Kristen & Brendan
Things To Do
Houmas House and Gardens
Take some time and learn more about the rich history of the venue Brendan and Kristen are hosting their wedding ceremony and reception. Located between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, The Houmas House Estate allows visitors to experience the life on a sugarcane plantation in the 1800’s. The mansion has been restored to the antebellum era, reflecting the opulence and wealth this sugarcane farm boasted in the 1880’s. The guided mansion tour walks through the 250 year history, showing the architectural evolution of this manor house and how it became a grand estate. Rare and period artwork and artifacts are displayed and used to explain plantation life. Did we mention that the gardens are expansive and the most exquisite in all of Plantation Country? Houmas House Estate is the home of Latil’s Landing Restaurant, The Carriage House Restaurant, Dixie Café, The Turtle Bar, and The Wine Cellars of Houmas House, each restaurant has varying menus reflecting traditional Louisiana cuisine.
Mike the Tiger's Habitat
Mike the Tiger is the official live and costumed mascot of Louisiana State University. Mike's habitat ranks among the largest and finest tiger preserves in the United States. Mike is situated between the Pete Maravich Assembly Center and the renowned Tiger Stadium. Take advantage of the free activity and consider strolling among the stately Oaks and broad Magnolias on the beautiful LSU campus. The LSU campus and Mike's habitat are roughly 45 minutes from Houmas House. Guests can park at the metered spaces located on West Stadium Drive outside the Bill Lawton Room. The metered parking will not be in effect on the weekends.
Louisiana's Old State Capitol
Louisiana's Old State Capitol, a Gothic architectural treasure, stands high on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. The 165-year-old statehouse has withstood war, fire, scandal, bitter debate, abandonment and an occasional fistfight. Today, the building stands as a testament to bold, inspired leadership and active citizenship. Tours are offered, but not required to take a step inside to see the stunning stained glass dome and windows. This attraction is open Monday - Saturday and located in downtown Baton Rouge, about 1 hour from Houmas House. Be prepared for street parking, or utilizing a parking garage.
Oak Alley Plantation
Oak Alley Plantation is where Brendan proposed to Kristen, as it is her favorite plantation home along the Mississippi River. The majestic Oaks make for an absolutely stunning place to spend the morning strolling and enjoying the gardens...maybe even a Mint Julep, too. The restaurant at Oak Alley Plantation offers breakfast and lunch dining options of some wonderful Louisiana cuisine. Oak Alley Plantation is about a 25-minute drive from the Houmas House.
Cajun Pride Swamp Tours
Cajun Pride Swamp Tours is a privately owned wildlife refuge just about 30 minutes from Houmas House. Their tours offer a unique and educational journey back to the early days of Louisiana bayou and swamp explorations. The chances are high that you will get the opportunity to see some exciting Louisiana wildlife up close and personal! Tours are offered daily at 9:30 am, Noon, 2:15 pm and 4:15 pm.
Steamboat Natchez
If you are looking to extend your trip with some fun in the Big Easy, enjoy a lovely Jazz Brunch aboard the renowned Steamboat Natchez! Combine a two-hour Mississippi River cruise on the Riverboat City of New Orleans with traditional live jazz by some of the most talented musicians of the genre - The Steamboat Stompers. For the crowning achievement, add a delicious casual New Orleans Brunch. Brunch is a staple in New Orleans life – a time to enjoy food, music, and refreshing beverages with friends and family. Whether a visitor or local, you can "pass a good time" at the Riverboat City of New Orleans with their Jazz Brunch or Cruise Only option. The steamboat departure location is in the heart of The French Quarter, roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from Houmas House. Be prepared to pay for parking and arrive early to hear the beautiful steam pipe organ play.
Preservation Hall
Situated in the heart of the French Quarter on St. Peter Street, the Preservation Hall venue presents intimate, acoustic New Orleans Jazz concerts. On any given night, audiences bear joyful witness to the evolution of this venerable and living tradition. This is a truly unique experience, but does require some planning. These shows sell out and all standing/seating is first come, first served. We would recommend considering a seated ticket, grabbing a to-go drink at Pat O'Brien's, and getting in line early. If you are looking to experience Jazz in New Orleans, this is the place to do it. Preservation Hall is located in the French Quarter and roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from Houmas House. Be prepared to pay for parking and arrive early.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
If you are looking to soak up the truly unique and spooky history of New Orleans, take a walk among New Orleans' most historic tombs. This is one of the most intriguing tours Brendan and Kristen have been on in New Orleans. The history behind the city's cemeteries is absolutely fascinating! This tour honors New Orleans’ rich history and guides you through the tombs of the city’s most famous and infamous historical figures. Step beyond the iron gates and experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans. Cemetery Tours NOLA takes visitors on an intriguing journey through St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Dedicated tour guides escort small groups along meandering paths within the Cemetery, as they share the storied pasts of those residing in this magnificent City of the Dead. Cemetery Tours New Orleans is located in the French Quarter and is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from Houmas House. Be prepared to pay for parking and always arrive a few minutes early.
Mardi Gras World
Laissez les bon temps Rouler! One of the most uniquely celebrated holidays in Louisiana is Mardi Gras! Mardi Gras World Tours allows you to see firsthand what it takes to bring Mardi Gras to life year after year. Walk through the hard work and extensive planning that goes into this grand event when you tour Blaine Kern Studios, an operating workshop that has created breathtaking floats for Mardi Gras and other parades around the world since 1947. This is a fun opportunity to learn about the history of this unique and festive tradition, going beyond its reputation to get a deeper understanding of the REAL Mardi Gras. Did we mention there are hundreds of photo opportunities in front of floats and props?!?! Mardi Gras World is located in the Port of New Orleans, just minutes from the French Quarter and roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from Houmas House. Be prepared to pay for parking.
Topgolf Baton Rouge
Topgolf Baton Rouge is a premier entertainment destination in Baton Rouge, LA. Enjoy their climate-controlled hitting bays for year-round comfort with HDTVs in every bay and throughout our sports bar and restaurant. Using their complimentary clubs or your own, take aim at the giant outfield targets and our high-tech balls will score themselves. Topgolf is located about 20 minutes from Houmas House.
