Combination Private Citywide Driving Tour featuring Destrehan Plantation

Experience the Best of New Orleans on a Private Citywide Driving Tour with Destrehan Plantation

If you’re planning a visit to New Orleans and want to see the city’s highlights without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets, this private 5.5-hour driving tour might just be your ideal choice. For around $1,085 per group (up to 6 people), you’ll enjoy a tailored itinerary that visits iconic sights like Destrehan Plantation, the French Quarter, Garden District, and more. Led by knowledgeable guides, like Benjamin, who bring the city’s stories to life, this tour offers a blend of history, local color, and scenic views—all from the comfort of a luxurious SUV with Wi-Fi to keep you connected.

What makes this experience stand out is its personalized nature—only your group participates, so you can ask questions, customize stops, and enjoy a more intimate understanding of the city. We particularly appreciate how the tour balances popular attractions with lesser-known gems, making it a well-rounded introduction for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike. The inclusion of a visit to Destrehan Plantation—an excellent way to glimpse the old South—adds a historic depth that many city tours overlook.

One small consideration is that, because it’s a private tour, it requires booking about 60 days in advance, and the price reflects a more premium experience. It might be less ideal if you prefer a very flexible, last-minute arrangement or are traveling solo on a tighter budget. However, for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed, informative way to see the city’s highlights, this tour offers excellent value.

This tour appeals most to travelers who value authentic insights, enjoy scenic drives, and want a comfortable, personalized experience. If you’re eager to learn about New Orleans’ history, architecture, and neighborhoods in a relaxed setting with expert guidance, this private tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, allowing for tailored stops and in-depth questions.
• Historic and Scenic Highlights: Includes Destrehan Plantation, cemeteries, neighborhoods, and scenic views of Lake Pontchartrain.
• Comfortable Transportation: Luxurious SUV with Wi-Fi keeps you connected and relaxed throughout the tour.
• Ideal for Families and Small Groups: Up to 6 people, making it a perfect family outing or small group adventure.
• Advance Booking Needed: Book around 60 days ahead for best availability, especially during peak seasons.
• Educational and Entertaining Guides: Guides like Benjamin bring local stories vividly to life, making history engaging and memorable.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This private city tour takes around five and a half hours, giving you ample time to explore New Orleans’ most iconic sights without feeling rushed. You’ll start with a visit to Destrehan Plantation, a beautifully preserved example of a historic sugar plantation. With an admission ticket included, you’ll have about 90 minutes to explore the grounds, outbuildings, and learn about plantation life—an important window into the region’s past.

From there, the tour moves into the city’s core. You’ll cruise through the French Quarter, famed for its colonial architecture, lively streets, and historic sites. Expect to see landmarks like Jackson Square, the French Market, and perhaps get a glimpse of the bustling street life that keeps this neighborhood vibrant.

Next, the Garden District beckons with its antebellum mansions and lush tree-lined streets. It’s a favorite among visitors for its beautiful homes and quiet charm, offering great photo opportunities. Your guide will point out architectural details and tell stories about the neighborhood’s famous residents and history.

The tour then proceeds to New Orleans City Park, an expansive green space filled with sculptures, lakes, and gardens. It’s an excellent spot to soak in the local atmosphere and perhaps snap some memorable photos.

Visiting Cemeteries and Educational Stops

A highlight is the visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, where you’ll spend about 30 minutes exploring the historic tombs. As with many New Orleans cemeteries, the above-ground tombs and crypts tell stories of the city’s unique funeral customs. The visit is especially appreciated for its historical and cultural significance, and guides often share fascinating stories about notable graves.

You’ll also pass by Tulane University and Audubon Park, giving you a sense of the city’s educational and natural environment. These stops enrich the tour with snippets of local life and scenery.

Why This Tour Works Well

The real strength of this experience lies in the guides. Reviewers like those who traveled with Benjamin praise his extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer described him as “an absolute historian with a pleasant voice,” emphasizing how guides make the experience engaging and educational. The small-group setting allows for deeper conversations and customized experiences, which many travelers find worth the extra cost.

The inclusion of Wi-Fi is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share photos, look up additional info, or stay connected during the drive. The luxurious SUV makes for a comfortable ride, especially on hot days or if you prefer not to walk long distances.

The Value of the Tour

While $1,085 might seem steep at first glance, consider what you’re getting: a personalized, flexible itinerary, private transportation, and expert storytelling—an experience that’s hard to replicate on a big bus or walking tour. The price also includes admission tickets to Destrehan Plantation, adding to the overall value.

The fact that the tour is highly rated (5.0 based on 2 reviews) and praised for its excellent communication and knowledgeable guides suggests it’s a dependable choice for those wanting a thoughtfully curated introduction to New Orleans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private driving tour is best suited for families, small groups, or couples seeking an in-depth, relaxed exploration of New Orleans. It appeals especially to those who want a personalized experience with expert guides, and who prefer to avoid the crowds or the rigidity of larger bus tours. If you’re interested in history, architecture, and scenic neighborhoods, and want the comfort of private transportation with Wi-Fi, this tour hits the sweet spot.

It’s also ideal if you have limited time and want a rundown in just over five hours. However, if you’re traveling solo or on a very tight budget, you might find other options more suitable. But for those who value quality, comfort, and tailored insights, this tour offers a memorable way to see the best of New Orleans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers, including families with kids, can participate. The tour is private, so you can tailor stops to suit children’s interests.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 60 days ahead, especially during peak seasons or busy travel times, to secure availability.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation in a luxurious SUV, admission tickets to Destrehan Plantation, and the guided experience. Wi-Fi is also available on board.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide. The listed stops are part of the standard itinerary, but flexibility is often possible.

Is parking available at the attractions?
Most attractions have parking facilities, but you might want to check specific locations if you plan to visit independently.

What if I need to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

How long is each stop?
Destrehan Plantation allows for about 1 hour 30 minutes, while cemeteries and other spots typically allow around 30 minutes each. The tour is designed to balance sightseeing with comfortable pacing.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It depends on individual mobility needs. Since the tour involves some walking at stops like cemeteries, it’s best to discuss specific requirements with the provider.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Most private tours operate rain or shine, as the transportation is covered. Check with the provider for any weather-related policies.

Can I bring additional luggage or equipment?
The SUV has space for small to medium-sized bags, but for larger luggage, you should inquire beforehand.

To sum it up, this private citywide driving tour offers a well-rounded, personal look at New Orleans. With knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and a carefully curated list of stops, it’s an excellent choice for those who want to experience the city’s charm comfortably and authentically. Whether you’re a history buff, a family seeking a memorable outing, or a couple looking for a relaxed way to see the sights, this tour delivers both value and genuine insight into the Big Easy.