Arrive in New Orleans and settle in for a three-night stay in the heart of the historic French Quarter.  The evening is yours to begin exploring the sights and sounds of the Crescent City.  Stroll the colorful streets, browse nearby shops or simply soak up the unmistakable atmosphere of New Orleans.  Dinner is on your own this evening.

After breakfast, head to the French Quarter where you meet your local Pirate guide for a Pirates of the Quarter tour.  Discover the real pirate history of New Orleans on this walking tour through Jackson Square, Pirate Alley and historic Royal Street.  Along the way, your pirate guide shares fascinating stories of the Lafitte brothers, New Orleans’ smuggling routes, local legends, and the real events that shaped the early 1800s.  Learn how these infamous privateers evolved from outlaws to unlikely heroes during the Battle of New Orleans and how their covert network helped Andrew Jackson defend the city.  Every stop reveals a new secret or surprising piece of history.

Tour will include a photo stop at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop.  Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar in New Orleans is famous for being reputed as the oldest structure used as a bar in the United States.  Legend has it, privateer brothers Jean and Pierre Lafitte used the shop as a base and cover for their Barataria pirate smuggling ring in the late 1700s.

The afternoon features free time for lunch on your own and a chance to explore the French Quarter’s many restaurants, shops, boutiques and entertainment venues.

Also included today is a Rum Tasting at Seven Three Distilling Company.  From Bywater to Gentilly, every corner of the Crescent City carries a rich history and lively sentiments.  Taste hand-crafted high-quality spirits with local ingredients, all while discovering the charm and charisma of New Orleans.  Tour of the distilling facility also included.

Tonight, enjoy dinner at one of New Orleans’ popular restaurants, where you can relax and savor the flavors and hospitality of the Crescent City.  It’s the perfect ending to a day filled with the colorful history, legends and character of New Orleans. (B,D)

After breakfast, take a swamp tour through Jean Lafitte National Historical Park.  In Jean Lafitte’s time, treasure meant silver and gold; today, it is found in people, places, and memories. Experience New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage, learn Cajun traditions from those who live them, spot alligators along the bayou, and follow in the footsteps of those who fought in the 1815 Battle of New Orleans.

Journey by boat, Cajun-style, through the heart of Southern Louisiana’s swamplands in the protected Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve’s Barataria Preserve.  Cruise through meandering bayous and look into the past. View moss-draped cypress trees, fascinating plant life and the creatures who make their homes here.  Your Cajun guide is a native of the area who will share with you the legends and lore of Louisiana’s still untamed wilderness.

Enjoy free time in the French Market. Explore America’s oldest open-air market and grab a quick lunch on your own at the outdoor Food Hall – offering local favorites like po’boys, meat pies, and jambalaya – before browsing the vibrant flea market stalls for local art and souvenirs.  Don’t miss a quick walk up the adjacent riverfront boardwalk for great views of the Mississippi River.

This afternoon, continue the story of Jean Lafitte and the Battle of New Orleans with your pirate guide. Enjoy fascinating commentary along the way to Chalmette Battlefield, setting the stage for the events of 1815 and Lafitte’s role in the American victory.  Upon arrival, your guide leads an in-depth tour of the battlefield, bringing to life the people, strategies and events that shaped this decisive battle.

End the day with a dinner cruise on either the Steamboat Natchez or the Creole Queen.  Savor the beauty of the New Orleans skyline, a delicious meal and jazz music. (B,D)

This morning, make a stop at Café Du Monde for a beignet before departing for home. (B)