Double Plantation Tour of Oak Alley & Laura Plantation with Transportation
Duration: 6 hours
Experience the grandeur and charm of Louisiana’s antebellum past on the Double Plantation Tour of Oak Alley and Laura Plantation, located in New Orleans, LA. This captivating tour offers visitors the chance to explore two of the finest restored estates along the Mississippi River, each with its unique historical allure and architectural beauty. Marvel at the oak-lined paths of Oak Alley and delve into the rich Creole history at Laura Plantation, where the stories of those who lived and worked on these plantations come alive through knowledgeable guides.
Your journey begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned transportation service that takes you from New Orleans to these picturesque plantations. The first stop is Oak Alley Plantation, renowned for its impressive alley of 300-year-old oak trees that form a majestic canopy leading up to the grand Greek Revival mansion. Here, you will spend approximately 2 hours wandering the grounds, taking in the beautifully restored antebellum home filled with period furnishings and learning about the history of the plantation through engaging exhibits and knowledgeable guides. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved through the scenic gardens and paths that showcase the breathtaking landscape.
Next, the tour takes you to Laura Plantation, a Creole heritage site that offers a vastly different perspective from Oak Alley. Laura Plantation is known for its colorful manor and complex history, which includes nearly 200 years of Creole culture and the lives of both the Duparc family and the enslaved people who toiled on the estate. During the 2-hour guided tour, you will explore the manor house, slave cabins, and lush grounds while hearing compelling stories that bring the past to life. It’s an immersive experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of southern history.
Oak Alley is particularly famous for its role in films and literature, having appeared in major motion pictures such as "Interview with the Vampire" and "Primary Colors." With its impressive colonnades and well-manicured gardens, it stands as a testimony to the architectural splendor of the past. Laura Plantation, on the other hand, is renowned for its detailed chronicling of Creole culture and the intertwined stories of the families who owned and worked the plantation. The exhibits at Laura include the extensive memoirs of Laura Locoul Gore, detailing life on the plantation through personal stories and historical documents.
A visit to these historic plantations is not just a tour but a journey back in time, providing a glimpse into a bygone era. These estates capture the opulence, complexity, and stark realities of plantation life in Louisiana. Expert guides at both locations ensure that each visitor walks away with a rich understanding of the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of these iconic sites.
In summary, the Double Plantation Tour of Oak Alley and Laura Plantation offers an unforgettable exploration of Louisiana’s plantation history. From the awe-inspiring oaks at Oak Alley to the vivid Creole heritage at Laura Plantation, every step of this tour immerses you in the intricate tapestry of the past. Don’t miss the chance to walk these storied grounds and witness the beauty and history that have been meticulously preserved.
