Immerse yourself in a captivating landscape with sunlight filtering through majestic oaks, inviting you to explore a remarkable mansion. Louisiana’s River Road boasts the jewel of the 1840 Houmas House Plantation—a timeless attraction blending history and promise. Travel through time, envisioning the splendor it held and still exudes 250 years later. Houmas House remains a preeminent sugarcane plantation in Louisiana. Here’s what to expect when visiting Houmas House Plantation.
For more about things to do in neighboring Baton Rouge, read this post.
Houmas House Plantation Grounds
Houmas House Plantation boasts immaculate grounds with meticulously maintained landscaping. Sculptures, exotic plants, and a Japanese footbridge adorn the expansive property, along with charming fountains. As you explore the premises, tranquility envelops you, offering a refreshing escape. The variety of blooming flowers and trees is simply breathtaking.
Houmas House is a masterclass in horticulture, providing an opportunity to learn and appreciate the wonders of nature. The house is a stunning symmetrical antebellum structure featuring wrap-around decks on two floors, Federal arched dormers, majestic columns, and a decorative widow’s walk. Its allure is captivating, inspiring the desire to step inside or capture its beauty through the lens.
The Historic Museum and Houmas House
Houmas House Plantation offers more than just picturesque grounds. The museum showcases historic artifacts, period artwork, and stunning murals, creating an immersive experience for visitors. Louisiana’s Great River Road painting was incredible—be on the lookout for that one.
The mansion itself is adorned with impressive furnishings, priceless artwork, and unique antiques. The billiards room features captivating oil paintings, including intriguing dog portraits. The chandeliers are simply breathtaking!
Additionally, the property offers various dining options, including Latil’s Landing Restaurant (fine dining), Turtle Bar (light bites), Carriage House Restaurant (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, kid-friendly), Dixie Cafe (inside the Great River Road Museum: open for breakfast and lunch buffets), buffets, and the Wine Cellars of Houmas House (impressive collection of estate wines).
Houmas House Gardens
Houmas House Plantation features breathtaking gardens that captivate for hours. The landscape design is an exquisite display of lily pads, ponds, lotus flowers, and exotic blooms. The gardens are a phenomenal sight, adorned with lighted archways, wood-carved sculptures, and elegant water fountains. For optimal colors, April or November is recommended.
A visit to Houmas House Plantation is a delightful experience, with one-hour tours of the mansion, gardens, and more available at $35. Luxurious cottage accommodations are also available for an overnight stay.
Come for the holidays for an even more beautiful opportunity!
A Private Functions at Houmas House
During the 2020 Travel South Conference in Baton Rouge, I attended a private party at Houmas House Plantation. Houmas House, located in Darrow, Louisiana, graciously hosted us and provided an authentic Southern experience. The 38-acre property was even better with these talented musicians playing a variety of genres, such as zydeco and big band.
Guests were delighted by the delectable charcuterie spreads and a wide selection of Cajun/creole favorites. Attendees were given light-up lanyards synchronized with the garden lights and fountain for an even more festive atmosphere.
The event’s highlight was the captivating performance by Louisiana’s esteemed fiddle player, Amanda Shaw. Discover more about Baton Rouge in this post.
