Oak Alley Plantation

About

Oak Alley Plantation stands as one of Louisiana's most photographed landmarks, famous for its dramatic alley of 28 live oak trees that arch over the walkway leading to the grand antebellum home. Located along the Great River Road in Vacherie, about an hour west of New Orleans, this National Historic Landmark offers visitors a window into the complex history of the pre-Civil War South.

The plantation grounds span several acres and include the iconic Big House, built in 1839, along with restored slave quarters, a blacksmith shop, a Civil War exhibit, and beautiful gardens. Guided tours of the main house bring the stories of the people who lived and worked here to life, covering both the wealthy planter family and the enslaved individuals whose labor sustained the estate.

Visitors can walk beneath the canopy of ancient oaks, some estimated to be nearly 300 years old, their massive limbs draped with Spanish moss. The grounds also feature a restaurant serving traditional Cajun and Creole cuisine, a gift shop, and a cafe. Seasonal events and special programming run throughout the year.

Plan to spend two to three hours exploring everything. The grounds are open daily, and combination tickets that include the house tour and grounds access are available. If you're coming from New Orleans, several tour companies offer round-trip transportation. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather, though the oak canopy provides welcome shade even during Louisiana's warm summers.

The plantation doesn't shy away from the harder truths of its history. The reconstructed slave quarters and interpretive exhibits tell the stories of the enslaved community with care and honesty, making a visit both beautiful and deeply moving.

Accessibility

Oak Alley Plantation permits both basic wheelchairs and motorized wheelchairs on the grounds. Most exhibits are handicapped accessible at the ground level, allowing wheelchair users to experience the majority of the site's offerings.

One notable exception is the second floor of the Big House. The upper level requires climbing 22 stairs and is not accessible to visitors with mobility limitations. However, a video tour of the second floor is available for guests who are unable to make the climb, so you won't miss the experience entirely.

Service animals are welcome on the property. The outdoor grounds, including the famous oak alley walkway, are generally traversable, though some paths may be uneven due to tree roots and the historic nature of the site. Weather conditions can also affect ground surfaces.

For visitors arriving from New Orleans via a tour company, check with your specific operator about vehicle accessibility, as not all transportation options may accommodate wheelchairs or mobility devices.

Contact Oak Alley Plantation directly for the most current details on accessible parking, restroom facilities, and any recent improvements to their accessibility features. Staff can advise on the best routes through the grounds and help plan your visit to make the most of the accessible areas.

More accessible places in Louisiana

• Laura Plantation (Vacherie)
• New Orleans Museum of Art (New Orleans)
• The National WWII Museum (New Orleans)
• The National WWII Museum (New Orleans)
• Audubon Aquarium (New Orleans)
• Louisiana Children's Museum (New Orleans)