I went while on vacation with family friends and they had been before. I became a little emotional upon stepping on to the grounds. But the store had a lot of gift shop items that I believe help maintain the house, buildings, grounds, and pay for staff. We did the tour of the big house and it was so educational. Then we went over to Miss Anne's talk and it was so educational and she interacted with all people in the group. I would like to come back with my family for them to see and listen to all of the history in the items and the stories of the owners and the enslaved. The visit was simply powerful for me to experience as I have family that were enslaved or born free to parents that were enslaved. And I have family that worked plantations in GA in the 1940s and 1950s picking cotton. So this visit really touched me. read more

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On my bucket list for NOLA, I wanted to visit a haunted house. I decided to play it safe and visit a place of historical relevance as well as some documented supernatural activity. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and welcomed our questions as we walked the grounds. We took in the tour and were humbled to learn of the experiences of the different people on the grounds. It's hard to imagine how life was without the many conveniences we now have. read more

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Loved it so much we went twice! Food in the cafe is AMAZING and the folks were so kind. We toured a number of plantations and this is not to be missed. The tour guides are engaging and knowledgeable, all local and really care about the history, this site lived through many iterations in its long life and was nearly lost to time when ransacked after being left in disarray when bought by an oil company. It is alive and well now and restored and parts of Interview with a Vampire were filmed here. Not far from New Orleans and well worth the drive we spent 3.5 hrs the first time and stopped back for photos and lunch before our flight home. Definitely go check it out and get the potato salad! read more

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We booked this plantation tour early morning on a weekday, and it ended up just being the 2 of us, so we kind of got a private tour which was pretty nice. You first go into the small shop and they have you had one to a small building to wait outside for your tour guide. Luckily it was shady since there were a lot of trees. The trees on the property are massive and beautiful for sure. You don't see trees like this everywhere. The tour guide came out and rang a bell to signal we were starting. He was dressed in some sort of black robe, and introduced himself. He took us around the main house and some of the cooking areas and slave quarters. They explain to you the history of the family that lived there and showed you the rooms, and talked about some of the original furnishings and how some were replicas. They also talked about the structure of the houses and how and what they were built with. The mirrors and some pictures were covered with sheets. when I asked about it he explained they do that during October as they are in mourning and anything reflective is supposed to be covered. Something about you not looking at yourself during these times when you should be focused on the deceased instead. I thought that was very interesting, but surprised it was not mentioned early on in the tour. There were so many interesting facts we learned. I did enjoy the tour, but I will say that a lot of the tour was self guided, and with the property being so huge it was hard to know which areas we were allowed to go in and which ones we weren't. I would have preferred more of a full tour or at least people in the property to direct us better. read more

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I went for the haunted tour at night, which was cool bc you got to roam around without the tour guide and they give you divination rods to have conversations with the ghosts. I definitely caught some paranormal on camera.. of a little boy.. who was NOT in my tour group.. the plantation was not everything I expected it to be though.. read more

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History rich and interesting. We had a great tour of the main house given by Jim. His passion and in depth understanding of the property and the time periods was quite impressive. We also appreciated the art and the beautiful Ms. Ann in the rebellion room. The guides knowledge is unsurpassed. Give them a visit. read more

Destrehan Plantation - Amazing tour guide Jim pointing out the wall structure in the main home - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Destrehan, Louisiana

This is the closest remaining plantation to New Orleans. We essentially had a private tour since we were the only two present. Beverly was very knowledgable about the plantation and its history. The house is exquisite. The gift shop had some excellent books as well as locally produced jewelry that uses indigo, a crop once raised on the grounds. Well worth our time. read more

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I knew I wanted to visit a plantation during my trip to Louisiana but didn't quite know where I'd go. I searched up plantations near New Orleans and Destrehan Plantation popped up. I called to see if they had availability and they said they did. My bf and I both made our way to the plantation and made it on time for their next tour. Our group was made of two children and six adults. Jim if I could remember correctly is in my opinion one of the best guides I've ever had. He walks you through each room in the plantation and is really passionate about what he does. He knows what he is talking about. The thing that stood out to me is the list of slaves and their worth in USD. I learned about this history during my elementary and middle school years and it hits different when you are standing in a place that has so must history. I'd definitely recommend this tour to anyone. I believe the price per ticket is $26 dollars per person and a little less for children. Check their website if you plan on going. The tour is about an hour long. If you would like to explore other areas within the property you will need more time to do so --plan accordingly. You'll cherish this experience. read more

Unfortunately we had to cut out early. However we gave Beverly a heads up, and she was accommodating and even made sure we left on time. We definitely wanted to come back and finish, and we were told we could, but unfortunately time did not work for us. The staff was super sweet and great, extremely helpful with trying to work the Groupon codes. Thank you! read more

We had beautiful weather for our 2:00 tour at the plantation. Ann was our guide and she was excellent! The tour was informative and educational and interesting. I was surprised to learn about indigo as the original crop and then sugar cane being grown later. Thomas Jefferson's and Napoleon's connection with the Louisiana Purchase and Destrehan was very interesting also. The grounds and buildings included in the tour are also informative. There is an area that hosts a talk about the slave revolt of 1811. It is incorporated throughout the tour how terrible slaves were treated and their living conditions and the roles of enslaved people in running the plantation so I don't quite understand the one star from a previous reviewer. That being said, this is a worthwhile trip if you want to spend a few hours learning some local and country history read more

Destrehan Plantation - Destrehan Plantation - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Destrehan, Louisiana

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Trish was very good guide!! She was so knowledgeable about the plantation it was incredible. Thanks Trish well worth it!!!

Fantastic! Our guide, Beverly, was such a delight and made our trip so amazing! She was well informed and answered questions along the way! The young lady in the gift shop was also very helpful! Adorable boutique! We bought many of our family souvenirs here! Beautiful grounds for photos and excellent value for tourists! Thank you! When in NOLA... it's a must see stop! read more

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I joined some friends for a ghost tour, booked through Viator. We waited at the meeting point without realizing that we needed to go inside the bar to check in with the driver. She reprimanded all the customers waiting outside, which got the tour off to a bad start. BUT,,, within a few miles Trish had delighted us with her witty humor and extensive knowledge of the history of the area From there, it just got better. We started in the Gift Shop which has restrooms, food and drinks and a varied selection of merchandise. The house tour was excellent. We learned a lot about the plantation. When the guided indoor tour ended, guests were free to explore outdoor exhibits including a slave cabin, kitchen and laundry. Trish entertained us all the way home and even dropped us off within easy walking distance of our hotel. If you have a choice, Trish is the tour Guide you want. read more

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This is the 3rd time that my family and I have visited Destrehan PlantatIon over the Span of 20 years and this was by far the best tour we have had. Our guide Jim (with one M) was very astute, knowledgeable, and congenial. He had even the youngest (11) of us fully interested and intrigued about not only the plantation itself but the history of the topography of the Mississippi in relationship to the original levee and dwellings along the river. He was also able to answer question and show an example of an Indigo plant which was the original crop of the plantation. I have always recommend Destrehan to anyone who was visiting NOLA but now I will do so enthusiastically with Jim as the guide. read more

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An intriguing bit of Louisiana history, told through re-enacted demonstrations, tours with video or/and live explanations. Many of the original structures are still standing from 230 years ago. Community organizations help to maintain the property. The Destrehans were a prominent family who owned slaves in the French Louisiana tradition of enslaved people were able to work on weekends to earn their own savings, extra supplies and emancipation. No numbers on how many enslaved actually purchased their freedom. Somehow Aamoco is the owner or something now. Lead Presenters seem to have a humanitarian approach that softens but doesn't deny the horrors of American slavery. They known good facts but stick to the surface, spotlights and craftsmanship. A worthy learning experience for all. read more

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I remember in high school the plantation when it was abandoned. My husband is not from there and was impressed by the beautiful history and renovation. I was amazed how unique it is. The tour guide was excellent. She was knowledgeable and very thorough. It wasn't boring. She kept you interested. Sweet older lady. read more

Jim was a great tour guide. Educated and animated- made the whole experience captivating.

Went to Destrehan plantation yesterday got there hAlf an hour before tour so we could view buildings before house tour. Went into one building about Slave revolts. There was a girl in costume sitting on the balcony on her phone. we greeted her and she looked like she was about to cry and she was not very welcoming. when we came out we asked if she was alright mummhmm was all we got. We then did the house tour and the guide did not engage with anyone on the tour. He did not ask where anyone was from, only eight people there. He gave us facts but didn't ask if we had any question, it felt a little flat, at the end I wanted to ask a question and he just walked away. The place was interesting but the staff had no enthusiasm. read more

First plantation tour and it was very informative. The plantation's well-preserved mansion and lovely grounds added to the overall experience. Our tour guide Beverly was dressed in character and was extremely knowledgeable about the history. She was nice enough to answer all of our questions at the end of the tour. read more

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It has been a few years, but I have been on the regular plantation tour, with the guides in period clothing, all about the family. I came across a list of Louisiana African American Historical Trail and noticed there was an Unheard Voices Tour here now, went online, saw that it was only offered on Saturdays and Mondays. So, I booked, got the confirmation email and was all set. It is very easy to get to. There is no food service here, but several restaurants nearby. I came, parked in the lot and went inside to the gift shop. I found the tour very informative, given by a POC, and they did discuss the 1811 German Coast Uprising. In the school house is a list of names of those involved in the Uprising. I wish more had been discussed about it, but the fact that it was mentioned at all is amazing. There has been so much sweeping it under the rug of this in the past. It was all very interesting. I look forward to bringing friends and family in the future. read more

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All you Destrehan folks need to get out and celebrate your gem of a restaurant right here! That is, if you like great food in town. We did and it's very good. BTW I don't work there or own the place. I just appreciate folks who know how to do it right and put together nice tasty meals! Thank you. read more

Alan was an amazing tour guide and very knowledgeable. He was passionate about the history of the plantation and was happy to answer any questions. Great memory! Ann was also very knowledgeable and personable. She was able to share personal history as she grew up in the area. We loved the tour of the house and learning about the previous owners and overall history of the plantation. read more

This plantation was best of 3 we went to. The staff was amazing.. Loved that old lady I think Judy.. Who got all dressed up.. I've learned so much history from this place. Awesome random stopping points where you get to learn how things were done and made from staff.. If I had one place to pick to go.. This would be the place I would visit. read more

Destrehan Plantation - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Destrehan, Louisiana

As a history lover, I knew my first visit to the South must include a plantation tour. After much research, we found a great packaged deal through Gray Line that included Destrehan, a swamp tour and transportation from New Orleans to both locations. The only downside to the day was the rain, which limited our exploration of the plantation. I know not every day can be full of sunshine but for some reason I've always pictured Southern plantations to be flooded with light and definitely warm, which this day was not. Obviously, I can't fault the plantation for the weather though. The plantation itself has a fascinating history and our tour guide did a wonderful job of explaining the story behind the people and the house. I could almost imagine what it would have been like to live on the plantation during the 1800s. From the stories of rampant disease though, I'm very happy to live in the 2000s instead! There's a small gift shop on the property with light snacks but there's no substantial food for sale so be sure to eat before or plan to do so after your tour. read more

Destrehan Plantation - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Destrehan, Louisiana

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Our tour was great! Our tour guide, Jim, was wonderful! He was very knowledgeable. He had a good sense of humor. The duration of the tour was perfect. We got to walk around and explore the rest of the plantation. Lots to see and lots of history. Great gift shop. They sell a lot of New Orleans souvenirs. They also sell drinks and snacks. I highly recommend it. read more

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We decided to visit Destrehan because we were only in NOLA for a little bit and were pressed for time. It was closest to the French Quarter which is where we were staying and the tour was just a little over an hour so it fit perfectly with our time constraints. It's a beautiful property. Our tour guide was amazing also. She was so well versed and knowledgeable. We left the plantation feeling like we learned so much. I'd highly recommend paying the plantation a visit. The admissions office which is also a gift and souvenir shop is quite big also. read more

This is one of those "If I could leave no stars, I would." We didn't even make it on the tour. Long story short, we booked through Groupon and were directed to call the plantation to complete the reservation. My sister called several times and received voicemail. She did not leave any voicemail but instead called another number & spoke with Josh who was SUPER KIND and nice. He took care of the details for the tour for our group. (Ten of us in total) We're ready to go then received a call from some woman at the plantation who INSISTED a man left a voicemail dropping an F Bomb. This was NOT true and unprofessional for her to even call the number back. My sister was SO upset...the lady would not even allow her to respond, you could hear her constantly interrupting her. I called and spoke with the manager Tracey, who justified the whole vm thing and was just as argumentative as the woman. Pure craziness to us Ohioans. Needless to say, we cancelled the tour and spent our money with another activity. It wasn't meant to be... The customer is ALWAYS right, whether you think so or not. Do better Destrechan Plantation. read more

Found this tour fascinating! This is my second plantation tour. Our guide Beverly was extremely knowledgeable ... she did speak a lot about the family history of the plantation ... which was interesting - did not tell us a lot about the running of the plantation itself or the lifestyle of the slaves . Would recommend this tour - and if you are lucky - Beverly will be your guide! read more

Mr. Daniel was our tour guide and he was very knowledgeable and courteous. This plantation home was beautiful and has a very interesting history. The gift shop is reasonably priced as well and has a good variety of items. It costs $25 a person (adult rate) and less for seniors and children. read more

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While the tour guide was very professional and pleasant. The tour was predominately about the owners. There was very little about the slaves that worked and suffered on the land as though they were irrelevant. I saw and went inside the one slave house in my sight. Nothing was said except that their was a list of names of the slave inhabitants Very insensitive. Save your money and book a tour on gray line to the Whitney plantation. Stop by all about new orleans on royal street and get your discount tickets from Gail. She's fantastic! read more

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Wonderful tour! nanette was very knowledgeable about the history of the plantation and we spent about an hour and 10 minutes doing a walking tour. My Personal favorite of the tour was the Jefferson room where you saw authentic documents of the Louisiana purchase the the Louisiana's formal committee in the bid for statehood and Napoleon Bonaparte Louisiana Purchase. Excellent time at Destrehan Plantation! read more

We wanted to visit a plantation to learn its total history. Destrahan was a great learning experience. My daughter booked the "unheard voices tour" and we toured the plantation with an extremely knowledgeable guide named Diane. Fun side story - turns out Diane and my youngest daughter remembered each other from a choir trip in March 2020 right before the pandemic when my daughter's choir sang at a cooking school in New Orleans. Small world. We really enjoyed it. A morning well spent. Diane is a great tour guide. I'll post some pics from our tour with this review. The Live Oak trees in this property are just majestic. You'll have to find on our Tiktok the Unmasked's song that Diane and her colleague did for us. That was beautiful. read more

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As one who loves history, especially New Orleans history, this plantation tour was a delightful way to spend an afternoon! I have visited all the big plantations on River Rd in the past, so I was not expecting to learn much at Destrehan. I was quite wrong! This was a unique experience that was really impressive. The story is well told from the different perspectives of plantation owner, slave, and free people of color, taking great care to be accurate and truthful in the telling of history. The German Coast Uprising has its own exhibit, which is very well done. I loved seeing into the building process of the house, the materials, craftsmanship, and techniques. The photos of Destrehan when it was abandoned really highlight all they have done to restore its legacy. Our guide, Beverly, was very knowledgeable and took time to answer every question thoughtfully and throughly. We felt like welcome guests at the plantation while taking in the grounds and the big house with her. Her passion for the preservation of history was evident. She told many stories and brought the different generations of Destrehan families to life as she shared them. We left with a greater understanding of plantation life from many different perspectives and are eager to delve deeper into Destrehan's history and preservation. Well done! Highly recommended! read more

Great tour and very informative and honest tour guide. Well maintained and beautiful grounds. Close to the airport and easy to get to.

Amazing history and stunning location. Definitely we took a step back in history. Nice gift shop, restrooms and additional restrooms behind main Plantation house. Tour guide was wonderful. We had a large group so we were divided. It was great to see hanging bananas, spanish moss and well kept grounds. Well worth the money. read more

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The food is amazingly good You have to order the crab and cheese Brie Amazing The service is a little under staffed but nice and professional The room settings are really nice. read more

Beverly did a awesome job. She was very informative, fun and entertaining. Jan did an excellent job as well. The 1811 story is amazing. Destrehan is an amazing property. read more

Beverly was a great tour guide. Very passionate and animated. The house tour is super informative and gives a lot of interesting information about early Louisiana history. I loved seeing the actual original structure of the plantation. It has been beautifully preserved. The 1811 Slave Revolt exhibit shows the way in which the enslaved people sought freedom. So thankful to be able to learn mire about this time in history. read more

We came here for the Fall Plantation festival. They had vendor booths setup all over the grounds with artwork, jewelry and other trade items. We decided to take the plantation tour while we were here. The tour guide dressed in antebellum costume to make it more authentic. The home isn't fancy. But the tour was nice. She knew a lot about the history and was able to answer questions. The grounds are pretty big as well. read more

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I absolutely loved touring Destrehan Plantation. Our tour guide was dressed in period clothing and that definitely got me more interested in the home and grounds...I really felt like I was stepping back in time. The tour itself was informative and really interesting. The home is beautiful, of course. There are some original pieces of furniture here but most are replicas. I was intrigued hearing about how not only did husband (Jean Noel Destrehan) and wife slept in separate bedrooms...despite having many, many children ;)) but also how after dinner they'd entertain guests in their own separate parlors. Here you can also see an original document signed by Thomas Jefferson and James Madision. Very cool. Be sure to visit some of the period craft demonstrations, too. We sat at watched the blacksmithing one and it was really neat. read more