New Orleans is a city steeped in history and natural wonders. The Oak Alley Plantation tour and airboat tour offers visitors a chance to experience both. From the stunning Greek Revival-style plantation to the serene Louisiana swamps, this full-day adventure promises to captivate and educate. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this tour provides a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystem of the region. Discover the secrets that lie beneath the towering oak trees and uncover the stories that have shaped this remarkable destination.
Key Points
- The tour combines a visit to Oak Alley Plantation and an airboat ride, providing a comprehensive experience of the region’s history and natural environment.
- The guided tour of the 1837 Greek Revival-style plantation house and exploration of the grounds offer insights into plantation life.
- The airboat tour through the Louisiana swamps allows for learning about the local lifestyle and ecosystem.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, a live English-speaking guide, and admission to Oak Alley Plantation.
- The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, and excludes meals, beverages, and personal expenses.
Tour Overview
The activity on this full-day tour combines a visit to the historic Oak Alley Plantation with an exciting airboat ride through the Louisiana swamps.
The tour lasts 8 hours and costs from €146.15 per person. A live English-speaking guide leads the group, and hotel pickup is included.
This full-day tour lasts 8 hours and costs from €146.15 per person, with an English-speaking guide and hotel pickup included.
At Oak Alley, guests explore the 1837 Greek Revival-style plantation house and grounds, walking under the famous 28 oak trees.
Later, an airboat captain takes them into the swamps to learn about the unique ecosystem and local lifestyle.
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Itinerary Details
First, the tour visits Oak Alley Plantation, located approximately 70 miles from the French Quarter in New Orleans.
There, guests enjoy a guided 35-minute tour of the 1837 Greek Revival-style plantation house. The tour also explores the plantation grounds, including the blacksmith shop, antique farm equipment, and landscaped gardens.
In the afternoon, the group embarks on an airboat tour through the Louisiana swamps, guided by a local captain. This allows them to discover the unique swamp ecosystem and local lifestyle.
The tour includes:
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Guided house tour
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Exploration of plantation grounds
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Airboat tour of Louisiana swamps
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Live tour guide in English
Highlights
Visitors are able to walk under 28 ancient oak trees that line the impressive entrance to Oak Alley Plantation, creating a stunning natural canopy.
The expert guides provide insight into plantation life and the unique swamp ecosystem during the tours. Guests can discover the blacksmith shop, antique farm equipment, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Visitors can explore the plantation’s blacksmith shop, antique farm equipment, and beautifully landscaped gardens, guided by expert insights.
The airboat tour offers the chance to learn about the local lifestyle and explore the Louisiana swamps, providing a one-of-a-kind experience.
With in-depth historical information and immersive activities, the Oak Alley Plantation and airboat tour offer a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s past and present.
Booking Information
Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment, allowing them to book the tour conveniently.
This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility. To check availability, customers can review the starting times.
The tour includes:
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Round-trip transportation
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Admission to Oak Alley Plantation
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Guided house tour
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Airboat tour
However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems.
Meals, beverages, and personal expenses are also excluded from the tour price.
More Great Tours NearbyInclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes round-trip transportation, admission to Oak Alley Plantation, a guided house tour, and an airboat tour. However, meals, beverages, and personal expenses are not covered. Plus, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
| — | — |
| Round-trip transportation | Meals |
| Admission to Oak Alley Plantation | Beverages |
| Guided house tour | Personal expenses |
| Airboat tour | Pregnant women |
| | Individuals with back problems |
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Getting to Oak Alley Plantation
Oak Alley Plantation is approximately 70 miles from the French Quarter in New Orleans.
Transportation to the plantation is included in the tour package. Visitors have a few options to reach the site:
Visitors have several transportation options to reach Oak Alley Plantation, including a shared shuttle service, private transfer, self-drive, or ride-sharing.
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Shared shuttle service from select downtown New Orleans hotels.
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Private transfer, which must be arranged separately.
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Self-drive, with ample on-site parking available.
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Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.
The drive takes roughly 1 hour each way, allowing time to admire the scenic Mississippi River Road along the route.
Guided transportation ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Exploring the Plantation Grounds
Upon arriving at Oak Alley Plantation, what captivates visitors is the striking row of 28 ancient live oak trees lining the main entrance. These majestic oaks, some over 300 years old, create a stunning natural canopy that leads guests towards the historic 1837 Greek Revival-style mansion. Beyond the iconic tree alley, the plantation grounds offer a wealth of exploration. Visitors can wander through the blacksmith shop, observe antique farm equipment, and stroll the beautifully landscaped gardens. A table below highlights some of the key sights to discover during the self-guided portion of the tour.
| Sights | Description |
| — | — |
| Blacksmith Shop | Observe skilled craftspeople demonstrating the art of blacksmithing |
| Antique Farm Equipment | Explore the plantation’s historical agricultural tools and machinery |
| Landscaped Gardens | Wander through the meticulously maintained grounds and gardens |
Airboat Tour Through the Louisiana Swamps
After exploring the plantation grounds, visitors embark on an exciting airboat tour through the Louisiana swamps.
Visitors embark on an exciting airboat tour through the Louisiana swamps after exploring the plantation grounds.
The local guide navigates the flat-bottomed boat swiftly through the narrow, winding waterways, providing a thrilling experience. Visitors catch glimpses of the unique swamp ecosystem:
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Native wildlife like alligators, egrets, and turtles
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Distinctive bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss
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Serene bayous and marshes teeming with life
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The traditional lifestyle of Cajun and Creole communities
The airboat tour offers a chance to take in the natural wonder and cultural heritage of the Louisiana swamplands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
While the tour includes transportation and admission, it does not provide meals or beverages. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the tour, but they’re not included in the package.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for those with significant mobility issues, as it involves walking on uneven plantation grounds and navigating the airboat. Individuals with back problems are also advised against participation.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Airboat Tour?
No special equipment is needed for the airboat tour. The tour guides provide all necessary equipment, including life jackets. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for the outdoor swamp environment.
How Much Time Is Allotted for Exploring the Plantation Grounds?
The itinerary allows 2 hours to explore the plantation grounds, including the blacksmith shop, antique farm equipment, and landscaped gardens after the 35-minute guided tour of the plantation house.
Can I Take Photographs Inside the Plantation House?
Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs inside the plantation house. However, they should be mindful not to disrupt the tour or damage any historical artifacts. Photography guidelines may be provided by the tour guides.
The Sum Up
This full-day adventure in New Orleans offers a unique opportunity to explore the historic Oak Alley Plantation and experience the captivating Louisiana swamps on an exhilarating airboat tour. Visitors will marvel at the plantation’s iconic 28 ancient oak trees, uncover its rich history, and gain insights into the region’s diverse ecosystem and local culture during the guided swamp tour. It’s an unforgettable way to take in the allure of New Orleans.
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