From
$89
per person
Oak Alley Plantation Tour
Walk beneath 28 ancient oaks and step into 300 years of Louisiana stories.This is more than a plantation tour. It is a half-day journey through 300 years of Louisiana history. Stroll beneath 28 ancient live oaks, tour the Big House, and experience powerful slavery exhibits, with round-trip shuttle transportation from New Orleans included.
Tour Highlights
- ✓Walk beneath 28 live oaks, the most photographed canopy in Louisiana
- ✓Powerful slavery exhibits that tell the full, unflinching story
- ✓Sugarcane Theater film and blacksmithing demonstrations bring history to life
- ✓East and West Gardens spanning two centuries of landscape design
- ✓A half-day escape from the city into Louisiana's River Road country
What Guests Are Saying
“Customer service was astounding. We had to make so many changes to our reservation that I was embarrassed. G & G was timely and professional throughout. 100% recommended!”
★★★★★— Visitor from New Hampshirevia Direct
“Lenny was very knowledgeable and helpful when booking the tour! Would definitely book again.”
★★★★★— Robbyn A.via TripAdvisor
“I worked with Lenny to book tours for my company while we were in town for a conference. Lenny was amazing and accommodating. He helped me pick the right tours and even arranged transportation to the swamp!”
★★★★★— Tarah K.via Google
About This Tour
This is not just a plantation tour. It is a full-day journey through 300 years of Louisiana history with round-trip transportation included. As you arrive, the world narrows to a breathtaking tunnel of 28 ancient live oak trees, almost definitely planted by the enslaved people who worked there, their branches arching overhead like a living cathedral. The stunning sight is made more powerful by the deep and painful history of this place.
Your visit begins with a guided tour of the Big House mansion, where polished wood floors, wide verandas, and sweeping views down the oak alley reveal the elegance that once defined this estate. From there, the story widens to include the people whose labor built and sustained it. You will walk through thoughtfully curated slavery exhibits, see blacksmithing demonstrations, and hear the stories behind the families, enslaved and free, who once walked this same path. If you can't make it up the 22 stairs to the second floor, a separate video tour is available.
Perfect for families and history lovers who want a seamless day trip from New Orleans. Wander the grounds, linger under the oaks for photos, grab lunch at the on-site cafe, and browse the gift shop.
What's Included
- ★Round-trip shuttle from a centralized meeting point near Jackson Square
- ★Guided tour of the Big House mansion with expert historical guides
- ★Full admission to all exhibits and grounds
- ★Free time to explore the grounds, cafe, and gift shop
Not included in this tour▼
- —Food and drinks (cafe and restaurant on-site)
- —Guide gratuities
What to Bring
- ●Comfortable walking shoes
- ●Sunscreen and hat
- ●Camera
- ●Water bottle
- ●Cash for cafe, gift shop, and guide tips
Departure Times
10:00 AM12:00 PM
Meeting Point
Near Jackson Square
French Quarter, New Orleans
Exact meeting point details and time will be included in your confirmation email after booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are plantation tours?▼
Most plantation tours are full-day experiences lasting 5-7 hours, including transportation from New Orleans. The actual time at the plantation is typically 1.5-2 hours for the guided tour, plus time to explore the grounds.
What's included in the tour price?▼
Tour prices include round-trip transportation from your New Orleans hotel, plantation admission, and a guided tour of the property. Some tours include lunch or refreshments — check individual tour pages for details.
Which plantation should I visit?▼
It depends on your interests! Oak Alley is best for photography and classic Southern beauty. Whitney Plantation offers the most comprehensive look at enslaved people's experiences. Laura Plantation focuses on Creole culture and has a more intimate feel. Chat with us and we'll help you decide!
Are plantation tours appropriate for children?▼
Yes, but consider your children's ages and maturity. The tours discuss slavery, which can be difficult for young children to understand. Whitney Plantation is the most intense; Oak Alley is generally more family-friendly. Older children often find these tours educational and meaningful.
Should we tip our tour guides?▼
Absolutely! Tipping 15-20% of your tour cost is standard and greatly appreciated — similar to what you'd tip at a restaurant. Our guides are passionate locals who rely on tips as a significant part of their income. A great guide can make your experience unforgettable. If they do, let them know!
What happens if it rains?▼
Tours run rain or shine. If you show up in the rain, your guide will be there. We only cancel if conditions become dangerous, and in that case you'll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
What is your cancellation policy?▼
Tours are non-refundable unless cancelled by the company or tour operators (typically due to dangerous weather like lightning or hurricanes). If you need to reschedule, contact us and we'll work with you to apply your payment to a different date or tour, subject to availability. We understand plans change — just give us as much notice as possible.
Can I reschedule my tour to a different date?▼
We ask for at least 24 hours notice for any changes. If you need to reschedule, get in touch with us as soon as you know and we'll do our best to work something out. The earlier you reach out, the more flexibility we have.
Have more questions? Visit our FAQ page
Important Information
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Some walking on uneven ground and steps is required; if you can't climb the 22 stairs to the second floor of the Big House, a video tour is available. No photography or video is allowed inside the Big House, but photos are encouraged on the balcony, grounds, and self-paced exhibits. Electronic devices must be turned off or muted during the guided tour. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Activity Level
Easy
Leisurely walking around the grounds and through the mansion, with periods of standing during guided talks and exhibits.
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