Plan the "pilgrimage" in the cooler months of spring and autumn also filled with incredible amounts of festivals and parades. For less crowded experience, you should probably choose autumn, but in that case you will miss the Mardi Gras season. Nevertheless, these plantations are worth a visit at any time. See Oak Alley, Houmas House, Bocage Plantation, and for some spooky experience—the Myrtles Plantation and its ghosts.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit New Orleans and Baton Rouge for the plantation pilgrimage?
If you want to explore New Orleans and Baton Rouge for plantation pilgrimage, it is advisable to visit from September to November or March to May, which are cooler months. You can experience beautiful outdoor scenery and witness many festivals and parades throughout the cities during these months. Autumn is a better option to avoid crowded seasons, but you may have to miss the Mardi Gras season experience. Show more
Where are the best plantations to visit in New Orleans and Baton Rouge?
Some plantations that are worth visiting in New Orleans and Baton Rouge include Oak Alley, Houmas House, Bocage Plantation, and Myrtles Plantation. Oak Alley is popular because of its beautiful alley of 300-year-old oak trees, while Houmas House is famous for their extensive garden and elegant restaurant. Myrtles Plantation is known for its spooky atmosphere and numerous ghost sightings. Show more
What is the history and significance of plantation homes in this region?
Before the Civil War era, plantation homes in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge region were used to cultivate crops such as cotton and sugar cane. They offered huge profits and attracted wealthy landowners. Nowadays, plantation homes have become famous as tourist destinations because of their cultural and historical significance. Visitors at these homes get a glimpse of plantation life in the past and learn about the stories of the owners and the slaves who lived and worked there. Show more
How can visitors make the most of their time exploring the plantations?
To explore the plantations to the fullest, it is better to plan ahead and pick the plantations you must-visit. With each plantation providing extensive knowledge regarding the history and culture of the region, visitors can opt for a guided tour or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens, which is a feature of many plantations. Craft demonstrations, live music performances, reenactments of historic events, and fine dining experiences are some other things to enjoy at these plantations. Show more
Are there any unique events or activities available at the plantations?
Many unique events and activities are available at different plantations. Visitors can participate in the Thanksgiving Bonfire festival hosted by Houmas House, while Oak Alley Plantation recreates Civil War Reenactment scenes every November. Some other activities include live music events, seasonal festivities, and craft demonstrations, all offered for visitors to explore the beautiful gardens, take photographs, or enjoy the delicious food at the plantation restaurants. Show more
