English, Drama & Performing Arts Destinations

Literary New Orleans

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Based on 6 days

Suitable for Secondary Schools

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Overview

Lying on the banks of the Mississippi river, New Orleans is renowned for its distinctive music, cuisine, and festivals. Amongst its varied neighbourhoods is a deep and ingrained literary history waiting to be explored.

A city of culture, various engaging and immersive museums can transport you through the region’s turbulent history allowing you to learn more about life in The Big Easy. As the inspiration to hundreds of influential writers, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, Tennessee Williams, and Charles Bukowski to name a few, see what caused these writers to find fertile literary ground to influence works that remain impactful today.

Head to the bookstore that William Faulkner called home before heading to the French quarter where A Streetcar Named Desire was born!

Our Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

Flight from the UK to New Orleans.

Private coach transfer to accommodation.

Head straight into the quarter that has it all, the French Quarter. Take a stroll around the streets lined with history (and shops!) as the sound of local musicians surrounds you!
Day 2

Kick off your trip with a guided literary walking tour and trace the footsteps of regional writers including William Faulkner and Tennessee Williams, who helped define literature itself.

Then head to the Cabildo. Forming part of the Louisiana State Museum, this was the site of the historic Louisiana Purchase transfer ceremonies in 1803.

Then, take an trip down the Mississippi River on a classic riverboat! With an iconic paddlewheel, be sure to snap some picturesque shots of the beautiful urban shoreline.
Day 3

Start your morning with a visit to the River Road African American Museum, which tells the stories of freedom, reconciliation and resilience from slavery. Exploring the history and culture of African Americans in rural South Louisiana communities, this museum sheds light on the history and culture that has influenced some iconic texts.

Now is time to head to the beautiful parish of West Baton Rouge Parish, on the river, on the way to a brilliant South Louisiana experience.

While here, learn more about the area at West Baton Rouge Museum. As the only museum in the nation to feature the history of sugar agriculture during slavery times through to the Civil Rights era, experience this immersive and interactive illustration of life on a sugar plantation through the ages.

Finish your day at Louisiana's Old State Capitol, a museum seeking to educate the public on Louisiana's rich history while promoting the preservation of this National Historic Landmark.

Optional: Spend an evening at the Saenger Theater! (subject to scheduling).
Day 4

Today is the day to discover the story behind A Streetcar Named Desire. Head onto the St Charles Streetcar, one of the oldest and most notable lines. See the city in style, heading from Uptown to the Central Business District!

Then spend some time in City Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. As a popular place to fish, picnic and play sports, you can admire the largest grove of mature live oaks in the world (some are nearly 800 years old!).

Finish your day exploring the New Orleans Jazz Museum, with interactive exhibitions and exciting musical performances, this museum celebrates the history of jazz in all forms!

Now it is time to take a glimpse into the dark side of New Orleans. This Ghosts of New Orleans Tour is sure to raise your spirits!
Day 5

Start your final day with a trip to a Plantation. You will be able to experience an open-hearth kitchen, colonial games and toys, weaving and understand more about life in the enslaved community.

Private coach transfer to the airport.

Flight from New Orleans to the UK.
Day 6

Arrive back in the UK.