Oak Alley Plantation

Oak Alley Plantation is a Greek Revival mansion in Vacherie, Louisiana, known for its 28 Doric columns and white stucco walls. A double row of southern live oaks stretching more than 800 feet (240 meters) flanks the approach and gives the property its name and signature appearance.

The property was first established in 1830 by Valcour Aime under the name Bon Séjour before Jacques Roman commissioned the current mansion in 1839. The estate changed hands several times after the Civil War and opened as a museum in the mid-20th century.

An enslaved man named Antoine developed a grafting technique on the grounds that produced pecan varieties with soft shells you could crack by hand. This method later spread across the region and transformed the way people grew nuts throughout the southern United States.

A visit includes either a full tour with access to the main house for 30 dollars or grounds-only admission for 27 dollars per adult. Tours run several times each day and work best during cooler morning hours or late afternoon.

The grounds still hold a working blacksmith shop and a cemetery that offer insight into the lives of enslaved workers. These areas provide a clearer picture of daily life beyond the grand facade of the main house.

Location: St. James Parish

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Fee: Yes

Address: State Route 18

Phone: +(225)2652151

Website: http://oakalleyplantation.com

GPS coordinates: 30.00430,-90.77590

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:52