New Orleans & Biloxi, Mississippi

Escape to the charm and beauty of the Deep South on this delightful journey featuring New Orleans and Biloxi. Experience rich history, scenic Gulf Coast beauty, and famous Southern hospitality as we explore historic plantations, the lively French Quarter, coastal landmarks, and fascinating museums. Along the way, enjoy delicious Southern cuisine, relaxing free time, and unforgettable Gulf Coast memories.

Meals: 6B, 2L

Day 1 – Birmingham, AL – We begin our journey to the Gulf Coast with a travel day and an overnight stay in Birmingham.

Day 2 – New Orleans City Tour – Today we drive to New Orleans, “The Big Easy,” where we meet our local step-on guide for a guided city tour featuring both modern New Orleans and the historic sights surrounding the French Quarter. We’ll see lovely antebellum homes along St. Charles Avenue, drive past parks and universities, and experience many of the famous landmarks that make this city so unique. This evening is at leisure for dinner and exploring on your own. We overnight two nights in New Orleans. 

Day 3 – Oak Alley Plantation – The Court of Two Sisters – Today we travel to historic Oak Alley Plantation, famous for its breathtaking quarter-mile canopy of ancient oak trees and elegant antebellum architecture. After our guided visit, we return to New Orleans for an included lunch at the legendary The Court of Two Sisters, known for its classic Creole cuisine and charming courtyard atmosphere. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Stroll through the French Quarter and down Bourbon Street, stop for café au lait and beignets at Café du Monde, or enjoy the music and entertainers at Jackson Square. Overnight same hotel.

Day 4 – Mardi Gras World – Mary Mahoney’s – Biloxi, MS – This morning we visit Mardi Gras World, where we’ll see many of the props and giant sculptures artists create for the famous Mardi Gras parade floats. Afterwards, we travel along the Gulf Coast to Biloxi. Lunch is included at the historic Mary Mahoney’s Old French House, located in a charming 1737 home known for its classic Southern cuisine and coastal charm. Be sure to see The Patriarch Oak, believed to be over 2,000 years old. Next, we meet our local step-on guide for a guided city tour featuring the iconic Biloxi Lighthouse and the Biloxi Visitors Center. We then arrive at our Biloxi hotel for a two-night stay. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.

Day 5 – Gulf Coast Gator Ranch – La Pointe-Krebs House – This morning we head to Gulf Coast Gator Ranch for an exciting airboat ride and walking tour. Experience the beauty of the bayou while learning about local wildlife and getting an up-close look at the ranch’s famous alligators. This afternoon, we visit La Pointe–Krebs House & Museum, one of the oldest surviving structures on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This fascinating museum offers a glimpse into the region’s French colonial history. Afterwards, we return to our hotel in Biloxi, where the evening is at leisure. Overnight  same hotel.

Day 6 – Priester’s Pecans – Birmingham, AL – Today we begin our journey north with a stop at Priester’s Pecans, a beloved Southern destination known for its fresh pecans, homemade candies, baked goods, and country store charm. Later, we continue to Birmingham for an overnight stay.

Day 7 – Home – Our Southern getaway comes to an end today as we make our way home filled with warm memories of the Gulf Coast, New Orleans, and Biloxi.