Discover the history of Louisiana at Destrehan Plantation, where engaging tours and scenic river views create a memorable outing for families and history lovers alike. Read on to find out why this site is a Mississippi River must-see.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Open to most fitness levels; comfortable walking required
Wildlife
History
The plantation played a crucial role in Louisiana’s sugar economy and has been a National Historic Landmark since 1992.
Conservation
The site actively promotes preservation and cultural education to ensure its history is not lost.
Destrehan Plantation
Discover the history of Louisiana at Destrehan Plantation, where engaging tours and scenic river views create a memorable outing for families and history lovers alike. Read on to find out why this site is a Mississippi River must-see.
Destrehan Plantation is a historic plantation located in Destrehan, Louisiana, offering guided tours, seasonal events, and overnight cottage rentals near New Orleans. The site interprets the history of the Destrehan family, the lives of the enslaved, and pivotal events such as the 1811 Slave Revolt and the Civil War. Knowledgeable interpreters lead the one-hour Destrehan Plantation Guided Tour, presenting the plantation’s architecture, family history, and local context.
Public programming includes language-specific options: Spanish Tour - Entradas and French Tour - Billets. These tours welcome visitors of all ages and offer special pricing for seniors and children. Seasonal public events include the annual Fall Festival held on November 8th and 9th, where visitors can browse handcrafted vendor items, antiques, children’s activities, live performances, and regional Cajun and Creole food.
Two country cottages are available for overnight stays. Marguerite Country Cottage is a cozy cottage for two located about 25 minutes from New Orleans, furnished with linens and a small dining area. Marie Celeste Country Cottage sits roughly 25 miles from New Orleans and blends vintage charm with modern comforts and essential amenities. Both cottages serve as quiet bases for exploring the plantation and nearby attractions.
Destrehan Plantation provides historically grounded interpretation and public programming focused on education and heritage tourism. Visitors should consult official schedules for tour times, language availability, pricing, and event details. The plantation operates in Destrehan, Louisiana, and offers accessible experiences that highlight local history and culture. Guided staff are trained to provide historic interpretation and context respectfully.
Location
Destrehan, LA
Near New Orleans
Tour Length
1 hour
Guided historical tour
Fall Festival
Nov 8–9
Annual seasonal event
Cottage Stays
2 cottages
Marguerite and Marie Celeste
Book a guided tour, reserve a cottage stay, or attend the Fall Festival on November 8–9 — consult official schedules for availability and pricing.
Bring comfortable shoes
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven surfaces around the grounds.
Arrive early
Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
Bring water and sunscreen
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during outdoor portions.
Plan for a 1-2 hour visit
Allow enough time to fully experience the guided tour and grounds.
Walking shoes
Supportive footwear is recommended for walking around the plantation grounds.
Sun protection
Use sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses to protect against sun exposure.
Camera or smartphone
Capture scenic views and historical architecture during your visit.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during outdoor activities.