Alumni Travel Program

Alumni and friends are invited to participate in our first Alumni Travel Program trip to New Orleans!

December 3 – December 7, 2026

Day 1 – Thursday

Afternoon: check in at the Pelham Hotel, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the Big Easy. The ambiance and décor 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.

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.

After dinner suggestion: explore live music on Frenchman Street.


Day 2 – Friday

Morning: Hurricane Katrina, Before and After: Roundtable discussion
about Hurricane Katrina with a journalist and historian about
Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath. At Hotel.

Visit the Katrina and Beyond Exhibit at the Presbytère
Museum 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 Trombone Shorty Foundation, 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.

Day 3 – Saturday

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 Big Chief Juan Pardo and Black Indians 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

Optional: Dinner Reservation at Café Amelie, 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 Tipitina’s, a historic New Orleans venue
now owned and operated by local funk band Galactic (tickets not
included).

Day 4 – Sunday

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 Garden District: 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 brassband
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 – Crawfish Boil: A festive Louisiana-style
send-off featuring a traditional crawfish boil with all the classic
fixings, shared family-style in true New Orleans spirit.


Day 5 – Monday

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, 1 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 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.