Oak Alley and Laura Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

If you’re curious about the complex stories behind Louisiana’s old plantations, this tour offers a well-rounded look at two of the most iconic sites—Oak Alley and Laura Plantation—without the hassle of arranging transport yourself. It’s a full-day experience that combines history, scenery, and expert guides, making it ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the city’s streets and dig into the stories that shaped the region.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it simplifies a trip outside New Orleans. With the transportation included, there’s no need to rent a car or figure out public transit. Plus, the guided tours at each plantation add depth to the experience, giving you insights that a simple self-guided visit wouldn’t provide. On the flip side, the tour lasts around eight hours, so it’s a good fit for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing—those who prefer a relaxed pace and engaging commentary will feel right at home. This tour would most suit history buffs, photography enthusiasts eager for scenic shots, and anyone interested in understanding the complex stories behind these historic sites.

Key Points

• Visit two of Louisiana’s most famous plantations with guided tours included
• Convenient round-trip transportation from the French Quarter makes planning easy
• Discover stories of both Creole and American plantation life, including enslaved people’s history
• The tour duration is around 8 hours, balancing exploration with comfort
• Great for history lovers and those seeking authentic cultural insights
• The tour receives a high overall rating of 4.5 based on hundreds of reviews

Meeting Point and Departure

Your day begins at 9:30 am outside the Homewood Suites by Hilton in the French Quarter. From there, you’ll board a climate-controlled mini bus, equipped with air suspension to smooth out the ride along the scenic Great River Road. This initial leg of the trip sets the tone for a comfortable journey, and it’s a good chance to get to know your fellow travelers or chat with the guide. We like this setup because it removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads, especially in a city like New Orleans where parking and traffic can be tricky.

First Stop: Laura Plantation (1 hour 30 minutes)

Your first destination is the Laura Plantation, a site designated as a Louisiana Creole Heritage Site. Here, you’ll learn about the unique blend of cultures that shaped the region—French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences are all part of the story. The plantation dates back over 200 years, and you’ll explore both the main house and the slave quarters, gaining a nuanced understanding of plantation life from multiple perspectives.

Many visitors have praised the tour guides at Laura Plantation for their depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling—one reviewer calls it “a true historical eco,” emphasizing how the site offers a heartfelt look into the lives of the enslaved people who built and maintained the estate. A few noted that the plantation wasn’t as visually impressive as Oak Alley but still found the historical context compelling. Remember to wear comfortable shoes because the tours involve walking through historic buildings and grounds, and bring water to stay hydrated.

Second Stop: Oak Alley Plantation (1 hour 30 minutes)

Next, it’s on to Oak Alley, arguably the most photographed plantation in the United States. Built in 1839, it faces the Mississippi River and is famous for its impressive alley of 300-year-old oak trees. The sight of these towering giants lining the driveway is spectacular—an image many travelers keep in their minds long after the visit.

The guided tour here focuses on the architecture, the lives of the plantation owners, and the stories that surround the estate. Visitors often remark on the beauty of the grounds and the grandeur of the house itself. One reviewer mentions that the lunchtime meal at Oak Alley was quite good, including a blackberry julep that stood out. While the tour of the house may be shorter or less detailed than Laura’s, the setting alone makes it worth the visit. Plus, the views of the Mississippi add a scenic touch that enhances the overall experience.

Return to New Orleans

After touring both plantations, the bus will return you to the French Quarter. The entire outing takes about eight hours, giving plenty of time to take photos, listen to stories, and reflect on what you’ve learned. The tour ends back where it started, making logistics straightforward for your day’s planning.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

All taxes, fees, and transportation costs are covered, which makes this a hassle-free way to explore beyond the city. The tour includes admission tickets to both sites—saving you the trouble of buying tickets separately—and the friendly driver-guides aim to keep things informative and fun.

It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so bringing a water bottle and perhaps a snack or two is wise—especially since the tour lasts most of the day. Gratuities aren’t included either, which is common on guided tours, so consider tipping your guides if you appreciated their insights.

Group Size and Accessibility

This tour generally accommodates up to 33 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. While it suits most visitors with moderate physical fitness, be prepared for some walking at both plantations and on the grounds. The transportation is climate-controlled, which is a significant plus on hot Louisiana days.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—one traveler shared, “Karen was very knowledgeable and made the drive down effortlessly.” Others raved about the scenic beauty, especially at Oak Alley: “The oak trees are breathtaking and make for fantastic photos,” said a visitor. Several mentioned being moved by the stories of enslaved people, emphasizing how these visits go beyond surface-level sightseeing—offering a meaningful glimpse into difficult, yet essential, parts of local history.

Some travelers appreciated the balance of free time and guided narration, noting that the included tours at each plantation provided much more context than a self-guided visit. Others pointed out that the day can be long but rewarding, especially if you’re eager to learn about Louisiana’s complex past.

This full-day tour offers an excellent balance of comfort, insight, and stunning scenery for those interested in Louisiana’s antebellum era. You’ll value the included guided tours, which bring the sites’ histories to life far better than wandering alone. The transportation, included in the price, removes logistical worries and makes it accessible for travelers unfamiliar with the area.

Perfect for history enthusiasts, photography lovers, and anyone wanting an authentic taste of the old South, this tour provides a meaningful, well-organized way to spend a day outside New Orleans. The combination of stunning oaks, historic architecture, and compelling stories of the enslaved people at these sites will leave you with new perspectives and many pictures to share.

While it’s a full day and involves some walking, the overall experience is well worth the time and money. The high ratings and enthusiastic reviews suggest that most travelers find this tour both educational and enjoyable, making it a top pick for those eager to explore Louisiana’s layered past.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transport from the French Quarter outside the Homewood Suites, making logistics simple.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, guided tours, and free time at each site.

Are tickets included?
Yes, admission to Laura Plantation and Oak Alley is included in the tour price, saving you time and money.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and water are recommended, as there’s some walking involved. Food and drinks are not included.

Can children join?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers with moderate physical fitness.

Where do we meet?
The tour departs at 9:30 am outside the Homewood Suites by Hilton French Quarter.

Is this tour suitable for those interested in history?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and the depth of historical insight provided, especially regarding the lives of enslaved people and Creole culture.

This tour strikes a thoughtful balance between scenic beauty, historical depth, and convenience—making it a memorable way to see Louisiana’s past unfold. Whether you’re a history buff or simply want to enjoy some of America’s most iconic landscapes, it’s a solid choice for your New Orleans itinerary.