Two Plantation Tour: Oak Alley and Laura or Whitney

Discover the Two-Plantation Experience in Louisiana

This 7-hour tour from New Orleans costs $152 per person and offers an in-depth look into the antebellum South through visits to Oak Alley and Whitney Plantations. The tour is thoughtfully designed for those who want to explore Louisiana’s rich history, including Creole culture, plantation life, and the harsh realities of slavery. It includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

The tour departs from Wyndham Garden Baronne Plaza at 8:30 am, providing a smooth start for a full day of exploration. With reviews rating it a perfect 5.0, this trip is praised for its knowledgeable guides and the diversity of locations visited. While the price includes transport and tour guides, snacks are not included, so packing a small bite might be a good idea.

This tour suits those who are interested in history, architecture, and cultural stories, especially those wanting a comprehensive experience of multiple plantations without the hassle of organizing separate visits. It’s important to note that all locations are about an hour’s drive from New Orleans, making this a convenient day trip with plenty of meaningful stops along the way.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Oak Alley and Whitney Plantations for a broad view of Louisiana’s antebellum past.
• Small group size of up to 12 participants for more personalized attention.
• Transport in air-conditioned vehicles from Wyndham Garden in New Orleans.
• Tour duration is approximately 7 hours, with multiple stops and detailed tours.
• Highlights Creole history, plantation architecture, and slavery narratives.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Starting Point and Departure Time in New Orleans

The tour begins at the Wyndham Garden Baronne Plaza, located at 201 Baronne Street in New Orleans. The departure time is set for 8:30 am, ensuring an early start to maximize the day’s itinerary. The pickup service makes it easy to join the tour without worrying about transportation logistics.

Participants are advised to arrive a few minutes early for check-in. The meeting point is central and accessible, making it a convenient starting location for visitors staying in or near downtown New Orleans.

The Itinerary: Stops and Highlights Along the Route

The tour features a series of carefully selected stops that provide deep insights into Louisiana’s history and culture:

Oak Alley Plantation

This iconic plantation is famous for its alley of ancient oak trees lining the driveway leading to the grand mansion. Visitors learn about Creole history and plantation architecture during a guided tour of the mansion. The lush gardens and slave cottages offer a glimpse into plantation life. The outdoor areas are perfect for photos, and the site’s beauty makes it a standout stop.

Whitney Plantation

Known as the only plantation dedicated entirely to honoring the lives of enslaved people, Whitney Plantation provides a more sobering and honest perspective on slavery. The guided tour here emphasizes stories of enslaved individuals, making it a poignant and educational experience. The site includes memorials and exhibits that focus on human stories, making it an emotionally impactful stop.

Laura Creole Plantation

Though not a stop in the traditional sense, Laura Creole Plantation is visible en route. This historic site offers a Creole architectural style and adds context to the region’s cultural diversity. Visitors appreciate seeing it from the bus as part of the overall journey.

Additional Stops

Other locations include Evergreen Plantation, known for being a filming site for “Django Unchained” and “Queen Sugar”; Destrehan Plantation, notable for the 1811 German Coast slave revolt; and Saint Joseph Plantation, which was featured in “12 Years a Slave”. The tour also crosses Lake Ponchartrain, offering scenic views of one of the world’s largest saltwater lakes and the marshes surrounding it.

Comfortable Transport and Practical Details

The tour provides air-conditioned transportation from Wyndham Garden in New Orleans, making the journey comfortable regardless of the weather. With most travelers booking 32 days in advance, the tour remains popular, reflecting its reputation for quality and depth.

Participants are encouraged to observe silence during the transfer to respect fellow travelers. Snacks are not included, so bringing water or a small snack might be helpful.

The Experience of Guides and Group Size

According to reviews, guides like Brian Webber are praised for their friendly demeanor and rich knowledge about the sites. The small group size of up to 12 ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with the history.

The guides effectively share stories about plantation architecture, history, and slavery, making the experience both educational and respectful of sensitive topics. Travelers note that the guides’ storytelling enhances the overall value of the tour.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

At $152 per person, the tour offers good value considering the multiple stops, transport, and guided tours. The free cancellation policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if plans change.

It’s a well-organized tour with a straightforward booking process, ideal for visitors who want a comprehensive plantation experience without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Final Thoughts on the Two-Plantation Tour

This 7-hour tour delivers a balanced view of Louisiana’s plantation culture, combining architectural beauty, Creole history, and slavery narratives. The inclusion of Whitney Plantation adds a critical and heartfelt perspective that many tours omit, making this experience particularly meaningful.

The small group size, expert guides, and convenient pickup make it a practical choice for those seeking an informative yet respectful exploration of this complex history. It’s especially suited for visitors who prefer structured tours with detailed narratives rather than self-guided visits.

While the price covers transport and guided tours, travelers should prepare for a full day and consider bringing snacks. The scenic drives and stops at historical sites provide a compelling window into the pre-war South, ensuring this tour remains a memorable part of any trip to New Orleans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided tours of Oak Alley and Whitney Plantations, and pickup from Wyndham Garden in New Orleans. Snacks are not included.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, covering multiple plantation visits and scenic drives, with ample time at each location.

What is the group size?
The tour limits participants to 12, making it a small-group experience with more personalized attention.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Wyndham Garden Baronne Plaza, located at 201 Baronne Street, New Orleans.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the historical content and potential emotional impact of Whitney Plantation may require some sensitivity for younger children.

This carefully curated tour offers an authentic and respectful look into Louisiana’s history, making it a meaningful addition to your visit to New Orleans.