Oak Alley Plantation

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Stepping Back in Time at Oak Alley Plantation

Our trip to New Orleans was filled with vibrant energy, rich history, and, of course, delicious food. But we also wanted to take a step back in time and visit one of the most iconic plantations in Louisiana: Oak Alley Plantation. Renting a car gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace, though we had a little unexpected twist when picking up our rental. We originally planned for a small, fuel-efficient car, but when we landed at midnight, the only option left was a massive Cadillac Escalade! With no other choice, we embraced our luxury ride and hit the road. (We booked our car off Expedia and got $20 off if we downloaded the app!)

The drive to Oak Alley Plantation was smooth and easy, taking us west along the scenic River Road. As we approached the plantation, we were immediately struck by the breathtaking canopy of 28 Virginia Live Oak trees lining the original entrance. It was a picture-perfect moment—the kind that instantly transports you to another era. The grand Greek Revival mansion at the end of the path was just as stunning as we had imagined. It’s easy to see why this place is one of the most photographed sites in Louisiana.

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Before heading inside, we explored the public areas, including the gift shop, cafĂ©, and restaurant. Yes, even if you don’t purchase a tour ticket, you can still enjoy some of what Oak Alley has to offer. The cafĂ© was a delightful stop—we grabbed some refreshing mint juleps, which added to the old-world Southern charm. If you’re hungry, the restaurant serves classic Louisiana dishes, and we definitely recommend stopping by for a bite.

To fully experience Oak Alley, you do need to purchase a ticket to access the grounds and tour the mansion. The guided tour gave us a deep dive into the history of the estate, from its early days as a sugarcane plantation to its restoration in modern times. The tour also didn’t shy away from the darker aspects of plantation life, offering a comprehensive look at both the enslaved people who lived and worked here and the Creole families who owned the land.


One of the more unique features of Oak Alley is that you can actually stay overnight in one of their charming cottages. If you’re looking for a unique lodging experience in Louisiana, this would be a great option. Waking up to the sight of those ancient oak trees sounds like an unforgettable experience!

Overall, Oak Alley Plantation was absolutely worth the visit. The blend of beauty, history, and hospitality made it a standout experience during our time in Louisiana. If you're planning a trip to New Orleans and have some extra time, we highly recommend making the drive out here.

For more details on visiting, check out Oak Alley Plantation’s website.

(Even if you don't rent a car, many tours will pick you up from New Orleans.)

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