No one has invented a time machine yet, but this New Orleans plantation to swamp ride comes pretty close to showing you the rich history of the region. You’ll see antebellum plantations, sprawling historic mansions with lush gardens, and pristine swamps with their unique and diverse wildlife, including alligators, nutria (large wetland rodents) and Great Blue Herons. This 105-mile loop, with all its interesting stops, makes a perfect day trip on a motorcycle.
Starting the Tour
Start your ride by heading west out of New Orleans. Before crossing the Hale Boggs Memorial Bridge across the Mississippi River, stop at the Destrehan Plantation, the first historical landmark of this tour, and the oldest documented plantation home in the lower Mississippi Valley. This well-preserved antebellum home, noted for its place in history and for its lush grounds with moss-draped Live Oaks, gives a glimpse into what life was like in nearby New Orleans two centuries ago.
Riding Along the River
Once you’re out of town and past the nuclear power plant on Route 18 (the Great River Road), you’ll soon find yourself with bayous, quaint historic buildings and fields of sugarcane on the south side of the Mississippi River, a stark juxtaposition from the industrialized north side. This portion of the New Orleans plantation to swamp ride is often called Plantation Row for its vivid representation of the antebellum South.
Next Stop: Laura Plantation
As you continue your ride west, you’ll reach Laura Plantation, dating from the start of the 19th century. Formerly the domain of American Revolution veteran Guillaume Duparc, today, this site is dedicated to preserving the history of Creole Louisiana and the enslaved people who built the expansive mansion and farm. When Laura Plantation opened to the public in 1994, it became the first historic attraction in Louisiana to include stories of enslaved Africans as part of the tour. In addition to these poignant tales, you’ll discover other compelling personal stories that portray the rich, multi-faceted history of the Laura Plantation. After your visit, check out the plantation’s gift shop for mementoes, books, and even a few sugarcane products before heading out to your next stop.
Saint Joseph Plantation
Only three miles from Laura Plantation sits the combined Saint Joseph and Felicity Plantations, dating from the 1830s. This authentic working sugarcane plantation is still owned and operated by the descendants of the original occupants. Some of the cauldrons used in the sugar making process still sit on the lush grounds. Adding to the historical echoes of the plantation is the birth here in 1838 of one of America’s most noted architects, Henry Hobson Richardson. His designs include the Trinity Church in Boston and the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. Saint Joseph and Felicity Plantations also have served as the backdrop of many TV series and movies, including Twelve Years a Slave, Skeleton Key, and All The King’s Men.
The plantation offers guided historical tours and hosts events throughout the year, so check their website for more information.
Oak Alley Plantation from Gone with the Wind
Just a little farther west from the Saint Joseph and Felicity Plantations is the quintessential Oak Alley Plantation, one of the most popular spots for history enthusiasts. The striking mansion, surrounded by ancient moss-covered Live Oak trees planted in the 1830s when the main house was under construction, is famous for hosting the Tara scenes in the 1939 adaptation of Gone With The Wind. The “allee of oaks” allows for airflow from the mighty Mississippi to the front door of the Greek-revival mansion called the “Big House” as well as a means to showcase the home’s beauty to those passengers on riverboats. If you opt for one of the guided tours Oak Alley Plantation offers, set aside at least two hours.
Heading South to Zam’s Swamp Tours
If you’ve had your fill of old buildings and history, Take routes 20 and 307 south to Zam’s Swamp Tours, where you can explore an ecological park full of diverse wildlife and hop on a swamp jaunt with an authentic local Cajun guide. You’ll glimpse turtles, alligators, river rats, and other creatures inhabiting the marshes of Louisiana. Feeling adventurous? Try holding a baby gator or feeding one of the adults. Be sure your health insurance is up to date in case your fingers turn into a tasty treat.
To minimize any risks on these bayou tours, observe basic safety standards, like keeping hands and feet away from alligators. We also recommend bringing mosquito spray, especially if you’re touring Louisiana in the summer.
Back to New Orleans
Finished exploring? Continue down Route 307 until you reach Route 90 and head back to New Orleans. This ride, which riders call Tail of the Alligator, will let you enjoy more views of Louisiana’s green countryside, marshes, and, of course, gators.
We hope you enjoy your New Orleans plantation to swamp ride.
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