The best places 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’s 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, all year round, from artists from Preservation’s collective, including the world-renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band. 

Snug Harbor on Frenchmen is a classic jazz lounge. The historic building offers something for everyone: three separate rooms are dedicated to drinking, dining, and live music, respectively. Members of New Orleans music royalty, like Charmaine Neville, Stanton Moore and James Singleton are Snug Harbor mainstays. Whether in the mood for low-key vibes or a swinging night out, this intimate, dimly lit space will deliver. 

This upscale jazz lounge in the Royal Sonesta has a classy-retro vibe. With luxurious seating and top-notch cocktails, it’s THE place 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.

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 comes alive, 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 Miss Sophie Lee, Washboard Chaz Blues Trio and Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns. 

Nestled between the strip clubs, neon signs and bars serving hand grenades and hurricanes on Bourbon Street, it is the oldest operating jazz club in New Orleans. Fritzel’s European Jazz Club is the place to hear traditional jazz and French gypsy jazz music with a classic cocktail in hand every night of the week. 

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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.

Maple Leaf in the Riverbend area of Uptown always feels like a really fun house party. It’s a local favorite for seeing New Orleans legends and newcomers every night of the week. Its humble digs, back patio and social atmosphere are always prime for a good time. World-class jazz and jazz-influenced musicians like John Cleary, George Porter, Jr. and Johnny Vidacovich play the venue regularly.

Not only does the New Orleans Jazz Museum celebrate the history of jazz and its influences on the city through engaging, interactive exhibits, it also hosts live music in the courtyard, on the balcony and virtually. One of the best series the museum hosts is Prime Examples of Excellence in Music, curated by composer, jazz pianist and educator Jesse McBride. The series pays tribute to the legacy of the Prime Example Jazz Club (closed in 2020) and features musical arrangements by McBride performed by up-and-coming contemporary jazz musicians and veteran musicians.

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.

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. New Orleans jazz professionals John Fohl, Rick Trolsen and Joe Krown are Dos Jefes staples.

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 Wednesdays through Saturdays.

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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.

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. Don’t miss the La Soldadera cocktail, the chili verde pulled pork and Ms. Moon’s Bulgogi rice bowl.

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. 

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.

One of several Frenchmen Street clubs, d.b.a. 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, Smoking Time Jazz Club and the Palmetto Bug Stompers, among other genres.

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, head out to the spacious patio, cozy up by a canopy of trees and order from the excellent food menu. To complete the experience, Baccchanal hosts a variety of established and up-and-coming musicians, part of the next wave of New Orleans talent.