RIVERBOAT CRUISE:
The Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off, but her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, enjoying traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat. Make sure you check out all four decks - the top deck view is a sight to see!
Here is a bit more about the NATCHEZ for when she returns:
Step aboard one of last authentic steam-powered sternwheelers for a memorable cruise around New Orleans on the Mississippi River. Hear stories of the Big Easy's rich history, sit back, relax and enjoy the New Orleans atmosphere as the smooth jazz fills your ears. This 2-hour cruise from the heart of the French Quarter will take you along the graceful Mississippi River.
NEW ORLEANS CITY TOUR:
Enjoy a city sightseeing tour, a cemetery stop, and a guided Garden District stroll!
This three hour city sightseeing tour covers 25 square miles of iconic New Orleans neighborhoods through three centuries with ample opportunities to experience the beauty and history of New Orleans at a walking pace.
You’ll start in Jackson Square with some French Quarter history and continue along Esplanade. This elegant French Avenue, lined with large Victorian houses, leads you from the French Quarter to City Park.
Before you arrive at City Park, you’ll stop at St. Louis Cemetery #3, where you’ll learn about our above ground burial system and the culture of our jazz funerals. Cross Bayou St. John into City Park, where you can purchase café au lait and beignets at Café du Monde or set out to find your own “Instagrammable moment.” The park’s museums, attractions and sculpture gardens are nestled among picturesque lagoons, bayous and groves of ancient live oaks, some more than 800 years old.
Hop back on the bus to travel along the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain, past a post-Katrina pumping station, seafood restaurants, marina and a historic lighthouse with the 24 mile long Causeway Bridge in the distance. Although called a lake, Lake Pontchartrain is actually one of the largest brackish estuaries in North America at 630 square miles (1600 km2) fed by fresh water rivers and connected to the Gulf of Mexico.
Continue on to St. Charles Avenue, home to Audubon Park and lined with elegant mansions, churches and schools, including Loyola and Tulane Universities. Follow the route of streetcars and Mardi Gras parades to the Garden District, for a guided stroll through one of the most well-preserved living neighborhoods in the United States. Your guide will point out historic architectural styles and features and share the stories of those who have lived behind these grand facades.
