Adventure brief
St. Joseph and Felicity Plantations Combo Tour
Journey through 1,000 acres of active sugarcane fields and historic homes with the St. Joseph and Felicity Plantations Combo Tour. Discover the working side of Louisiana’s plantation heritage and its cinematic legacy.
Venture into the heart of Louisiana’s River Road at St. Joseph Plantation, where history, agriculture, and cinema converge across 1,000 sprawling acres of active sugarcane fields. The St.
Joseph and Felicity Plantations Combo Tour is a 2.5-hour guided experience that offers a uniquely immersive look into the demanding yet rich life of sugarcane farming—a cornerstone of Louisiana’s landscape and economy. Located near Vacherie, this tour brings to life the story of two historic plantation homes, each preserved as living monuments and still vital in today’s agricultural production. With these working plantations set amidst wide swaths of verdant cane, the tour walks visitors through the fields and historic homes, offering detailed insights not only into sugarcane cultivation but also the cultural imprints left by generations of labor, both past and present.
Alongside agricultural education, the plantation’s role as a sought-after filming location provides an intriguing layer to the visit. Sets from acclaimed productions like "12 Years a Slave," "Mudbound," and "Queen Sugar" have been filmed here, lending a contemporary cultural significance to the ancestral landscape. The plantation’s blends of natural beauty and structural heritage highlight Louisiana’s unique melding of environment and history.
Towering oaks and cypress trees frame the plantation houses, while the broad fields showcase the region’s deep agricultural roots. Visitors gain perspective on the complex legacy of plantation life, sugarcane farming technology, and the evolving stewardship of these lands. This experience offers more than a typical historical tour.
It stands out as a hands-on, engaging education in a living landscape, where heritage and farming continue side by side. Whether you’re a history buff, film enthusiast, or an outdoor traveler seeking meaningful connection to place, the St. Joseph and Felicity Plantations Combo Tour is a substantive journey into Louisiana’s working past and present.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear Comfortable Footwearessential
Expect walking on uneven ground and plantation paths during the 2.5-hour tour.
- 02Bring Sun Protectionessential
The tour covers open fields with limited shade; sunscreen and hats are recommended.
- 03Stay Hydratedessential
Carry water, especially in warmer months, as the tour is partly outdoors with limited facilities.
- 04Photography-Friendlyinfo
Capture historic homes and vast sugarcane fields. Ask guides about filming locations for iconic movies.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supports long periods of walking on uneven and grassy surfaces.
EssentialSun Hat
Protects from direct sun exposure in open sugarcane fields.
summerEssentialLight Rain Jacket
Useful for spring showers or unexpected rain on the tour.
springWater Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the mostly outdoor experience.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Quiet grove of ancient oak trees near the Felicity home, Old levee trails along the Mississippi River adjacent to the plantations
Local fauna
Great blue herons commonly seen near water edges, White-tailed deer in surrounding woodland patches
Historic heritage
Both plantations have roots dating back to the 19th century and played vital roles in Louisiana's sugarcane industry while later becoming iconic filming locations.
Mindful exploration
St. Joseph Plantation balances active farming with historical preservation, maintaining ecological health and cultural heritage simultaneously.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Front facade of St. Joseph House for historic architecture, Edge of sugarcane fields for wide landscape shots, Near Felicity Plantation’s river outlook for natural scenes
- Subjects
- Historic plantation homes, Sugarcane fields, Wildlife and native flora
- Best times
- Golden hour, Late morning, Early afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are the plantations still operational farms?
Yes, St. Joseph and Felicity Plantations actively farm around 1,000 acres of sugarcane each year.
How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves walking moderate distances on flat terrain and is suitable for most visitors.
Is photography allowed during the tour?
Yes, photography is encouraged, especially of historic homes and film locations.
Are there any provisions for hot weather?
The tour covers open fields, so sun protection and water are recommended. Some shaded areas are available at the homes.
Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot due to limited group sizes and seasonal demand.
Are there any age restrictions for the tour?
The tour is family-friendly and welcome to all ages, with special pricing for youth and children.