Arriving early in New Orleans may be like a small triumph until you realize that you are not meant to drag a suitcase along Bourbon Street. The positive aspect is that the pre-check-in time of the hotel is precisely the time to have a first impression of the city: strolls, sightseeing attractions, snacks, and a bit of culture to introduce the next several days of your journey.
In case you are bearing bags in your hands, you should do it first to get the rest of your morning relaxed. An easier way around it is to utilize luggage storage New Orleans so that you can do a one-day bag only and keep your options open.
Start in the French Quarter for the classic first impression.
The French Quarter is a small place that is easily accessible on foot and is laden with the details that make New Orleans unique in all aspects. Start with the slow walk along the balconies and courtyards, then proceed towards Jackson Square. And though you may not want to dine out there, there is the feeling of the place, musicians, artists, and that indefinable combination of the past and the present.
A few easy pre-check-in stops:
- St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square.
- Have a quick bite in the Café du Monde.
- Galleries and window shopping: Royal Street.
Grab a late breakfast or early lunch like a local
The identity of the city includes food, and so you should begin early as well. When you are hungry, strike at something that does not demand a protracted sit-down lunch- especially when you are on the look out of the check-in time later.
Popular options to look for:
- Pastry or coffee with Beignets.
- Something filling a Po-boy or muffuletta.
- Gumbo or jambalaya, in case you would like a taste of real New Orleans immediately.
Take a streetcar ride for an easy, scenic reset.
You want to travel farther without any hurry, so ride in a streetcar. It is one of the easiest means of witnessing how the character of the city is transformed as one moves away from the tourist-infested center to calmer, greener areas.
Two easy ideas:
- Ride to the Garden District and observe old houses and streets with oak trees.
- Take the ride to interlude heavy walks in the Quarter and downtown.
Choose one museum or attraction that fits your vibe
Pre-check-in time should be dedicated to one anchor-type activity, something you can have and not feel like you must spend the full day. The National WWII Museum can easily keep your attention if you love history. In case you prefer to make it light, the riverfront is a good place to look at, shop, and watch people.
Good places to visit within a short time:
- National WWII Museum (plan additional time in case you become hooked)
- The riverfront is close to the French Quarter.
- Audubon Aquarium space to have a quick and casual visit.
Build in a little flexibility before you head to your hotel.
Early arrival creates the greatest error of attempting to do too much. Rather, make your schedule basic and open to surprises, such as accidentally discovering live music, a courtyard you want to hang out in, or you want to sit somewhere and have a cold drink and observe the city go by.
Before checking in, it is useful to:
- Establish the check-in time and place of your hotel.
- Have a backup plan ready, just in case you have time to spare.
- Keep water in you–New Orleans heat can creep up on you.
Conclusion
The pre-check-in hours need not be a dead period for the hotel. They can be the beginning of the best in your trip to New Orleans: A walk through the French Quarter, a ride on a streetcar, a first meal, and one outstanding sight. Pack early, be light with your plans, and leave the city to make tempo.
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