Stop #1 - Oakland Plantation
Cane River Creole National Historical Park, built c. 1820. Interpretive themes include French Creole architecture, slavery, plantation life, reconstruction and evolving social practices. Open daily. No admission charged during on-going restoration. Restroom facilities. Call NPS (318) 356-8441.Time req: 1½ hrs. http://www.nps.gov/cari

Stop #2 - Melrose Plantation
National Historic Landmark. Built c. 1796. Includes Yucca House, African House, Big House. Home of famous primitive artist Clementine Hunter. Admission $10.00-Group rates 20+. Open Tuesday – Sunday. Now available for weddings and special occasions. (318) 379-0055. Time req: 1½ hrs.

Stop #3 - St. Augustine Catholic Church & Cemetery
Founded by Augustine Metoyer 1803. In the graveyard behind the church epitaphs on the older stones are in French. Church is open to the public. Filming site for wedding scene in the movie Steel Magnolias. Time req: 30-45 min.

Stop #4 - Magnolia Plantation Complex
Cane River Creole National Historical Park composed of 18 outbuildings that includes the only wooden cotton press still in its original location along with rare masonry slave cabins. Open daily. Free to tour. Call (318) 356-8441. http://www.nps.gov/cari

Stop #5 - Kate Chopin House & Bayou Folk Site
Built by Alexis Cloutier between 1805-1809, it was the home of Kate Chopin in the 1880s. Today, she is acclaimed a great 19th century American writer and storyteller. Note: The Kate Chopin House burned in September 2008, but a plaque and outbuildings remain.