After pickup from your downtown or French Quarter hotel by air-conditioned van, your architecture tour begins in the French Quarter, where you'll learn about the history and design styles of the old Creole city of New Orleans. See the Pontalba Buildings of Jackson Square, admire St Louis Cathedral and enjoy a view of the Mississippi River. Along Esplanade Avenue, you'll pass by the French Market, the old US Mint and some elegant mansions.

Next, hop off your van and stretch your legs at the historic St Louis Cemetery #3. During a guided walking tour, see some of its many societal tombs, such as the Hellenic Orthodox community and the Dante Lodge of Masons, which represent the varied backgrounds of New Orleans' former residents.

Back on your van, travel along peaceful Bayou St John, where you’ll see houses from the late 1700s. Stop for refreshments and rest rooms after a drive through City Park, home to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and centuries-old live oaks. You will then reach the 17th St.Canal and see the flood wall breaches and witness the complete destruction Hurricane Katrina caused to the neighborhood of Lakeview as well as the hopeful rebuilding done with the help of private enterprise as well as the new pumping stations.

On the drive back to your hotel, you’ll pass through Uptown and along St Charles Avenue, where the grand colonial mansions of the Garden District are some of the most beautiful in all the South.