New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour

A Practical Look at the New Orleans City Wide and Plantation Driving Tour

This five-hour private tour in New Orleans offers a relaxed and detailed look at some of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods and historical sites, all from the comfort of a private vehicle. For $695 per group (up to four people), you’ll enjoy personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, who will pick you up at your hotel and tailor the experience to your interests.

You’ll explore beyond the typical French Quarter tourist spots, visiting areas like Faubourg Marigny, St. Claude, the Garden District, and Lake Pontchartrain. The tour also includes a guided visit to Destrehan Plantation, one of the oldest plantations in the South, giving you a closer look at Louisiana’s complex history.

What we love most: First, the flexibility of a private tour means you can ask questions and spend more time on what interests you most. Second, the combination of neighborhoods and historic plantation provides a well-rounded view of New Orleans’ diverse past and culture.

A possible consideration: This tour doesn’t include lunch or souvenirs, so you’ll need to plan for meals and shopping on your own.

This experience suits travelers who want a private, intimate, and in-depth introduction to New Orleans, especially those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and learn about the city’s layered history.

Key Points

• Customizable Private Experience: Tailor your tour to your interests with a knowledgeable guide.
• Historical and Cultural Insights: Visit neighborhoods, cemeteries, and a historic plantation.
• Convenient and Hassle-Free: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics easy.
• Includes Plantation Tour: Gain insights into Louisiana’s plantation economy and history.
• Flexible Pacing: Plenty of time to ask questions and explore at your own speed.
• Cost-Effective for Small Groups: Only $695 for up to four people, making it a personal and immersive experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting in the French Quarter

From your hotel, your journey begins with a drive through the iconic French Quarter, where your guide will introduce you to the city’s rich tapestry of neighborhoods. You’ll hear about the unique creole architecture, the French influence, and the lively street scenes that make this area so famous. While the French Quarter is often crowded, this tour offers a broader perspective, stepping into quieter districts afterward.

Discovering Faubourg Marigny and St. Claude

Next, you’ll head into Faubourg Marigny, just outside the French Quarter, famous for its colorful shotgun houses and lively arts scene. Your guide might share stories about the neighborhood’s development and its importance to New Orleans’ jazz roots. Continuing along Esplanade Avenue toward St. Claude, you’ll see historic homes and get a sense of the city’s caste and placage systems—complex social structures that shaped Louisiana history.

City Park and Beignets

A highlight for many is the drive through City Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. Here, you might appreciate the stories about its WWII-era Higgins Landing Craft factory or its role in local culture. The tour often includes a stop for beignets—a sweet treat that’s practically a ritual in New Orleans—though you’ll need to cover the cost yourself. It’s a delicious way to experience local cuisine and break up the drive.

Lake Pontchartrain and Lakeshore Drive

The tour continues along Lakeshore Drive, offering sweeping views of Lake Pontchartrain. Your guide will discuss Hurricane Katrina’s impact, the city’s topography, and why seafood is such a staple here. The expansive lake scenery provides a striking contrast to the city’s urban core.

Lake Lawn Cemetery and Above-Ground Burials

Next, you’ll pass through Lake Lawn Cemetery, where the above-ground burial practices of New Orleans come into focus. Your guide will explain the rationale for this unique tradition, shaped by the city’s high water table—an important cultural and practical aspect of local life.

Tulane, Loyola, and the Garden District

Driving along St. Charles Avenue, you’ll see Xavier, Tulane, and Loyola Universities, reflecting the educational backbone of the city. The magnificent mansions of the Garden District await, with their lush gardens and historic architecture. This is the perfect spot for a lunch break (on your own), amid charming streets that feel like a step back in time.

Destrehan Plantation

Finally, the highlight for many is the visit to Destrehan Plantation, where a docent-led tour reveals stories about slavery, plantation life, and Mississippi River transportation. The plantation’s historic buildings and grounds provide a tangible connection to the complexities of Louisiana’s past. The tour duration here is around 90 minutes, giving you a detailed glimpse into this important chapter of American history.

Wrapping Up and Return

After exploring the plantation, your guide will return you to your hotel, wrapping up the five-hour adventure with plenty of new insights and memorable sights.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

This private, guided approach means you’re not just another face in a large group. Instead, you get a personal experience that adapts to your interests, with plenty of opportunities for questions and deeper conversations. The combination of neighborhoods and historic sites offers a well-rounded picture of New Orleans’ diverse cultural fabric—from jazz origins and architectural styles to the tough history of plantations.

The small group size (up to four) ensures a more intimate experience, allowing your guide to focus on your curiosities and provide detailed explanations. The inclusion of the plantation adds a significant historical dimension often missing from city-only tours, giving you context about the economic and social forces that shaped the region.

Authenticity is another big plus. From the stories about the caste system to the above-ground cemeteries, you gain a nuanced understanding of local customs and history that you just can’t get from guidebooks alone.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value personalized attention and want to see a broader picture of New Orleans beyond the French Quarter. It suits those interested in history, architecture, and local culture, especially if they enjoy asking questions and exploring at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for small groups or families who want a private, customizable day that combines sightseeing with meaningful storytelling.

If you’re looking for a rundown of New Orleans’ neighborhoods and historic sites, and appreciate guided insights into the city’s complex past, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending with hotel drop-off.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a private driver-guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, the entrance to Destrehan Plantation, and the guided plantation tour.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be time to stop for lunch in the Garden District (own expense).

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, being a private tour, it allows for some flexibility in pacing and focus areas, depending on your interests.

Is the tour suitable for children or limited mobility?
Yes, the tour can accommodate most travelers, and Destrehan Plantation has an elevator for those with limited mobility (it’s advisable to call ahead to confirm).

What neighborhoods will we visit?
Expect to see Faubourg Marigny, St. Claude, City Park, Lakeshore Drive, the Garden District, and the surrounding areas.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Most of the tour is by vehicle, so it’s suitable for all weather conditions. Be prepared for rain or sun, depending on the forecast.

How many people can join?
The tour is private for up to 4 people, offering a personalized experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking at the plantation and any personal items you might want. Be sure to have your lunch plans sorted separately.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a rich, personal exploration of New Orleans, this private driving tour provides a thoughtful blend of neighborhoods, history, and culture. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience with the flexibility to focus on their interests. The knowledgeable guide, attention to detail, and inclusion of the historic plantation make this a strong choice for anyone wanting an authentic, in-depth look at the Crescent City.

While it doesn’t include meals or souvenirs, the value lies in the quality of the stories and the ease of logistics. If you’re eager to learn about Louisiana’s complex past, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the comfort of a private guide, this tour will serve you well. It’s an excellent way to get beyond the typical tourist spots and see the city through a more genuine, local lens.