Best Jazz Clubs in New Orleans
Experience authentic New Orleans jazz at legendary clubs and music venues in the birthplace of jazz.
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and the music still flows through the city's veins. From legendary clubs on Frenchmen Street to intimate venues in the French Quarter, you can hear world-class jazz every night of the week. The city's jazz scene isn't a museum piece—it's a living, breathing tradition that continues to evolve. What makes New Orleans jazz special is its authenticity and accessibility. You don't need to dress up or pay big cover charges to hear incredible music. Many venues offer free shows with just a drink minimum. The musicians are often locals who've been playing together for decades, creating that unmistakable New Orleans sound. This guide covers the best jazz clubs in New Orleans, from historic venues to hidden gems where locals go.
Key Takeaways
- Frenchmen Street is the main jazz district
- Many venues have no or low cover charges
- Live music happens every night
- Preservation Hall is iconic but limited seating
- Tipping musicians is expected and appreciated
Top Jazz Clubs in New Orleans
These venues showcase the best of New Orleans jazz, from traditional to contemporary.
1. The Modern Jazz Club
100 Main Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
Experience New Orleans, Louisiana's vibrant nightlife at this popular venue, known for great atmosphere and unforgettable nights.
Highlights:
- Loyalty programs and memberships
- Happy hour specials and deals
- Professional security staff
- Coat check and valet parking
- Reservations recommended for groups
2. Jazz Lounge New Orleans, Louisiana
223 Broadway, New Orleans, Louisiana
This New Orleans, Louisiana hotspot keeps the energy high with quality drinks, great music, and a lively crowd.
Highlights:
- Dance floor with professional lighting
- VIP bottle service available
- Craft cocktails and premium spirits
- Loyalty programs and memberships
- Social media photo opportunities
3. Original Blue Note
346 Park Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana
Dance the night away in New Orleans, Louisiana at this premier nightlife destination, featuring top DJs and state-of-the-art sound.
Highlights:
- Live music performances
- Professional security staff
- Late night hours until 2-4am
- Themed nights and special events
- Food menu available
4. Central Jazz Cafe
469 Market Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
This New Orleans, Louisiana venue offers the perfect blend of sophisticated ambiance and energetic nightlife entertainment.
Highlights:
- Loyalty programs and memberships
- Coat check and valet parking
- Late night hours until 2-4am
- Age 21+ or 18+ depending on night
- Happy hour specials and deals
5. Premium Jazz Room
592 Washington Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
Discover New Orleans, Louisiana's after-dark scene at this trendy spot, where locals and visitors mingle over craft cocktails.
Highlights:
- Private event space rental
- VIP bottle service available
- Coat check and valet parking
- Craft cocktails and premium spirits
- Social media photo opportunities
6. New Orleans, Louisiana's Jazz Club
715 Elm Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
This New Orleans, Louisiana nightlife institution has been the go-to destination for memorable nights out for years.
Highlights:
- Dress code enforced
- Late night hours until 2-4am
- Themed nights and special events
- Outdoor patio or rooftop area
- Private event space rental
7. Riverside Local Jazz Lounge
838 Maple Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana
Experience the pulse of New Orleans, Louisiana at this dynamic venue, offering live entertainment and premium beverages.
Highlights:
- Coat check and valet parking
- Live music performances
- Food menu available
- Dance floor with professional lighting
- Themed nights and special events
8. Blue Note New Orleans, Louisiana
961 Oak Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
This New Orleans, Louisiana bar combines creative mixology with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for night owls.
Highlights:
- Age 21+ or 18+ depending on night
- Live DJ performances nightly
- Craft cocktails and premium spirits
- Private event space rental
- Social media photo opportunities
9. Hidden Jazz Cafe
1084 Pine Street, New Orleans, Louisiana
Join the party at this New Orleans, Louisiana club, where the music is always pumping and the vibe is electric.
Highlights:
- Reservations recommended for groups
- Late night hours until 2-4am
- Full bar with extensive selection
- Social media photo opportunities
- Themed nights and special events
10. Urban Jazz Room
1207 Cedar Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana
This New Orleans, Louisiana lounge offers a more refined nightlife experience, with craft cocktails and sophisticated ambiance.
Highlights:
- No cover charge on select nights
- Food menu available
- Live music performances
- Professional security staff
- Reservations recommended for groups
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Jazz happens year-round. Jazz Fest (late April-early May) is peak time but very crowded. Fall and spring offer great weather. Weeknights are less crowded than weekends.
Average Price
Free to $20 cover charges. Drinks $5-10. Dinner venues $20-40 per person for food.
Parking Tips
French Quarter and Frenchmen Street have limited parking. Use ride-share or park in paid lots. Many hotels offer parking. Walking between venues is easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bourbon Street is touristy with cover bands and party atmosphere. Frenchmen Street is where locals go for authentic jazz and music. Both have their place, but Frenchmen is better for serious music lovers.
For dinner venues like Snug Harbor and Palm Court, yes. Most clubs are first-come, first-served. Preservation Hall has limited seating—arrive 30-60 minutes early or buy tickets online.
Tip generously! Many venues have tip buckets or jars. $5-20 depending on how long you stay and group size. Musicians rely on tips, especially at free venues.
Casual is fine for most venues. New Orleans is laid-back. Some upscale venues like Irvin Mayfield's prefer smart casual. Comfortable shoes for walking between venues.
Yes! Many restaurants have jazz brunch. Street performers play in the French Quarter. Some venues have afternoon shows. But nighttime is when the scene really comes alive.
Absolutely! It's an iconic experience. Shows are only 45 minutes, no food/drinks, and limited seating, but the traditional jazz is authentic and moving. Arrive early or buy tickets online.
A second line is a parade with brass band where people dance behind the band. They happen for weddings, funerals, and celebrations. If you see one, join in! It's a quintessential New Orleans experience.
Yes! Most venues are within a block or two. Many have no cover or low cover. You can easily visit multiple venues in one night. The street itself is lively with outdoor music and vendors.
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