Alumni Travel Program
December 2026: New Orleans
Alumni and friends are invited to participate in our first Alumni Travel Program trip to New Orleans!
December 3 – December 7, 2026
Program Overview
Afternoon: Check in at the , a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the Big Easy. The ambiance and decor set the perfect stage for a memorable stay.
Early evening: Stroll through the French Quarter for a Private Jazz Performance by local musicians at the New Orleans Jazz Museum.
Dinner: Enjoy local cuisine in the heart of the French Quarter at Arnaud’s, offering an elegant, old-New Orleans atmosphere, famous for its gumbo, oysters, and traditional dishes, plus a cozy jazz bar for a post-dinner drink.
After dinner suggestion: Explore live music on Frenchman Street.
Please note: We’ll be walking throughout the afternoon and evening. Casual attire with comfortable shoes is recommended. Expect to walk 2-2.5 miles total with the option to return by bicycle taxi or Uber.
Morning: Hurricane Katrina, Before and After roundtable discussion with a journalist and historian about the hurricane and its aftermath (at the hotel).
Visit the Katrina and Beyond exhibit at the in Jackson Square.
Lunch: Enjoy Po’boys, a typical New Orleans sandwich, and a musical performance in the French Quarter.
Afternoon: Walking tour of the French Quarter, exploring the unique architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Rest and relaxation after the walking tour and before the next activity.
Early evening: Live music at the , which supports New Orleans youth through music education, mentorship, and performance opportunities, helping develop the next generation of musicians and cultural torchbearers.
Free evening: Discuss food and entertainment options with your travel curator.
Morning: New Orleans and Slavery discussion with local expert(s) about the slave trade and its lasting impact on New Orleans culture, economy, and society (at the hotel).
Visit with to learn about Mardi Gras culture and Black Indian traditions.
Lunch: Enjoy a light lunch along the Mississippi River.
Afternoon: Historical Deep Dive (choose your activity):
Plantation Visit: A guided tour of a historic Louisiana plantation, examining its role in the slave economy, the lives of the enslaved people who worked there, and the broader impact
on the region’s history and economy.
Explore Uptown New Orleans Mansions and Universities: A guided look at Uptown’s grand historic homes and the storied university campuses that anchor this iconic neighborhood.
Relax back at the hotel following your activity.
Optional: Dinner reservation at , known for its charming courtyard, classic Creole cuisine, and relaxed, vibrant atmosphere—perfect for soaking in the French Quarter vibe (reservation only; meal not included).
Nighttime suggestion: Take in a live show at , a historic New Orleans venue now owned and operated by local funk band Galactic (tickets not included).
Morning: Preserving New Orleans discussion with preservation expert(s) about the city’s historic architecture, cultural landmarks, and the ongoing efforts to protect the spaces that shape New Orleans’ identity.
Walking Tour Through the : A guided stroll exploring the neighborhood’s iconic architecture, historic mansions, and lush, oak-lined streets.
Lunch Jazz Brunch: A classic New Orleans–style brunch featuring live jazz and local flavors in a festive, relaxed setting.
Go local and join a traditional Second Line parade with brass band music, dancing, and vibrant street celebration.
Rest and relaxation before evening activities.
Evening Caribbean Happy Hour: New Orleans is often referred to as the “northern most Caribbean city.” A local historian and a talented group of musicians will walk you through some of the sounds, tastes, and smells that have cross-pollinated in the Big Easy.
Farewell Dinner: A festive Louisiana-style send-off featuring a traditional crawfish boil with all the classic fixings, shared family-style in true New Orleans spirit.
TBD: Departure
Trip Cost
Double occupancy cost is $2,050 per person
Single occupancy cost is $2,650 per person
Includes 4 nights’ accommodations; professional guide, two dinners, two lunches, one brunch; speaker fees, performance fees, admission to museums and venues listed in the itinerary; local ground transportation for listed activities originating at the hotel on Day 1; pre-trip departure information.
Does not include airfare and airport transfers, food and beverages beyond what is listed as included, hotel upgrades, individual hotel expenses, or tips for guides and drivers.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations received up to 121 days before the trip will incur a $300 per person administrative fee.
- Cancellations made more than 60 days before the trip departure are eligible for a 50% refund.
- Cancellations made within 59 days of the trip departure are not refundable.
- All cancellations must be submitted in writing.
- In some instances, a different traveler can take the place of a scheduled participant for a $350 processing fee.
If you have questions, please email Michelle Worden ’92, Associate Director of Alumni Relations, worden@geneseo.edu, or call 585-245-5157.