If you’re planning a trip to Louisiana, especially around New Orleans, the Houmas House Plantation tour is often touted as a prime way to step back into the antebellum era. While we haven’t personally taken this tour ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your travel plans.
What’s great about this experience? For starters, the guided mansion tour is detailed and engaging, with guides in period costumes who really bring the story to life. Plus, the expansive gardens are a highlight—perfect for those who love architecture, photography, or just wandering in beautiful scenery.
On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour duration is only one hour, which might feel a bit quick if you’re eager to soak in every detail. Transportation isn’t included, so if you’re relying on rideshare or local transit, plan ahead.
This tour suits history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and anyone interested in Louisiana’s plantation past. If you’re after a visually stunning experience with a touch of movie history, this might just be your ideal stop.
Key Points
- Fully restored mansion with guided tours led by period-costumed guides
- Expansive gardens open for self-guided exploration, perfect for photography
- Located about an hour from New Orleans, on the historic River Road
- Cost-effective at $38 per person for a comprehensive hour-long experience
- Includes full access to the gardens plus a detailed mansion tour
- Not including transportation, so plan accordingly
Why the Houmas House Tour is Worth Considering
When we look at the Houmas House experience, what stands out is how much it offers for its price—$38 per person isn’t much to explore a 250-year-old estate with a rich connection to Louisiana’s sugarcane history. The tour is about an hour long, which makes it manageable even if you’re bouncing between activities or have a tight schedule.
The fact that guides dress in period costumes is a small detail that really adds authenticity. They walk you through key rooms, showing rare artwork and artifacts that explain what life was like on a plantation in the 1800s. From the structure’s architectural evolution to its role in the region’s economy, the guided narration gives you context without overwhelming you.
Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, making the tour lively and memorable. One traveler from France mentioned an “excellent guide in period costume” and a “magnificent plantation,” which sums up how visitors often feel about their experience.
The Gardens: A Visual Feast
Beyond the house itself, the 38 acres of gardens are a huge draw. We loved the way intertwining water features, sculptures, and secret nooks create a miniature paradise. If you love photography, you’ll find plenty of scenic spots—think giant live oak trees draped with moss, colorful blooms, and tranquil water features.
One review enthusiastically called the gardens “fantastic” and the house “very beautiful.” The gardens are self-guided, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. There are shaded seating areas too, so you can rest and soak in the scenery.
The Movie & Ghost Connections
For movie buffs, Houmas House offers more than just pretty sights. It’s been featured in films like “Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte” and “The Green Book,” making it a place of cinematic significance. That’s a fun tidbit that adds a layer of intrigue if you’re into film history.
And for those curious about paranormal activity, the estate is reputed to have ghost stories and unexplained events. Whether you believe in spirits or not, the tales add a little extra flavor to your visit.
The Practical Side: What to Expect
Timing-wise, the tour is usually available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, giving some flexibility. The experience is designed to be relaxed: allow at least 3 hours to enjoy the mansion, gardens, and possibly the on-site restaurant.
You’ll need to arrange your own transportation—so if you’re coming from New Orleans, a quick drive of about an hour is typical. The grounds are dog-friendly on a leash, which is nice if you’re traveling with pups, but be aware that if other guests aren’t comfortable with pets, you might be asked to wait for the next tour.
The restaurant on site offers dining until 8 PM, with options for a buffet at an extra cost or casual meals available daily.
More Great Tours NearbyValue for Money
At $38, this tour offers a lot—guided access to a historic mansion, beautiful gardens, and some movie history all in one package. For history lovers or those wanting a taste of Louisiana’s plantation past without spending a full day or hundreds of dollars, it’s a solid choice.
The reviews confirm that guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, which can make or break a history tour. The fact that photography inside the house is permitted is a bonus for those who love capturing travel memories.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re interested in Louisiana’s architecture, history, or gardens, this tour checks many boxes. It’s particularly good if you want a well-organized, affordable experience that combines storytelling, visual beauty, and a bit of pop culture.
It’s less suited for those who want an in-depth, lengthy exploration or are relying on public transportation—since you’ll need to arrange your own ride. Also, if you’re looking for a family-friendly, interactive adventure for kids, this might be more suited to older children or adults who enjoy educational outings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The guided mansion tour is about one hour long, with plenty of time to explore the gardens on your own afterward.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation to Houmas House is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own ride, typically about an hour from New Orleans.
Can I take photos inside the mansion?
Yes, photography is permitted throughout the house and grounds, so bring your camera or smartphone.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through large gardens and potentially uneven terrain.
Is there a restaurant on site?
Yes, there’s a restaurant open until 8 PM, offering meals throughout the day. A buffet option is available at an additional cost.
Are pets allowed?
Dogs on a leash are welcome on the grounds, but if other guests aren’t comfortable, you might need to wait for the next tour with your pet.
Is the tour suitable for history buffs?
Absolutely. The guide shares detailed insights into the estate’s architecture, artifacts, and history.
Can I visit the gardens separately from the mansion?
Yes, the gardens are open for self-guided tours after the mansion visit, giving you flexibility.
What’s the best time to visit?
Tours are usually available in the morning, afternoon, or evening—choose what fits your schedule best.
New Orleans: Houmas House Plantation Tour
Final Thoughts
The Houmas House Plantation tour offers a well-rounded look into Louisiana’s plantation era with a good mix of guided storytelling and visual beauty. It’s a great choice if you want a manageable, affordable experience that provides both education and stunning scenery. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the scenic gardens and film history, make it a memorable stop for many visitors.
While it’s not a lengthy or exhaustive tour, it hits the highlights and leaves you with plenty of beautiful photos and interesting stories to share. Just remember to plan your transportation and give yourself enough time to enjoy everything fully.
If you’re a traveler who appreciates history, architecture, and gardens—and you’re okay with a quick tour—this is definitely worth considering for your Louisiana trip.
Note: Always check the latest details before visiting, as times, prices, and availability can change.
You can check availability for your dates here: