Discover the Best Jazz Clubs in New Orleans: A Guide for Visitors and Locals
New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant jazz scene, and several clubs stand out for their atmosphere, music, and history. Whether you are a visitor or a local, here is a list of the top jazz clubs in the city that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans jazz.
Preservation Hall
Location: French Quarter
History: Preservation Hall has been a staple of the New Orleans jazz scene since 1961, featuring traditional jazz performances and a rich history of showcasing local musicians.
Preservation Hall is recognized as an iconic venue that has become an essential part of the New Orleans jazz scene. The hall's intimate space and dedication to traditional jazz creates a memorable experience for both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy live performances of authentic jazz music, often featuring respected local artists. The venue has a storied history that reflects the deep-rooted musical heritage of New Orleans.
The Spotted Cat Music Club
Location: Frenchmen Street
Amenities: This cozy, intimate venue offers live music nearly every night, with a mix of jazz, swing, and blues, making it a favorite among locals and tourists.
The Spotted Cat Music Club is a beloved spot on Frenchmen Street, known for its cozy and intimate atmosphere. The venue is popular with both locals and tourists, who come to enjoy the vibrant live music scene. The Spotted Cat hosts a diverse range of musical acts, including jazz, swing, and blues, creating a welcoming environment for a variety of audiences. The club's focus on quality performances and its commitment to local talent have made it a must-visit destination for jazz enthusiasts in New Orleans.
Blue Nile
Location: Frenchmen Street
Genres: This club is particularly known for its jazz and funk acts and often features both local and touring musicians.
Blue Nile is another notable venue on Frenchmen Street renowned for its variety of music, with a particular emphasis on jazz and funk. The club offers a unique experience where visitors can enjoy a mix of local and touring acts. Blue Nile's diverse lineup of artists and its commitment to showcasing different genres make it a popular destination for jazz and funk enthusiasts. Whether you are a fan of traditional jazz or contemporary funk, you are likely to find something that appeals to you at Blue Nile.
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro
Location: French Quarter
Features: This venue combines a restaurant and a jazz club offering excellent food along with live jazz performances, featuring a range of artists and a more upscale vibe.
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro is a unique combination of a restaurant and a jazz club that offers a sophisticated dining experience alongside live jazz performances. The venue combines the best of both worlds, providing a more upscale atmosphere with top-notch food and an array of talented artists. Visitors can enjoy both excellent cuisine and live jazz, making Snug Harbor a standout choice for those looking for a refined evening out in New Orleans.
The Jazz Playhouse
Location: Royal Sonesta Hotel
Activities: This club features nightly jazz performances in a stylish setting, often showcasing a mix of local talent and renowned musicians.
Located at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, The Jazz Playhouse is a stylish venue that hosts nightly jazz performances. The club offers a more upscale setting and is a great place for visitors who want to experience live jazz in a sophisticated environment. The Jazz Playhouse often features a mix of both local and internationally recognized performers, providing a diverse and enriching musical experience. Whether you are a music lover or a hotel guest, The Jazz Playhouse is a must-visit spot for an unforgettable journey through New Orleans jazz.
Tipitinas
Location: Uptown
Genres: While primarily known for its focus on funk and rock, Tipitinas also hosts jazz shows and has been a key venue in the New Orleans music scene since 1977.
Tipitinas, located in Uptown New Orleans, is primarily known for its focus on funk and rock but also hosts jazz shows. Since 1977, this venue has been an integral part of the vibrant music scene in the city. While its primary genres are funk and rock, fans of jazz often flock to Tipitinas to catch live performances by various artists. The club's rich history and diverse programming make it a must-visit location for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of New Orleans music.
The Maple Leaf Bar
Location: Near the courthouse, off Tulane
Features: A laid-back bar that features live music most nights, famous for its lively atmosphere and hosting many legendary jazz and funk musicians.
The Maple Leaf Bar is a laid-back and lively establishment located near the courthouse on Tulane Avenue. Known for its intimate and personalized atmosphere, the bar is popular among both locals and visitors. The Maple Leaf Bar often hosts live music most nights, drawing a dedicated crowd of music lovers. Its historical significance in hosting legendary jazz and funk musicians makes it a destination worth visiting for those seeking a true New Orleans experience.
Sidebar: The Most Interesting Club Right Now
For those seeking a unique experience, the Sidebar is highly recommended. This tiny venue, located just off Tulane near the courthouse, can hold only about 25 people in the listening room and a similar number in the adjacent bar. It is popular with locally well-known musicians who play stuff they don't usually do in their regular acts and in combos other than their usual. The Sidebar offers an intimate and personal atmosphere, making it a favorite among music enthusiasts who value authenticity and connection.
While it may be slightly out of the way, the short trip to Sidebar from the popular spots in the French Quarter and on Frenchmen Street is well worth it. Make sure to check the schedule ahead of time to catch the performances!