Where to hear jazz in New Orleans

Preservation Hall is an iconic jazz bar in New Orleans steeped in history. Founded in 1961, it’s known for its intimate live jazz shows in the heart of the French Quarter throughout New Orleans and beyond (it has been home to jazz legends George Lewis, The Humphrey Brothers and lots more over the years). Now, you can catch live music there every night of the week, year-round, from artists from Preservation’s collective, including the world-renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Time Out tip: Get your tickets online in advance, and note that no food or drinks are sold and no outside food or drinks are allowed.

Address: 726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116

Price: $28.50 Standing, $43.50 Seated, $53.50 Front Row

This upscale jazz lounge in the Royal Sonesta has a classy-retro vibe. With luxurious seating and top-notch cocktails, it’s one of the swankiest places to see some of the best jazz musicians in New Orleans, representing a range of styles. From Nayo Jones to Big Sam’s Funky Nation, the Jazz Playhouse always has a show worth checking out.

Time Out tip: Make a night of it and dine at Restaurant R’evolution for an unforgettable meal.

Address: 300 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Price: Varies

Snug Harbor on Frenchmen is a classic jazz lounge with intimate, cabaret style seating in the Music Room. Members of New Orleans music royalty, like Charmaine Neville, Delfayo Marsalis and Herlin Riley are Snug Harbor regulars. The Bistro is a great spot for pre-show dining. Whether you’re in the mood for low-key vibes or a swinging night out, this intimate, dimly-lit space will deliver.

Time Out tip: Can’t get enough of the vibe? You can stay upstairs in Snug Harbor’s one-room apartment with excellent balcony views.

Address: 626 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Price: Varies

Nestled between the strip clubs, neon signs and bars serving hand grenades and hurricanes on Bourbon Street, Fritzel’s European Jazz Club is the oldest operating jazz club in New Orleans. It's housed in a building dating back to 1831, an ideal spot to hear traditional jazz while sipping a cocktail. Even better, the music starts midday and goes well into the night.

Time Out tip: Give yourself time to settle in before a set to take in the atmosphere of the historic setting.

Address: 733 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Price: Free

Located on the third floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel on Canal Street, this elegant lounge features its namesake musician Jeremy Davenport every Friday and Saturday night. Davenport, a renowned jazz trumpeter and singer, performs originals and standards with his band. It’s a classy spot to hear some swinging jazz before or after a night out in the Quarter.

Time Out tip: If you’re visiting during the holidays, don’t miss the opportunity to check out the hotel’s decor—including its signature gingerbread streetcar—in between sets.

Address: 921 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112

Price: Free

Right inside the entrance of the Pontchartrain Hotel is the cozy, wood-paneled Bayou Bar. Its storied past includes frequent visits by Frank Sinatra and Truman Capote, and it’s the spot where the New Orleans Saints franchise was christened in 1966. But the intimate vibe is perfect for live music—mostly jazz trios and solo artists—on tap Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Time Out tip: Bayou Bar has its own menu, but the hotel’s hip restaurant Jack Rose is a lively place to dine before or after a show.

Address: 2031 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130

Price: Free

The iconic Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone is known for its rotating bar and classic cocktails. It’s been spinning since 1949, and draws locals and visitors alike for its swanky but laid-back vibes. The bar hosts live music every night (plus daytime sets on Fridays and Saturdays) with a roster of talented jazz musicians, not to mention jazz vocalist Lena Prima—daughter of Louis Prima.

Time Out tip: A seat at the storied bar is hard to come by, but there’s plenty of seating otherwise, plus room for dancing.

Address: 214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Price: Free

Things get funky at the Spotted Cat. The venue itself is low-key-looking, covered in local art and designed by folk artist Dr. Bob. But come evening, this music venue springs to life, and you’ll be swung arm in arm, foot tapping or singing along. Check out the Spotted Cat’s calendar for its upcoming events—frequent performers include Panorama Jazz Band, Aurora Nealand and Treme Brass Band. 

Time Out tip: Spotted Cat is mostly standing room only and frequently reaches max capacity, so get there before the first set or during a set break.

Address: 623 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70117

Price: Free

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This moody, vintage-style jazz club offers an authentic slice of the city's musical heritage. Nightly performances at Mahogany Jazz Hall feature both legendary and emerging artists. The intimate atmosphere, complete with cozy seating and dim lighting, sets the perfect stage for a night of soulful rhythms and sultry melodies. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails while the music transports you to another era.

Time Out tip: The club fills up fast, especially on weekends, so arrive early to grab a good seat.

Address: 125 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Price: One drink minimum

A beautiful new addition to the Omni Royal Orleans, Three Maries is a moody, intimate spot with exceptional sound that channels the rich musical heritage of the city. Catch live music nightly on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, with regular sets from the likes of Glen David Andrews and Leroy Jones. An elevated cocktail program features the classic Brandy Crusta, signature Royal Old Fashioned and several musically-inspired creations.

Time Out tip: The menu of small bites is equally impressive, with snacks like jambalaya arancini and petite muffulettas.

Address: 621 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Price: Free

With its humble digs, back patio and social atmosphere, Maple Leaf is a local favorite for seeing New Orleans legends and newcomers every night of the week. While the Leaf hosts everything from brass and funk to rock and reggae, jazz is frequently on the roster.  World-class jazz and jazz-influenced musicians like Jon Cleary, George Porter, Jr. and Johnny Vidacovich play the venue regularly.

Time Out tip: Can’t make it to a show? Catch a livestream from the bar nightly on YouTube.

Address: 8316 Oak St, New Orleans, LA 70118

Price: Varies

Not only does the New Orleans Jazz Museum celebrate the history of jazz and its influences on the city through engaging, interactive exhibits and talks, it also hosts free live music in its Performance Center and on the balcony. Catch musicians like Helen Gillet, Sari Jordan, Arrowhead Jazz Band and more. The Museum even hosts yoga classes accompanied by live jazz.

Time Out tip: A limited number of passes are available at the ticket desk for Performance Center shows, but all you need for an outdoor balcony set is a blanket or chair.

Address: 400 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116

Price: Free

Dos Jefes is an unassuming oasis on Tchoupitoulas Street in Uptown, boasting laid-back vibes alongside live jazz music. It’s where the New Orleans jazz tradition thrives in a low-key, relaxed setting perfect for hanging out with old and new friends inside or on the tropical patio.

Time Out tip: If you’re looking for a place to eat nearby, Frankie & Johnny’s offers another very local experience.

Address: 5535 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70115

Price: Free

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Operating out of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve French Quarter Visitor Center, the NOJNHP celebrates the living legacy that is jazz. In addition to exhibits and ranger-led talks, you can catch live performances regularly throughout the week, from jazz bands and vocalists to second line performances and drum circles. It’s a great way to learn about the history and heritage of jazz music in New Orleans.

Time Out tip: You might even catch a cooking demo, because music and food are intertwined in the city.

Address: 419 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Price: Free

As the name suggests, Three Muses checks all the New Orleans boxes: music, food and drinks. You’ll find the highest quality versions of all three at this cozy club on Frenchmen Street. Listen to jazz and its variations while enjoying an expertly mixed drink and delicious small plates.

Time Out tip: The small menu is packed with flavor, from Korean specialties to traditional red beans and rice.

Address: 536 Frenchmen Street New Orleans, LA 70116

Price: Free

The Hotel Fontenot’s fanciful Peacock Room is elegant with a touch of eccentricity. In addition to expertly crafted cocktails, you can enjoy the sultry sounds of Da Lovebirds, featuring contemporary-jazz singer Robin Barnes—"The Songbird of New Orleans"—every Thursday night.

Time Out tip: Inventive cocktails enhance the experience, but zero proof options are just as impressive.

Address: 501 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Price: Free

Although Tipitina’s isn’t primarily known for jazz, any music-related New Orleans list would be remiss to exclude this institution. The venue was named after a song by Professor Longhair, who spent his later years playing here and whose portrait is displayed above the stage. Tipitina’s is a favorite of both local and touring bands playing funk, brass, rock, hip hop and, of course, jazz. 

Time Out tip: Be sure to check out Tip’s Walk of Fame along Napoleon Avenue outside—it’s a who’s who of iconic New Orleans musicians.

Address: 501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115

Price: Varies

One of several Frenchmen Street clubs, DBA is among the top places to hear many different types of New Orleans music, including jazz. Its sleek, dark wooden interior generates cool vibes and those who appreciate craft beer and cocktails will love the extensive and well-curated drink selection. Hear the likes of Treme Brass Band, Corey Henry and more.

Time Out tip: Peruse the Frenchmen Art Bazaar across the street before or after a show.

Address: 618 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Price: Varies

Besides being one of the top wine bars in the country, Bacchanal down in the Bywater neighborhood offers a dreamy setting to hear local jazz bands. After picking out a bottle of wine from the front shop, order from the excellent food menu (or build your own charcuterie plate) and head out to the spacious patio to cozy up under the canopy of trees and listen to the music.

Time Out tip: Bacchanal hosts daytime shows on weekends, so you can combine a stroll of the colorful neighborhood with some top-notch music.

Address: 600 Poland Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117

Price: Free