New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour

Exploring the vibrant history and culture of New Orleans is no easy feat, but the City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to do just that. Guests embark on a journey through the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, uncovering their unique stories, before delving into the rich legacy of Destrehan Plantation. With private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a touch of local cuisine, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. But what truly sets it apart is the chance to uncover the hidden gems that define the essence of this captivating city.

Key Points

• This 5-star tour explores vibrant New Orleans neighborhoods and historic plantations, including a visit to Destrehan Plantation for in-depth historical insights.
• The tour offers private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a stress-free and immersive experience for guests, including those with accessibility needs.
• Highlights include visits to lesser-known areas like Faubourg Marigny and Bayou St. John, as well as the culturally significant St. Louis Cemetery #3.
• The tour includes a 1.5-hour guided tour of Destrehan Plantation, providing a deeper understanding of Louisiana’s complex history through the lens of enslaved individuals and plantation families.
• Guests have the opportunity to sample local Creole and Cajun cuisine during a lunch stop, complementing the exploration of New Orleans’ diverse cultural heritage.

Tour Overview and Details

Anchored by a 5-star rating and rave reviews, the New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and historic plantations.

Presented by New Orleans Private Tours, this full-day excursion delves into the lesser-known corners of New Orleans, from the charming Faubourg Marigny to the serene Bayou St. John.

The tour also includes a visit to the renowned Destrehan Plantation, where guests can discover the property’s rich history.

With private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a licensed driver/guide, this tour provides a seamless and accessible experience, catering to various needs, including wheelchair accessibility and service animals.

Itinerary Highlights

The New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour delves into the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, offering an immersive exploration of Faubourg Marigny, Lake Pontchartrain, Bayou St. John, Carollton, City Park, Faubourg St. John, University Section, Audubon Park, 17th Street Canal, and the iconic Garden District.

Guests will also visit the revered St. Louis Cemetery #3, and enjoy a 1.5-hour tour of the historic Destrehan Plantation, with admission fees included.

Along the way, travelers can stop for lunch at a local eatery, though food and drink aren’t part of the tour package.

This comprehensive itinerary showcases the diverse tapestry of New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage.

Transportation and Accessibility

Private transportation with a licensed and insured driver/guide ensures a seamless and comfortable experience for guests on the New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from the central business district or a specified meeting point, allowing for convenient and hassle-free transportation.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with an elevator available at the Destrehan Plantation, though it’s advisable to call in advance to verify operability.

Strollers and service animals are also permitted, ensuring the tour is inclusive for all visitors.

With these transportation and accessibility features, guests can focus on the tour’s immersive itinerary and historical experiences without worrying about logistics.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour includes a licensed driver/guide, admission to the Destrehan Plantation, and private transportation, ensuring a comprehensive and stress-free experience for guests.

However, the tour excludes lunch, souvenirs, admissions to any unplanned attractions, and gratuities. Guests are responsible for covering the cost of their own food and drink during the lunch stop.

Plus, while the tour is wheelchair accessible and allows strollers and service animals, visitors should contact the provider in advance to verify the operability of the elevator at the Destrehan Plantation.

Booking and Confirmation

Confirmation of the New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Customers are advised to contact the provider before booking to confirm the elevator’s operability at Destrehan Plantation.

This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate. The tour has a maximum capacity of 4 people per group.

Booking must be done in advance, as spots are limited.

Once confirmed, customers can look forward to an immersive experience exploring the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods and visiting the historic Destrehan Plantation.

Guests can easily arrange for hotel pickup and drop-off within the central business district or a specified meeting point.

Lesser-known Neighborhoods Exploration

Guests on the New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour will explore the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, exploring the distinct character and charm of areas like Faubourg Marigny, Lake Pontchartrain, and Bayou St. John.

They’ll discover the vibrant Carrollton district, the tranquil oasis of City Park, and the historic University Section.

The tour also ventures into the verdant Audubon Park and the 17th Street Canal area, offering a glimpse into the diverse fabric of New Orleans beyond the French Quarter.

This immersive experience provides an insider’s view of the city’s hidden gems, showcasing the depth and richness of its neighborhoods.

Destrehan Plantation Visit

After exploring the diverse neighborhoods of New Orleans, the tour heads to the historic Destrehan Plantation.

This 1.5-hour stop allows visitors to step back in time and experience antebellum Louisiana. Guests will be greeted by a knowledgeable docent who’ll guide them through the grand 18th-century mansion and its meticulously restored grounds.

The plantation’s rich history comes alive as the guide shares stories of the families who once called this place home and the enslaved people who worked the land.

Visitors can admire the striking Greek Revival architecture, browse the museum exhibits, and soak in the tranquil ambiance of the property.

This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of the region’s complex past.

Dining Options En Route

During the tour, the group typically enjoys a lunch stop en route, where they can sample the renowned local cuisine.

The driver/guide will recommend a popular neighborhood eatery, offering classic Creole and Cajun dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and po’ boy sandwiches. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are usually available.

Theres some good a delicious lunch while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding area. The stop provides a chance to refuel and experience more of New Orleans’ unique culinary culture before continuing the comprehensive driving tour of the city and neighboring plantations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to the traveler’s specific interests. The private nature of the tour allows the provider to tailor the itinerary and highlights to meet the individual’s preferences and needs.

Is Photography Allowed at the Plantation?

Photography is generally allowed at the Destrehan Plantation, though visitors should check with the staff upon arrival as some areas or activities may have restrictions. Guests are encouraged to capture the historic architecture and landscapes during their visit.

What Should I Wear for the Tour?

The tour generally requires comfortable, casual clothing suitable for mild to warm weather. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking on the plantation grounds. Bringing sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also advisable.

Do I Need to Bring Any Supplies or Equipment?

The tour doesn’t require any special supplies or equipment. Guests should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and any necessary medications or personal items. The driver/guide will handle transportation and provide access to the plantation, so no additional items are necessary.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Exploring the City?

The tour allocates approximately 4-5 hours for exploring the various neighborhoods and highlights of New Orleans. This provides ample time for participants to discover the city’s unique culture, architecture, and history throughout the day.

Recap

This comprehensive driving tour provides an immersive experience through New Orleans’ vibrant neighborhoods and historic plantations. Guests can explore lesser-known areas, enjoy a guided visit to Destrehan Plantation, and savor local cuisine – all with the comfort of private transportation and accessibility considerations. This tour offers an enriching way to discover the unique cultural heritage that defines the city.