ABOUT THE MUSEUM CONCEPT — History & Mission moved to their own hub, so this is now "who we are," not a junk drawer. Volunteer link is 404 on the live site — flagged for a real fix.
Living History Museum · Est. 1787
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Photo gallery

A first look at the grounds. Full gallery on the live site carries far more.

On screen

Destrehan welcomes location scouts for commercial, television, and film productions.

2013

12 Years a Slave

The historic Mule Barn, known as "Epp's Barn" in the film, was transformed into a cotton plantation barn.

2015

NCIS: New Orleans

The dining room became a hotel lobby; the front lawn was the setting for a pivotal wedding scene.

2015

Flip My Food (Cooking Channel)

Season 2, Episode 4: Chef Jeff recreates Southern dishes on-site with a descendant of the Destrehan family.

2013

Four Weddings (TLC)

A real Destrehan wedding, under the oldest live oak and in the Mule Barn, was the show's winning ceremony.

2013

Ravenswood

Season 1, Episode 5 used the plantation grounds as a backdrop for this TV thriller.

1994

Interview with the Vampire

Key scenes were shot inside the plantation's parlors and a bedroom, set-dressed for the film.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations aren't required but are recommended for larger groups or during peak season. Walk-ins are welcome during regular tour hours.

My tour time doesn't work anymore — do I need to rebook?

No — your ticket is valid all day, so you can join any available tour once you arrive.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes, personal photography is allowed, except in one designated room. Flash photography and video recording aren't permitted inside the house.

Is the site pet friendly?

Pets aren't allowed on the property, except for service animals.

How do I use a Groupon voucher?

Buy tickets online, choose your date and guest count, then enter your Groupon code under "add promo or discount code" at checkout.

How long does the tour last?

The guided house tour runs about 45 minutes to an hour. The grounds are self-guided, so you can explore at your own pace afterward.

Does the tour involve a lot of walking? Is there anywhere to sit?

The house tour is walking-based, with seating available in one room. The grounds are self-guided, so you can take breaks as needed.

Can I book a family photo session on the grounds?

Yes — the cost is the standard admission fee for each adult or child, and the photographer is admitted free.

Get involved

Broken link — needs fixing

Volunteer

The current Volunteer page returns a 404. Needs a real page before this link goes live.

See Volunteer Roles →

Donate

Since 1968, the River Road Historical Society has preserved this site and funded new exhibits and education programs.

Support the Society →

Gift shop

Apparel, drinkware, and collectibles, plus Louisiana-made cane syrup, indigo soap, and history books — including limited-edition Fall Festival merchandise. Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:30 pm.

Location & hours

13034 River Road, Destrehan, LA 70047

Open 9:00 am – 5:30 pm daily

Get directions →

Staff directory

Brenda Benoit — Heritage & Tour Director, ext. 3

Melissa Monica — Group Tours, ext. 2

Paula Mire — Venue & Rental Coordinator

Tracy Smith · Gabrielle Benoit · Joshua Pardo

Have a question we didn't cover?

Reach us directly, any day of the week.

Email Us →