Print Full Itinerary
Itinerary: Subject to change due to local conditions, unforeseen events, or more interesting as yet unplanned awesome experiences that become available
Overview:
Welcome to the real, authentic New Orleans! Our adventure here will capture the heart and soul of this fabulous city while avoiding all the tourist traps and standard bucket list spots.
You may feel out of your comfort zone at times and may even encounter a ghost or two but that’s all part of becoming part of the real New Orleans. We’ll dive into the nitty gritty while experiencing all the charm and character of historic spaces.
Feel the soul of native jazz and blues and be taken away by delectable cuisine along with the natural beauty of the bayou and amazing artist creations.
There won’t be any museums, upscale restaurants with famous names, boat rides on the muddy Mississippi or expensive luxury accommodations. We’ll immerse ourselves in the N’awlins culture through wandering the various districts, never knowing what amazing thing we might find next!
Day One: Rathbone Mansion
After arriving in New Orleans, we’ll make our way downtown to check into our home for the next four fabulous nights at the Rathbone Mansion.
Frenchman Street:
This evening we’ll wander out together towards Frenchmen Street, a smaller version of Bourbon Street with a calmer, cozier and less touristy kind of vibe.
Different varieties of jazz and live music drifts from the open doors and windows of bars, restaurants, and clubs as you make your way towards the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, right on the edge of the French Quarter.
We’ll stop at a local specialty for a unique included dinner that you’ll only find here, then find your music of choice in your favorite place to relax the night away.
Day Two: Barataria Preserve
Today we descend into the beautifully primitive bayou. Don’t be scared, it’s not what you think!
Picture Spanish moss hanging on gnarled cypress trees gently swaying in the breeze above pure tannin-colored waters in the midst of the calm stillness of pure nature.
Take a stroll through the Barataria Preserve, part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and experience all the serenity of the bayou.
Cypress Swamp Airboat:
After working up a good appetite, we’ll enjoy another delicious lunch at a great local spot.
Now hop onboard as a thrilling airboat ride whisks us through this pristine wilderness, as we catch sight of turtles resting on logs, cute, hungry racoons, native bird species and the occasional alligator swimming serenely by.
We’re hoping to conjure up a special treat at an authentic shrine to New Orleans music. Let’s see what schedules align!
Day Three: Bucktown Marsh Boardwalk
Spend the morning at your leisure until we take in the scenery along Lake Pontchartrain from the Bucktown Marsh Boardwalk. Stroll among the curves around a “living shoreline” of flowing marsh grasses while keeping an eye out for local wildlife.
A long time, homey spot serving up delectable po boys is next for our included lunch.
Longue Vue House & Gardens:
Tucked away at the edge of residential neighborhoods lies Longue Vue House & Gardens, a lush display of Southern elegance and history.
Step inside this architectural masterpiece of trailblazing female designer Ellen Biddle Shipman for a guided tour of the incredible interior, then outside among the splendid gardens that feel like a world away from the city.
If you fancy a cup of tea, enjoy one in the café overlooking the grand Oak Lawn.
Once back in the French Quarter, you’ll have the night to roam as you please.
Day Three: Treme
We spend the day wandering the poetic, soulful and authentic district of Treme, a place whose back streets birthed a music that conquered the world and served as a cultural rendezvous between the worlds of white and black.
We’ll begin our stroll up the hidden treasure Esplanade Avenue, one of the most scenic and historic streets in New Orleans that runs straight through the heart of the city.
You’ll be amazed by the number of 19th century mansions still lining the streets as we make our way to the soulful, chill Pagoda Café for an included bite for lunch.
Sydney & Walda Bestoff Sculpture Park:
We’ll continue our walk along Esplanade Ave to New Orleans City Park which houses the most spectacular hidden artistic gem imaginable.
Hidden throughout the gardens of pines, magnolias, and live oaks bordering two lagoons, are beautiful sculptures that fit perfectly with their surroundings. It’s something that words can’t describe and can only be experienced.
Couturie Forest:
Walk with us a bit further into the park to another secret treasure of hidden woodlands in Couturie Forest. Wander through the quiet spaces surrounded by South Louisiana flora and fauna far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy as you please.
Day Five: St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
As we leave the soulful French Quarter behind and make our way to the dazzling Garden District, we must stop for a wander inside the intriguing historic atmosphere of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, New Orleans oldest that encapsulates the soul of the city in all its quirks and splendor.
A guided tour will lead us through remnants of different periods of history from the mysterious life and death of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau to the eccentric Nicholas Cage pyramid tomb.
Heard Dat Kitchen:
Hope you’re hungry because an amazing lunch is next at a most authentic N’awlins spot, Heard Dat Kitchen, a place where each dish is prepared with the heart and soul of the humble chef and owner.
Garden District Wandering:
It’s time for exploration in the Garden District! There’s so much to fill your senses in this charming neighborhood filled with stunning, grandiose mansions, leafy oak shaded streets, and colorful Creole cottages.
We’ll take a wandering tour through all its loveliness, stopping to peek in the eerily beautiful Lafayette Cemetery No. 1,
Garden District B&B:
It’s time to check into our B&B, a shabby chic beauty filled with authentic character within walking distance to many wonderful places in the Garden District.
Feel free to roam on your own or just hang on the porch for some relaxation. Wander the charming streets to find a fantastic dinner on your own.
Day Six: St. Charles Streetcar
Today we wake up in the serene atmosphere of the alluring Garden District. Enjoy the morning on your own, then meet us for a ride on the charmingly historic St. Charles Streetcar that will rumble us through a tunnel of Live Oaks to laid back Carrollton.
Tree of Life:
An optional itinerary will stop at Audubon Park to see the spectacular Tree of Life, then onto the college vibe of Maple Street near Tulane, to vibrant Oak Street, a hub for art, music and food which is the perfect place to grab some lunch or wait to eat until we get to the lively Freret Street, an up and coming area that’s perfect for exploring and dining.
Spend as much time using the streetcar as you like but don’t miss our included dinner tonight at a great local spot.
Day Seven: Breakfast & Flight Home
We sadly say goodbye to the captivating Creole and Cajun culture of New Orleans and make our way back to home sweet home filled with its lingering heart and soul.
Pricing & Departures:
This will be a Special, Intimate Small Group tour with a max of 10.
Air transportation is provided by United Airlines. A surcharge will apply if United Airlines increases the price of its airfare. One piece of luggage per person (baggage fee by United is not included) and one small carry-on are permitted. A valid, government-issued picture ID is required to board the plane.
March: Flight # departs Newark at PM and arrives in New Orleans at PM
March: Flight # departs New Orleans at PM and arrives in Newark at PM
Price per person is $Twin & $ Single. Due to the last minute nature of this tour, no reservations are accepted without a 50% payment per person. Make checks payable to “Educated Wanderer” and mail to our address above. Final payment is due February 1, 2026. There are no refunds if cancellation occurs after February 1, 2026. The Educated Wanderer is not responsible for any delays, cancellations, injuries or circumstances beyond its control and reserves the right to change the itinerary. All trip components are subject to change in accordance with Government, State and Local guidelines and/or mandates. Travel protection/cancellation coverage is available and highly recommended, but not included. This tour will run rain or shine.
*Due to the changes in airline booking policies, airfare will need to be booked before the cancellation date, Once flights are booked, we cannot refund that portion of the tour unless you’d like to pay an additional cost for refundable tickets.
Upon submitting final payment you are agreeing to our new policy.
Wet Blanket Policy:
Wet blanket
– a person who makes it difficult for other people to enjoy themselves by complaining, acting negatively, creating drama, etc.
– one that quenches or dampens enthusiasm or pleasure
- Our philosophy of travel involves getting out of the ordinary to experience other cultures and places with an open minded attitude and flexibility. Since as in daily life, anything can and will happen, let’s embrace these situations with acceptance and understanding because they will either lead to an unexpected, amazing experience or positive learning experience.
- If anyone brings along excess baggage such as incessant complaining, under the breath rude comments, outward negativity or other such behaviors that infect the entire group or individuals, we have the exclusive right to remove them from the tour at their own cost with no refunds. (yes, this means you)
- If any major concerns arise during a tour, please just come talk to us and we’ll work it out!
The Educated Wanderer
Group Tours & Travel
PO Box 35 Henryville, PA 18332
973-513-9001
