This is a sponsored post but all opinions are our own.
Oak Alley Planation has over 200 years of history. And unfortunately, a lot of its history isn’t a pretty one. We took the tour and our guide was thorough in detailing how the beauty that covers the grounds carrys a sorrowful past. Oak Alley started off as a sugar plantation and among many other things in between it is now a national historical site.
The Oak Alley Foundation does an amazing job educating its visitors on the brutality of slavery and provides an incredible display of information to teach everyone the impact the plantation had on the early people of our country… as it continues to enlighten us today.
It’s highly unfortunate and saddening to walk among the land knowing of its past but like I said, the foundation does a great job educating and opening the eyes of those who step on the grounds.
One of our personal favorite displays was, in one of the slave houses, a wall adorns the names of every single slave man or woman that was forced into labor. This is so that they are never forgotten.
Nestled along the serene banks of the Mississippi River, Oak Alley Plantation stands as an iconic symbol of Louisiana’s rich history and Southern charm.
This enchanting estate offers visitors a captivating journey back in time, with its stately mansion, awe-inspiring oak-lined avenue, and stories that resonate through the ages.
From its opening times and ticket prices to transportation options and hours of operation, here’s everything you need to know about Oak Alley Plantation, along with five compelling reasons why it’s a must-visit destination.
Our Experience at Oak Alley and Tips for you
First I want to start off by telling our first hand experience at Oak Alley. Oak Alley Plantation is an iconic plantation that you probably have seen photos of. Its been in movies, videos games and is frequently on computer screensavers. It’s a beautiful area and we highly recommend stopping by.
We actually did not have official plans to visit at first, but we were super thankful we ended up stopping by. While in route to a different plantation we thought we should stop by to check out some of the other nearby plantations. Thankfully, we found open tour times and had the time to explore the area longer than we originally thought.
It’s such a beautiful area with such important history we highly recommend visiting and planning to spend some time here. Below we share tips for visiting which includes things we wish we would have known before our visit.
It is undeniable that the Oak Alley Plantation is breathtakingly beautiful. However, the reality of what took place on such exquisite grounds has such a devastating effect on the hearts of those who visit and learn more about the past times of this historical landmark. The good news is that The Oak Alley Foundation continues to raise awareness and educates their visitors, like us – on the brutality and harsh conditions that slaves were subjected to. This national landmark is a visual representation of how such beauty was built upon and coincided with the ugliness of slavery.
Tips for Visiting:
The Big House Tour does not allow photography or videography. So be prepared for only photographing the exterior of the building and the land.
Bring an umbrella or a rain Pancho. We did get rained on a little bit but it was not bad.
Book your tour in advance (link to tickets below. )Arrive 30 minutes prior to your time. Plan to spend a few hours at least here exploring the grounds and the house.
If there is not many people around the oak alley side of the mansion go there first to get good photos! It’s frequently packed with people before and after tours but you can get lucky if you pay attention and go right after a tour starts and many people are inside.
Essential Information:
Location: Oak Alley Plantation, 3645 LA-18, Vacherie, LA 70090
Opening Times: Oak Alley Plantation is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last tour beginning at 4:30 PM. Closed on New Year’s Day, Mardi Gras, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Ticket Prices (as of last update with big house tour included):
- Adults : $27.79
- Seniors (65+): $25.01
- Youth : $9.26
- Children under 5 : Free
Find latest prices and discounts on their official site here.
Transportation Options:
Oak Alley Plantation is accessible by car, located about an hour’s drive from New Orleans. Many guided tour companies also offer day trips to Oak Alley Plantation, providing convenient transportation and guided experiences.We drove from New Orleans and the drive was nice and we ended up staying at a the nearby plantation Houma House. More info about that plantation coming soon.
For a list of bus tour options from New Orleans check out this list.
Guided Tours:
Guided tours are available throughout the day and provide valuable insights into the history and significance of Oak Alley Plantation. Knowledgeable guides share stories about the plantation’s past, its role in the Southern economy, and the lives of both its owners and enslaved individuals who lived and worked there.
Five Reasons to Visit Oak Alley Plantation:
- Majestic Oak Alley: The sight of the spectacular quarter-mile alley of 28 majestic live oak trees that leads up to the mansion is a sight to behold. These centuries-old oaks, with their sprawling branches and Spanish moss, create an awe-inspiring and picturesque avenue that captures the essence of Southern grandeur.
- Antebellum Mansion: The centerpiece of Oak Alley is the beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion. Step into the past as you explore the grand rooms filled with period-appropriate furnishings, learning about the families who called this estate home and the historical context in which they lived.
- Enlightening History: Oak Alley Plantation offers an opportunity to delve into the complex history of the American South, exploring both the opulent lifestyle of the plantation’s owners and the hardships endured by the enslaved individuals who toiled there. It’s a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s past.
- Educational Workshops: Beyond the guided tours, Oak Alley Plantation hosts educational workshops and special events that allow visitors to engage more deeply with history. These workshops cover topics such as cooking, crafts, and the lives of women in the 19th century, providing a hands-on learning experience.
- Stunning Grounds and Gardens: While the mansion is undoubtedly a highlight, the meticulously maintained gardens and surrounding grounds are equally captivating. Explore the lush gardens, the historic slave quarters, and the exhibits that shed light on the history of Oak Alley.
In Conclusion:
Oak Alley Plantation stands as a beacon of history and heritage, inviting visitors to step into the past and experience the grandeur and complexities of the Antebellum era. With its breathtaking oak-lined avenue, elegant mansion, and educational tours, it offers a comprehensive and enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of Southern architecture, intrigued by the lives of those who lived there, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Oak Alley Plantation promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Louisiana’s past.