Nawlins Luxury: Double Plantation Laura & Oak Alley with Transportation

Exploring Louisiana’s Plantations: A Practical Look at the Nawlins Luxury Double Plantation Tour

If you’re considering a trip to New Orleans and want to get a real sense of Louisiana’s history beyond the vibrant city streets, a tour visiting two plantations might be just what you need. The Nawlins Luxury: Double Plantation Laura & Oak Alley with Transportation offers a convenient way to experience some of the most iconic antebellum estates in the Vacherie area. It promises a mix of stunning architecture, fascinating stories, and a peek into the complex history of plantation life — including the darker side of slavery.

What immediately catches your eye about this tour are two key features. First, it offers an all-in-one experience with round-trip transportation from New Orleans, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. Second, it includes guided tours of two distinct plantations, each with their own unique style and story. A third advantage—though not explicitly highlighted—is the small-group feel, capped at 26 travelers, which keeps things intimate and allows for better interaction with guides.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that lunch isn’t included. While this isn’t unusual for tours of this length, it does mean you’ll want to plan ahead if you’re hungry by midday. Also, the full experience involves some moderate walking, so it’s worth considering your comfort with walking tours before booking. This tour suits history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone interested in Louisiana’s past, who appreciate guided insights and convenient transportation.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience with transportation from New Orleans, removing the hassle of driving or organizing private transport.
• Two different plantations, offering contrasting styles and stories—Laura with its Creole charm and Oak Alley’s iconic oaks.
• Guided tours on-site provide detailed insights into plantation life and the history of slavery.
• Flexible options to choose between Laura Plantation or Whitney Plantation as the second site.
• Cost-effective at $140 per person, especially considering the transportation, guided tours, and site admissions included.
• Limited walking involved, but some mobility is required for exploring the grounds and house interiors.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This tour kicks off with a prompt 8:00am pickup from your New Orleans hotel, making it easy to start your day on time. Once on board, your driver-guide, like Brian in one of the glowing reviews, will be your companion, sharing stories and answering questions along the way. The journey to Vacherie takes about an hour and a half, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenic rural views of Louisiana.

First Stop: Laura Plantation – Louisiana’s Créole Heritage Site

Choosing to visit Laura Plantation means stepping into a different world from the more classic Southern mansions. Laura Lacoul Gore ran her sugar plantation into the late 1800s, and her home reflects her story—bright colors, French Creole details, and a distinct atmosphere that feels less formal but more alive with history. The guided tour here is a highlight, as it not only covers the architecture but also delves into Laura’s personal story and the stories of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.

One of the most notable aspects of Laura Plantation is its role as a recording site for African tales in the 1870s, especially stories that inspired the Brer Rabbit tales. This adds a layer of cultural richness that’s rare in plantation tours, making it better than just a pretty house with some old furniture. Visitors often appreciate the in-depth storytelling and the historical context provided by passionate guides.

Second Stop: Oak Alley Plantation

After about two hours at Laura, you’ll head to Oak Alley, famed for its stunning alley of live oaks—some over 300 years old—forming a canopy that’s picture-perfect. The estate dates back to 1837 and offers a classic example of Greek Revival architecture, with guides dressed in period-appropriate attire enhancing the authenticity.

Before the house tour, most visitors grab some lunch (at their own expense). There’s a restaurant on the grounds, along with a blacksmith shop, souvenir shop, and displays of antique farm equipment, making this stop quite comprehensive. Whether you choose to sit on a bench beneath the oaks or explore the grounds, the setting is breathtaking, and the guide will explain the history and significance of this famous site.

The house tour itself involves walking and is quite immersive. You’ll learn about the architecture, the families who lived here, and the enslaved people whose labor built these grand estates. Many reviews mention the guides being very knowledgeable, helping visitors understand each aspect of plantation life from different perspectives.

The Value of Guided Tours and Transportation

One of the most praised features is the guides’ expertise. Reviewers like Kyle note, “Both plantations were interesting,” emphasizing how the guides made history come alive. The guided approach means you won’t be left figuring things out on your own and instead get nuanced stories that add depth to the visual beauty.

Transportation is another strong point. The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the trouble of logistics. The small-group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the vehicle is comfortable for the roughly 7.5-hour experience.

Considerations and Practicalities

While the tour is well-reviewed and offers good value, travelers should be aware of a few practical considerations. The price of $140 per person covers admissions, transportation, and guided tours but not lunch, which means you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to eat onsite. The moderate walking involved is manageable for most, but those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

Weather can impact your experience since the tour runs in all conditions, so dressing appropriately is advised. The tour operates year-round, but cancellations are possible if the weather is poor, with options for a different date or a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers who want a balanced view of Louisiana’s plantation past—both the architecture and the stories of those who lived and worked there. If you’re interested in seeing beautiful grounds and learning from engaging guides, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s also a good choice for visitors who prefer all logistics taken care of—no worrying about driving or navigating, just enjoy the day. Given the small group size, you’ll likely find this tour more personal and less rushed than larger bus excursions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded, educational, and comfortable way to explore Louisiana’s plantation history, the Nawlins Luxury Double Plantation Tour offers a compelling package. The inclusion of guided tours, transportation, and a choice between Laura or Whitney Plantation makes it flexible and informative. The fact that many reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge and the overall value suggests this is a solid option—especially if you want to avoid the hassle of planning transport and tickets separately.

That said, remember the tour doesn’t include lunch, and some walking is involved—so pack a water bottle, dress for the weather, and wear comfortable shoes. If you’re interested in a deeper understanding of the region’s past, this tour provides a respectful, insightful experience that balances beauty, history, and honesty.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient for travelers staying in New Orleans.

How long is the whole tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, tours, and breaks.

What is included in the price?
The $140 fee includes transportation, admission tickets for both plantations, and guided house and grounds tours.

Do I need to bring lunch?
Lunch is not included, but there is a restaurant on-site at Oak Alley where you can buy food if you wish.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
Yes, some walking is required, especially on the grounds and during house tours. It’s designed to be manageable for most visitors.

Can I choose which plantation to visit first?
The tour typically includes Oak Alley and either Laura Plantation or Whitney Plantation; check with the provider for specific options.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for weather conditions, as the tour runs in all weather. Comfortable shoes are recommended due to some walking.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly mentioned, most tours of this kind are suitable for older children interested in history. Consider your child’s interests and stamina.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

If you’re eager to explore Louisiana’s past in a way that’s engaging and stress-free, this tour offers a good balance of comfort, insight, and beauty. Just prepare for some walking, bring your curiosity, and enjoy a meaningful day out.