pictures or simply soaking in the serenity. The Hollywood history tied to the estate adds a fun twist, and the ghost stories spark curiosity for those who enjoy a touch of the paranormal.

Considering the price, the tour packs in a lot of value—engaging guides, beautiful scenery, and a chance to step back in time without feeling rushed. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, informative, and visually captivating experience that showcases the grandeur and complexity of Louisiana’s plantation history.

FAQs

Is transportation to Houmas House included?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to arrange your own means to get there, which is about an hour’s drive from New Orleans.

How long does the tour last?
The guided mansion tour lasts around one hour, but many suggest allowing at least three hours total to explore the grounds and enjoy the estate fully.

Is the estate wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Houmas House is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Can I bring my dog?
Dogs on a leash are welcome on the estate grounds. However, if the tour is crowded, your dog may need to wait during the guided walk.

Are food and drinks available on-site?
Yes, the estate has a restaurant open until 8 PM, offering lunch, dinner, and drinks. You can also opt for a buffet lunch at an additional cost.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes a 1-hour guided mansion tour, full access to the gardens, a self-guided garden tour, and local taxes.

Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is permitted throughout the mansion and gardens, so bring your camera or smartphone to capture the scenic beauty.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Booking now allows you to reserve a spot and pay later, offering flexibility for your plans.

To sum it up, Houmas House Plantation provides a well-rounded, immersive look into Louisiana’s plantation history, architecture, and natural beauty. It’s a memorable experience for those eager to learn, photograph, and relax amid stunning scenery. Whether you’re a history buff, a film lover, or simply seeking a scenic escape from New Orleans, this tour offers a captivating taste of the Deep South’s grandeur and stories.