Historic Estate & River Views at Houmas House Plantation
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for visitors with general mobility; extended walking on grounds recommended.
Overview
Step into Southern history and river lore at Houmas House Plantation. Tour the grand mansion, wander extensive gardens, then visit the Great River Road Steamboat Museum with stunning Mississippi River views.
Houmas House & The Great River Road Museum Combo Ticket
All Ages
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Explore the enchanting Houmas House, a historic estate set on 38 acres of stunning gardens. Enjoy guided tours of the mansion, rich with period antiques and stories of plantation life. Afterward, delve into the Great River Road Steamboat Museum and take in breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
About
This historic estate boasts 38 acres of the South’s most beautiful gardens, three restaurants, a luxurious Inn and a historic mansion open daily for tours. The guided mansion tour leads guests through the architectural evolution of the mansion and details how a succession of owners and the Mississippi River grew this manor house to today’s grand estate. Period antiques, artwork and artifacts help the costumed guides tell the story of plantation life. Once sprawling over 300,000 acres, Houmas House has survived wars, floods, abandonment, and the test of time. Spend the day or night and experience the Antebellum South. Once you have explored the Houmas Estate, visit The Great River Road Steamboat Museum. This expansive museum educates about life on the Mississippi-- exploring the culture, commerce, folklore and music. Once you’ve completed this attraction, save time to walk across the bridge located in the parking lot and enjoy sweeping views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. Allow at least 4 hours for this visit to both Houmas House and The Great River Road Museum.
What to Wear
We suggest that guests wear comfortable shoes. High heels are not recommended as the property is quite expansive. In the summer months our climate is very warm. We do suggest cool, comfortable clothes. Our winters are mild, but occasionally it does get cold so please be prepared. The mansion, restaurants, gift shop, and museum are all centrally air conditioned and heated.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable footwear
The grounds and mansion tours involve walking on expansive and sometimes uneven terrain, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are advised.
Bring a camera
There are multiple scenic spots, especially along the Mississippi River overlook, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Plan for at least 4 hours
Combine the mansion tour and museum visit without rushing by setting aside a half-day.
Check weather before visiting
Louisiana humidity and rain are common; dress appropriately and bring sun protection or light rain gear.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons
- River otters near the Mississippi
History
Houmas House flourished in the antebellum era, witnessing the growth and transformation along the Mississippi River, surviving war and economic shifts into the 21st century.
Conservation
The estate practices sustainable landscaping to preserve native plants and minimize impact on the river’s floodplain ecosystem.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports extended walking around gardens and historic mansion floors with variable surfaces.
Sun hat or cap
Protects against sun exposure during outdoor garden tours and river overlook visits.
spring|summer|fall specific
Light rain jacket
Useful for sudden showers common in Louisiana’s warmer seasons.
spring|summer specific
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the walkable outdoor portions of the experience.