Oak Alley Plantation and 3-Hour New Orleans City/Cemetery Tour

Exploring the Oak Alley Plantation and New Orleans City Highlights in One Day

This $125 full-day tour offers an engaging way to see the best of New Orleans, combining a visit to the historic Oak Alley Plantation with a comprehensive city and cemetery tour. With approximately 8.5 hours of experiences, it provides a balanced mix of southern history, architecture, and local culture. The tour is ideal for first-timers, families, and history enthusiasts who want an overview of the city’s highlights without the hassle of planning separate trips.

The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making transportation seamless. The tour features admission to Oak Alley and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, along with a narrated drive through notable neighborhoods. While the city tour involves some bus time, guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, and the sights visited leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from downtown New Orleans for convenience.
• Visits Oak Alley Plantation, famous for its 28 towering oak trees and Greek Revival architecture.
• Explores St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 to learn about above ground burial practices.
• Provides an overview of the French Quarter and key landmarks like Jackson Square and the Cabildo.
• Tour duration is about 8.5 hours, with guided explanations and plenty of photo opportunities.
• Tour group size is limited to 28, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The Authentic Charm of Oak Alley Plantation

The visit to Oak Alley Plantation is a highlight of this tour, providing two hours of exploration. Built in 1837 in the style of Greek Revival architecture, the plantation feels like a scene straight out of “Gone with the Wind.” The grounds are dominated by 28 giant oak trees lining the driveway, creating a striking entrance to the house.

Guided tours of the main house reveal antique furnishings and the history of plantation life, including the contrast between the owners’ quarters and the slave quarters, which are also discussed. The grounds feature antique farm equipment, a blacksmith shop, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop, giving visitors options to enjoy their free time. The admission is included, and the experience is described as comprehensive, showcasing the antebellum South with honesty.

Discovering the Above Ground Cemeteries

A significant part of the city tour involves a 30-minute stop at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. The above ground burial process in New Orleans is explained thoroughly, emphasizing its necessity due to high water tables. Visitors view the ornate tombs and crypts, gaining insight into the city’s unique burial customs.

The tour guide sheds light on how re-usable tombs are part of local traditions, making this cemetery visit both educational and visually impressive. This stop is a meaningful glimpse into local customs, contrasting with typical cemetery visits elsewhere.

Highlighting the French Quarter and Nearby Landmarks

The city driving tour covers several iconic sites, starting with Jackson Square, where the Louisiana Purchase was made. The guide points out St. Louis Cathedral, North America’s oldest cathedral, and the historic Cabildo, formerly the Spanish colonial city hall.

Travelers also pass through a six-block outdoor market, offering a snapshot of local commerce and culture. The tour provides viewing opportunities of 100-year-old homes along Esplanade Avenue, including notable residences like Ann Rice’s home and the Governor Claiborne’s daughter’s house from circa 1840.

While much of the city is viewed from the bus, the narration helps paint a vivid picture of New Orleans’ vibrant neighborhoods and architecture.

Scenic Drive Through New Orleans Neighborhoods

The tour features a drive down St. Charles Avenue, famous for its historic mansions and ocean of live oaks. The guide points out landmarks and addresses, including Elms Mansion, and highlights the architectural diversity on show in the Garden District.

Along the way, the guide discusses the history of prominent homes and local figures. This scenic drive offers a relaxing perspective on the city’s southern charm while grounding visitors in the history behind many of the impressive mansions.

Insights into New Orleans’ Architectural Heritage

Beyond the French Quarter, the tour showcases homes along Esplanade Avenue and the Elms Mansion, emphasizing the architectural diversity of the American side of New Orleans. The guide discusses styles ranging from Creole cottages to Victorian mansions, giving a broad overview of local design evolution.

Some reviews mention viewing the diverse architecture as a highlight, appreciating how it complements the city’s rich history. This segment offers photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of how New Orleans’ buildings reflect its multicultural past.

Visiting the Dueling Oaks and City Park

The tour includes a brief stop at the Dueling Oaks within New Orleans City Park. The guide mentions the historical significance of duel sites and notable old trees. Visitors get a quick overview of how the park reflects New Orleans’ natural beauty and social history.

This stop is combined with a drive-by of 100-year-old homes along Esplanade Avenue, enriching the experience of the city’s historic neighborhoods. The park walk offers a refreshing break during the full-day itinerary.

Practicalities: Transportation, Group Size, and Timing

The tour uses a comfortable air-conditioned mini-bus, which is especially appreciated during Louisiana’s warm climate. Pickup and drop-off are included, saving travelers from logistical worries. The group size is capped at 28, contributing to a more engaging and less crowded atmosphere.

The start time is 8:15 am, with the entire experience lasting about 8 hours 30 minutes. The duration includes travel, guided commentary, and free time at Oak Alley. This pacing suits those comfortable with bus travel and eager to pack in several highlights in one day.

Honest Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a well-rounded overview, some reviews suggest that bus time can be lengthy, especially when traveling between locations. The drive to Oak Alley takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the city tour is mostly conducted from the bus, which might feel rushed for some.

The plantation tour is comprehensive, but visitors cannot see all areas of Oak Alley, such as the slave quarters, which are not part of the standard visit. Also, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly for meals outside the tour.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour suits history buffs, families, and first-time visitors eager to see key New Orleans sites without multiple bookings. It balances cultural storytelling, architectural sights, and plantation history in a single package, making it a practical choice for those with limited time.

While it works well for many, those seeking an intimate, in-depth plantation experience or a leisurely city exploration might want to consider additional tours or private options. The knowledgeable guides, inclusive admissions, and hassle-free logistics make this tour a solid introduction to New Orleans’ historic treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour features hotel pickup and drop-off from downtown New Orleans.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours 30 minutes, including all stops and driving time.

What is included in the price?
Admission to Oak Alley Plantation and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 are included, along with transportation on a comfortable mini-bus.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Oak Alley Plantation, St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, and scenic drives through the Garden District and Esplanade Avenue.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as family-friendly and suitable for most travelers, including children, given the manageable group size and engaging sights.

What is the maximum group size?
The maximum number of participants is 28, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the tour?
This tour follows a set itinerary with no mention of customization options.

What is the best time to book?
The tour is usually booked about 38 days in advance, so early reservations are recommended.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour involves bus travel and walking at the stops; specific accessibility details are not provided, so travelers with special needs should inquire directly with the provider.

This Oak Alley Plantation and New Orleans city tour offers a practical, well-rounded way to explore the city’s history, architecture, and culture, making it especially appealing for those wanting a structured yet comprehensive day of discovery.