We're planning a trip to New Orleans in September to visit my family. (I'm from Marrero but have been living in Texas for the last 4 years). My husband is from Texas and has never been to a Plantation home. He's also interested in Laura Plantation. Anyone have feedback on these places?

Hi...the Myrtles has great ghost stories, a disturbing history and also offers an evening tour for that extra scare.
Laura Plantation's main house burned in a fire, but they still do tours. They are also reconstructing the house, but I am not sure of the current status. Probably the most popular plantations to visit are Oak Alley and Nottoway.

The Myrtles is great! Ghostly! good restaurant.....will be a lenghty drive from New Orleans....reservations are difficult to obtain so plan early. Main House at Laura burned.....Oak Alley is beautiful and an easy day trip from New Orleans. Try the Mint Julep there!

Ok, so there's recently been a change of plans. Now the family wants to go to maybe Oak Alley, Nottoway, etc.

Does anyone know which place has the best lunch restaurant? I looked at each place online and heard that Nottoway has a good lunch...

Hi, CajunStorm: I would concentrate on Laura Plantation/Oak Alley and Nottoway. The Myrtles is fine but it's north of Baton Rouge in St. Francisville. I haven't been to Laura since the fire but I would try to start there. It has an unusual history.

Oak Alley is right down the road from Laura. Personally I would drive by this beautiful home, take a picture, and maybe walk up on the levee to see the Mississippi. You will recognize it from many national commercials. I don't remember the fees but felt that they were high.

On the way to Nottoway (north on La.Hwy.1), you may want to look into John Folse's Bittersweet Plantation restaurant in Donaldsonville. I haven't eaten at Nottoway in years but I have read good things about their chef. Nottoway gives a nice tour and is very impressive. You will meet tourists from all over the world and may even hear a tour being given in French!

On your way over from Texas, you may want to consider visiting Nottoway first since it is so close to Baton Rouge and then visiting Laura/Oak Alley on your way going home from New Orleans. Your husband may also enjoy the Old State Capital, State Capital, Shaw Art Museum which just opened, and other wonderful sights in downtown Baton Rouge. Just a thought.