Walk the grounds of the oldest documented plantation home in the Lower Mississippi Valley. Guided, costumed interpreters, an 1811 Slave Revolt Exhibit, folk-life demos and a café make this a compact, informative visit 25 minutes from New Orleans.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off River Road into a long sweep of lawn and live oaks; the Mississippi River hovers nearby, its current always moving, daring you to look past the house to the waterway that made this place wealthy and contested.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly short, easy walking with some outdoor surfaces
Wildlife
History
Destrehan is the oldest documented plantation home in the Lower Mississippi Valley and interprets both the planter family records and the experiences of the enslaved community, including the 1811 uprising.
Conservation
Stay on marked paths, avoid touching artifacts, and support site stewardship by buying locally made items in the plantation store; responsible visitation helps preserve fragile grounds.
Reserve your spot on the Destrehan Plantation Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring sun protection
River Road has long open stretches and limited shade between buildings—hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are useful year-round.
Hydrate before and during the visit
Tours are 45 minutes but you’ll likely explore grounds afterward—carry a refillable water bottle; Indigo Cafe has drinks and snacks.
Allow time for the exhibits
The 1811 Slave Revolt Exhibit and dependency buildings add depth to the guided talk—plan an extra 30–60 minutes to read displays.
Accessible pathways available
Wheelchair- and stroller-accessible routes are provided, but some outdoor surfaces can be uneven after rain—consider traction footwear.
Comfortable walking shoes
Closed-toe shoes handle lawns, brick pathways and uneven ground comfortably.
Refillable water bottle
Staying hydrated matters, especially in summer heat while you explore the grounds.
summer
Wide-brim hat & sunscreen
Sun protection for exposed areas between buildings and on the lawn.
summer
Light rain jacket
April showers or sudden southern storms mean a packable jacket is handy.
spring