New Orleans: Felicity Plantation Guided Tour

If you’re looking to step beyond the typical New Orleans experience and dive into a piece of Louisiana’s complex history, the Felicity Plantation Guided Tour offers a compelling glimpse into both the past and present of this unique region. This 1.5-hour tour combines a walk through a beautifully preserved 19th-century plantation, a working sugarcane farm, and stories that illuminate the lives of enslaved and free workers alike.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the blend of architecture and agriculture — the plantation’s stunning Greek Revival and Creole styles are captivating, with the added bonus that it’s still an active farm. Second, the guided storytelling is authentic and engaging, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories that bring the place to life. The only potential caveat? The tour’s focus on history and culture means it might not be the best fit for visitors seeking a longer, more leisurely plantation visit or those with mobility issues.

This tour suits travelers who want a meaningful, intimate look at Louisiana’s plantation era, along with an appreciation for ongoing agricultural traditions. If you’re eager to learn about both the hardships and resilience of the region’s residents, Felicity provides a well-rounded and authentic experience.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from knowledgeable guides.
• Active sugarcane farm offering insight into current agricultural practices.
• Stunning architecture, including Greek Revival and Creole influences.
• Famous film location, seen in movies like Skeleton Key and 12 Years a Slave.
• Educational focus on the lives of enslaved and free workers.
• Value-focused price at $24 with a comprehensive, 1.5-hour guided experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Setting and Architecture

Felicity Plantation’s architecture immediately draws you in. Built between 1844 and 1847, the house showcases a harmonious blend of Greek Revival and Creole styles. We loved the way the architectural details reflect Louisiana’s eclectic cultural influences. From the grand columns to the decorative ironwork, every element whispers stories of a prosperous past. The charm is amplified by the lush grounds, which are often featured in movies such as Skeleton Key and the Roots remake — a fact that adds a cinematic feel to the visit.

The Farm and Its Modern Role

One of the tour’s most compelling aspects is that Felicity remains an active sugarcane farm. This isn’t just a historic site frozen in time—visitors get to see sugarcane being grown and harvested right there. The integration of farming and history helps you understand how the estate’s legacy continues today. We appreciated the insight into the farm’s operations, which connects the past to the present, showing that agriculture is still central to the region’s economy and culture.

The Guided Tour and Stories

The most praised feature of this tour? The guides’ storytelling. Reviews highlight guides like Sylvie, who “knew the stories and told them like they were her ancestors,” making the history feel personal and immediate. It’s clear that guides here are passionate and well-informed, sharing not just facts but heartfelt narratives of the families, laborers, and enslaved people who lived on the estate.

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Honoring the Hardships and Resilience

A significant part of the tour is dedicated to acknowledging the realities of slavery and labor. The interpretation strives to give a complete picture, including the hardships faced by those who worked here, as well as the resilience of generations of workers who stayed on after emancipation. We found this honest approach educational and respectful, ensuring visitors leave with a nuanced understanding of Louisiana’s history.

Filming Location and Cultural Significance

If you’re a fan of movies and TV series, you’ll recognize Felicity from productions like 12 Years a Slave and Underground. The setting’s cinematic quality adds an extra layer of interest — you might find yourself recalling scenes from your favorite films while strolling the grounds.

Value and Practicalities

At $24 per person, the tour offers solid value for the depth of history and scenery involved. The cost includes a guided tour and access to the grounds, making it a budget-friendly way to gain a richer understanding of Louisiana’s plantation era. Note that transportation, food, and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Tour Logistics

Check-in takes place at the gift shop next door at St. Joseph Plantation (3535 LA-18, Vacherie). Arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The tour runs in the morning and afternoon, and typically lasts about 1.5 hours. The group size is generally small, providing a more personal experience, but note that it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

What Visitors Are Saying

Several reviews emphasize the guide’s knowledge and warmth. Holly describes the grounds as “absolutely gorgeous,” and mentions foxes running around — giving a sense of how lively and natural the setting can feel. Tsinda highlights the personal storytelling from the guide Sylvie, saying, “We were surprised when an hour had gone by.” Debbie appreciated the more intimate experience compared to larger plantations like Oak Alley, and noted the true-to-period furniture and renovations that added authenticity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, film fans, and those interested in Louisiana’s cultural tapestry. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a more personal, less commercialized plantation visit — one that emphasizes stories of resilience and ongoing agriculture. The tour suits travelers who want a thoughtful exploration without the lengthy commitment of larger, more touristy plantations.

However, if you require wheelchair accessibility or are looking for a longer, more leisurely plantation tour, you might want to explore other options. The focus here is on education, authenticity, and appreciation of the ongoing farming tradition.

Final Thoughts

The Felicity Plantation Guided Tour offers a rare opportunity to see a working sugarcane farm while exploring the architecture and stories that shaped Louisiana. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation of the complex social history of the region, from the hardships of enslaved laborers to the resilience of their descendants.

For those who value authentic storytelling and picturesque scenery, this tour delivers in spades. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Louisiana’s past and present in a meaningful, personal way — especially if you enjoy engaging guides and scenic film locations.

While it might not be a grandiose, sprawling tour, the intimacy and authenticity make Felicity a strong choice for travelers seeking depth over size. It’s an experience that respects history, highlights ongoing life on the plantation, and offers a uniquely Louisiana perspective.

FAQ

Is transportation included with the tour?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, which is at the gift shop next door at St. Joseph Plantation.

How long is the tour?
The guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore the house, grounds, and learn the stories behind them.

Can I see the plantation’s grounds freely after the tour?
Yes, the ticket price includes walking around and viewing the grounds after the guided portion.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While suitable for most, the tour’s focus on historical realities may be heavy for very young children. It’s best suited for those interested in history and culture.

Are there any physical limitations to be aware of?
The tour might not be suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as access isn’t specifically designed for them.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking on grounds and inside the house.

In essence, the Felicity Plantation Guided Tour offers an engaging, authentic look at Louisiana’s plantation life, blending history, architecture, and ongoing agriculture. It’s a meaningful visit for those eager to understand the full story of this complex region — a true reflection of resilience, beauty, and history all in one place.

You can check availability for your dates here: