Discover the captivating history of the American South with the "From New Orleans: Whitney and Laura Guided Plantation Tour." This immersive 5.5-hour experience immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage of the region, offering a glimpse into the lives of both the enslaved and the Creole elite. With knowledgeable guides, a comfortable transportation, and a flexible cancellation policy, this small-group tour provides a worry-free way to explore the unique Whitney Plantation and the culturally significant Laura Plantation. The scenic drive along the Mississippi River sets the stage for an educational and thought-provoking journey that uncovers the complexities of the South’s past. What secrets and stories await those who…
Key Points
- Guided tour package exploring the historic Whitney and Laura Plantations near New Orleans, priced at $145 per person for a 5.5-hour small-group experience.
- Tour includes roundtrip transportation from hotels in Downtown and French Quarter, as well as a scenic drive along the Mississippi River.
- Visitors can explore the restored buildings and powerful exhibits at the Whitney Plantation, the only Louisiana museum dedicated to slavery history.
- The tour also features the Laura Plantation, which showcases the Creole culture of the pre-Civil War era through preserved 19th-century furniture and slave quarters.
- Knowledgeable guides provide insightful narration on the cultural and historical context, offering an immersive and personalized experience for participants.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The guided tour package offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the Whitney and Laura Plantations, located just outside New Orleans.
Priced from $145 per person, the 5.5-hour small-group tour (limited to 13 participants) provides guided visits to both historic sites. Guests can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Transportation is included, with hotel pickups available in the Downtown and French Quarter areas. The itinerary features a scenic drive along the Mississippi River, passing four additional plantations, before concluding the immersive experience at the Whitney and Laura Plantations.
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Itinerary and Transportation
Starting from hotels in Downtown and the French Quarter, the tour provides two convenient pickup location options – one in the Central Business District and another in the French Quarter.
Participants are transported in a passenger van for the scenic drive along the Mississippi River, passing four other plantations.
The main stops include the Whitney Plantation, with its restored buildings and exhibits dedicated to the history of slavery, and the Laura Plantation, a historic Creole plantation with preserved furniture and slave quarters.
Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable driver and guide provide commentary on the cultural and historical background of the region.
Plantation Experiences
The Whitney Plantation stands as the only museum in Louisiana dedicated to chronicling the harrowing history of slavery. Visitors can explore the restored buildings and powerful exhibits that bring this dark chapter to life.
The Laura Plantation, on the other hand, offers a glimpse into the Creole culture of the pre-Civil War era. Guests can marvel at the preserved 19th-century furniture, enjoy the stories of the plantation’s inhabitants, and tour the well-preserved slave quarters.
These plantation experiences provide a thought-provoking and immersive look into the complex legacies of the American South.
- Restored buildings and powerful exhibits at Whitney Plantation
- Preserved Creole furniture and historic slave quarters at Laura Plantation
- Immersive exploration of the complex legacies of the pre-Civil War South
Guided Tour Features
Knowledgeable guides lead the plantation tours, providing insightful narration on the cultural and historical background.
Audio guides are available in English, French, and Spanish, catering to the diverse needs of participants.
The driver and guide work in tandem, sharing their expertise to enhance the overall tour experience.
Visitors can enjoy the stories and legacy of the plantations, gaining a deeper understanding of the complex history of slavery and plantation life.
The tour’s small group size, limited to 13 participants, ensures an intimate and personalized experience for all.
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Visitors can purchase snacks and drinks at the gift shops located on the plantations, providing opportunities to refuel during the tour.
Participants must note that bringing large bags or luggage isn’t allowed. The tour accommodates adults aged 12 to 99, children aged 6 to 11, and infants 5 and younger.
During the visit, guests can:
- Browse the gift shops for souvenirs and local products
- Enjoy refreshments to recharge between plantation stops
- Take in the scenic drive along the Mississippi River
Pickup Locations
From two pickup location options, guests can conveniently board the tour’s passenger van in either the Central Business District or the French Quarter of New Orleans.
The Central Business District pickup point is ideal for those staying in downtown hotels, while the French Quarter location caters to those in the iconic neighborhood.
Regardless of the starting point, the tour ensures a seamless transportation experience, allowing participants to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive along the Mississippi River, passing four other plantations on the way to the main tour destinations of Whitney and Laura Plantations.
Scenic Drive
The scenic Mississippi River drive transports guests through a picturesque landscape, offering glimpses of four additional plantations along the way to the tour’s main destinations.
The journey showcases the region’s natural beauty, with glimpses of:
- Lush green fields and forests lining the river’s edge
- Historic plantation homes in the distance
- Meandering waterways and bayous characteristic of the Louisiana countryside
This scenic drive not only sets the stage for the upcoming plantation tours but also provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture, preparing visitors for the in-depth exploration of slavery and plantation life they’ll experience at Whitney and Laura.
Refund Policy
Participants can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows for flexibility in case plans change or unexpected circumstances arise.
The tour operator understands that life can be unpredictable, so they’ve implemented a generous cancellation policy. As long as customers let them know at least a day before the tour, they’ll receive a complete refund of their booking.
This ensures customers can book with confidence, knowing they won’t lose their money if they need to cancel. It’s a hassle-free policy that provides peace of mind for those planning their New Orleans plantation tour experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Guests With Disabilities?
The tour offers accessibility options for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible transportation and pathways at the plantations. Visitors should contact the tour provider in advance to discuss any specific needs or requirements.
Can We Take Photographs During the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour, though certain areas or exhibits may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific photography guidelines before the tour begins.
Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?
There’s no formal dress code, but the tour company recommends wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Closed-toe shoes are advised for exploring the plantations. Dressing in layers is suggested to account for potential changes in temperature or weather conditions.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, they can purchase snacks and beverages at the gift shops located at the plantations. The tour provides a curated experience without the need for outside items.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour allows participants aged 6 and older. Infants 5 and younger can join the tour for free. There are no age restrictions, though the content may not be suitable for very young children.
Recap
The "From New Orleans: Whitney and Laura Guided Plantation Tour" offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the American South. With knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and flexible policies, this tour provides a worry-free and immersive experience for visitors to discover the contrasting narratives of slavery and Creole life at the Whitney and Laura Plantations.
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