I had such an enjoyable time on this trip, booked through Cajun Encounters. I didn't go to Laura Plantation, only Oak Alley. Our driver Al, was funny, informative and knowledgeable about the history of New Orleans and Oak Alley Plantation. He made the trip there and back so enjoyable. The plantation tour is great. You go through the plantation with a guide, hearing about the history of the plantation and all that occurred there. Picture taking inside the plantation house is not permitted, but you are able to take pictures everywhere else, including the slave quarters and other buildings throughout the site. It's a beautiful setting there as you can see in the picture. There is a great restaurant and gift shop, as well as a bar. I had alligator for lunch and it was delicious. I also had my first Mint Julep. I wanted to experience the culture of New Orleans and it was wonderful.
The tour bus picks you up at your hotel (unless it's an out of the way place, I'm guessing), and drops you back there after the tour. It's a full day experience with the travel to and from, as well as the tour itself. You also have lots of time to wander on your own. I would recommend this and other tours from Cajun Encounters. They were wonderful!