Pair a 60‑minute guided visit to Destrehan Plantation — the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi Valley — with a 90‑minute airboat trip through Louisiana’s back swamp. Expect history, wildlife, and a hands‑on look at the wetlands that frame Greater New Orleans.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the shuttle into a slow, humid morning where live oaks lean over River Road and the Mississippi seems to push the land back with patient insistence. The day opens at Destrehan Plantation: a 60‑minute guided walk through rooms that keep the hush of 19th‑century household life and the sharper, harder history recorded in the on‑site slave revolt museum.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness: short, easy walking at the plantation and low‑impact time on the airboat; some stairs may be present.
Wildlife
History
Destrehan Plantation is one of the oldest documented plantations in the Mississippi Valley and hosts a museum documenting a slave revolt tied to the site’s 19th‑century history.
Conservation
Louisiana’s wetlands are losing acreage to subsidence and development; responsible tours emphasize minimal disturbance and support wetland education and local conservation efforts.
Reserve your spot on the N'awlins Luxury: Destrehan Plantation and Airboat Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Plantation lawns and swamp docks can be muddy or uneven; closed-toe shoes protect feet on both portions of the tour.
Bring insect repellent
Mosquitoes are common in marshy areas, especially near dusk; apply repellent before boarding the airboat.
Protect camera gear
Spray and fine water mist from the airboat can reach sensitive electronics; use a dry bag or weatherproof case.
Hydrate and pace yourself
The combined outing runs about 5–6 hours; carry a refillable bottle and take breaks between the plantation walk and airboat segment.
Closed-toe walking shoes
Protects feet on uneven plantation paths and wet docks.
Insect repellent
Reduces mosquito bites in the swamp and marsh edge.
summer
Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
Blocks spray from the airboat and wind on the water.
spring
Dry bag or weatherproof camera case
Keeps phones and cameras safe from mist and sudden showers.