The story of New Orleans is a uniquely American one, yet this Southern city retains an Old World mystique. Its blend of cultures—African American, Native American, French, Haitian, Sicilian, and many others—has contributed the city’s distinctive art, music, architecture, and cuisine. With the elegant Ritz-Carlton as your home base, join world-renowned scholars for an inside look at New Orleans, from its opulent French Quarter mansions to the music this city invented: jazz.

On a guided tour of the Historic New Orleans Collection, experience the “Crescent City” through its art. An architect will introduce you to the French Quarter’s lavish homes and centuries-old buildings, and discover fascinating secrets inside one of New Orleans’ above-ground cemeteries. Stroll through the wonderfully preserved 19th-century Garden District, concluding with a private visit to a double-galleried townhouse owned by acclaimed local writer Morgan Babst, a Yale alumna. Spend a day perusing the National WWII Museum’s vast collections.

Outside the city, join New Orleans native historian Dr. Andrew Wegmann for an exploration of the River Road Plantations. Visit the restored Houmas House and the Creole-owned, early 19th-century Whitney Plantation. Delight in an after-hours private visit to the 1811 Kid Ory Historic House, site of an 1811 rebellion of enslaved people and former home of jazz pioneer Edward “Kid” Ory. Later, immerse yourself in New Orleans jazz with a live jazz brunch, then accompany jazz historian John McCusker for a tour of historic sites key to the development of this iconic musical genre.

View our recent webinar What Does it Mean to Miss New Orleans with faculty leader Jay Gitlin

All are welcome to download the reading list for this program by clicking here.