New Orleans is arguably the live music capital of the world. As the birthplace of jazz, the city resonates with a vibe and soul unique to anywhere else. Live bands, street performers, parades, and festivals fill New Orleans with joyful noise year-round. From Frenchman Street’s jazz clubs to the storied venues along Bourbon Street, the city offers an incredible diversity of live music.
| No. | Venue | Music Genre | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preservation Hall | Traditional Jazz | A historic venue showcasing traditional jazz in an intimate setting. |
| 2 | Tipitina’s | Various | Historic venue known for rock, funk, blues, and brass bands. |
| 3 | House of Blues | Various | Part of a famous chain, featuring a range of genres and big names. |
| 4 | Maple Leaf Bar | Funk, Blues | An iconic club known for its R&B, funk, zydeco, and folk music. |
| 5 | Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro | Jazz, Soul | Intimate club with top jazz professionals and diverse music. |
| 6 | Palm Court Jazz Cafe | Jazz, Swing | Elegant jazz cafe offering traditional and swing jazz with Creole cuisine. |
| 7 | One Eyed Jacks | Rock, Indie | An edgy venue in the French Quarter with alternative music styles. |
| 8 | Candlelight Lounge | Brass Band | Dive bar in Treme with funky brass band shows. |
| 9 | 365 Club | Eclectic | Bywater bar with a diverse music range including R&B, blues, and brass bands. |
| 10 | d.b.a. | Blues, Funk | Frenchmen Street venue known for its blues and funk music. |
| 11 | Chickie Wah Wah | Various | Mid-City music clubhouse with a range of styles from funk to folk. |
| 12 | Maison | Genre-Defying | Frenchmen Street hotspot known for its diverse live music offerings. |
| 13 | Howlin’ Wolf | Various | Venue offering a mix of rock, blues, and local indie bands. |
New Orleans’ musical heritage spans many genres, blending blues, zydeco, funk, R&B, rock and of course, classic and contemporary jazz. No matter your taste, you’ll discover inspiring music woven into everyday life here. In local parks, talented brass bands put a distinctly New Orleans spin on popular songs. And few things exemplify the city’s celebratory spirit more than the second line parades that frequently wind through the streets with upbeat music and fancy footwork.
This list spotlights 12 essential places to soak up New Orleans’ renowned live music scene. From intimate neighborhood venues to legendary concert halls, these spots showcase homegrown Louisiana talent and world-famous acts alike. Read on for where to catch unforgettable shows on your next visit.
Preservation Hall
Name and Location: Preservation Hall is located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s a historic music venue known for its dedication to traditional New Orleans jazz.
History and Significance: Established in 1961, Preservation Hall aims to preserve and perpetuate traditional New Orleans Jazz. It’s renowned worldwide for its intimate, authentic jazz experience.
What to Expect: Expect nightly jazz concerts in a small, intimate setting. Performances are acoustic, featuring a rotating lineup of musicians. The focus is solely on the music, with a minimalistic and historic ambiance.
Visitor Information: No food or drinks are served; seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. The venue is typically open nightly, and advance ticket purchases are recommended.
Preservation Hall ranks among the most immersive New Orleans musical experiences. Tucked inside a converted art gallery in the French Quarter, the venue focuses on preserving and showcasing traditional New Orleans jazz. You’ll often find talented multi-generational bands jamming together on stage, transporting audiences back to the early 20th century origins of the genre.
With shows happening multiple times per night, simply waiting in the queue outside builds the anticipation. The Hall only seats about 100 people on backless wooden benches. But once inside, you’ll soon forget about comfort with the joyful, high-energy music and laid-back hospitality. If you catch the mood right, expect artists inviting you to sing and dance along too.
While Preservation Hall promotes a vintage vibe, they also host special events with contemporary stars. Recent shows have featured artists like Jim James, Alina Hardin and Elvis Costello complementing the resident acts.
Tipitina’s
Name and Location: Tipitina’s is located in the Uptown area of New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s a popular music club known for its wide range of musical performances.
History and Significance: Founded in 1977, Tipitina’s was named after a song by Professor Longhair, who also performed there regularly. It’s a key venue in the New Orleans music scene, hosting many famous musicians over the years.
What to Expect: The club features a variety of music, including funk, jazz, blues, and rock. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and great acoustics.
Visitor Information: Tipitina’s usually has a lineup of events scheduled, so it’s best to check their calendar and buy tickets in advance. The venue offers a full bar.
Since opening in 1977, Tipitina’s stands as one of New Orleans’ most beloved and historic venues. Located at the corner of Napoleon and Tchoupitoulas in Uptown, it earned its stripes hosting unforgettable late night shows. Over the years, acts like The Neville Brothers, Professor Longhair, Pearl Jam, Phish and The Radiators have graced the iconic stage.
While Tipitina’s is best-known for high-energy rock, funk and blues concerts, the calendar also includes brass bands, jazz, R&B, folk and more. Local legends like Trombone Shorty, Galactic and Kermit Ruffins frequently blow the roof off with hometown crowds. The venue even hosts free shows on occasion, like the annual Night of Joy gospel event.
Beyond the music, Tipitina’s record store in the same building allows you to bring home vintage vinyl and new releases from Louisiana artists. Don’t miss their late night pizza window for re-fueling between sets too!
House of Blues
Name and Location: The House of Blues New Orleans is located in the French Quarter. It’s part of a chain of live music concert halls and restaurants.
History and Significance: The House of Blues brand was established in 1992, with the New Orleans location being one of the first. It’s known for its eclectic mix of live music and southern-inspired cuisine.
What to Expect: Expect a variety of musical genres, from rock to blues to hip-hop. The venue also features a restaurant and bar, with a unique folk-art decorated space.
Visitor Information: Tickets for events can be purchased in advance. The venue often has a mix of seated and standing-room-only spaces, with VIP options available.
As part of the well-known chain, House of Blues New Orleans has hosted A-list talent since opening in 2001. While it’s one of the larger venues on this list, the standing room only general admission creates an intimate concert feel. The multi-level balcony and VIP mezzanine options allow you to grab a table with bottle service if you prefer.
With the capacity to accommodate about 1,200 people, the French Quarter location brings in major touring bands and solo acts covering all genres. Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band, Pitbull, Iggy Azalea, Brad Paisley and Lil Wayne represent just a sampling of stars who’ve lit up the stage in recent years. Local funk and brass bands also appear regularly on the calendar. Blues, rock, zydeco, country, pop and hip hop all resonate within these walls.
The iconic House of Blues chain was founded in part to promote African-American cultural contributions to music. So it’s fitting to catch powerhouse contemporary artists in the midst of New Orleans’ musical mecca. Just steps from Bourbon Street, it’s also a convenient French Quarter concert option.
Maple Leaf Bar
Name and Location: The Maple Leaf Bar is located in the Carrollton neighborhood of New Orleans. It’s a long-standing music club known for its live performances.
History and Significance: Established in 1974, the Maple Leaf Bar has been a staple in the New Orleans music scene, hosting local and touring bands. It’s particularly noted for its support of local music.
What to Expect: The bar features live music most nights, focusing on a variety of genres, with a strong emphasis on funk and jazz. The atmosphere is casual and vibrant.
Visitor Information: The venue is small and can get crowded, so arriving early is advisable. There’s a bar with a selection of drinks available.
For a quintessential New Orleans nightlife experience, head just outside the French Quarter to the Maple Leaf Bar. This iconic club on Oak Street has been going strong since the 1970s. The worn wooden floors, pressed tin ceilings, hand-painted murals and leafy outdoor patio exude timeless character. Most nights you’ll find the stage and front room packed for their standing-room-only shows, while locals hold court at the bar in back.
The Maple Leaf made its name booking R&B, funk, zydeco, Latin and folk acts that get patrons dancing all night. On any given night you may catch bands like Papa Grows Funk, Bonerama or John Boutte playing their hearts out into the wee hours. Brass bands like the Rebirth Brass Band and Stooges Brass Band also perform here frequently.
While the Maple Leaf offers a bit of everything music-wise, they’re especially renowned for eclectic funk and blues-inspired groups. The diverse crowds and jubilant communal atmosphere perfectly capture the New Orleans live music vibe.
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro
Name and Location: Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro is located on Frenchmen Street in New Orleans. It’s a premier spot for live jazz in the city.
History and Significance: Snug Harbor has been a key venue in New Orleans’ jazz scene for over 30 years. It’s known for hosting some of the best local and national jazz talent.
What to Expect: Expect high-quality jazz performances in an intimate setting. The venue also includes a bistro serving Creole cuisine and a full bar.
Visitor Information: Reservations are recommended for shows, as the seating area is limited. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed.
For straight-ahead and progressive jazz by top professionals, Snug Harbor on Frenchmen Street rarely disappoints. The intimate club’s primarily a jazz venue, but often incorporates soul, R&B, funk and roots artists for more variety. With sets starting most evenings around 8 pm, you’ll usually catch two different bands per night.
While the rustic little space only accommodates 100 guests, the world-class resident and visiting musicianship at Snug Harbor enlarges the experience. If you’re hoping to spot homegrown jazz stars like Ellis Marsalis, Charmaine Neville, or Germaine Bazzle, this club should be on your radar.
Even A-list touring artists sometimes drop in to collaborate with the local groups when their schedules allow. The impressive atmosphere and acoustics entice major talents from across genres worldwide to play impromptu late night shows too.
Snug Harbor does offer dinner reservations, but most patrons come just for the music, ordering from a full bar menu. Arrive early on weekends to grab a seat near the stage or mingle upstairs in their Balcony Room overlooking the action.
Palm Court Jazz Cafe
Name and Location: Palm Court Jazz Cafe is situated in the French Quarter of New Orleans. It’s a traditional jazz club and restaurant.
History and Significance: The cafe has been a significant part of New Orleans’ jazz culture, offering a classic jazz club experience with a focus on traditional jazz styles.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy live jazz music along with Creole cuisine in a vintage New Orleans setting. The atmosphere is relaxed and geared towards jazz enthusiasts.
Visitor Information: It’s advisable to make reservations, especially on weekends. The cafe offers a dining experience along with the music.
For a more refined take on jazz supper clubs, the Palm Court Jazz Cafe sets an elegant mood. Tucked away inside the historic French Market, you’ll find first-rate Creole cuisine and wine pairings with your entertainment. White-tablecloth seating surrounds a focal point classic New Orleans jazz ensemble for a sophisticated experience.
While the Palm Court Jazz Cafe spotlights small jazz combos, their musical styles range from traditional and swing to Latin jazz and bossa nova. Oversized photos of jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday gaze down, reminding you of the genre’s rich history. The venue strikes an appealing balance between informal and upscale.
If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or impress a date, the Palm Court ambiance shines. But the rotating roster of top local musicians also draws devoted jazz fans night after night. Between multiple sets, you can stroll the legendary French Market next door to walk off the hearty Creole dishes. Just save room for their bread pudding finale!
One Eyed Jacks
Name and Location: Located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, One Eyed Jacks is a vibrant venue known for its eclectic range of events.
History and Significance: One Eyed Jacks has been a part of the New Orleans nightlife for many years, known for hosting a variety of live music, burlesque shows, and other performances.
What to Expect: Expect a diverse lineup of events, from rock bands and DJs to burlesque and comedy nights. The venue has a unique, slightly retro ambiance.
Visitor Information: Check their event calendar for upcoming shows and ticket information. The venue has a full bar and offers a lively nightlife experience.
For an edgy alternative vibe, One Eyed Jacks brings punk, indie rock, metal and more to the French Quarter. The venue inhabits a historic building that once housed a notorious brothel. While the debauchery’s toned down, a dark, sexy speakeasy energy endures. Dim lighting, red velvet wallpaper and sultry artwork set the scene for cutting-edge bands and solo artists.
Up-and-coming national indie groups have played One Eyed Jacks for years, often treating the intimate space as a proving ground en route to fame. The Black Keys, Neko Case, The National, Frank Turner, Hayes Carll and Grace Potter number among breakout bands that ignited this stage pre-stardom.
While One Eyed Jacks doesn’t solely book rock acts, you’re more likely to catch alternative, hard rock, Americana or indie styles in the graffiti-covered main hall and balcony. The venue also hosts recurring dance nights called One Eyed Disco fitting for their checkered past.
Candlelight Lounge
Name and Location: Candlelight Lounge is located in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans. It’s known for its authentic local jazz and blues experience.
History and Significance: The lounge is a staple in the local music scene, particularly famous for its Wednesday night brass band performances. It’s a key spot for experiencing grassroots New Orleans music culture.
What to Expect: A casual and friendly atmosphere with live music, typically featuring local jazz and brass bands. It’s a place to experience the heart and soul of New Orleans music.
Visitor Information: The lounge is more laid-back, with a local crowd. It’s a great place to enjoy music away from the more tourist-centric areas.
For an authentic Treme neighborhood experience minus tourist crowds, hit the Candlelight Lounge on North Robertson. This long-running dive bar offers some of New Orleans’ most joyful, funky brass band shows for just $5-10. What it may lack in creature comforts, the Candlelight makes up for with charisma and character.
The tiny corner stage and dance floor often overflow with bands like the TBC Brass Band or New Breed Brass Band delivery blistering sets. On Wednesdays, the glorious Tremé Sidewalk Steppers second line parade kicks off right from the lounge too. Arrive early to stake out seats on old church pews and memorabilia-covered tables.
While the Candlelight Lounge may appear rough around the edges, the infectious music and camaraderie create an utterly welcoming vibe. Regulars and out-of-towners alike chat up friendly conversations as a diverse mix of ages turn out to get their brass band fix. This neighborhood joint hides in plain sight as one of the most joyous places around.
365 Club
Name and Location: The 365 Club, location unspecified, appears to be a generic name and may refer to different venues in various locations.
History and Significance: Without a specific location, it’s challenging to provide historical and significance details for the 365 Club.
What to Expect: If this is a specific venue, visitors might expect regular music or entertainment events. The offerings would depend on the location and theme of the club.
Visitor Information: Further information would be needed to provide accurate visitor details for the 365 Club.
If you’re exploring New Orleans’ Musician’s Village area, don’t miss the 365 Club on Desire Street. Also nicknamed “Ten of Hearts,” this Bywater dive bar wears its eclecticism proudly. Any night of the week you may catch R&B, blues, brass bands, rock or a DJ spinning dance tunes. Occasional poetry readings and open mic events also graced the calendar pre-pandemic.
While the 365 Club offers picnic tables outside and a small indoor barroom, head through the side door to discover their trippy backyard oasis. Strands of lights crisscross above quirky art installations, rusted lawn chairs and glowing meteorite sculptures. When the stage lights up after dark, all atmosphere transports you away from the city.
Brass bands like the Stooges, Hot 8 and Soul Rebels often lead patrons in a marching second line parade right down the middle of Desire Street too. Even if you just come to soak up the eclectic clientele and psychedelic surroundings, something unexpected usually enlivens the experience.
d.b.a.
Name and Location: d.b.a. is a music club located on Frenchmen Street in New Orleans. It’s known for its live music and extensive selection of drinks.
History and Significance: d.b.a. has been a part of the New Orleans music scene for years, gaining a reputation for its support of local musicians and its wide range of spirits and beers.
What to Expect: Expect nightly live music performances, ranging from jazz and blues to rock and folk. The venue has a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Visitor Information: The club is known for its wide selection of beers, spirits, and wines. Checking the schedule for specific performances is recommended.
For a marquee music lineup every single night, d.b.a. on Frenchmen Street stays busy. The double-decker venue features bars and seated drinking areas on both floors, with a balcony wrapping around to gaze down at the stage. Food, cocktails and craft beers help fuel a festive atmosphere to match the world-class acts.
While d.b.a. books alternative rock, reggae, Americana and more, the calendar tilts decidedly toward blues and funk music. Distinguished musicians who’ve honed their horns, keys and guitars for decades are known to just sit in with house bands too. So while you’ll catch touring groups, surprise special guests keep things interesting.
Some standout bands with long-time d.b.a. residencies include John Mooney, Papa Mali and the Iguanas. Brass bands and Mardi Gras Indian groups also perform here regularly when not marching through the neighborhood. Basically, if you’re craving an upbeat dance party, d.b.a. provides the perfect soundtrack almost every single evening.
Chickie Wah Wah
Name and Location: Chickie Wah Wah is located in the Mid-City area of New Orleans, known for its live music and laid-back atmosphere.
History and Significance: Chickie Wah Wah has become a beloved venue for both local and touring acts, known for its intimate setting and quality sound system.
What to Expect: The venue hosts a variety of music, including blues, jazz, and Americana. It’s a great spot for enjoying music in a more relaxed setting.
Visitor Information: The club offers a selection of local craft beers and food. It’s advisable to check the performance schedule in advance.
Just upriver from the French Quarter, Chickie Wah Wah serves Mid-City as a definitive music clubhouse. The vintage blue-and-white building on Canal Boulevard invites guests to make themselves at home among the mismatched chairs, sofas, paintings and instruments lining walls. Weekly open mics and poetry slams fill out the calendar between local bands ranging stylistically from funk to folk to rock to blues.
Some standout regular acts at Chickie Wah Wah include Alex McMurray, Paul Sanchez, Shawn Williams and the eccentric Palmetto Bug Stompers. Brass bands and jazz groups occasionally provide a change of pace too. Find a spot on one of the tattered couches or belly up to the horseshoe bar and you’ll soon feel part of their extended family.
Beyond the great entertainment, Chickie Wah Wah also takes craft cocktails seriously. Their seasonal drinks menu enhances the throwback parlor vibe. And when hunger strikes, the kitchen cooks up mean Creole snacks like jambalaya egg rolls and crawfish pies to sustain the dynamic performances.
Maison
Name and Location: Maison is located on Frenchmen Street in New Orleans. It’s a popular venue for live music and dancing.
History and Significance: Maison has established itself as a key venue in the vibrant Frenchmen Street music scene, hosting a wide array of musical acts.
What to Expect: Maison features three stages with live music nightly, covering genres like jazz, funk, and brass bands. The venue also offers a full menu and bar.
Visitor Information: The venue often has no cover charge earlier in the evening, with a cover for later shows. It’s a great spot for dancing and enjoying diverse musical acts.
For a Frenchmen Street hotspot that defies genres, swing by Maison. What began as a humble neighborhood bar has blossomed into a diverse live music destination. Funk, soul, R&B, blues, jazz, reggae, rock and their self-described “Franco-Caribbean cha-cha” niche all fill the calendar.
The building’s shotgun-style layout means you’ll get intimate with fellow revelers, especially once the persistent dance parties kick in. For special events, Maison also opens their lush courtyard strung with lights and lanterns to extend the festivities. Here you may luck into one of their crawfish boils or roast pig feasts pairing perfectly with the bands.
While Maison books its share of touring talent, some hometown bands who’ve developed a loyal following here include Hot 8 Brass Band, Lynn Drury Band and Paul Varisco & The Milestones. The joyful musical conversations get amplified by the narrow space. So bring earplugs if loud volume isn’t your thing. But otherwise, relax and join the diverse crowds soaking up Maison’s eclectic essence.
Howlin’ Wolf
Name and Location: The Howlin’ Wolf is located in the Warehouse District of New Orleans. It’s a well-known music venue and bar.
History and Significance: Named after the famous blues singer Howlin’ Wolf, this venue has been a part of the New Orleans music scene for decades, hosting a variety of local and national acts.
What to Expect: Expect a range of musical performances, from rock and blues to jazz and hip-hop. The venue is spacious with a relaxed atmosphere.
Visitor Information: The Howlin’ Wolf often hosts late-night shows and has a full-service bar. Checking their event schedule in advance is recommended.
Just off trendy Magazine Street, the legendary Howlin’ Wolf venue balances grit and grandeur. Their converted warehouse space hosts everything from major touring rock and blues acts to acclaimed local indie bands in an upscale concert setting. State-of-the-art sound, lighting and video screens enhance standout bookings spanning classic to contemporary sounds.
In recent years, an eclectic mix of artists like Yo Gotti, Tanya Tucker, They Might Be Giants and Chromeo have all graced the main stage here. Their show calendar also regularly features beloved New Orleans mainstays like Dumpstaphunk, Anders Osborne and the Rebirth Brass Band whipping crowds into revelry.
For all its creature comforts, Howlin’ Wolf still exudes raw industrial charm too. Exposed brick walls, metal beams, distressed wood accents and repurposed factory lighting play up the vintage building. Their Salt + Smoke restaurant supplies fantastic Southern fare, while multiple full bars sling signature cocktails to complete a top-notch entertainment experience.
Bottom Line
This list only begins to capture New Orleans’ phenomenal live music landscape from French Quarter classics to local dives. Wherever your ears guide you, keep them open to discover new bands carrying on tradition. Brass bands may lead festive parades right past you, while individual buskers spread joy on street corners. Ultimately the best way to experience New Orleans’ musical heartbeat is to follow it freely through the vibrant air.