After being picked up from your hotel in New Orleans in a 13-seater high-roof van, your enthusiastic historian driver-guide will narrate your scenic drive upriver to two historic plantations on the shores of the Mississippi River. On the journey, drive by the shores of Lake Pontchartrain and miles of cane fields extending from the Mississippi River to the back swamps. Learn about Louisiana's geography, geology, and incredible history en route.
The first stop is Destrehan Plantation: the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi River valley, constructed in 1787. Learn about the history of the site, see where Charles Deslondes led the 1811 Slave Revolt, and discover its dramatic outcome.
At Whitney Plantation, hear raw historical facts and witness the harsh realities of a dark side of American history. On your self-guided audio walking tour, you will see slave cabins, a freedmen’s church, a detached kitchen, and a 1790s owner’s house.
Witness narratives and see memorials honoring people enslaved on the grounds of a historical sugar, rice and indigo plantation established in 1752.
Visit Whitney Plantation's Museum of Slavery at your own pace with an audio guide and learn about the lives of people held in bondage for over 100 years.
Then you are driven further upriver on the old Mississippi River road, passing in front of Evergreen, St Joseph, Felicity & Oak Alley Plantations.
See the ruins of the Tezcuco Plantation and hear about its history. Soon afterward you will arrive at "The Sugar Palace", more commonly known as Houmas House. Here, you will enjoy a gourmet Creole lunch in a grand dining hall. There are even refreshing mint juleps available for purchase if you wish to really experience the Southern plantation life.
After lunch, you will enjoy a guided visit to the Greek Revival mansion on this very opulent plantation. Your guides, in period dress, will lead you through rooms filled with period antiques and Louisiana artwork. Afterward, you will have time to stroll around the stunning gardens in the shadows of ancient oaks, before visiting the very gift shop.
Sample Lunch Menu (subject to seasonal changes)
Buffet Luncheon includes an iced tea or soft drink, a dessert, and coffee.
Caesar Salad (gluten-free without croutons): Served with tender romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese
~Entrees~
Chicken & Andouille Sausage Gumbo
Dark Roux gumbo with chicken and andouille pork sausage
Chili Glazed Roasted Chicken (GF)
Roasted chicken with sweet and spicy chili pepper glaze
Fried Catfish (GF)
Crispy catfish fried in corn flour served with tartar and cocktail sauces
Crawfish Étouffée and Pasta
Louisiana crawfish stew
Red Beans And Rice (GF)
Slow cooked red beans with smoked pork sausage and steamed rice
Corn Maque Choux (GF)
Louisiana smothered corn
~Dessert~
White Chocolate Bread Pudding Served with brown sugar glaze
