Oak Alley Or Laura Plantation Tour From New Orleans
Introduction
New Orleans is a city that is steeped in history, and one of the best ways to explore its rich past is by taking a plantation tour. Two of the most popular plantations near New Orleans are Oak Alley and Laura Plantation. Both offer unique experiences and a glimpse into Louisiana's plantation-era history. In this article, we will compare Oak Alley and Laura Plantation tours to help you decide which one is best for you.
Oak Alley Plantation
Oak Alley Plantation is a historic plantation located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, about an hour's drive from New Orleans. Its main attraction is the magnificent alley of oak trees that leads up to the mansion. The plantation was built in 1837 and has been beautifully restored to its former glory. Visitors can tour the mansion, the gardens, the slave quarters, and the blacksmith shop.
The mansion is an excellent example of Greek Revival architecture and is furnished with antiques and period pieces. You can learn about the lives of the plantation's owners, as well as the lives of the enslaved people who worked the land. There is also a restaurant and a gift shop on site.
Pros
- The iconic alley of oak trees is breathtaking and perfect for taking photos.
- The mansion is beautifully restored and well-preserved.
- You can learn about the history and architecture of the Greek Revival style.
Cons
- The tour can be crowded and less intimate due to the high volume of visitors.
- The focus is mostly on the lives of the plantation's owners, with less emphasis on the enslaved people who worked there.
- The price of admission is quite high.
Laura Plantation
Laura Plantation is a Creole plantation located about 35 miles west of New Orleans. It was built in 1805 and was once the largest sugar plantation in the area. Tours of Laura Plantation focus on the lives of the enslaved people who worked there, and their stories are brought to life by knowledgeable guides.
One of the unique features of Laura Plantation is that it has maintained its original Creole architecture. The plantation is also home to a historic slave cabin, where visitors can see how enslaved people lived and worked on the plantation. There is a gift shop on site, but no restaurant.
Pros
- The focus is on the lives and stories of the enslaved people who worked on the plantation.
- The original Creole architecture has been well-preserved and is a unique feature.
- The tour is less crowded and more intimate than at other plantations.
Cons
- The plantation is not as grandiose as some of the others in the area.
- The lack of a restaurant means that visitors have to bring their own food or dine elsewhere.
- The tour may not be suitable for younger children, as it does touch on some difficult themes.
Conclusion
Both Oak Alley and Laura Plantation offer unique experiences and a glimpse into Louisiana's plantation-era history. Ultimately, the decision of which one to visit will depend on your personal preferences. If you are interested in the architecture and grandeur of plantation life, then Oak Alley may be the better choice for you. However, if you want to learn about the lives and stories of the enslaved people who worked on the plantation, then Laura Plantation is the way to go.
No matter which plantation you choose, be sure to take the time to fully explore and appreciate its unique history and beauty. A plantation tour is a must-do activity when visiting New Orleans, and is a great opportunity to learn more about the fascinating history of Louisiana.