New Orleans: Felicity Plantation Guided Tour

A brief introduction to the Felicity Plantation experience

This guided tour of Felicity Plantation offers a compelling glimpse into the heart of Louisiana’s sugarcane industry and its layered history. While we haven’t personally wandered through its halls, travelers consistently praise this experience for its authenticity and beautiful setting.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit a still-active working farm—not just a static historic site but a functioning part of the local economy. Second, the architectural charm—a stunning blend of Creole and Greek Revival styles—that captures the region’s unique aesthetic.

One potential consideration for visitors is the limited accessibility—the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues, given the nature of the grounds and the architecture.

This tour appeals best to history buffs, architecture lovers, and those interested in understanding the complex social history of Louisiana. If you’re after a mix of scenic beauty, authentic stories, and a tangible connection to the land, Felicity Plantation is worth your time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Active sugarcane farm: Experience the ongoing agricultural work that connects past and present.
• Architectural elegance: Admire the unique Creole and Greek Revival design of the plantation home.
• Cinematic setting: Recognize the backdrop of films like 12 Years a Slave and Skeleton Key.
• Historical stories: Learn about the lives of enslaved, free laborers, and the plantation’s owners.
• Value for money: At $24, the tour offers a rich, educational experience that goes beyond just looking at historic buildings.
• Limited mobility access: Not suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.

The detailed experience: what you can expect

The meeting point and check-in process

Your visit begins at the gift shop at St. Joseph Plantation, just next door to Felicity, at 3535 LA-18, Vacherie. Check-in at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour ensures a smooth start. This setup keeps the process simple and close to the main attraction, eliminating unnecessary hassle.

The architecture and grounds

Felicity’s home is a striking example of mid-19th-century Louisiana architecture. Constructed between 1844 and 1847, it combines Greek Revival with the more colorful and intricate Creole influences. As you walk around, you’ll appreciate the intricately detailed facades, tall columns, and the overall elegance that makes the plantation a visual treat.

The home remains a well-preserved relic, with furniture and renovations true to the period. From the back porch, many visitors have told us they could stay forever—truly a perfect spot for soaking in the scenery, with lush grounds and the Mississippi River nearby.

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The guided tour: stories and insights

The core of the experience is a 1.5-hour guided tour led by knowledgeable guides who love sharing stories. Based on reviews, guides like Sylvie go beyond recitation—they tell stories with authenticity, as if they’re passing down family secrets.

The tour explores not just the architecture, but the lives of those who worked here—both enslaved and free laborers—highlighting their resilience and hardships. This honest approach helps visitors gain a more complete understanding of the history behind the sugarcane industry and plantation life.

The farm and agriculture

Unlike some plantations that are solely historic homes, Felicity remains a working sugarcane farm. Visitors get to see the current farming operations, connecting the old and new. It’s not just a museum—this is modern agriculture rooted in centuries of tradition.

Filming locations and pop culture

While the primary focus is on history and architecture, many travelers recognize Felicity from movies like 12 Years a Slave and series such as Underground. Its dramatic setting has made it a favorite for filmmakers, giving visitors a chance to see where some iconic scenes were shot.

Reflection and learning

Most visitors leave with a nuanced understanding of Louisiana’s complex social fabric. The tour openly discusses the realities of enslavement, emancipation, and labor, giving voice to those whose stories are often overlooked.

The visitor experience: reviews and impressions

Multiple reviewers have highlighted the personalized experience—with just a small group, conversations flow freely and questions are welcomed. Holly, for example, loved the stunning views and described it as “magical,” while Debbie appreciated the more intimate setting compared to larger plantations like Oak Alley.

The reviews also emphasize the passion and knowledge of the guides. Liam from Ireland called the guide “amazing,” noting her kindness and depth of knowledge.

Practical details: what’s included and what’s not

The $24 ticket includes the guided tour and the chance to explore the grounds at your own pace afterward. However, transportation to the site is not included, so plan accordingly.

Food and drinks are also outside the scope of the tour, so consider packing snacks or dining in nearby Vacherie if you wish to extend your visit.

Accessibility and other considerations

The tour isn’t designed for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the terrain and historic structures. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking around the grounds.

Why the Felicity Plantation tour offers great value

For just $24, you receive more than a surface look at Louisiana’s plantation history. The focus on authentic stories—both of hardship and resilience—sets this tour apart from more commercialized options. The fact that it remains a working farm makes the experience especially meaningful, blending history with present-day agriculture.

The quality of guides appears to be a highlight, with visitors consistently praising their depth of knowledge and storytelling skills. This personal touch creates a more engaging and educational experience, ideal for travelers who want to understand the complex human stories behind the historic facades.

The architecture alone makes Felicity worth a visit, especially for those interested in Creole and Greek Revival styles—the details are exquisite, and the setting is picturesque. Plus, the location’s connection to Hollywood films adds a fun layer of recognition, appealing to pop culture fans.

To sum it up

This tour offers a balanced and authentic look at Louisiana’s plantation history, paired with the charm of a working farm. It’s a perfect fit for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone curious about the true stories behind the sugarcane industry.

While it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or looking for a bustling big-group experience, it compensates with personalized storytelling and a genuine connection to the land. The price point reflects the quality and depth of the experience—making it a valuable, enriching choice for your New Orleans visit.

FAQs

Is transportation to Felicity Plantation included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the gift shop next door at St. Joseph Plantation.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour is about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore and hear detailed stories without feeling rushed.

Can I walk around the grounds after the tour?
Yes, the ticket includes the opportunity to walk around and view the grounds at your leisure after the guided portion.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is generally geared toward adult visitors interested in history and architecture. It may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges.

Are there any restrictions on what I should wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking around the grounds. No alcohol, drugs, or barefoot walking allowed.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in English.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now allows you to pay later, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

In all, the Felicity Plantation tour offers a sincere, visually stunning, and educational journey into Louisiana’s complex history and living landscape. It’s a meaningful stop for those eager to go beyond the usual tourist spots and connect deeply with the land and its stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby