Vacherie, Louisiana, is a small rural town located in St. James Parish along the west bank of the Mississippi River, roughly midway between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Its name, derived from the French word for cowshed, reflects its origins as a liv... read moreestock farming area. Today, Vacherie is known for its preserved Creole history and antebellum architecture, making it a notable destination for cultural and historical tourism in southern Louisiana.

The town is home to several prominent plantations that offer a deep look into the region’s past. Oak Alley Plantation, with its iconic canopy of centuries-old oak trees and grand Greek Revival mansion, is one of the most photographed sites in the South. Visitors to Oak Alley can tour the historic home, walk through reconstructed slave quarters, and learn about both the plantation owners and enslaved individuals who lived there. Laura Plantation, also in Vacherie, is equally important for its Creole focus and its interpretive tours based on family records and memoirs, particularly those of Laura Locoul Gore.

St. Joseph Plantation adds another layer to the town’s historical landscape. Still operated by descendants of its original family, it provides a personal view of sugar cane plantation life, with access to original buildings and farmland. Beyond its historic homes, Vacherie also offers visitors cultural experiences such as traditional Cajun cooking, local churches with historic architecture, and peaceful riverfront views, all contributing to its unique charm and historical richness.