Whitney Plantation Tour from New Orleans with Pickup

Summary

Stories of Louisiana’s past come alive at Whitney Plantation

You’ll ride out from New Orleans with a small group and local driver, listening to jazz as city turns into countryside. At Whitney Plantation, you’ll walk among memorials and restored buildings at your own pace, hearing stories that linger long after you leave. Includes round-trip pickup and admission—just bring yourself.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I didn’t expect the drive out of New Orleans to feel so different so quickly. One minute you’re in the city with its sticky-sweet air and streetcars, and then suddenly it’s all sugarcane fields and the road just keeps stretching. Our driver called before pickup (which was a relief because I’m always paranoid about missing things) and played old jazz on the way, pointing out bits of local trivia between songs. It felt oddly comforting, like being shown around by someone who actually lives here.

When we pulled up at Whitney Plantation, there was this hush — not silence exactly, but something heavier. The main house looks almost gentle from the outside, but once you start the self-guided tour, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of what happened here. There are statues of children scattered around; I remember touching one’s hand (cold stone, rough edges) and feeling a little embarrassed by how much it got to me. The museum itself is full of first-person narratives from people who were enslaved here — their words are everywhere. I had to stop reading for a second because it was just… a lot.

I wandered through the old kitchens and slave cabins while cicadas buzzed in the heat. A local staff member pointed me toward an exhibit I would’ve missed otherwise — he said his grandmother used to tell stories about families who lived nearby. It made everything feel even closer somehow. After about an hour or so (maybe more? time went weird), I sat under a tree before heading back to meet our group. Even now, certain smells — molasses, damp wood — stick with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whitney Plantation tour from New Orleans

• Driver calls before arrival
• Driver greets upon pickup
• Travel to Whitney Plantation
• Listen to New Orleans jazz music
• Driver shares facts en route
• Arrive and check in at plantation
• Receive tour information and instructions
• Self-guided tour of plantation museum
• Explore museum and use restroom
• Return to New Orleans

Top questions

How long does the Whitney Plantation tour take?

The self-guided tour lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes; total time including travel is around 5–5.5 hours.

Is transportation from New Orleans included?

Yes, round-trip transportation from New Orleans is included in the tour price.

Are there restrooms available at Whitney Plantation?

Yes, guests can use restrooms before or after exploring the museum.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this Whitney Plantation day trip.

Is lunch included in the Whitney Plantation tour?

No lunch is provided; only transportation and admission are included.

What times does this day trip depart from New Orleans?

Tours depart at 8:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m., returning early or mid-afternoon.

Do I need to book tickets for Whitney Plantation separately?

No, admission is included with your booking—no separate ticket needed.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from New Orleans (with hotel pickup), entry fees for Whitney Plantation Museum, plus enough time to explore exhibits and memorials before heading back into the city together.