THE VENUE
Houmas House
Darrow, Louisiana
Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, Houmas House is one of Louisiana's most celebrated antebellum estates, a place where grand history, lush gardens, and Southern hospitality come together in breathtaking fashion.
A STORIED HISTORY
Originally built in the early 1800s, Houmas House takes its name from the Houmas Native American tribe who once inhabited the land. The estate grew to prominence as one of the largest sugar plantations in the antebellum South, its grand Greek Revival mansion a testament to the era's architectural ambition.
After decades of changing hands and gradual decline, the estate was lovingly restored by owner Kevin Kelly beginning in 2003. Today, Houmas House stands as a fully restored crown jewel of the River Road, its 38 acres of manicured gardens, moss-draped oaks, and candlelit courtyards drawing visitors from around the world.
THE GROUNDS
The estate's 38 acres are a world unto themselves, a living landscape of centuries-old live oaks, formal parterre gardens, reflecting pools, and winding brick pathways.
The Grand Allée
A breathtaking avenue of ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss leads to the main house, one of the most photographed approaches in the South.
Parterre Gardens
Formal French-inspired gardens surround the mansion, with sculpted hedgerows, seasonal blooms, and ornamental fountains.
The Carriage House
A beautifully restored 19th-century carriage house now serves as an event space, its exposed brick and timber beams setting an intimate, historic tone.
The Butterfly Garden
A tranquil garden sanctuary filled with native Louisiana plantings, designed to attract monarch butterflies and hummingbirds.
The Reflecting Pool
A serene pool at the heart of the gardens mirrors the sky and surrounding oaks, creating a sense of timeless calm.
The River Road
The estate sits directly on the historic River Road, with sweeping views toward the Mississippi River levee just steps away.
DINING ON THE ESTATE
Houmas House is home to two acclaimed restaurants, both celebrated for their commitment to Louisiana's rich culinary heritage.
Latil's Landing
AAA Four Diamond Award recipientThe estate's signature fine-dining restaurant, housed in the original 1770s Creole cottage. Latil's Landing offers an elevated Louisiana menu, think Gulf seafood, heritage pork, and locally grown produce, in an intimate, candlelit setting beneath centuries-old oaks.
The Café Burnside
Open for lunch and weekend brunchA more relaxed dining experience set in the estate's garden pavilion, serving Louisiana classics, craft cocktails, and weekend brunch. The perfect spot to linger over café au lait and beignets the morning after the wedding.
THE INN AT HOUMAS HOUSE
For those wishing to stay on the estate itself, the Inn at Houmas House offers a collection of beautifully appointed guest cottages and suites set among the gardens, an unparalleled way to experience the magic of the estate after the celebrations wind down.
Each accommodation is individually decorated with antiques, period furnishings, and modern comforts, offering a seamless blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury. Guests enjoy full access to the estate's gardens, pools, and restaurants throughout their stay.
AMENITIES
- ·Private garden cottages and suites
- ·Full access to estate grounds and gardens
- ·Complimentary estate tour
- ·Access to Latil's Landing and Café Burnside
- ·Outdoor pool and courtyard
- ·Concierge services
VISITING INFORMATION
ADDRESS
40136 Highway 942, Darrow, Louisiana 70725
PHONE
(225) 473-9380HOURS
Tours daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, grounds open until dusk
DIRECTIONS
WEBSITE
houmashouse.comHoumas House is located approximately 45 minutes from New Orleans (MSY) and 30 minutes from Baton Rouge (BTR).