Destrehan Plantation

The Basics

See Spanish and French architectural influences, listen to costumed tour guides talk about the daily life of those who ran the plantation, and watch demos of historic trades such as candle making, open-hearth cooking, and indigo dyeing. Destrehan also offers a tour focusing on the region’s marginalized people, including German farmers, Acadians, enslaved Africans, and Native Americans.

Some guided tours from New Orleans combine a visit to the plantation with an airboat swamp ride for a full day of sightseeing.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Destrehan’s gift shop, main house, and education center are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• The tour of the home takes about 45 minutes.

• Be prepared for heat and high humidity during the summer months; the house, however, is air-conditioned.

• The plantation hosts various seasonal events.

How to Get There

About 30 minutes by car from downtown New Orleans, Destrehan Plantation is a convenient stop for visitors traveling to or from the city. Most guided tours provide round-trip transportation from New Orleans. If you’re driving, head west on Interstate 10 toward Baton Rouge, then take Interstate 310 Boutte South.

When to Get There

Destrehan is open year-round except on major holidays, and tours run throughout the day. Go to New Orleans sometime between February and May for the most pleasant weather and to hit one of the city’s major festivals, such as Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.

What to Know About Antebellum Architecture

Antebellum mansions are characterized by a symmetrical exterior, large pillars, a balcony that wraps around the house, and a big center entrance, as well as geometric gardens that complement the boxy style of the house. Inside, you’ll find sweeping staircases and a formal ballroom. Some of these homes were damaged or destroyed during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Ways to explore

Due to its popularity, it’s a good idea to book your visit to Destrehan Plantation in advance. Entrance includes a guided house tour led by costumed tour guides, who explain the history of the estate and what life was like for those who lived and worked there. Demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as candle making, open-hearth cooking, and indigo dyeing, are often included. Some tours also feature a gourmet lunch or pair the plantation with a swamp airboat ride. For something different, opt for a haunted night tour with round-trip transport from New Orleans.

Accessibility

The plantation is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Refillable water bottle, power bank, sun protection

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, casual layered clothing

Not allowed

Bringing pets, flash photography, and video recording in the house

Amenities

Welcome center, shop, restrooms

Address

Destrehan Plantation is located about 30 minutes west of New Orleans. Public transportation options can be limited, so either driving or booking a private tour with transportation is the best option.

Driving

If traveling from New Orleans, travel via I-10 W and I-310 S towards Boutte. Then follow the signs to Destrehan Plantation via River Road to find the free on-site parking.

Public transportation

Public transportation options are limited, and there isn’t a direct bus route to the plantation. It’s much better to drive, book a rideshare, or go on a guided tour.

Best times to visit

It’s best to get to the plantation in the morning to avoid the larger afternoon tour groups.

Best days to visit

Visit the plantation on weekdays—especially Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday—for a quieter experience than weekends.

Best months to visit

New Orleans is great to visit between March and May, as the weather is typically mild, which makes it good for outdoor explorations.

Special events

The Annual Fall Fundraiser, typically held in November, features nearly 200 arts and crafts booths, children's activities, food, and live music.