Houmas House Plantation Guided Tour

If you’re planning a visit to New Orleans and looking to explore the historic plantations in the area, the Houmas House Plantation Guided Tour might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice, rated highly by travelers, and offers a chance to step back into Louisiana’s antebellum past. We haven’t personally experienced it, but based on extensive reviews and info, we can give you a thorough picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the guided tour of the mansion is led by knowledgeable, friendly guides dressed in period costumes, which adds a layer of authenticity. Second, the extensive gardens and estate grounds are a real highlight, offering plenty of space to wander and enjoy the scenery. However, a slight consideration is that the tour largely sidesteps darker aspects of history, such as slavery, which some visitors may find worth noting.

This tour tends to appeal most to those who enjoy history, architecture, and beautiful landscapes—whether you’re a history buff, a couple seeking a leisurely day out, or even a group of friends. It’s a relaxed experience that balances storytelling with scenic exploration, perfect for those wanting an insight into the old South without a heavy dose of somber topics.

Key Points

• Highly rated and recommended by over 600 travelers, with a 4.5/5 rating.
• Includes a guided mansion tour and self-guided exploration of 38 acres of gardens.
• Accessible rooms and photography allowed, making it visitor-friendly.
• Tickets are reasonably priced at around $38, offering good value for the experience.
• The tour lasts 1 to 3 hours, flexible enough for a morning or afternoon outing.
• The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the tour engaging.

What’s the Houmas House Experience Really Like?

The Mansion Tour: Stepping Back in Time

When you arrive at Houmas House, you’ll notice the grand structure that’s often called “The Sugar Palace,” thanks to its significance in the late 1800s sugar industry—producing over 20 million pounds of sugar annually in its heyday. The guided tour of the mansion is the cornerstone of this experience.

Our understanding from travelers is that the guides are well-versed and approachable. Many reviews highlight the guides’ ability to answer questions and keep the tour interesting. As one visitor put it, “The guide was excellent, very knowledgeable and courteous, took time to answer questions, kept it interesting.” They dress in period costumes, which adds a charming touch that makes the visit feel immersive, even if just visually.

The tour includes access to all 16 rooms of the mansion, which are decorated in a way that reflects the elegance of the period. You’ll see artwork, antiques, and learn about the architecture and history of this plantation estate. One notable room is where Bette Davis stayed during the filming of “Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte” in 1963—an interesting tidbit for film buffs or those interested in Hollywood history.

Gardens and Estate Grounds: A Feast for the Eyes

Beyond the house itself, the estate sprawls across 38 acres of meticulously maintained gardens and manicured paths. Visitors are encouraged to explore these at their leisure before or after the guided tour, which means you can take your time soaking in the scenery.

Multiple reviews rave about the beauty of the grounds. One reviewer mentioned, “The house and grounds were stunning. The grounds would be even more beautiful later in the spring,” emphasizing that the gardens are a sight to behold. Whether it’s sitting in a quaint nook, strolling along the paths, or just snapping photos, the gardens add a peaceful, picturesque element to the overall experience.

Dining and Shopping: Relax and Indulge

The estate offers a couple of dining options—restaurants and cafes where you can grab a locally inspired meal or a mint julep to sip while enjoying the view. Many reviews note the quality of the food, with some mentioning the delicious dinner options at the 1796 restaurant.

For those interested in souvenirs or unique finds, the gift shop is a treasure trove of antiques, local art, and one-of-a-kind items. It’s a pleasant way to pick up a memento of your visit, whether that’s a piece of local craft or a historic artifact.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and How It’s Structured

The tour begins at the front of the mansion, where you’ll meet your guide dressed in period costume. The guided mansion tour usually lasts around 45 minutes, though some reviews suggest it can stretch a bit longer with questions and lively commentary.

During the tour, you’ll learn about the architectural features of the house, the families who lived there, and the plantation’s role in Louisiana’s sugar economy. The guide also shares stories about notable guests, like Bette Davis, and the estate’s significance.

After the house tour, you’re free to wander around the estate’s gardens and grounds. The self-guided exploration of the 38 acres allows you to soak in the scenery at your own pace—whether that’s finding a quiet spot to rest or taking photos of the lush surroundings.

What’s Included:

• Guided tour of the mansion
• Access to the estate and gardens
• Local guide and taxes

What’s not included:

• Food and drinks (which are available for purchase)
• Transportation to the site (arranged separately)

Duration & Group Size

The entire experience can last 1 to 3 hours, depending on how long you want to spend exploring the grounds or listening to the guide. The group size is capped at 25 travelers, keeping the tour intimate enough to ask questions and enjoy a personalized experience.

How Do Visitors Feel About It?

The overall reviews are very positive, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 610 reviews. Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides, with many mentioning how they answered questions thoroughly and added humor to keep things lively. For example, one reviewer said, “Sami did a wonderful job guiding us; she knew her history and was friendly.”

Many travelers highlight the stunning property and well-maintained house, emphasizing the beauty of both the mansion and the gardens. One said, “The house and grounds were just beautiful,” capturing the visual appeal.

Some reviews mention that the history covered mainly focuses on the mansion and its architecture, with less emphasis on the darker aspects like slavery. If understanding all facets of plantation life is important to you, this is something to keep in mind.

Overall Value

At around $38 per person, many feel this is a good value considering the depth of the guided tour, access to the gardens, and the overall experience. The reviews suggest that the tour is engaging, well-organized, and worth the price.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right For You?

If you love architecture, picturesque gardens, and engaging storytelling, you’ll find a lot to enjoy at Houmas House. The guided tour provides a friendly and informative look at Louisiana’s plantation era without feeling overwhelming or heavy. The grounds and the mansion’s decor truly are beautiful, making it a memorable stop on your Louisiana trip.

This experience is especially suited for history enthusiasts, couples looking for a relaxed yet enriching outing, or travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes. If you’re interested in film history, the mention of Bette Davis adds an extra layer of interest.

That said, if you’re hoping for a comprehensive historical account that includes the darker parts of plantation life, this tour might not fully cover that. Still, for a well-rounded visit that combines beauty, history, and storytelling, Houmas House offers a compelling snapshot of the old South.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to the estate is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way there, or consider combining it with other local activities.

How long does the entire tour take?
The guided mansion tour typically lasts about 45 minutes, but you should set aside 1 to 3 hours overall, including exploring the gardens at your own pace.

Are all rooms of the house accessible?
Yes, every room in the 16-room mansion is accessible, and visitors are allowed to take photos.

Can I take photos inside the mansion?
Absolutely, photography is permitted inside the mansion, so you can capture the beautiful decor and art.

What’s the best time to visit?
Most visitors recommend touring during good weather, especially when the gardens are looking their best—spring is often mentioned as a beautiful time.

Is there food available on-site?
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes where you can purchase a meal or a drink, including local specialties and possibly a mint julep.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers; children who enjoy history and gardens will likely find it interesting, but it’s not specifically designed as a family-focused experience.

Can I combine this with other plantation visits?
Yes, Houmas House is part of a landscape of plantation tours. Links to similar experiences are provided, such as Laura Plantation or Destrehan Plantation, for comparison.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking through the house and extensive gardens. Dress according to the weather, especially if visiting in summer.

Overall, Houmas House offers a visually stunning, well-rounded experience that balances history and scenery. If you’re in New Orleans and want a taste of the old South with friendly guides and beautiful grounds, it’s definitely worth considering.