Exploring Louisiana’s antebellum past has never been easier. The New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour provides a convenient way for visitors to enjoy the region’s captivating history. Whether you choose the East Bank or West Bank route, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the stunning architecture and learn about the intricate legacies of these plantation estates. With knowledgeable guides, personalized experiences, and the ability to customize your itinerary, this tour offers a unique and insightful glimpse into the complex narratives that continue to shape the cultural landscape of New Orleans. Get ready to uncover the stories that have long captivated historians and travelers alike.
Key Points
- The Plantation Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and antebellum architecture of southern Louisiana through a personalized experience with a licensed and insured driver/guide.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and provides access to plantation docents, but excludes lunch and gratuities for the driver/guide.
- Participants can choose between the East Bank tour, which explores Destrehan Plantation and Houmas House, or the West Bank tour, which visits Laura Plantation and Oak Alley Plantation.
- The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and welcomes service animals, catering to the needs of a wide range of visitors.
- Customization options are available, such as adding additional plantations, extending the tour duration, or arranging a private chef-prepared lunch at one of the plantation estates.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In New Orleans
Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Plantation Tour
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Tour Start Time and Duration
- Accessibility and Accommodations
- East Bank Plantation Tour
- West Bank Plantation Tour
- Tour Customization Options
- Booking and Reservations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the History Behind the Plantations Visited?
- Are Photos Allowed Inside the Plantation Homes?
- What Types of Attire Are Recommended for the Tour?
- Can We Stop Along the Way to Explore Local Towns?
- Do the Tour Guides Provide Information About Local Cuisine?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in New Orleans
- More Tours in New Orleans
- More Tour Reviews in New Orleans
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in New Orleans we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Plantation Tour
The New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and antebellum architecture of southern Louisiana, with the option to choose between two distinct itineraries along the Mississippi River.
This private, full-day tour provides a personalized experience with a licensed and insured driver/guide. Participants can select either the East Bank tour, featuring Destrehan Plantation and Houmas House, or the West Bank tour, which includes Laura Plantation and Oak Alley.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as access to plantation docents. While lunch and gratuities aren’t included, guests can purchase food on-site and enjoy the tour at their own pace, making it an ideal way to take in the region’s captivating past.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New Orleans.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a licensed and insured driver/guide, and access to plantation docents.
However, it excludes lunch, which is available for purchase during the tour. Gratuities for the driver/guide are also not included.
Visitors can choose to purchase souvenirs at the plantations, but the cost of these items isn’t covered by the tour price.
Plus, admission to any unplanned attractions encountered during the day isn’t included.
The tour is designed to provide a rundown of the plantation experience, focusing on the historic mansions and estates along the Mississippi River. Participants can expect a personalized and informative journey into the antebellum history of Louisiana.
Tour Start Time and Duration
The New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour commences at 9am and lasts approximately 7 hours, concluding with drop-off in the French Quarter or at participants’ hotels.
This private, full-day tour allows visitors to explore the fascinating history and antebellum life of southern Louisiana.
The tour itinerary includes:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off for a seamless experience.
- A licensed and insured driver/guide to provide a personalized and informative tour.
- Guided tours of the historic plantation mansions and estates.
- The choice of two different tour options, either the East Bank tour or the West Bank tour, to suit individual preferences.
Throughout the journey, participants can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the past.
Accessibility and Accommodations
The New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour is designed to be accessible, catering to the needs of a wide range of visitors. It’s wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and welcomes service animals, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all participants.
| Accessibility | Details |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Accessibility | The tour route and plantation sites are wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and accommodations for easy navigation. |
| Stroller Accessibility | Families with young children can comfortably explore the plantations with their strollers. |
| Service Animals | Guests are welcome to bring their service animals, which are essential for certain visitors. |
The tour’s inclusive approach allows everyone to enjoy the rich history and culture of antebellum Louisiana.
East Bank Plantation Tour
On the East Bank tour, guests embark on a journey to explore the Destrehan Plantation and the Houmas House, two historic estates that offer a captivating glimpse into the antebellum era of Louisiana.
The Destrehan Plantation, dating back to 1787, provides a window into the lives of the plantation’s owners and enslaved workers. Visitors can tour the grand mansion, stroll through the lush gardens, and learn about the plantation’s rich history.
At the Houmas House, guests are transported to a luxurious 19th-century sugar plantation, complete with ornate interiors, expansive grounds, and an impressive collection of art and antiques.
The tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the captivating legacy of Louisiana’s plantation culture.
The East Bank tour includes:
- Destrehan Plantation tour
- Houmas House tour
- Insights into antebellum Louisiana history
- Picturesque landscapes and architecture
West Bank Plantation Tour
Contrasting the East Bank tour, the West Bank tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the Laura Plantation and the Oak Alley Plantation, two iconic estates that offer a captivating glimpse into Louisiana’s antebellum past.
The Laura Plantation showcases the intricate lives of its former owners and enslaved people, with guided tours delving into the complex history and daily routines of the plantation.
Meanwhile, the iconic Oak Alley Plantation impresses with its grand allée of centuries-old live oak trees, leading to the striking Greek Revival-style mansion.
Both sites provide a deeply insightful and thought-provoking experience, allowing guests to connect with the region’s rich cultural heritage and understand the lasting impact of the plantation economy.
Tour Customization Options
While the East and West Bank tour options provide immersive glimpses into Louisiana’s antebellum past, the New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour also offers opportunities for further customization to suit visitors’ interests and preferences.
Guests can choose to:
- Add additional plantations to the itinerary, such as Evergreen Plantation or San Francisco Plantation, to explore more of the region’s rich history.
- Extend the duration of the tour to have more time at each site and dive deeper into the lives of the plantation owners and enslaved people.
- Request a specialized focus, such as architecture, horticulture, or the region’s Creole culture.
- Arrange for a private chef-prepared lunch at one of the plantation estates to enhance the overall experience.
Booking and Reservations
Booking the New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour is straightforward, and guests can reserve their preferred tour option directly through the tour provider’s website or by contacting their customer service team. Guests will need to provide their preferred tour date, the number of people in their party, and any special requests or customizations they’d like to include. Once the booking is confirmed, the tour provider will handle all the logistics, including arranging hotel pickup and drop-off for a seamless experience.
| Tour Options | Price per Group (up to 4 people) |
|---|---|
| East Bank Tour | $500 |
| West Bank Tour | $500 |
Guests can easily plan and book their New Orleans plantation experience by working directly with the tour provider, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the History Behind the Plantations Visited?
The plantations visited provide insights into the antebellum South, showcasing the region’s architecture, agriculture, and complex history of slavery. Each estate offers a unique perspective on life in 19th-century Louisiana.
Are Photos Allowed Inside the Plantation Homes?
Photos are generally allowed inside the plantation homes, though some restrictions may apply. Visitors should check with the plantation staff upon arrival for the latest photography policies and any limitations within the historic structures.
What Types of Attire Are Recommended for the Tour?
Comfortable, casual clothing is generally recommended for plantation tours. Light layers, closed-toe walking shoes, and sun protection like hats or sunglasses can help visitors stay comfortable while exploring historic homes and grounds during the tour.
Can We Stop Along the Way to Explore Local Towns?
The tour is primarily focused on visiting the plantation estates, but the guide may be able to accommodate brief stops in nearby towns along the way if time allows and the group expresses interest. However, the main priority is exploring the plantations.
Do the Tour Guides Provide Information About Local Cuisine?
The tour guides typically provide information about local cuisine and encourage participants to explore the area’s culinary offerings during free time or lunch breaks. They can offer recommendations for authentic Creole and Cajun dishes to sample.
New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour
“This experience will be a favorite memory for my daughter and I. Dominick was so informative and kind. We felt safe and taken care of the entire trip.”
Recap
The New Orleans Plantation Driving Tour offers an immersive exploration of Louisiana’s rich antebellum history.
Visitors can choose between the East Bank and West Bank tours, each showcasing captivating plantations and their unique stories.
With customizable options, guests can tailor their experience to delve deeper into the region’s plantation culture.
This tour provides a personalized and informative way to uncover the fascinating legacy of these iconic Southern landmarks.
