New Orleans is famous for its lively music, rich culture, and unique history. But what makes it truly special for travelers are its full-day tours that go beyond the French Quarter. These tours offer a deep dive into Louisiana’s complex stories—whether it’s walking through centuries-old plantations, cruising through the wild swamp, or exploring vibrant neighborhoods in a private vehicle. When you choose a full-day experience, you get a well-rounded view of the region’s past and present, often with local guides who bring stories to life. So, if time allows, these guided excursions are a fantastic way to see the city’s wider landscape and learn about its roots.
Many tours include transportation, expert narration, and opportunities to sample local cuisine, making them a practical choice for travelers who want an immersive experience without the hassle of planning every detail. Plus, with options ranging from a straightforward plantation visit to a combined swamp adventure with private transportation, there’s something for every curiosity—and budget.
1. Full Day Plantation -N- Swamp Tour in New Orleans
At number 1, the Full Day Plantation -N- Swamp Tour offers a comprehensive look at Louisiana’s historic plantations and the surrounding wilderness. Priced at $137.19 per person, this 7 to 8-hour tour combines comfort, education, and scenery. You’ll travel in a luxury van with leather seats, enjoying a mini-tour of New Orleans en route or watching a short film about the plantations to get you in the right mindset.
The itinerary includes visits to Whitney, Laura, St. Joseph, and Oak Alley plantations. Whitney Plantation, on the National Register of Historic Places, focuses on the lives of enslaved people, with exhibits and memorial artwork. Laura Plantation highlights French Creole history, run by four generations of women, while St. Joseph was a wedding gift from a wealthy family. Oak Alley stands out for its iconic alley of oak trees and its big house, which you’ll explore for about three hours. Visitors rave about the tour guide Kin, who shares detailed stories that make history real. With a good mix of storytelling, scenic views, and options to dine or browse the gift shop, this tour is well rounded.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a superb balance of history, scenery, and comfort, making it perfect for those interested in plantation life and Louisiana’s past. Its highly positive reviews reflect its value for money and engaging guides.
2. Full-Day Whitney Plantation & Airboat Swamp Tour w/Transfer
For those who want a full immersion into Louisiana’s history and wilderness, the Whitney Plantation & Airboat Swamp Tour is a top choice at $155.00. This 8.5-hour experience begins with hotel pickup, making transportation effortless. It combines a detailed visit to Whitney Plantation with an exhilarating swamp tour on a large airboat.
The Whitney Plantation tour explores the stories of enslaved people through restored buildings, memorial art, and first-person narratives. After a self-funded lunch, you head to Bayou Sengette State Park for a high-speed pontoon swamp tour, where you’ll see American alligators and learn about the wetlands’ ecosystem. The small group size ensures personal attention, and reviews highlight the friendly driver and seamless experience.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine historic education with wildlife viewing in a single day. Keep in mind, the tour includes a fair amount of driving, and some of the experiences are weather-dependent.
Bottom Line: It’s a great pick for those who want a detailed plantation visit plus a thrilling swamp adventure, especially if you value small-group intimacy and professional guides.
3. Experience Full-Day Laura Plantation & Pontoon Swamp Tour w/Transportation
Ranking at number 3, this tour costs $140 per person and runs approximately 8.5 hours. It combines a visit to Laura Plantation, a key site for Creole history, with a 90-minute pontoon swamp tour. The tour begins with hotel pickup, so you can relax while your guide handles the logistics.
Laura Plantation is famous for its authentic Creole architecture, gardens, and slave quarters, offering a detailed look at Louisiana’s plantation culture. After exploring the house and grounds, you’ll enjoy a sit-down lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, the pontoon boat cruise takes you through wetlands where you’ll learn about alligators, Louisiana wetlands, and local ecosystems.
This tour is especially suitable for travelers interested in Cultural heritage and nature. While the group size is small, reviews note the guide’s knowledge and the immersive experience of exploring both historic homes and wetlands.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a full picture of Louisiana’s early history and natural environment, with a balanced mix of indoor and outdoor activities.
4. Full-Day Oak Alley Plantation & Airboat Swamp w/Transfer
Coming in at number 4, this $155 tour offers a classic Southern estate experience combined with an exciting swamp ride. Starting with a hotel pickup, you’ll head directly to Oak Alley Plantation, famous for its 28 towering oak trees lining the driveway. You’ll spend about 2.5 hours exploring the big house, exhibits on slavery, and walking under the majestic oaks.
Post-tour, a sit-down lunch (own expense) is available before heading out on a 90-minute airboat ride through the Louisiana wetlands. The guide explains about American alligators, wetlands flora, and fauna. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall, making it family-friendly.
Reviewers mention the “entire experience was wonderful,” with particular praise for the airboat guide. The tour’s value lies in its combination of cultural history and the thrill of the swamp, though some note the schedule can feel rushed.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers wanting both iconic plantation scenery and an adrenaline-filled swamp ride in one day.
5. Full-Day Laura Plantation & Airboat Swamp Tour with Pick up
At number 5, this tour emphasizes personalized experience with private transportation. For $155, you get about 8.5 hours packed with exploring Laura Plantation and a 90-minute swamp cruise. It’s ideal for travelers who want flexibility and a more intimate group setting.
Laura Plantation’s Creole architecture, garden, and slave cabins paint an authentic picture of pre-war Louisiana life. Afterward, the swamp cruise introduces you to alligators and wetlands wildlife. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.
Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and the detailed storytelling about Louisiana’s history. The private transport and smaller group size add value for those seeking a more personalized experience.
Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers prioritizing comfort and personalized attention, especially if they want a deep dive into Creole culture and wetlands.
6. Private Full-Day City, Swamp, and Plantation Tour
Finally, the Private Full-Day City, Swamp, and Plantation Tour offers an exclusive, tailored experience at $693.33 per person. It lasts about 6 hours, with a luxury vehicle and full narration. This tour is suited for travelers who value privacy and customization, with a focus on combining the urban, rural, and natural worlds of Louisiana.
It includes a visit to Swamp Adventures LLC, exploring south Louisiana’s mysterious swamps, plus a tour of Destrehan Plantation, where you’ll learn about French and Spanish colonial life. The flexibility allows you to customize stops and focus on what interests you most.
Reviewers have yet to leave feedback, but the personalized nature and luxury vehicle make this a top-tier choice for those wanting a private, curated day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for discerning travelers wanting a bespoke experience, with the comfort of a private guide and vehicle.
How to Choose Your Full-Day Tour in New Orleans
When deciding between these tours, think about your budget, interests, and energy level. If you want a comprehensive history experience, the Full Day Plantation -N- Swamp Tour is excellent. For a combination of history and wildlife, the Whitney Plantation & Swamp Tour offers a great mix. If you prefer a more personalized feel, the private options provide tailored experiences, though at a higher price.
Consider the logistics—some tours include hotel pickup, while others require you to meet at a designated spot. Check the weather forecast, especially for swamp tours, since wetland experiences depend heavily on conditions. Booking early is recommended, particularly during peak seasons when tours fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans offers a variety of full-day tours that showcase plantation life, swamp ecosystems, and Louisiana culture. For history lovers, the Laura Plantation and Whitney Plantation tours stand out for their storytelling and authentic exhibits. For those seeking adventure, the swamp excursions on airboat rides are both exhilarating and educational.
If you’re after a luxury, private experience, the Private Full-Day City, Swamp, and Plantation Tour lets you customize your day with luxury comfort. Whichever you choose, booking early will help ensure you secure your preferred date.
No matter your interest, these tours are a rich way to experience the stories, landscapes, and character of Louisiana beyond the city streets.