Oak Alley Plantation

Note: If you would like to navigate the Oak Alley site directly, bookmark their Home Page.

"One of the great things about living in New Orleans, is that you can enjoy the nice tourist spots every day." Recently, I did just that (again). I took a little ride up the Mississippi River to Oak Alley Plantation, where I made new photographs to add to my growing collection.

I've done this many times over the years, and my photographs have also recorded the growth of my children (now in their thirties). Each time I visit, I see changes in the gardens -- new gardens or gardens removed, new walkways, etc. -- but, the house and the oaks are always familiar.

Oak Alley is truly the quintessential Southern Antebellum Plantation home. It is a massive Greek Revival home, supported by 28 columns, each 8 feet in circumference, with 15 foot high ceilings and 16 inch thick brick walls. The 13 foot wide veranda surrounds the house on all four sides, offering a splendid view, and ample shade and protection from the sun or rain. From the main entrance, two rows of 14 magnificent oak trees (now 250 years old) line the walk to the Mississippi River, a quarter mile away, hence the name "Oak Alley".

My first visit (nearly 25 years ago) was nothing more than a artist's field trip to gather first hand information for painting old plantations. It has an attraction, though, that keeps calling.

Today, one has so much more to savor. In the last few years, several cabins have been provided as Bed and Breakfast accommodations, allowing visitors to spend the night. What an experience to visit such a place, and have time to enjoy the grounds, without having to rush off to a motel after the tour! If you are lucky, you might even see one of the paddlewheel river boats docking, allowing it's passengers the opportunity to visit.

Oak Alley now has a restaurant, that is open early enough for breakfast and remains open long enough for a late lunch. The menu is traditional Cajun and Creole Food, and I've never been disappointed. At the restaurant also is a small gift shop, but it is for keepsakes, not a commercial store. Of course, if you enjoy picnic lunches, Oak Alley provides picnic tables under the cool oak trees near the parking area.

There are special events scheduled on the grounds throughout the year. Check their Calendar of Events