Laura: Louisiana's Creole Heritage Site, Vacherie

A must visit. This was by far the highlight of our visit to New Orleans and exceeded all expectations that we had. Visited other plantations but this stands out memorably. Did the tour of the plantation which was led by an amazing guide who brought so much perspective from all sides including the Creole and French aspects which are understated and usually not mentioned. It is a powerful experience that brings to life an era often hard to imagine and place in perspective for our current times. If visiting New Orleans or Louisiana, Laura plantation is a vital stop.

Beautiful authentic history. Fantastic guided educational tour. Well worth the time and money. We were very lucky to have Olivia as our tour guide. Olivia did an amazing job giving us an educated and factual look into the Creole way of life for all involved in the plantation life. Hope you get lucky enough to get Olivia on your tour.

I really love the generation concept that is portrayed in all of their brochures. The property is spectacular, the gifts shope is exactly what I was looking for. There was a great mix of historical and local items for sale. Now for the reason I did not like the Laura. We were told we could take pictures but were "raced" through so quickly there was no opportunity. Pat our guide was extremely well versed in her subject however she seemed bitter about having to show "outsiders" her plantation. She spoke so quickly and stated she would accept questions yet when I asked questions she treated me as if I was stupid. One question was with regards to the dormer window. "People didn't live up there, it's for ventilation." Yes absolutely correct but answered in a way that told me not to ask any more questions. We were not allowed to walk around the property and I understand. But... the entire experience with Pat made me feel as if tourists are not wanted.

This is a beautiful plantation and runs deep with history. Renee was our tour guide and made our experience memorable! She is very knowledgeable and answered all our questions in details. This is a creole plantation as identified by colors of house. The story of the Laura Plantation involves creole history and culture. They explained in details the atrocities and nuances of American slavery. They don't glorify slavery or make excuses, but the tour guide does contextualize how slavery worked in this area. There's also rich conversation about the types of slaves forced to work different jobs. The tour went so in depth into the story of the planter family and generations of change, the French Creole culture versus new American after the Louisiana Purchase, the effects of the Civil War, through the 1970s with the memoirs and death of the last family member to grow up on the plantation. There are original surviving slave quarters, and we heard in-depth stories of their lives from the Civil War to the turn of the 20th century and beyond. Thankful for places like this that help us learn about a history that should never repeat itself. I Highly recommend this tour!

Absolutely outstanding experience. Our guide Kristyn was thorough, thoughtful and presented the Laura Plantation in such a manner it has stuck with me like no other. Everyone should have to see first hand the roots of the bayou to truly understand the depth of our nation’s history. If only….