Itinerary
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Monday, 11 May 2020: Arrive New Orleans; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival no later than 4:00pm and take local transportation to the hotel. Our tour begins at 5:30pm in the courtyard of our French Quarter hotel. After introductions, we will dine together at a local restaurant and get better acquainted. Overnight New Orleans - 5 nights
Tuesday, 12 May 2020: French Quarter Walking Tour; Mardi Gras World (B,D)
We begin this morning with beignets and coffee. After fueling up, we depart for a walking tour to learn more about New Orleans and the French Quarter and the fascinating history of this city. New Orleans held to the culture, traditions and architecture of its French and Spanish heritage, making it unlike any other city in America. Early this afternoon, we go behind-the-scenes to learn about the tradition, history and customs of Mardi Gras floats, which began rumbling down New Orleans streets in 1837 with mule-drawn carriages. In the largest float design-and-build facility in the world, we'll see authentic Mardi Gras costumes and tour enormous warehouses filled with floats. We'll have dinner together this evening.
Wednesday, 13 May 2020: New Orleans School of Cooking; Mississippi Steamboat (B,L,D)
The New Orleans School of Cooking has introduced countless visitors to the wonderful food and rich culture of New Orleans. We watch a cooking demonstration of Cajun and Creole cuisine and sample all of the foods as our lunch. You'll have some time to explore the French Quarter before we re-group for a Jazz cruise on a steamboat. Enjoy the fresh air, the music and the sights along the mighty Mississippi River for a delightful 2-hour cruise with dinner.
Thursday, 14 May 2020: Garden District Walking Tour; Bayou Tour (B,L)
This morning we spend time in New Orleans' elegant Garden District, once part of the plantation owned by Bienville, the founder of New Orleans. This historic district is known for its marvelous examples of Greek Revival and Italianate architecture. For more of a walk on the “wild side,” our afternoon tour takes us to the Honey Island Cypress Swamp for a boat tour deep into the heart of the swamp. This swamp is unique because it's one of the least-altered river swamps in the country.
Friday, 15 May 2020: Free Day in New Orleans; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
This day is yours. Consider riding the streetcars and see where they take you. Or take this time to visit the highly acclaimed National World War II museum. Your WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for a fun day. Our day concludes with our Farewell Dinner in the French Quarter.
Saturday, 16 May 2020: Return Home from New Orleans
Sadly, our time together has come to an end. Based on the departure time you provide WTT, your Tour Leader will organize travelers into small groups so you can ride-share to the airport if you wish.