Longwood Plantation Natchez Mississippi
An unfinished 8-sided antebellum mansion with a striking Byzantine dome, offering a rare look at 19th-century construction.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Longwood Plantation Natchez Mississippi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An unfinished 8-sided antebellum mansion with a striking Byzantine dome, offering a rare look at 19th-century construction.
"This was probably our favorite tour of any of the antebellum homes in Natchez."
Pay at the Gate
Tickets are typically purchased at the gate. Enjoy the cute gift shop too! :gift_heart:
Tour is a Must
Don't miss the guided tour; guides are knowledgeable and make the history come alive. :bustsinsilhouette:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unfinished Upper Levels
Interior of the mansion
Gaze upwards at the exposed framework of the upper floors, a rare architectural insight into antebellum construction.
The Byzantine Dome
Exterior and interior views
Admire the distinctive, onion-shaped dome, a striking architectural feature that sets Longwood apart.
The Lower Level Rooms
Ground floor of the mansion
Explore the completed rooms on the ground floor, offering a glimpse into the intended grandeur of the mansion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unfinished Beauty
Book Your Tour in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pay at the Gate
Tickets are typically purchased at the gate. Enjoy the cute gift shop too! :gift_heart:
Tour is a Must
Don't miss the guided tour; guides are knowledgeable and make the history come alive. :bustsinsilhouette:
Unique Architecture
Appreciate the unfinished state; it offers a rare look at construction. :housewithgarden:
Local Honey Available
The gift shop sells local honey from bees on the property. :honey_pot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pay at the Gate
Tickets are typically purchased at the gate. Enjoy the cute gift shop too! :gift_heart:
Tour is a Must
Don't miss the guided tour; guides are knowledgeable and make the history come alive. :bustsinsilhouette:
Unique Architecture
Appreciate the unfinished state; it offers a rare look at construction. :housewithgarden:
Local Honey Available
The gift shop sells local honey from bees on the property. :honey_pot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Longwood Plantation for its unique, unfinished architecture and the insightful, entertaining tours. Many highlight the rare opportunity to see the 'bones' of the mansion. While the incomplete state is a point of fascination, some wish it had been finished. The knowledgeable guides and the charming gift shop also receive positive mentions.
"What a shame this home was never finished past the lower level. That being said, the upper levels are quite amazing as is. To look up and see the bones of this structure was awesome. Our guide Kay is very well versed on the history and hardship of this family. Enjoyed it very much."
Celeste Lewis-Bradley
"This was probably our favorite tour of any of the antebellum homes in Natchez. Mona, who did the tour was really entertaining and knowledgeable about the history of not just the house but the area. We had a great time and would definitely go back. Makes me wonder what the upper floors would have been like if they'd been completed."
Jim Johnson
"Beautiful piece of history preserved in its unfinished state. The house is beautiful and the tour is a must if you love history!"
US 1
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Longwood Plantation is located just outside of Natchez, Mississippi. Visitors typically drive to the site. It's accessible via local roads from downtown Natchez. Many visitors combine a trip to Longwood with other Natchez attractions like the Indian mounds and cemetery.
Yes, Longwood Plantation is generally well-signposted from the main roads leading out of Natchez. Following GPS or a map will guide you directly to the property.
From downtown Natchez, you'll typically head east on Highway 84 (Liberty Road) and then follow signs for Longwood. The exact route may vary slightly, so using a GPS is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically paid at the gate. While specific prices can change, expect a fee for the guided tour, which is the primary way to experience the plantation. Check their official website for current pricing.
While you can often pay at the gate, booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot and avoid potential disappointment.
Tour hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Longwood Plantation website for the most up-to-date operating hours and tour times before your visit.
Information on discounts for seniors, students, or groups is usually available on their official website or by contacting the plantation directly. It's always worth inquiring.
The main experience at Longwood is the guided tour, which is essential for understanding its unique history and architecture. Access to the interior is generally limited to guided tours.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Longwood is famous for being an unfinished antebellum mansion. Its most striking feature is the exposed framework of the upper floors, offering a rare look at construction. It also boasts a distinctive Byzantine-style onion dome.
You can explore the completed rooms on the lower level and marvel at the skeletal structure of the unfinished upper levels. The tour provides historical context for both.
A guided tour of Longwood Plantation usually lasts about an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of its history and architectural significance.
Children can find the unique architecture fascinating, especially the 'bones' of the unfinished upper floors. The tour guides are often engaging and can make the history accessible.
Yes, Longwood Plantation typically has restrooms available for visitors and a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and local items like honey.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, interior photography might be restricted or allowed without flash. It's best to confirm with your tour guide or check signage upon arrival.
The exterior, especially with the dome, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the exposed wooden structure of the upper floors provides a unique and dramatic backdrop for photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. Always check for specific regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the tour involves walking and looking upwards. Ensure children are supervised, especially in the areas with exposed structures. The knowledgeable guides can often make the history engaging for younger audiences, turning a historical site into an adventure. The gift shop also offers a chance for a small souvenir.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The octagonal design and the Byzantine dome are significant architectural features that set Longwood apart. The stories of the Nutt family, the impact of the Civil War, and the dream that was never fully realized add layers of historical depth. The guided tours are highly informative, making it an enriching experience for anyone interested in the antebellum South.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of an Unfinished Dream
Visitors can explore the completed lower level, which offers a glimpse into the intended luxury, but the true marvel lies in looking upwards. The exposed timber framing, intricate joinery, and sheer scale of the unfinished upper floors are a rare architectural spectacle. It's a unique opportunity to see the 'bones' of an antebellum mansion, providing an unparalleled insight into 19th-century building techniques and the sheer ambition of its creator.
Guides at Longwood are often praised for their deep knowledge of the Nutt family's history and the challenges they faced. They bring the story of this unfinished dream to life, explaining the architectural choices and the social context of the era. The experience is not just about seeing a house; it's about understanding a piece of American history frozen in time.
Architectural Uniqueness
The unfinished nature of the upper levels provides an extraordinary educational opportunity. Unlike other preserved homes, Longwood allows visitors to see the structural framework, including massive wooden beams, intricate joinery, and the sheer scale of the construction. This exposed architecture offers a tangible connection to the past, revealing the craftsmanship and engineering prowess of the era.
This unique blend of ambitious design and incomplete execution makes Longwood a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It's a site that sparks imagination, prompting visitors to ponder what might have been had construction been completed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit