Oak Alley Plantation Half-Day Tour from New Orleans — Allee of Oaks & Historic Big House
Walk the famous double row of live oaks and tour a Greek Revival big house on a thoughtful half-day trip from New Orleans. This guided outing pairs architectural photo ops with frank history and convenient round-trip transport.
The Experience
Before You Go
Morning light is best
Book an early pickup—soft light filters through the oak alley and the grounds are cooler for walking.
Wear comfortable shoes
Paths are mostly lawn and packed dirt; sturdy flats or walking shoes make touring the grounds easier.
Bring sun and insect protection
Louisiana sun is strong and mosquitoes can be active in shaded areas—pack sunscreen and insect repellent.
Cash or card for café and gift shop
Admission is included but small purchases at the deli, bar, and gift shop may require payment on site.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop at the plantation’s dependencies exhibits that focus on the lives and labor of enslaved people for deeper context
- •The return crossing at Bonnet Carré Spillway offers a quiet river-and-lake viewpoint often missed on self-driving trips
Wildlife
- •Great egret
- •River otter
Conservation Note
Visitor fees support preservation and interpretive programming; please stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing plantings to protect the historic landscape.
Oak Alley’s Big House dates to the 1830s and the site was long a working sugarcane plantation whose economy depended on enslaved labor.
Photographer's Notes
- • Under the Allee of Oaks looking toward the Big House
- • Straight-on facade of the Big House from the front lawn
- • Bonnet Carré Spillway bridge overlook during the return drive
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Provides traction on lawns and packed dirt paths around the grounds.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Protects from strong southern sun during the outdoor portions of the tour.
Light rain jacket
Afternoon showers are possible; a compact rain shell keeps you comfortable.
Camera or smartphone with extra batteryEssential
The oak alley and the Big House offer classic photographic compositions—extra power ensures you don’t miss shots.
Common Questions
How long is the tour including transportation?
Expect about 4 to 5 hours total: roughly an hour each way by van from New Orleans plus about three hours on the plantation grounds.
Is admission included?
Yes — admission to Oak Alley Plantation is included in the tour price.
Are meals provided?
Bottled water is provided on the van; you can purchase lunch or snacks at Oak Alley’s café or deli during your visit.
Is the tour stroller and wheelchair accessible?
The tour notes stroller accessibility and the grounds are relatively flat, but some historic buildings have steps—check with the operator about wheelchair access to specific exhibits.
Will the guide discuss slavery and the lives of enslaved people?
Yes. The itinerary and on-site exhibits include interpretation and stories about the enslaved communities that worked at the plantation.
What time should I be ready for pickup?
Pickup windows are typically between 8:00 and 8:45 a.m.; the operator requests a cell number so the driver can confirm ETA the morning of the tour.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Vacherie, Louisiana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for anyone comfortable with light walking and standing; most mobility levels can manage the grounds.
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