Shadows on the Teche New Iberia
Step into Louisiana's past at Shadows on the Teche, an 1834 Greek Revival home with formal gardens and a deep history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Shadows on the Teche New Iberia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Louisiana's past at Shadows on the Teche, an 1834 Greek Revival home with formal gardens and a deep history.
"Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and engaging, offering a complete history that doesn't shy away from the past."
🎯 Ask Questions!
Guides like Xian and Adam are incredibly knowledgeable and patient. Don't hesitate to ask anything!
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The gardens are a peaceful escape. Allow extra time to stroll and enjoy the scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Antebellum Home
Main House
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved 1834 Greek Revival mansion.
Formal Gardens
Grounds
Wander through peaceful gardens with ancient trees and a serene atmosphere.
Family Tombs
Cemetery
Explore the on-site tombs and learn about the Weeks family's lineage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ask Questions!
Guides like Xian and Adam are incredibly knowledgeable and patient. Don't hesitate to ask anything!
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The gardens are a peaceful escape. Allow extra time to stroll and enjoy the scenery.
⏳ Allow ample time
Tours can last over an hour, and you'll want time for the gardens.
📅 Check for Events
Local events like the Gumbo Cookoff can add to the atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ask Questions!
Guides like Xian and Adam are incredibly knowledgeable and patient. Don't hesitate to ask anything!
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The gardens are a peaceful escape. Allow extra time to stroll and enjoy the scenery.
⏳ Allow ample time
Tours can last over an hour, and you'll want time for the gardens.
📅 Check for Events
Local events like the Gumbo Cookoff can add to the atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shadows on the Teche for its comprehensive and honest historical tours, highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging guides who don't shy away from the complexities of plantation life. The beautiful gardens and well-preserved antebellum home are also frequently mentioned as highlights, offering a peaceful and educational experience.
"We visited with a large group on a Saturday. The house wasn’t open for viewing, but we were given a short tour of the property and were allowed to poke around in the gardens. The guide explained how rainwater was collected from the gutters and stored in the cistern. He named the people buried in the cemetery and explained their relation to one another. He was very knowledgeable about the boundaries of the plantation and the size and location of slave quarters that are no longer standing. The gardens are very peaceful and enjoyable."
CJ DiB
"I toured Shadows on the Teche last month with the Get Away Gals & had the pleasure of learning not only the typical plantation history, but a more complete story including the lives of enslaved peoples lives on site, along with a bit about the native tribes that once were stewards of the area (I especially enjoyed their creation myth!) Adam and Zion(sp?) were very informative and entertained my questions throughout the tour with great patience. And it was an honour to see Zion do such an amazing job giving their first tour!"
Lillian Raemsch
"My daughters and I toured the Shadow while on vacation. The young man who guided us was so very knowledgeable and helpful. He spent well over an hour with us. Answered all our questions, told us so much about the Louisiana culture and history of the Shadow. This is a beautiful antebellum style home and very well preserved to include the furnishings. The gardens and the ancient trees are phenomenal. I would highly recommend this to anyone who likes history."
JEC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shadows on the Teche is located in New Iberia, Louisiana. It's easily accessible by car. If you're coming from Lafayette, it's a straightforward drive. Parking is available on-site.
While the historic house has stairs, the grounds and gardens are generally accessible. It's best to contact the venue directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.
From Lafayette, take US-90 E towards New Iberia. Shadows on the Teche is located at 320 Belle Grove Rd, New Iberia, LA 70560.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hours can vary, and it's recommended to check their official website or call ahead. Some visitors noted the house wasn't open for viewing on a Saturday, so confirming tour availability is key.
Admission fees apply for tours. It's best to check the official Shadows on the Teche website for the most current pricing information.
While not always explicitly stated, many historic sites offer online ticket purchasing. It's advisable to check their website for convenience and to secure your spot, especially during peak times.
Yes, group tours are available and were mentioned by visitors. Contacting the venue in advance is recommended for booking and coordination.
Tours typically include a guided walk through the historic house and its grounds, covering the history of the Weeks family and the lives of enslaved people.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can tour the beautifully preserved 1834 antebellum home, explore the formal gardens, and visit the family tombs. The tours offer a comprehensive history lesson.
While not explicitly marketed as a haunted attraction, many historic plantations have stories. The 'shadows' in the name and the deep history might lend themselves to such speculation, but the focus is on historical accuracy.
Built in 1834, it was home to the Weeks family. Tours delve into the family's history, the plantation's operations, and the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
Photography policies can vary for historic homes. It's best to check with your tour guide or at the visitor center upon arrival. Generally, interior photography might be restricted.
Take a guided tour with an informative guide like Xian or Adam, and allow ample time to wander through the peaceful gardens.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, historic homes like Shadows on the Teche do not have on-site restaurants. However, New Iberia offers various local eateries, from casual to more formal dining.
New Iberia is known for its delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine. Expect to find great seafood, gumbo, jambalaya, and other regional specialties.
It's generally best to consume outside food and drinks away from the historic house and formal gardens to preserve the site. Check their specific policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the Greek Revival home, the formal gardens with ancient trees, and the picturesque bayou views offer excellent photo opportunities. 
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites and private properties to ensure the safety and preservation of the grounds and structures. Always check local regulations and venue policies.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – often provide the most flattering light for photographing the house and gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical content touches on sensitive topics like slavery, guides are adept at tailoring their presentations. Encourage your children to ask questions; the guides are noted for their patience and ability to explain complex topics in an age-appropriate manner. The visual aspect of the historic home and the expansive grounds can also capture a child's imagination.
🏛️ History Buffs
Guides like Xian are frequently lauded for their in-depth knowledge and engaging storytelling, which goes beyond a standard script. The opportunity to engage in dialogue and explore various facets of the plantation's past makes for a truly enriching experience. The preservation of artifacts and furnishings within the house further enhances the historical immersion.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
The peaceful gardens provide a perfect setting for quiet reflection after the tour. It's an opportunity to absorb the atmosphere, appreciate the natural beauty, and connect with the past at your own pace. The intimate nature of some tours can also lead to interesting conversations with fellow visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Comprehensive History of Shadows on the Teche
Visitors consistently praise the guides for their ability to convey this complex history with sensitivity and depth. They don't shy away from the realities of plantation life, including the harsh conditions and the profound impact of slavery. This approach provides a more nuanced and authentic understanding of the past, making the experience both educational and emotionally resonant.
Beyond the human stories, the site also touches upon the indigenous history of the area, acknowledging the native tribes who were stewards of the land long before European settlement. This multi-layered historical perspective makes Shadows on the Teche a vital destination for anyone seeking to understand the intricate tapestry of Louisiana's past.
Exploring the Gardens and Grounds
Visitors often highlight the tranquility of the gardens, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. The presence of the family tombs within the grounds adds a unique historical element, offering a tangible connection to the past residents. The guides are knowledgeable about the plantation's boundaries and the historical layout, including the locations of former slave quarters, providing context to the landscape.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a beautiful and peaceful setting, the gardens of Shadows on the Teche offer a delightful experience. It's a place where you can reflect on the history while enjoying the enduring beauty of the natural surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit