If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want to step outside the lively French Quarter for a meaningful look at the area’s complex past, a visit to the plantations is a must. This full-day tour combines visits to two of Louisiana’s most iconic plantations — Oak Alley and Laura Plantation — with convenient transportation, making it a stress-free way to explore beyond the city limits. It’s designed for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone curious about the stories that shaped the American South.
What we really like about this tour is how it offers organized, in-depth guides at each site, giving you more context than you might get exploring on your own. Plus, the included transport removes the hassle of parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. But keep in mind, with a busy schedule packed into around 8 hours, some might find the stops a bit quick — especially if you love to linger. This tour is a solid pick for travelers wanting a comprehensive glimpse into Louisiana’s past, especially those interested in the architectural beauty and the stories of enslaved people that are central to these landmarks.
Key Points
- Two historic plantations in one day: Oak Alley’s stunning oak-lined driveway and Laura’s Creole charm.
- Comfortable round-trip transport: Relax in climate-controlled mini buses with air suspension.
- Educational guided tours: Learn more about the land, architecture, and people behind the scenes.
- Included admission: No extra fees for entry, making the price easier to justify.
- Ideal for history enthusiasts: Focused on storytelling, history, and cultural context.
- Potential time constraints: Some reviews note the tours are shorter than expected, so plan your expectations accordingly.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
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Meeting Point and Departure
Your day begins early, with a meet-up at 9:30 am outside the Homewood Suites by Hilton in the French Quarter. From there, it’s a comfortable two-hour ride along the scenic Great River Road. The mini bus features air suspension and climate control, which is a thoughtful touch when traveling in Louisiana’s humidity and heat. This transit time is your chance to settle in and get a preview of the landscapes you’ll see later — lush, green, and full of history.
First Stop: Laura Plantation
You’ll spend about an hour and a half touring Laura Plantation, known as Louisiana’s Creole Heritage Site. This plantation is particularly interesting because it’s named after a woman. The guided tour here takes you beyond the pretty facades, revealing stories about the women who managed the estate and the complex relationships between Creole culture and American history.
Visitors rave about the guides, with one reviewer describing their guide as “excellent,” and highlighting how much they learned about the family that lived there over generations. The tour offers a chance to see the architecture firsthand and get insights into the social and cultural life of Creole Louisiana. You’ll walk through the grounds, tour the historic buildings, and learn about the lives of enslaved people, which many consider a crucial part of the experience.
Second Stop: Oak Alley Plantation
Next, you’ll head to the famous Oak Alley, built in 1839 and renowned for its iconic row of 300-year-old oak trees that form a natural corridor leading to the mansion. This site offers a visual feast — the combination of history, architecture, and natural beauty makes it a highlight for many visitors.
The tour here lasts about an hour and a half, giving you time to explore the grounds, wander through the historic mansion, and snap plenty of photos of those majestic oak trees. One review mentions that while the house tour covers only four rooms and is relatively short, the grounds and surroundings are breathtaking enough to make it worthwhile. The grounds are large and well-kept, and the views facing the Mississippi River are impressive.
Optional Lunch Break
While food isn’t included, many visitors recommend bringing some snacks or arranging for a quick meal at the site, especially since the tour day runs long. Some reviewers mention enjoying the food and blackberry julep at Oak Alley, suggesting it’s an experience worth savoring.
Return to New Orleans
The tour wraps up in the early afternoon, with a relaxed two-hour ride back to the French Quarter. The driver/guide is praised for being informative and friendly, making the journey enjoyable and efficient.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the price:
– All taxes, fees, and charges
– Fuel surcharge
– Transportation from the French Quarter (meet outside Homewood Suites)
– Guided tours of Laura and Oak Alley plantations
Not included:
– Food and drinks — so plan ahead if you want to eat on the day
– Tips are typically not mentioned but are appreciated for guides and drivers
The price, around $111 per person, reflects the convenience of transportation and guided tours. Considering the entry fees are included, and you’re getting professional storytelling at each site, it’s a fair value — especially for those who don’t want the hassle of Ubering around or arranging separate tours.
The Experience on the Day
Traveling in a small group (max of 33 people) keeps the experience intimate enough to ask questions, but large enough to keep a lively atmosphere. Most reviews mention the driver/guide, often named Karen, as knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip more engaging. Some visitors note the bus itself feels a bit basic, like an American school bus, but that doesn’t detract much from the overall experience.
The guided tours at each plantation seem to be the highlight. Guides like Jannelle and Pam are described as providing detailed, engaging stories that help you understand the significance of each site. Several reviewers emphasize how much they appreciated learning about the African American experience and the stories of enslaved people — a vital component of Louisiana’s history.
The Highlights
- The stunning oak trees at Oak Alley and the photo opportunities they provide are truly spectacular.
- The Laura Plantation tour offers a more intimate look into Creole culture and the women behind the estate, making it stand out among plantation tours.
- The delicious food and drinks at Oak Alley, particularly the blackberry julep, garner praise, adding a flavorful touch to the day.
- The convenient transportation removes logistical headaches and allows you to focus on the sights and stories.
The Drawbacks
- Some reviews mention the short duration of the house tours, which might leave history buffs wanting more detail.
- The bus feeling somewhat rickety was noted by a few, although this doesn’t seem to impact safety or comfort significantly.
- No lunch or refreshments are included, so travelers need to plan accordingly for meal breaks or snacks.
Who Would This Tour Suit Best?
This tour is ideal if you’re interested in history, architecture, and cultural stories. It’s well-suited for people who want an organized, guided experience without the fuss of arranging transportation or entry fees. It’s also a good choice if you appreciate beautiful scenery and want to see Louisiana’s iconic oak trees and antebellum mansions.
While families with children could enjoy the wide-open grounds, keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and a relatively quick pace. If you’re particularly interested in exploring every nook and cranny, you might find the visits a tad rushed. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a structured, informative day rather than an open-ended exploration.
Final Thoughts
This Oak Alley and Laura Plantation tour offers a well-rounded look at Louisiana’s historic estates, blending architectural beauty, natural scenery, and stories of the people who lived there. The included transportation simplifies logistics, and the guided tours add depth that you couldn’t get from a simple walk-around yourself.
It’s a solid choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing with educational insight, especially if you’re keen on understanding the complex history of the region. The reviews suggest that guides are knowledgeable, the scenery is stunning, and the overall experience feels memorable.
While the tour might not be the best fit for those who want a lengthy, detailed exploration of every aspect of plantation life, it’s a highly recommended option for a meaningful, scenic, and hassle-free day outside New Orleans.
Oak Alley and Laura Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans
“Beautiful, historical, and educational. The grounds were well kept. Nice gift shop and place to get a drink. Would recommend.”
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from outside the Homewood Suites in the French Quarter is included in the tour.
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, including travel time, guided tours, and sightseeing.
Are entry fees included?
Yes, admission to both Laura Plantation and Oak Alley is covered in the price.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is lunch included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might consider bringing snacks or planning a quick meal around the tour.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, but it’s not specifically marketed as a family-friendly tour.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, most reviews highlight the guides’ storytelling skills and ability to make history engaging and informative.
What’s the best part of the experience?
Many visitors say the oak trees at Oak Alley and the detailed stories at Laura Plantation are the highlights, making it a memorable day of learning and sightseeing.
In all, if you’re after a smoothly organized, educational journey through Louisiana’s plantation history with beautiful scenery, this tour ticks most boxes. Just remember to come prepared for a day of walking, and you’ll likely leave with fresh perspectives and plenty of photos.