New Orleans: St. Joseph and Felicity Plantation Guided Tour

If you’re eyeing a trip to Louisiana and want to get a real feel for its history, this guided tour of St. Joseph and Felicity Plantations might catch your eye. It offers more than just pretty houses — it’s a chance to understand the complex stories woven into the land, architecture, and families of this region. Think of it as a layered peek behind the curtain of antebellum Louisiana, with stories that stretch from the 19th century all the way into today.

What first drew us in was how authentic this experience feels — these aren’t just tourist spots, but working farms with families still connected to the land. Plus, with the chance to see Felicity Plantation as a film location, it adds a bit of pop culture flair to the mix. That said, it’s not the most leisurely stroll — be prepared for some walking, and remember that the tour involves active, working plantation grounds.

One thing to consider is the depth of history covered. If you want a more casual overview, this might feel a little intense in spots, especially given the focus on slavery and resilience. Still, if you’re interested in a well-rounded, respectful, and visually stunning glimpse into Louisiana’s plantation era, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone curious about the real stories behind the old plantation facades.

Key Points

• Authentic experience with guided visits to two historic plantations.
• Insightful stories about families, enslaved people, and plantation life.
• Beautiful Creole architecture and original furnishings at St. Joseph.
• Active sugar farm with ongoing cultivation and history.
• Film buffs will appreciate Felicity’s role in movies and TV shows.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation and pay later options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This three-hour journey is a thoughtful walk through Louisiana’s plantation past, starting at St. Joseph Plantation, built in 1830. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a sense of stepping back in time, especially as the house still boasts its original Creole architecture and meticulously maintained family furnishings. It’s a rare opportunity to see how the wealthy plantation owners lived, with wide galleries and well-preserved rooms that are genuinely evocative.

Inside the house, guides share stories about the families who owned it and the enslaved men, women, and children who built and maintained it. We loved the way the guide emphasized the resilience and survival of those who endured brutal conditions, making the history feel honest and real. The original outbuildings, including slave cabins, offer an unfiltered look at plantation life, and many reviews highlight how impactful these moments are. One visitor noted, “Seeing the slave cabins helped put everything into perspective — it’s a stark reminder of the past we shouldn’t forget.”

After exploring St. Joseph, the tour continues at Felicity Plantation, a striking example of Greek Revival style blending with Creole influences. Built between 1844 and 1847, it’s still a working sugar farm owned by the same family since 1877. The fact that it remains an active farm adds an authentic touch, and the view across the sugarcane fields is genuinely stunning. You also get a peek into a location used in several films and TV shows, including 12 Years a Slave and Roots, which makes it a fun highlight for movie buffs.

At Felicity, you’ll walk through the house and grounds, learning about the importance of sugarcane to Louisiana’s economy and culture. The fact that the property has been featured in multiple films offers a bit of Hollywood glamour, but don’t expect a Hollywood tour — it’s still rooted in its historic and agricultural identity. Visitors often comment on how atmospheric the house and grounds are, especially during the film scenes they recognize.

The Details that Matter

The tour is priced at $46 per person, which offers solid value considering you’re visiting two historic plantations, with guided insights and access to original outbuildings and slave cabins. The cost positions this experience as accessible, especially when compared to other private or private-group tours that might be more expensive, but it’s important to remember that this is a guided group experience, with a focus on education and storytelling.

The duration of three hours is a good balance — it’s enough time to absorb the history without feeling rushed. Tours run on the hour at St. Joseph and on the half-hour at Felicity, so plan to arrive a bit early to check in comfortably. The meeting points are straightforward, with parking available and signs directing guests to check-in inside the mansions.

The walk involves some outdoor time, including exploring the outbuildings and slave cabins, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The outdoor elements can vary — in summer, expect heat and humidity; in cooler months, it’s more pleasant but still involves walking through open spaces.

Given that the plantations are still active sugar farms, visitors should be prepared for the sights and sounds of ongoing agricultural work. This is a working farm, not a static museum, which adds to the authenticity but also requires a respectful attitude toward the land and ongoing activities.

Insights from Visitors

Many reviews highlight the powerful storytelling and the “stunning views” of the sugar fields, especially at Felicity. One visitor remarked, “The view across the fields is incredible — it’s a humbling reminder of how land and labor shaped this region.” Others appreciate the well-preserved architecture, noting that walking into the homes feels like stepping into Louisiana’s past.

Some visitors mention that the guided tour adds a personal touch that makes the stories more impactful. A reviewer said, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and respectful, which made the experience even more meaningful.” The access to original structures like slave cabins is also a standout feature, offering rare insight into the lives of enslaved people.

However, a few mention the physical aspect — it’s a good idea to be prepared for some walking and standing, especially if you’re visiting in the heat. Also, for those seeking a very casual or quick overview, the three-hour commitment might feel a bit lengthy, but for those interested in a deeper understanding, it’s quite appropriate.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re interested in history, architecture, and Louisiana’s cultural fabric, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s ideal for visitors who appreciate detailed stories and want an honest look at plantation life, including the difficult realities of slavery. The active farm aspect and filming locations also make it appealing to those wanting a multi-layered experience.

Travelers who like a guided experience with knowledgeable guides will find this particularly valuable. It’s suitable for those comfortable with some walking outdoors and eager to explore original structures and plantation grounds. It’s not a casual sightseeing stroll — it’s a respectful, immersive journey into the past.

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The Sum Up

This guided tour of St. Joseph and Felicity Plantations offers a compelling look into Louisiana’s plantation history, blending architecture, agriculture, and stories of resilience. The combination of well-preserved homes, original outbuildings, and active sugar fields makes it a unique, authentic experience that’s both educational and visually captivating. The presence of Felicity as a filming location adds a fun pop culture element, especially for movie fans.

While the tour involves a fair amount of walking and navigating outdoor spaces, it’s well-suited for those who want a thorough, meaningful exploration of Louisiana’s past. The price is reasonable given the depth of what you see and learn, and the guided format ensures you get context that truly enhances the experience. If you’re looking for an honest, layered look at plantation life — including the stories of those who endured slavery alongside the stories of wealth and grandeur — this tour is a solid choice.

It’s particularly recommended for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those interested in the ongoing significance of plantation land. For anyone curious about the realities behind the picture-perfect plantations often seen in postcards, this experience offers a respectful, thought-provoking perspective that will stay with you long after you leave.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While the tour involves walking through historical sites and outdoor areas, it doesn’t specify age restrictions. It’s suitable for most visitors comfortable with some walking. However, very young children might find the detailed historical narratives a bit heavy.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 hours, which includes guided visits to both plantations and walking around the grounds.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers guided tours of both plantations, access to original outbuildings and slave cabins, insights into plantation life, and views of the active sugar farm. It also highlights Felicity’s film appearances.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is transportation provided between the two plantations?
The tour covers both plantations on foot; there’s no mention of transportation between sites, but the short distance makes it manageable on foot.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there will be walking and exploring outdoor spaces. Dress according to the weather, especially if it’s hot or rainy.

Is there parking available?
Yes, guests can park in the designated lot and check in inside the mansions, with signs and guides to help you find your way.

How do I know where to check in?
Check-in is inside either plantation mansion, with signs posted at the parking area and guides on hand to assist.

Are there any filming locations I might recognize?
Yes, Felicity Plantation has appeared in several movies and TV shows, including 12 Years a Slave and Roots, adding a layer of cultural interest to the visit.

Hopefully, this detailed review helps you decide whether this tour fits your Louisiana adventure. It’s a chance to connect with history in a meaningful, visually stunning way — one that respects the past while offering a snapshot of current land use and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: