Oak Alley Plantation and Small Airboat Tour From New Orleans

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the vibrant city of New Orleans to the charming town of Vacherie, where the historic Oak Alley Plantation and a thrilling airboat ride through the Louisiana wetlands await. Explore the meticulously preserved antebellum-era mansion, marvel at the towering live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and learn about the natural wonders of the region, spotting diverse native wildlife along the way. This guided tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Bayou State, leaving you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from New Orleans that includes an airboat ride through Louisiana wetlands and a guided tour of the historic Oak Alley Plantation.
• Opportunity to view native wildlife such as alligators, bald eagles, pelicans, and owls during the exhilarating airboat ride.
• Tour of the 19th-century antebellum-era Oak Alley Plantation, including the meticulously preserved plantation house and the iconic alley of 300-year-old live oak trees.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and former owners of the Oak Alley Plantation.
• Round-trip transportation from New Orleans hotels is included, but lunch and gratuities are not covered in the tour price.

Tour Overview

This full-day trip from New Orleans takes visitors to the country town of Vacherie, where they can experience an airboat ride and tour the historic Oak Alley Plantation.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from New Orleans hotels, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the journey.

The airboat ride offers a thrilling way to view native animals and their habitats, including alligators, as well as various bird species.

After the airboat adventure, guests will explore the 19th-century antebellum plantation house and stroll down the iconic alley of live oak trees draped in Spanish moss.

The guided tour inside the house provides insight into the plantation’s history and its former owners.

Airboat Adventure

After exploring the historic plantation, visitors hop aboard the open-air speedboat for an exhilarating airboat ride through the Louisiana wetlands. The 6 or 9-passenger airboat allows guests to view native wildlife up-close, including alligators, bald eagles, pelicans, ospreys, and owls. The knowledgeable tour guide provides fascinating insights into the local ecosystem and animal behavior. Riders are sure to feel the rush of adrenaline as the airboat skims across the surface of the bayou at high speeds.

What You’ll See	Wildlife
Native habitats	Alligators
Lush vegetation	Bald eagles
Tranquil waterways	Pelicans, ospreys, owls

Native Wildlife Viewing

During the airboat ride, visitors can often spot a variety of native wildlife in their natural habitats. Alligators bask on the banks, while majestic bald eagles, graceful pelicans, and other birds of prey soar overhead.

The knowledgeable guide provides insights into the behaviors and adaptations of these captivating creatures that call the Louisiana wetlands home. With the open-air speedboat navigating the waterways, guests have an up-close and personal encounter with the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

From the elusive owls perched in the cypress trees to the ospreys diving for fish, the airboat tour offers a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Atchafalaya Basin.

Historic Plantation House

The tour of Oak Alley Plantation provides visitors with a captivating glimpse into the 19th-century antebellum era, as they explore the meticulously preserved plantation house and its expansive grounds.

Guests can wander down the iconic alley of live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, which leads to the grand, stately mansion.

During the guided tour, they’ll learn about the history and former owners of the plantation, and gain insights into the opulent lifestyles of the antebellum South.

The 25-acre property also offers the opportunity to visit the on-site restaurant and café, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the historic setting and rich cultural heritage of Oak Alley Plantation.

Iconic Oak Alley

A visit to Oak Alley Plantation wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its most iconic feature – the sweeping alley of ancient live oak trees draped in Spanish moss that lead up to the stately antebellum mansion. This breathtaking natural wonder is the centerpiece of the estate, creating a stunning visual backdrop for guests.

As visitors stroll down the 800-foot-long alley, they’ll:

• Admire the majestic live oaks, some of which are over 300 years old
• Marvel at the intricate patterns of the Spanish moss cascading from the branches
• Imagine what it was like for the plantation’s original owners to approach their grand home through this verdant passageway.

Guided Tour Highlights

Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the meticulously preserved rooms of the Oak Alley Plantation’s Greek Revival-style mansion, providing an in-depth look at the estate’s history and its former owners.

Inside, guests can learn about the wealthy Creole family who built the grand home in the 1830s and marvel at its elegant furnishings and architectural details.

Outside, the plantation’s iconic alley of 300-year-old live oak trees draped in Spanish moss creates a picturesque backdrop for exploring the expansive 25-acre property.

Along the way, travelers can stop by the on-site restaurant and café, giving them a taste of antebellum-era hospitality.

Throughout the tour, guides share fascinating insights that bring the plantation’s storied past to life.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes round-trip transportation from New Orleans hotels, as well as the airboat ride and guided tour of Oak Alley Plantation.

Gratuities, food, drinks, and lunch aren’t covered by the tour.

The airboat ride and tour of the 19th-century antebellum plantation house are both included in the tour price.

Hotel pickup and drop-off in New Orleans is provided as part of the tour.

Travelers will need to cover the cost of any food, drinks, or tips during the experience.

There are no additional fees or costs beyond the tour price itself.

Important Details to Note

Travelers should be aware of certain requirements and limitations for this tour. For instance, the airboat ride has a minimum height requirement of 48 inches, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with back problems.

Plus, the group size is capped at 9 travelers maximum. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and it’s important to note that lunch isn’t included in the tour price.

While the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an airboat ride and plantation tour, gratuities and food/drinks aren’t covered. Keeping these details in mind will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Plantation?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the Oak Alley Plantation. The property features a gift shop where guests can find a variety of items, including books, clothing, and local crafts, to commemorate their visit.

Is the Tour Suitable for Guests With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for guests with significant mobility issues. The airboat ride has a minimum height requirement, and the plantation tour involves walking around the 25-acre property. Travelers with back problems are also not recommended for this tour.

Is Photography Allowed During the Plantation Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the plantation tour, though visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or rules in place. Guests are encouraged to check with tour staff for guidance on appropriate photography during the visit.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Airboat Ride?

There is a minimum height requirement of 48 inches for the airboat ride. Children under this height may not be able to participate. It’s important to check with the tour operator for any additional age restrictions.

Can I Request a Specific Departure Time for the Tour?

Yes, guests can typically request a specific departure time for the tour. The tour operator will accommodate requested departure times if possible, based on availability and logistics.

Recap

This captivating tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the natural wonders and rich history of Louisiana.

From the thrilling airboat ride through the wetlands to the awe-inspiring live oak trees of Oak Alley Plantation, this guided experience immerses you in the essence of the Bayou State.

Prepare to be enchanted by the stunning landscapes and learn about the captivating narrative of this remarkable destination.