Whitney Plantation
A vital museum and memorial dedicated to telling the story of slavery from the perspective of the enslaved.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Whitney Plantation
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital museum and memorial dedicated to telling the story of slavery from the perspective of the enslaved.
"Unlike any other in Louisiana, it's the only one dedicated entirely to telling the story from the perspective of the enslaved."
📚 Bring the Guidebook
Essential for understanding each site and the personal stories of the enslaved. It's a must-have companion.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the grounds to see all the exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Slave Cabins
Original restored structures
Step into the stark reality of enslaved life within these preserved cabins, offering a visceral connection to the past.
The Jail
Original structure
A chilling reminder of the control and punishment faced by enslaved individuals, this structure stands as a testament to their suffering.
The Great House
Main plantation house
While the focus is on the enslaved, the Great House provides context to the lives of the owners and the system of slavery.
The Sculptures of Children
Throughout the grounds
Moving artistic representations that honor the lost childhoods and lives of enslaved children.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Focus on Education, Not Entertainment
Plan Your Transportation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Bring the Guidebook
Essential for understanding each site and the personal stories of the enslaved. It's a must-have companion.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the grounds to see all the exhibits.
🤫 Be Prepared for Emotion
This is a deeply moving and often somber experience. Allow yourself to feel.
🚗 Plan Transportation
It's about 45 mins from New Orleans. Consider tours or renting a car.
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Bring the Guidebook
Essential for understanding each site and the personal stories of the enslaved. It's a must-have companion.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the grounds to see all the exhibits.
🤫 Be Prepared for Emotion
This is a deeply moving and often somber experience. Allow yourself to feel.
🚗 Plan Transportation
It's about 45 mins from New Orleans. Consider tours or renting a car.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but be mindful of the sensitive nature of the site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Whitney Plantation is widely praised as a uniquely educational and impactful historical site, dedicated to telling the story of slavery from the perspective of the enslaved. Visitors consistently highlight its authenticity, the depth of information provided, and the emotional resonance of the experience. While some find the subject matter challenging, most agree it's a necessary and profoundly moving visit.
"The Whitney Plantation is unlike any other in Louisiana—it’s the only one dedicated entirely to telling the story from the perspective of the enslaved people, not the plantation owners. Even your entry pass tells the story of one individual child who lived here, a powerful reminder that this history is personal. It’s beautifully organized, and the guidebook is a must, walking you through each site and sharing the names, histories, and realities of the people who lived and labored here.
The grounds are stunning, but you’re not here for the beauty—you’re here to learn about the unimaginable hardships and resilience of those who were enslaved. The sculptures of children are especially moving, and it’s impossible not to be touched by the small gifts visiting children leave for them—scrunchies, beads, tiny toys.
The tour company we used later picked up visitors from Oak Alley, and I was struck by the stark contrast between the two. Whitney Plantation is humble, well-organized, and entirely dedicated to honoring the lives of the people who were forced to work and die there. Its bookstore offers an incredible selection of both factual and fictional works to help visitors deepen their understanding.
Oak Alley, on the other hand, felt crowded and loud, with multiple bars and souvenir shops. After learning in depth about the horrific realities of slavery at Whitney, this felt trivialized and in poor taste.
A plantation museum should not exist to entertain— or, can't believe I have to even write this, as events venue - it should exist to teach. Whitney Plantation does exactly that, and I believe it should be a mandatory trip for all schools in the U.S."
Kat
"Hauntingly beautiful. The grounds are kept in amazing condition so viewers can really take in the time period(s) being explored. It is important for people to come view sites like this to learn more about true American history.
Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable and very helpful! I believe his name was Arthur—forgive me if that’s incorrect. The way he delivered the information was quite thorough! Just don’t forget to turn around when walking so we can hear you then as well!"
Jonah Mizrahi
"I've wanted to visit the Whitney Plantation ever since I last came to New Orleans a few years ago when I first heard about it. Dominique and Justin were fantastic interpreters! They were both so knowledgeable, personable, and eager to share the history with us in an educational way. There were moments on the grounds when I felt overwhelmed with emotion and didn’t think to take pictures, especially because Dominique was so engrossing to listen to. It was truly the best plantation tour I’ve ever experienced, and I’d love to go back in a heartbeat!"
Alexis Martorello
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Whitney Plantation is located about 45 minutes outside of New Orleans. Many visitors opt for organized tours that include transportation, such as those offered by Gray Line or Legendary Tours. Alternatively, you can rent a car or arrange for a private driver. Ride-sharing services may be available but can be less reliable for the return trip.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Whitney Plantation for visitors who choose to drive themselves.
Public bus transportation to Whitney Plantation is not readily available due to its rural location. It is recommended to arrange for transportation through a tour operator or by renting a vehicle.
Yes, several tour companies offer combo tours that include Whitney Plantation along with other nearby attractions like Oak Alley Plantation or swamp tours. This can be a convenient option for maximizing your visit.
For a group, renting a van or booking a private tour with transportation is often the most efficient and comfortable option. This ensures everyone travels together and avoids logistical challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but generally, admission to Whitney Plantation is around $20-$30 for adults. It's always best to check their official website or authorized ticket vendors for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
It is highly recommended to purchase Whitney Plantation tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or on weekends. This helps ensure your entry and can sometimes offer a slight discount.
Whitney Plantation is typically open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Whitney Plantation website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Occasionally, discounts or Groupon offers for Whitney Plantation may be available. It's worth checking deal websites or the plantation's promotions page periodically.
Admission typically includes access to the museum, guided tours of the grounds and buildings, and the opportunity to explore the exhibits at your own pace. The entry pass itself often tells the story of an individual child who lived there.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour at Whitney Plantation is a central part of the experience. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the restored buildings and grounds, sharing the history and personal stories of the enslaved people who lived and worked there. The focus is educational and deeply moving.
A typical visit to Whitney Plantation, including the guided tour and time to explore the exhibits, can take approximately 2-3 hours. Allow extra time if you plan to visit the bookstore or spend more time reflecting.
Whitney Plantation is an educational site that deals with the difficult history of slavery. While it is important for children to learn this history, parents should consider their child's maturity level. The experience can be emotionally impactful.
Photography is generally permitted at Whitney Plantation, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the historical significance and emotional weight of the site. Some areas may have restrictions.
The Whitney Plantation was established in 1752 and is one of the few historic plantations in the U.S. that focuses exclusively on telling the story of slavery from the perspective of the enslaved. It was purchased by John Cummings in 2009 and transformed into a museum dedicated to educating the public about this crucial aspect of American history. 
📸 📸 Photography
While the entire site is historically significant, the restored slave cabins, the jail, and the Great House offer compelling photographic opportunities. The sculptures of children are also poignant subjects. Remember to be respectful of the solemn atmosphere. +1
While generally allowed, it's always best to be mindful of the sensitive nature of the exhibits. Avoid intrusive photography and be aware of any specific signage indicating restricted areas. The focus should remain on learning and reflection.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) would be ideal for capturing the architectural details and atmospheric shots. However, a good smartphone camera can also produce excellent results, especially in good lighting.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at historical sites like Whitney Plantation to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. Always check the site's specific policies before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel. However, the historical significance of the site can be appreciated at any time of day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider discussing the visit beforehand and what to expect. The site's focus on individual stories can help humanize the history for children. The guidebook is also a valuable tool for parents to help explain complex topics in an age-appropriate manner. Ultimately, it's a place for learning and remembrance, and parents can gauge if their children are ready for such an experience.
📚 History Enthusiasts & Students
+1This site is invaluable for students and academics seeking primary source-like insights into the daily lives, struggles, and resilience of enslaved people. The commitment to historical accuracy and the amplification of marginalized voices make it a crucial resource for understanding the complexities of this period. Plan for ample time to absorb the information and engage with the exhibits thoughtfully.
🤔 Reflective Travelers
+1This is not a destination for lighthearted tourism. Visitors often describe feeling moved, humbled, and inspired by the resilience of the human spirit in the face of immense hardship. The site serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of confronting difficult histories and learning from the past to build a more just future.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission of Whitney Plantation
+1This educational mission is supported by meticulously restored original structures, including slave cabins, the jail, and the Great House, each offering a tangible connection to the past. The accompanying guidebook is an indispensable tool, providing detailed information about the individuals and events that shaped life on the plantation. Unlike sites that might emphasize the grandeur of antebellum life, Whitney Plantation confronts the harsh realities, making it a powerful, albeit often somber, learning experience.
The dedication to historical accuracy and the amplification of marginalized voices has earned Whitney Plantation widespread recognition. It's frequently cited as a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of American history, particularly the enduring legacy of slavery. The site serves not just as a museum but as a memorial, a place for reflection, and a crucial educational resource for all ages.
Navigating the Emotional Landscape
+1It's important to acknowledge that this is not a typical tourist attraction focused on leisure. The Whitney Plantation is a place of remembrance and education, designed to confront visitors with the difficult truths of the past. Social media content often highlights the emotional weight of the visit, with creators sharing their personal reactions and encouraging others to be prepared for a somber but necessary experience.
+1While the experience can be challenging, it is widely regarded as essential for understanding American history. The resilience and humanity of the enslaved people are also a significant part of the narrative, offering a powerful testament to their strength in the face of unimaginable adversity. Visitors often leave with a renewed appreciation for history and a deeper understanding of the ongoing impact of slavery.
+1The Contrast with Other Plantations
Reviews and social media posts frequently draw a stark contrast between the two. Visitors often note that after experiencing the profound educational impact of Whitney Plantation, the more commercialized aspects of other plantations, such as souvenir shops and event venues, can feel trivializing or even in poor taste. Whitney Plantation prioritizes historical truth and remembrance over entertainment.
This distinction makes Whitney Plantation a unique and vital destination for those seeking an authentic and unvarnished understanding of the history of slavery in America. It's a place that challenges visitors to learn and reflect, rather than simply sightsee.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit