HOUMAS HOUSE / OAK ALLEY, LA
18
Oak Alley Estate
From its canopy of 300-year-old oaks to its vast open spaces, Oak Alley’ s landscape tells the story of a southern plantation over time. Over 200 years ago, Oak Alley was just a land claim on a map and has since served many purposes, including as a sugar plantation, a rice farm, a chicken farm, a cattle ranch, and a country home. Agricultural tycoons, sugar planters, slaves, immigrant laborers, and real estate speculators have traversed its grounds over time. Today, Oak Alley is a National Historic Landmark, dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of its inhabitants. With an emphasis on its time as a sugar plantation, visitors are invited to walk under its iconic alley, explore the exhibits, interact with staff, and leave with a richer, more powerful understanding of this plantation’ s complex history. For the full southern experience, don’ t forget to take time for a complimentary mint julep.