Sunday morning

Question

In NOLA for the weekend.. we’re taking a jazz brunch cruise tomorrow morning at 11. Any suggestions on something to do from 8 until then? A lot of places don’t open until 10.

Answer

That sounds like a fun way to spend your Sunday morning in New Orleans! Since you have a few hours to kill before your jazz brunch cruise, here are some things to do from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m., when more places begin to open:

New Orleans has a relaxed vibe in the mornings, but there are still a few things you can do to enjoy the city and get a head start before the brunch. Here are some suggestions:

Stroll through the French Quarter - The French Quarter is peaceful early in the morning, with fewer crowds. You can take a walk along the picturesque streets, enjoy the architecture, and perhaps grab a coffee to go from one of the local cafes. It’s a great way to experience the city without the hustle and bustle of midday crowds.
Visit the French Market - The French Market is a lovely open-air market, and although many vendors open around 9 or 10, some are open early, and it's fun to browse and people-watch. You can also enjoy some live music, which can sometimes start in the early morning.
Take a walk along the Mississippi River - The riverfront area near Jackson Square and the Moonwalk offers a beautiful view of the Mississippi River. It’s a calm and serene spot for a morning walk or to simply relax and take in the sights.
Explore Jackson Square - Jackson Square is a historic spot in the heart of the French Quarter. Early in the morning, it’s not as crowded, and you can enjoy the beauty of the square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the surrounding architecture. It’s a great place for photos.
Have a quiet coffee at Café du Monde - While Café du Monde is famous for its beignets and can get crowded later in the day, you can try going early for a quieter experience. Grab a coffee or café au lait and enjoy the classic New Orleans atmosphere without the crowds.

If you're up for something a little different, here are a few other options:

Walk through the Garden District - If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, the Garden District is a short streetcar ride away. The neighborhood is filled with beautiful historic homes, lush gardens, and tree-lined streets. It’s a peaceful way to start the day.
Check out the St. Roch Market - St. Roch Market opens early (around 8 a.m.), and it's a great place to grab a quick bite or coffee. It’s less touristy than some of the other markets in the city, making it a nice, quiet spot to start the day.
Take a riverfront jog or bike ride - If you’re an early riser and want to be active, you can rent a bike or go for a jog along the riverfront. The area near Woldenberg Park and the riverwalk offers a beautiful, quiet route for some exercise before your brunch cruise.

Whatever you choose, New Orleans has a lot to offer even in the early hours, and it’s the perfect time to experience the city in a more relaxed, quiet way. After your morning activity, you'll be ready to enjoy your jazz brunch cruise!

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