A Southern Trail Road Trip

Day 1 - Arrive New Orleans

Arrive New Orleans, the crown jewel of Louisiana, check into your chosen hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. 

Day 2 - New Orleans

Let your own 'local expert' unravel the mysteries of one of America's oldest and most unique living neighborhoods on a French Quarter Walking Tour. 

Day 3 - New Orleans

Take a tour to Oak Alley Plantation, built in 1839. You'll experience a bygone era in one of the Souths most beautiful settings. Marvel at the unbelievable quarter-mile long alley of 28 magnificent Oak trees, each over 250 years old, and view the Majestic Cypress Trees in Louisianas swamps bordering the Mississippi River. Your guided tour will reveal the fascinating stories of the home and its history. 

Day 4 - New Orleans to Baton Rouge

Today head east to Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana to visit the famous 'Louisiana State University' and the 'Rural Life Museum', recounting the daily life of the early 19th century. If shopping is on your list head over to the Mall of Louisiana before dining and retiring for the night.

Day 5 - Baton Rouge to Lafayette

This morning head to Lafayette, to learn about the Acadians “Cajuns” and Creole cultures at Vermilionville before heading south to New Iberia to visit the only place on earth where TABASCO® is grown and bottled. Overnight in Lafayette.

Day 6 - Lafayette to Lake Charles

Head east towards Lake Charles, Louisiana and the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, with a stop for a tour and tasting at Bayou Rum, Louisiana grown and produced rum distillery with an amazing gift shop, along the way. One of only designated 43 All-American Roads in the entire United States, the Creole Nature Trail is a journey into an untamed wilderness.

Right from the vehicle you will see alligators, multiple birds and waterfowl (over 400 species spotted each year) and other marsh wildlife…all in their natural habitat. Several over water boardwalks also provide opportunities where you can stretch your legs and as well as get up close and personal with your nature.  

Day 7 - Lake Charles

Today, experience the largest Mardi Gras costume collection display in the world at the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu. Then check out the Historic Charpentier District, 40-blocks of turn-of-the-century buildings built by carpenter architects. Next up, check out great local craft beers at Crying Eagle Brewing. Grab a bite to eat in the Beer Garden or at one of numerous other local restaurants.

*Please note the Mardi Gras Museum is currently closed until February 2026 

Day 8 - Lake Charles to Houston

Start early and head to Space Center Houston, an amazing museum full of space artifacts and interactive exhibits. It’s the Texas gateway to NASA Johnson Space Center. Lunch at Kemah Boardwalk on your way out. It is home to fabulous waterfront restaurants, charming retail stores, and amusement rides. Spend the rest of the day at lesisure in Houston.

Day 9 - Houston to Austin

Continue toward Austin, Texas. Make sure you stop at Hruska’s in Ellinger, TX on the way for amazing local bakery items. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 10 - Austin

Spend a full day exploring Austin, the self-proclaimed live music capital of the world. With more than 250 venues and a vibrant arts and gastronomic scene, you are sure to find something to your taste.

Day 11 - Return to the UK

Enjoy time at leisure in Austin before dropping you car at the airport and catching your homeward flight.