Step into Louisiana's past with a guided tour of Houmas House and Destrehan Plantation, two iconic Mississippi River estates showcasing antebellum history and Southern architecture. This flexible combo tour invites you to witness plantation life framed by lush landscapes and compelling stories.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves moderate walking over relatively flat terrain
Wildlife
History
These plantations date back to the early 1800s and illustrate the era’s agricultural economy and social dynamics along the Mississippi River.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve both the architectural integrity and surrounding natural habitats, emphasizing education on Louisiana’s cultural and environmental heritage.
Houmas House Plantation
Step into Louisiana's past with a guided tour of Houmas House and Destrehan Plantation, two iconic Mississippi River estates showcasing antebellum history and Southern architecture. This flexible combo tour invites you to witness plantation life framed by lush landscapes and compelling stories.
Houmas House Plantation, located in Darrow, Louisiana, is a historic estate known for its restored mansion, extensive formal gardens, and curated visitor experiences. The property sits along the Mississippi River and comprises 38 acres of landscaped grounds featuring tropical flowers, paved walkways, and roaming peacocks. Houmas House offers guided mansion and garden tours, combo tickets that pair the estate with the Great River Road Steamboat Museum or other nearby plantations, and seasonal events such as holiday buffets, Halloween walks, and dance classes.
Visitors can choose guided tours of the mansion to view period antiques and learn stories of 19th-century plantation life, or opt for a self-guided garden tour to explore at their own pace. On-site amenities include a gift shop and dining options such as Dixie Café, which supports special event programming. The Great River Road Steamboat Museum is adjacent to the area and can be combined with Houmas House visits to extend the experience with regional history, river views, and museum exhibits.
Houmas House Plantation promotes accessible outdoor paths and comfortable sitting areas across the gardens, making the site suitable for families and guests seeking a leisurely cultural outing. Tour reservations, combo tickets, and event bookings are handled through the estate’s visitor services and Gift Shop. As a preserved historic site with documented tours and public programming, Houmas House Plantation provides verifiable educational and cultural experiences rooted in Louisiana history. Accessible parking and clear visitor information help guests plan visits, and the Gift Shop accepts reservations directly by phone.
Location
Darrow, LA
Along the Mississippi River
Historic Estate
38-acre gardens
Mansion with period antiques
Tours Offered
9 experiences
Guided & self-guided options
Visit Length
4+ hours recommended
Plan for full immersion
Reserve mansion tours, garden walks, combo tickets, or seasonal events — book the time that fits your group for an authentic Louisiana historic experience.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tours involve walking across large grounds and uneven surfaces, so sturdy footwear enhances comfort.
Book Tours in Advance
Space can be limited; scheduling your preferred tour times ahead ensures the best experience.
Bring Water and Sun Protection
Outdoor portions of the tour expose visitors to sun and heat, especially in summer months.
Plan Transportation Between Sites
Houmas House and Destrehan Plantation are separate properties; having a vehicle or arranging a ride is necessary.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Allows for ease and stability while navigating plantation grounds.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important during warmer months.
summer
Sun Hat
Protects from direct sunlight during outdoor portions of the tour.
summer
Light Rain Jacket
Useful for unexpected showers in springtime.
spring