Pitot House - a white house with a red tiled roof
1 / 10

Pitot House

4.6
·108 reviews·New Orleans, United States

Step back in time at the Pitot House, a beautifully restored 1799 plantation home offering a glimpse into early New Orleans life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Pitot House - a white house with a red tiled roof

Pitot House

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at the Pitot House, a beautifully restored 1799 plantation home offering a glimpse into early New Orleans life.

4.6
(108 reviews)

"The Pitot House is a wonderful place to hold an event or wedding, and it is all thanks to Jenny and Loren."

Vertical photo
TIP

Ask About Family History

If you have Pitot family ties, inquire about lineage discussions. :family_tree:

Guided Tours are Key

The knowledgeable docents share fascinating facts and stories about the house. :information_desk:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Colonial Architecture

Colonial Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Admire the West Indies-style plantation home, one of the oldest in New Orleans, showcasing beautiful period furnishings.

Instagram
Bayou St. John Setting

Bayou St. John Setting

Surrounding grounds

Enjoy the picturesque views of the bayou, a tranquil backdrop to this historic residence.

Instagram
Period Furnishings

Period Furnishings

Interior rooms

Explore rooms adorned with authentic furnishings that transport you back to the late 18th century.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

While not always strictly required, booking your tour ahead of time is recommended, especially if you have a specific date or time in mind. This ensures you don't miss out on experiencing this historic gem. Reddit

Embrace the History

The Pitot House offers a fascinating glimpse into early New Orleans life. Come ready to learn about its unique history, architecture, and the families who lived here. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique concerts & celebrations
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Pitot House in the Bayou St John area in one of the oldest houses in New Orleans! //// We are now a licensed tour company and offer several driving tours around New Orleans every day! Join us on an adventure! DM us for more info! #bigeasy #louisiana #exploreneworleans #showmeyournola #onetimeinnola #followyournola #itsyournola #theneworleanslifestyle #visitneworleans #nolalove #nolalife #onl...
theneworleanslifestyle
2.6K likes • 77.5K views

Ask About Family History

If you have Pitot family ties, inquire about lineage discussions. Reddit :family_tree:

Guided Tours are Key

The knowledgeable docents share fascinating facts and stories about the house. Reddit :information_desk:

The Pitot House in New Orleans never ceases to amaze and inspire us. These colors forever and always. It’s been a while since we took a tour and had the chance today on the @prcnola Home Tour in the Bayou St. John area. Thanks PRC and all the homeowners who opened up their homes. Lovely day!
logankilleninteriors
414 likes • 8.8K views
🙂Clouds Over Bayou Saint John😀 I wanted to share a print featuring Pitot House on Bayou Saint John. I was introduced to Bayou Saint John when I did an art show at @pitothouse and I saw the beauty there. This picture shows Pitot house on a cloudy morning with big thunderheads in the distance. I am having a sale right now on paintings and prints of Bayou Saint John. I will be sharing more of these...
adamkhallart
57 likes • 1.2K views

Perfect Event Venue

Consider this spot for weddings or events; staff are accommodating. Reddit :wedding:

Inspiration for Artists

The beauty of the house and bayou inspires artists. Instagram :artist_palette:

reddit.com

Classy (but not fussy) venues in NOLA

Tips

from all over the internet

Ask About Family History

If you have Pitot family ties, inquire about lineage discussions. Reddit :family_tree:

Guided Tours are Key

The knowledgeable docents share fascinating facts and stories about the house. Reddit :information_desk:

Perfect Event Venue

Consider this spot for weddings or events; staff are accommodating. Reddit :wedding:

Inspiration for Artists

The beauty of the house and bayou inspires artists. Instagram :artist_palette:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(108 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Pitot House for its fascinating history, beautiful colonial architecture, and engaging guided tours. The period furnishings and picturesque bayou setting are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally positive, some visitors might find the tour pace or specific historical details more suited to those with a keen interest in the subject.

"The Pitot House Museum is a beautiful colonial style home filled with period era furnishings. We learned from the tour that the home was originally built where the Cabrini facilities are now located and was moved a few hundred feet to the present site. The tour is very interesting, filled with information and the home is delightful to see."

Louis and Elaine

"It's a family experience. My grandmother was Jeannette Pitot Boudreaux so be back here for a Bastille celebration was amazing. The docent was amazing and everything was beautiful. The concert was entertaining.
Trying to make an appointment with them to discuss the entire family lineage. Buried in St Louis Cemetery #1 with Edgar Pitot"

Cajun Queen Tours & Pedicab Rides

"Wonderful visit to this historic house located on a bayou. Beautifully restored. The guide shared a lot of interesting facts about New Orleans."

Sian Edwards

What People Like

Fascinating history
Beautiful architecture
Engaging tours

What People Dislike

Tour pace can vary

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Pitot House is located in the Bayou St. John area. While specific public transport details can vary, many visitors opt for ride-sharing services or driving. Parking availability should be checked in advance. Instagram

Information on direct public transport routes can be limited. It's advisable to check local New Orleans transit schedules or consider ride-sharing for convenient access. Instagram

Street parking is often available in the Bayou St. John neighborhood, but it can be competitive. Arriving early or checking with the venue for specific parking recommendations is wise. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Booking your tour in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially for specific dates or times. This helps avoid disappointment. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Pitot House website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on tour times. Reddit

Admission fees typically apply for tours. It's recommended to visit the Pitot House's official website for current pricing details. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are a highlight, offering in-depth historical information and insights from knowledgeable docents. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Pitot House is celebrated as a beautifully restored West Indies-style plantation home built in 1799, offering a glimpse into early New Orleans life. InstagramReddit

Inside, you'll find period-era furnishings and learn about the history of the house and its inhabitants, including the first city mayor. Reddit

Yes, it's considered a family-friendly experience, with engaging tours that can be interesting for various age groups. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to inquire upon arrival or check the venue's guidelines regarding interior and exterior photography. Instagram

Built in 1799, it was originally located elsewhere and later moved to its current site on Bayou St. John. It was occupied by New Orleans' first mayor. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Pitot House itself is primarily a historic house museum and event venue, so dedicated dining facilities may be limited. However, the surrounding Bayou St. John area offers various restaurants and cafes. Instagram

Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside historic homes to preserve the artifacts. It's best to consume them outside before or after your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture, the bayou setting, and the charming interiors with period furnishings offer excellent photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

Photography rules can vary. It's advisable to ask your tour guide or check for signage regarding interior photography permissions. Instagram

Many visitors capture the historic architecture, the scenic bayou views, and details of the period decor. Artists also find inspiration here. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Pitot House offers a family-friendly experience that can be both educational and engaging for children. The guided tours provide a narrative that can capture young imaginations, bringing history to life. The beautiful setting on Bayou St. John also offers a pleasant environment for a family outing. Reddit

When visiting with children, consider focusing on the visual aspects of the house – the unique architecture, the old furnishings, and the natural beauty of the bayou. Docents are often adept at tailoring their explanations to be accessible to younger audiences, making the historical context easier to grasp. It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to local history in a tangible way. Reddit

💍 Couples & Event Planners

The Pitot House is a highly recommended venue for weddings and special events, praised for its unique charm and the exceptional support provided by its staff. Event planners have specifically noted the accommodating nature of the venue and its team, making it a reliable choice for significant celebrations. Reddit

Its picturesque location on Bayou St. John offers a romantic and historic backdrop that is sure to impress guests. The blend of architectural beauty and the serene natural setting creates an unforgettable atmosphere for any occasion. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance

The Pitot House stands as a remarkable example of West Indies-style plantation architecture, a style that flourished in the region during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Built in 1799, it is one of the oldest homes in New Orleans, showcasing a design adapted to the local climate and available materials. Its distinctive features include a raised main floor, a steeply pitched roof, and wide verandas, all intended to provide ventilation and protection from the elements. The house's unique history also includes being moved from its original location to its current picturesque spot on Bayou St. John, a testament to its enduring importance. InstagramReddit

The interior of the Pitot House is equally captivating, furnished with period-era pieces that offer a tangible connection to the past. These furnishings help visitors visualize life in New Orleans over two centuries ago, from the daily routines of the families who resided there to the social and political context of the time. The meticulous restoration and preservation efforts ensure that the house remains a vivid historical resource. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the delightful and interesting nature of the tours, with docents providing a wealth of information that goes beyond mere dates and facts. They share documented history as well as local lore, making the experience both educational and engaging. This deep dive into the house's past makes it a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in New Orleans' rich heritage. Reddit

A Venue for Special Occasions

Beyond its historical significance, the Pitot House is also recognized as a beautiful and accommodating venue for events and weddings. Its charming setting on Bayou St. John provides a unique and memorable backdrop for celebrations. The venue's staff, particularly Jenny and Loren as mentioned by past planners, are noted for their dedication and support in making events successful. Reddit

Even with the inherent historical quirks of an old building, the Pitot House is praised for its ability to host events seamlessly. Wedding planners have highlighted the venue's accommodating nature and the positive working relationship with the staff, emphasizing that the historical charm does not detract from the functionality of hosting a large gathering. Reddit

For those seeking a venue that offers both historical ambiance and dedicated service, the Pitot House presents a compelling option. Its picturesque location and the commitment of its management team contribute to its reputation as a sought-after spot for memorable occasions in New Orleans. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2