Ultimate Guide to New Orleans Nightlife

Activities
Dec 9, 2024

Finding the best places to enjoy New Orleans nightlife can be hard. This city is famous for its vibrant music and culture scene. Our article will guide you through the top spots, from iconic music venues to unique night tours.

Key Takeaways

  • New Orleans has famous music spots like Preservation Hall and The Spotted Cat Music Club for jazz lovers.
  • Visitors can explore the city's eerie side with Ghost Tours, Voodoo Walking Tours, and Haunted Carriage Rides.
  • Places like Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar and Carousel Bar & Lounge offer unique drinking experiences.
  • Live entertainment is a big deal in New Orleans, with venues like House of Blues hosting various music genres.
  • The city's nightlife includes historic bars dating back to the 18th century, providing an authentic taste of its culture.

Top Places to Stay While Enjoying New Orleans Nightlife

Are you enjoying the nightlife in New Orleans and looking for a great place to stay? Check out some of our amazing hotel options that will make your nights in the Big Easy even better:

  • Factors Row
    Located in the heart of downtown, Factors Row offers luxurious apartments with modern amenities. Whether you're enjoying live jazz or a late-night stroll, it's just minutes away from the action. Perfect for groups and families looking for a spacious, comfortable stay.
    🔗Visit Factors Row

  • St. Charles
    St. Charles is your gateway to exploring New Orleans. Situated along the iconic streetcar line, you’ll be just a short ride away from all the nightlife hotspots while staying in a quiet, relaxing space. Ideal for those who want the best of both worlds—excitement and serenity.
    🔗Check out St. Charles

  • Canal Quarters
    Stay at Canal Quarters to experience the charm of New Orleans with a modern twist. Located near the lively Canal Street, you’ll be steps away from popular bars, restaurants, and live music venues. This is the perfect spot for those who want to be right in the middle of it all.
    🔗Explore Canal Quarters

More Hotel Options

Still looking for the perfect place? Roami offers a variety of properties across New Orleans to suit every style and budget. Whether you're after a boutique apartment or a spacious suite, we've got you covered.

🔗Discover more places to stay here

With these fantastic options, you'll be sure to find the perfect home base to recharge before diving back into the incredible nightlife that New Orleans has to offer!

Iconic Music Venues

Discover three legendary music venues in New Orleans - Preservation Hall, The Spotted Cat Music Club, and Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro. These spots are where you can experience the heart and soul of live jazz performances in an intimate setting.

Preservation Hall

Preservation Hall is a famous music venue in the French Quarter of New Orleans. It opened its doors in 1961 to keep jazz music alive. Here, visitors enjoy live jazz by talented musicians in an intimate setting every night.

Preservation Hall, where jazz lives.

This place has no drinks or fancy lights but offers pure music experiences. Fans sit close to the artists, feeling each beat. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting to dive deep into New Orleans’ history and the soul of its jazz scene.

The Spotted Cat Music Club

The Spotted Cat Music Club stands out in French Quarter nightlife. It is loved for live music. Every night, visitors enjoy jazz bands, making it a top spot for music lovers. This club on Frenchmen Street gives a true New Orleans feel with its vibrant atmosphere.

People come here to dance and listen to jazz trios or bigger bands. The club does not serve food but focuses on good drinks and great music. It is small and fills up quickly, showing how popular it is among both locals and tourists.

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro is a must-visit spot on Frenchmen Street in New Orleans. This place stands out for its live jazz music every night. Musicians love this venue because of its friendly vibe and great acoustics.

People come here to enjoy the music along with tasty New Orleans food.

This bistro has been around for over 30 years. It has a cozy feel, making it perfect for listening to jazz. Visitors often talk about the delicious meals and the chance to see famous musicians up close.

If you like jazz or want to experience real New Orleans culture, Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro is the place to go.

Unique Night Tours

Discover the eerie past with Ghost Tours. Experience the mystique of New Orleans with Voodoo Walking Tours and Haunted Carriage Rides.

Ghost Tours

New Orleans is known for its Ghost Tours, offering an atmospheric glimpse into the city's haunted history. Visitors can engage in guided walking expeditions in the French Quarter to discover eerie tales of supernatural occurrences and voodoo folklore.

These journeys often meander through dimly lit pathways and historic landmarks, providing a captivating experience for those seeking more than just typical sightseeing.

Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, guests have the chance to visit renowned spots such as Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar and St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, immersing themselves in the chilling narratives that enshroud these places.

The mysterious allure of New Orleans is heightened during these outings, adding an additional layer of fascination to the city's enchanting ambiance.

Voodoo Walking Tours

Explore the mystical side of New Orleans with Voodoo Walking Tours. Journey through the French Quarter and discover the city's rich spiritual history. These tours offer an immersive experience, delving into the world of voodoo, a significant aspect of New Orleans' culture.

Gain insights into voodoo rituals and visit renowned sites like St Louis Cemetery No 1, where legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau is laid to rest.

Engage in the enchanting ambiance of voodoo as knowledgeable guides share captivating stories and historical insights on this unique cultural phenomenon. Uncover the practices of voodoo while strolling through the atmospheric neighborhoods, providing a fascinating glimpse into New Orleans' supernatural heritage.

Let these walking tours guide you on an unforgettable journey through one of America's most intriguing cities.

Haunted Carriage Rides

Explore the captivating streets of New Orleans with a mysterious twist through haunted carriage rides. As you set out on this spine-tingling journey, wander through the historic French Quarter and discover its ghostly legends and chilling tales.

The experience is designed for those desiring more than just a typical tour as it explores the supernatural world of the city. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, these tours reveal the mysteries of New Orleans' haunting past, providing an immersive firsthand experience for visitors.

These haunted carriage rides offer a captivating way to uncover the mysteries surrounding Bourbon Street and delve into captivating local folklore. Operating in one of America's most historical cities, they provide a mesmerizing glimpse into New Orleans' ever-evolving landscape while journeying through its rich cultural heritage and supernatural stories.

Not only do these tours create an atmospheric adventure, but they also offer a unique perspective on the city’s fascinating history – ideal for those aiming to discover its secrets in unforgettable ways.

Top Bars and Lounges

Experience the unique ambiance of Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, The Sazerac Bar, and Carousel Bar & Lounge in New Orleans. Find out more in our blog!

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, represents a piece of history, dating back to the 18th century. It captivates visitors with its signature cocktail, the "Voodoo Daiquiri," and an ambiance characterized by dimly lit rooms and warm fireplaces.

This establishment exudes an authentic charm, rich in history and enigma, offering live music for guests to revel in while savoring their preferred beverages.

Additionally, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar holds the distinction of being one of New Orleans' captivating locations, appealing to those intrigued by supernatural encounters. It's a place where the allure and mystique of New Orleans nightlife manifest, drawing in both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in its captivating atmosphere.

The Sazerac Bar

The Sazerac Bar, situated in the Roosevelt Hotel in the central business district of New Orleans, is a historic and iconic establishment. It is celebrated for being the birthplace of the Sazerac cocktail, one of America’s oldest cocktails dating back to 1838.

With its old-fashioned charm and classic ambiance, it attracts both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of New Orleans nightlife. The bar's elegant decor and live music performances create a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of the city.

Additionally, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar has been a cornerstone of New Orleans' nightlife since 1772. Known as one of the oldest bars in the United States, this dimly lit tavern exudes history and mystery with its ancient walls illuminated by candlelight.

Visitors can enjoy signature drinks such as their famous frozen daiquiris while listening to live piano music, making it an unparalleled experience in the heart of Bourbon Street.

Carousel Bar & Lounge

Located in the Hotel Monteleone on Royal Street, Carousel Bar & Lounge is a must-visit for those seeking an iconic New Orleans nightlife experience. This revolving bar, first installed in 1949, offers guests the chance to enjoy handcrafted cocktails while slowly rotating around the center stage, providing a unique and enchanting atmosphere.

With live entertainment and a sophisticated ambiance, this hotel also adds to the allure of the Lower Garden District's vibrant nightlife scene.

Live Entertainment Hotspots

New Orleans is home to a vibrant live entertainment scene with legendary venues like House Of Blues, Mahogany Jazz Hall, and Maple Leaf Bar. These hotspots promise an unforgettable night of music and performances that perfectly capture the city's unique rhythm and energy.

House Of Blues

House of Blues remains a renowned live entertainment venue in New Orleans. Providing an eclectic mix of music, including blues, jazz, and rock, this iconic institution has hosted some of the biggest names in the industry.

The lively atmosphere, top-notch sound system, and passionate performers ensure an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts visiting New Orleans.

The House of Blues is also distinguished for its delectable Southern-inspired cuisine, making it a popular spot for fine dining while enjoying live performances. Additionally, the establishment is known for its dueling piano bar, which adds another layer of entertainment to its offerings.

If you're looking for an authentic New Orleans nightlife experience with exceptional music clubs and fine dining options under one roof, House of Blues is definitely worth a visit.

Mahogany Jazz Hall

Mahogany Jazz Hall, nestled in the heart of New Orleans, is a go-to for jazz enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic taste of the city's musical heritage. The hall has been a fixture in the local music scene since it opened its doors in 1948 and continues to be a beloved venue for live jazz performances.

With its intimate setting and stellar acoustics, Mahogany Jazz Hall offers an immersive experience that transports visitors back to the golden era of jazz. The venue hosts talented musicians who showcase the diverse range of jazz styles that have shaped this iconic genre.

For tourists staying at Orleans hotels eager to immerse themselves in the vibrant nightlife unique to New Orleans, Mahogany Jazz Hall should be at the top of their list. Moreover, providing exceptional live entertainment options like Mardi Gras festivities, and exploring New Orleans' infamous nightlife including visiting Mahogany Jazz Hall.

Maple Leaf Bar

Maple Leaf Bar is a historic music venue in New Orleans. It has been showcasing live music since 1974 and is renowned for its vibrant jazz, blues, and funk performances. The bar's oak tree-shaped stage has hosted legendary musicians like Rebirth Brass Band and Professor Longhair.

Maple Leaf Bar is a favorite among locals and visitors looking for an authentic New Orleans music experience.

The bar offers an intimate setting with a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to immerse oneself in the city's rich musical heritage. With its cozy ambiance and top-notch performers, Maple Leaf Bar continues to be a must-visit destination for those seeking the soulful sounds of New Orleans.

Conclusion

New Orleans nightlife is a vibrant mix of music venues, unique night tours, top bars, and live entertainment. From iconic spots like Preservation Hall to the lively atmosphere at places like Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, there's something for everyone.

With options like ghost tours and haunted carriage rides, the city comes alive after dark with an energy that can't be missed. So whether you're into jazz or looking for a haunted adventure, New Orleans has it all when the sun goes down.

FAQs

1. What are the must-visit music venues in New Orleans for live jazz?

New Orleans is world-famous for its jazz scene, and there are several iconic music venues that every jazz enthusiast should visit. Preservation Hall is one of the most famous spots, offering intimate live jazz performances every night. The Spotted Cat Music Club on Frenchmen Street is a local favorite, known for its lively jazz bands and vibrant atmosphere. Another great option is Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, where you can enjoy jazz performances along with a delicious meal in a cozy setting. These venues are essential stops for experiencing authentic New Orleans jazz.

2. What are some unique nightlife experiences in New Orleans?

Beyond music, New Orleans offers unique and eerie night tours. Ghost Tours provide a chilling look into the city’s haunted history, taking visitors through the French Quarter’s most haunted sites. Voodoo Walking Tours delve into the spiritual side of the city, exploring the legends of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau and its cultural impact on New Orleans. For a unique twist, Haunted Carriage Rides offers a ghostly tour through the Quarter’s most mysterious streets in a traditional carriage, providing an atmospheric and unforgettable experience.

3. What are the best historic bars to visit in New Orleans?

New Orleans is home to many historic bars that offer a glimpse into the city’s past while enjoying a drink. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in the U.S., dates back to the 18th century and offers a cozy, candlelit atmosphere. The Sazerac Bar in the Roosevelt Hotel is famous for being the birthplace of the Sazerac cocktail, with elegant surroundings that add to the charm. Carousel Bar & Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone offers a unique experience with its revolving bar, where you can sip on classic cocktails while slowly rotating around the room.

4. What types of live entertainment can be found in New Orleans?

New Orleans is home to a variety of live entertainment venues that offer more than just music. The House of Blues hosts an eclectic mix of genres, from blues to rock, and also offers Southern-inspired dining. Mahogany Jazz Hall is a beloved spot for jazz enthusiasts, offering an intimate venue with stellar acoustics for live performances. Maple Leaf Bar is another classic venue, known for its lively blues, jazz, and funk performances. These venues are perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the local music culture.

5. Are there any night tours that focus on the supernatural side of New Orleans?

Yes, New Orleans is known for its rich history of the supernatural, and several tours explore this side of the city. Ghost Tours lead visitors through the haunted streets of the French Quarter, telling stories of famous hauntings and paranormal events. Voodoo Walking Tours focus on the mystical and spiritual practices that have shaped the culture of New Orleans, providing a fascinating look into the city’s Voodoo history. Haunted Carriage Rides offer a more relaxed, yet equally eerie experience, taking you through the most haunted parts of the city in a traditional carriage.