Laura Plantation
Step back in time at Laura Plantation, a historic Creole sugar plantation showcasing early 19th-century life and architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Laura Plantation
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Laura Plantation, a historic Creole sugar plantation showcasing early 19th-century life and architecture.
"Our guide was very knowledgeable, and has numerous detailed stories about the property and its Creole history. "
Ask About Guides
Guides like Caroline and Laura are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the grounds and inside the historic buildings. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Creole Big House
Main House
Explore the meticulously restored 1805 Creole-style raised big house, a testament to early 19th-century architecture.
Slave Cabins
Grounds
Gain insight into the lives of the enslaved through preserved slave cabins, offering a crucial perspective on plantation life.
+1
The Gardens and Grounds
Exterior
Wander through the picturesque gardens and grounds, appreciating the historical landscape and its significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Focus on History, Not Just Scenery
+1Book Tours in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ask About Guides
Guides like Caroline and Laura are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the grounds and inside the historic buildings. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully absorb the history and grounds. :clock1:
Consider Whitney Plantation
Some visitors suggest Whitney Plantation for a more direct focus on slavery.
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask About Guides
Guides like Caroline and Laura are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the grounds and inside the historic buildings. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully absorb the history and grounds. :clock1:
Consider Whitney Plantation
Some visitors suggest Whitney Plantation for a more direct focus on slavery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Laura Plantation for its beautiful grounds, well-preserved architecture, and knowledgeable guides who bring Creole history to life. However, some reviewers feel the tour's focus on slavery is less prominent than desired, preferring a more direct narrative on that aspect of plantation life.
"I went to Laura and Oak Alley Plantations on the same day. Both plantations are incredibly beautiful and you can feel the buildings filled with histories. I highly recommend our guide in Laura, Caroline. She is very knowledgeable, and has numerous detailed stories about the property and its Creole history. I definitely learned and enjoyed the trip a lot."
C Li
"It was disappointing.
The story told is of the plantation owners and their family. Slavery is hardly mentioned.
Was it rare for women to run a business in 1800?
For sure.
But it's not like they did much to get the job.. They were born into it and their husbands died, leaving them in charge.
Is it impressive that women run the plantation successfully? Not really. Why wouldn't they?
Especially when they don't need to pay for labor.
You get a quick 5 min in one of the slave quarters, too fast for anyone to even notice the "bathroom" (a chair with a hole in the seat).
You leave the tour feeling proud of the women who run it, but when you stop and think about it you realize how skewed the whole angle is.
Yes, slavery was horrible and that's why people come to this tour - to understand it better.
You don't get that here.
The guide, Laura, was a great guide with lots of energy and a great sense of humor, but she rushed through the premises and barely mentioned the reason we were there - to learn about the slaves.
I'd skip this for the Whitney."
Yifat Cohen
"If you're in New Orleans and looking for something to do that is both educational and family friendly, I highly recommend visiting Laura Plantation. It's about an hour away from N.O., but well worth the drive. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the beauty and history of the property. The tour was absolutely fantastic—our guide (which was also named Laura) was incredibly knowledgeable, engaging, and made the history come to life with fascinating stories about the people who lived and worked on the plantation. The grounds themselves are stunning. I learned so much about the cultural and historical significance of this place. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the whole visit felt like a truly educational and moving experience. If you're in the area, this is an absolute must-see! Highly recommend!"
R. Tht4d
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laura Plantation is located about an hour's drive west of New Orleans. Many visitors opt for a rental car for flexibility. Alternatively, several tour operators offer transportation from New Orleans, often combining visits to multiple plantations.
Yes, ample parking is available on-site for visitors driving to the plantation.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Laura Plantation from New Orleans. Driving or booking a guided tour with transportation is the most practical approach.
The drive typically takes around 60-75 minutes, depending on traffic. You'll primarily travel along Highway 90 West.
Yes, Oak Alley Plantation is a popular neighbor, and some visitors combine visits to both on the same day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but typically include a guided tour of the main house and grounds. It's best to check the official Laura Plantation website for current pricing and any package deals.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or on weekends, to ensure availability for the guided tours.
Laura Plantation is generally open daily for guided tours. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and tour times.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or military personnel. Check the official website or inquire when booking for any applicable discounts.
Admission typically includes a guided tour led by knowledgeable docents, providing insights into the plantation's history, architecture, and the lives of its inhabitants.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tours usually last between 45 minutes to an hour, offering a comprehensive overview of the plantation's history and structures.
The tour focuses on the Creole heritage of Louisiana, detailing the lives of the plantation owners and the enslaved people who worked there, aiming for a balanced historical narrative.
Yes, Laura Plantation is considered family-friendly and educational. The tours provide historical context that can be engaging for older children and teenagers.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, photography is allowed on the grounds, but it may be restricted inside the main house to protect the artifacts and historical integrity. Check for signage or ask your guide.
The tour primarily covers the early 19th century, focusing on the plantation's establishment and life during that era, including its Creole architecture and the social dynamics of the time.
📸 📸 Photography
The main house exterior, the surrounding gardens, and the preserved slave cabins offer excellent photographic opportunities. The scenic Mississippi River backdrop is also a plus.
Photography inside the main house is often restricted to protect the historical artifacts and interior. Always check for posted signs or ask your guide for clarification.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most flattering illumination for outdoor photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow on the historic structures and grounds.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at historic sites like Laura Plantation to ensure the safety and preservation of the property and to respect other visitors' experiences.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both wide shots of the grounds and details of the architecture. A prime lens can be great for low-light interiors if photography is permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to prepare children for the historical themes, particularly those related to slavery, and to consider the age and maturity of your children when deciding if the tour's depth is appropriate. Some visitors suggest that older children and teenagers might gain more from the historical discussions.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the discussions about Creole culture, the economic drivers of the plantation system, and the social dynamics of the era. While some may seek a more singular focus on slavery, the plantation's approach offers a broader context of the period.
+1📸 Photographers
Remember to check photography rules, especially regarding interiors, and be mindful of other visitors. The grounds offer numerous opportunities for capturing evocative images of Southern history and architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Historical Narrative
+2However, some visitors feel the narrative leans more towards the family's story, with less emphasis on the brutal realities of slavery. While the slave cabins are shown, the time dedicated to discussing the enslaved experience is sometimes perceived as brief. This approach has led to mixed reviews, with some appreciating the nuanced portrayal of Creole culture and others wishing for a more direct confrontation with the horrors of slavery.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the enslaved perspective, visiting Whitney Plantation, which is dedicated to telling the story of slavery, is often recommended as a complementary experience.
The Architecture and Creole Heritage
The plantation complex includes several original outbuildings, most notably two slave cabins, which offer a tangible connection to the past. The preservation of these structures is crucial for understanding the daily lives and labor conditions of the enslaved population.
+1Visitors often remark on the beauty of the grounds and the historical significance of the architecture, appreciating the effort made to restore and maintain these important pieces of Louisiana's heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit