Discover the captivating history and remarkable architecture of two iconic Louisiana plantations. The "From New Orleans: Oak Alley or Laura Plantation Tour" takes visitors on an immersive journey through the past, allowing them to choose between the majestic Oak Alley or the insightful Laura Plantation. With knowledgeable guides, convenient transportation, and inclusive pricing, this 5-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re drawn to the towering oak trees or the Creole culture, this tour offers a glimpse into the intriguing narratives that have shaped the region.
Key Points
- Tour departs from New Orleans with options to visit either Oak Alley or Laura Plantation.
- Tour duration is 5 hours and is priced at $79 per person.
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and admission fees.
- Provides immersive experiences exploring Creole culture, plantation history, and the realities of slavery.
- Offers guided tours of the historic Big Houses, slave quarters, and gardens at each plantation.
Tour Overview
The tour departs from New Orleans, offering visitors the choice between exploring the Oak Alley or Laura Plantation.
Visitors have the choice to explore either the Oak Alley or Laura Plantation on this New Orleans-based excursion.
Priced at $79 per person, the 5-hour excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance to the chosen plantation.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and payment can be made later.
The tour must meet a minimum number of participants, with alternative arrangements or a full refund provided if the minimum isn’t reached.
Customer reviews highlight a 3.4/5 overall rating from travelers of various backgrounds.
Looking for more options in Vacherie? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Plantation Experiences
Although the tour offers a choice between two historic plantations, both provide an immersive experience into Creole culture and the region’s complex history.
Visitors can explore the Big Houses, slave quarters, and meticulously landscaped gardens at each site.
Key features include:
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Guided tours that provide insights into the plantations’ architecture, furnishings, and daily life
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Opportunities to learn about the harsh realities of slavery and the quest for freedom
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Docents who bring the past to life through stories and artifacts
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Scenic vistas, including the famous 300-year-old oak trees at Oak Alley Plantation
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Explorations of the diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices that supported the plantations
Laura Plantation Tour
Laura Plantation offers a captivating 4-hour journey into Creole culture and the complex history of slave plantations.
Visitors explore the Big House, slave quarters, and lush gardens. The tour highlights the Creole way of life and the harsh realities faced by enslaved people. Guests learn about the five generations of the Duparc family who owned the plantation.
Visitors won’t soon forget the powerful stories shared by knowledgeable guides. Laura Plantation provides a thought-provoking experience that offers a window into Louisiana’s past, leaving attendees with a deeper understanding of the region’s complex heritage.
Oak Alley Plantation Tour
Oak Alley Plantation offers a captivating 4-hour excursion featuring the iconic 300-year-old oak trees that line the pathway leading to the grand antebellum Big House.
Guests can explore the property’s rich history and Creole culture on a guided tour.
Key highlights include:
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Guided tour of the Big House, with its stunning Greek Revival architecture
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Visits to the well-preserved slave quarters
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Strolls through the meticulously manicured gardens
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Opportunities to learn about the lives of the plantation’s former owners and enslaved workers
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Immersive experiences that bring the plantation’s past to life.
Inclusions and Logistics
What does the plantation tour package include?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select downtown New Orleans and French Quarter hotels.
Travelers will ride in an air-conditioned mini-coach to the chosen plantation, whether it’s Oak Alley or Laura.
Admission to the plantation is covered, allowing visitors to explore the historic Big House, slave quarters, and manicured gardens.
However, gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.
The tour departs between 8:00-8:30 AM, so participants must be curbside by 8:00 AM.
A minimum number of passengers is required for the tour to operate, or an alternative date or full refund will be provided.
Pickup and Departure Details
The tour departs between 8:00-8:30 AM, so participants must be curbside by 8:00 AM to ensure a punctual start.
Hotel pickup and drop-off is provided from selected hotels in downtown New Orleans and the French Quarter, with transportation in an air-conditioned mini-coach.
Travelers have the flexibility to select their preferred plantation, either Oak Alley or Laura, prior to the tour or upon boarding.
It’s important to note that the tour requires a minimum number of participants, and if this isn’t met, an alternative date/experience or full refund will be offered.
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Pickup between 8:00-8:30 AM
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Curbside by 8:00 AM
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Air-conditioned mini-coach
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Selection of plantation upon boarding
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers from diverse backgrounds, including couples, groups of friends, solo explorers, and families, have shared their experiences with the plantation tour.
The overall rating stands at 3.4 out of 5 based on 5 reviews. Notable feedback has come from travelers from Israel, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
While some reviews are positive, highlighting the informative tour and well-preserved historical sites, others express disappointment with the tour’s length and value for money.
Planning Your Tour
Planning your plantation tour in New Orleans starts with selecting the experience that best fits your interests.
Both the Oak Alley and Laura Plantation tours offer a glimpse into Creole culture and the history of slavery. Consider these factors when choosing your tour:
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Duration: Each tour lasts approximately 4 hours.
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Features: Oak Alley boasts 300-year-old oak trees, while Laura Plantation highlights the Big House, slave quarters, and gardens.
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Pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off are included from select locations in the city.
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Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Payment: Reserve your spot now and pay later, avoiding upfront costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
No, the tour itinerary for the Oak Alley or Laura Plantation Tour can’t be customized to individual preferences. The tour provides a set experience at the selected plantation, with fixed durations and inclusions.
Are There Any Special Discounts or Promotions Available?
Unfortunately, the tour provider doesn’t seem to offer any special discounts or promotions based on the information provided. The price starts at $79 per person, and there’s no mention of any deals or savings available.
What Types of Transportation Are Used During the Tour?
Guests are transported by air-conditioned mini-coaches during the plantation tours. The tours include hotel pickup and drop-off from select hotels in downtown New Orleans and the French Quarter, providing convenient transportation to and from the plantation sites.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
According to the tour details, guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes travel in an air-conditioned mini-coach, but any meals or refreshments aren’t provided. Participants will need to purchase food and drinks separately during the tour.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Guests With Disabilities?
The tour provides limited accessibility options. Guests with disabilities can request wheelchair-accessible transportation, but accessibility within the plantation grounds may be limited. It’s recommended to inquire about specific needs when booking to ensure the best experience.
The Sum Up
The "From New Orleans: Oak Alley or Laura Plantation Tour" offers visitors a chance to explore Louisiana’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With convenient hotel pickup, guided tours, and affordable pricing, it’s an excellent way to take in the region’s Creole culture and gain insights into the realities of the plantation system. Whether you choose Oak Alley or Laura Plantation, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey through the past.
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More Tours in Vacherie
- New Orleans: Felicity Plantation Guided Tour
- New Orleans: Oak Alley Plantation Half Day Tour
- From New Orleans: Oak Alley or Laura Plantation Tour
- New Orleans: St. Joseph Plantation Guided Tour
- From New Orleans: Swamp Airboat, 2 Plantation Tours & Lunch
- Bayous And Byways, Oak Alley Plantation And Kayak Swamp Tour
More Tour Reviews in Vacherie
- New Orleans: Felicity Plantation Guided Tour
- New Orleans: Oak Alley Plantation Half Day Tour
- From New Orleans: Oak Alley or Laura Plantation Tour
- New Orleans: St. Joseph Plantation Guided Tour
- From New Orleans: Swamp Airboat, 2 Plantation Tours & Lunch
- Bayous And Byways, Oak Alley Plantation And Kayak Swamp Tour