As we all know, New Orleans wouldn't be half the city it is if it weren't for its musical culture, influence, and background. From jazz to blues and so on, the Big Easy is the kind of city in which you're sure to hear music playing anywhere and everywhere.
Whether it be on the streets of the French Quarter or at an upscale restaurant with handcrafted cocktails and dishes, you're bound to hear a tune, but if you can't get enough of the music, look no further. Here are some of the best NOLA music clubs to check out.
10 Best Music Clubs in NOLA
1. House of Blues
225 Decatur St.
houseofblues.com
The House of Blues is widely-acclaimed as the ultimate live music hall. The New Orleans location is one of many found across the nation, while offering a still-distinct experience. The NOLA House of Blues features concerts daily, but with a second floor that opens the venue up to general seating, and balcony spots; a restaurant and multiple bars also provide a much-needed refreshment within the intimate space.
Regardless of taste, you will most likely find an artist, group, or event that will stand out to you and create that itch that just can't be scratched. Private meetings and events are also available. With the accompanying event scheduling specialists, you can have all the necessary ingredients in creating that perfect night.
2. Tipitina's
501 Napoleon Ave.
tipitinas.com
Musical enthusiasts opened this venue to celebrate the talents of Professor Longhair, who was a famous local performer, composer, and pianist. Longhair would perform at the venue from its creation in 1977 until his death in 1980. The venue is now owned by members of the band Galactic, a New Orleans-based jam band/group that created an accompanying fund called the "Tip-It" foundation, aimed at supporting and promoting the future of gulf-south music and culture via the venue itself.
Tipitina's boasts a stacked calendar of musical talent year-round, and featured many more legendary artists throughout its history. Local favorites like Trombone Shorty and the Neville brothers have performed here, along with nationally recognized, iconic artists like James Brown, Willie Nelson, Lenny Kravitz, and more. So stop by and witness real New Orleans history unfold.
3. Maple Leaf Bar
8316 Oak St., (504) 866-9359
mapleleafbar.com
Maple Leaf Bar is unique and well-known for its 50-year continuous operation, offering live music seven days a week and even a poetry night. In this time, Maple Leaf Bar became home to, and has been frequented by, many a local legend (and not so local). Bruce Springsteen famously appeared for a sit-in with a band there.
The spot is home to Grammy-award winning artists, as well as up-and-coming bands trying to make a name for themself and live up to the legendary status of their peers. The genres at this long-running bar include tastes of the blues, funk, R&B, rock, zydeco, jazz, jam bands, and any combination or fusion of those.
4. The Howlin' Wolf
907 S. Peters St.
thehowlinwolf.com
Two music venues, a bar, and a grill all in one location? It almost sounds too good to be true. Not only is The Howlin' Wolf a place for live music and special events, it also serves as a vessel of support to local musicians, being an artist management as well.
In fact, The Howlin' Wolf currently manages two of the premier brass bands in the city, including the Grammy-award winning Rebirth Brass Band and the Grammy-nominated Hot 8 Brass Band. If this wasn't amazing enough, The Howlin' Wolf will also help you iron out the details of your own second line parade. From finding the perfect band to securing the appropriate parade permits, The Howlin' Wolf has everything you need to make your second line parade a raging success.
5. Spotted Cat Music Club
623 Frenchmen St.
spottedcatmusicclub.com
This quintessential jazz club is located in the heart of the Faubourg Marigny District on Frenchman Street. Known simply as "The Cat" by locals, the Spotted Cat ranks is heavily featured in many rankings for best jazz clubs in New Orleans. The venue's appearances in many movies, commercials, and print media reflects the outstanding musical impact and ambiance here.
At this bar, there's also a one drink minimum for all guests, ensuring a steady way for performers to be paid. Space is also first-come-first-serve at this spot; no reservations in advance. However, there is also no cover, making this spot a great stop for getting drinks and listening to jazz music while walking along Frenchman Street.
6. Santos Bar
1135 Decatur St., (504) 605-3533
santosbar.com
A unique member of this list, Santos bar is a distinctly Rock and Roll live music venue, descending from The Saint Bar & Lounge, a previous incarnation. Open from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., you will have plenty of time to stop by an enjoy a scheduled show from one of many artists.
The building has an eclectic history of revolving owners/proprietors since its construction in 1722. Past iterations of the location included an interesting array of businesses: an orphanage, hospital, brothel, rum raid bar, mafia hideout, and famous underground goth bar The Chrystal.
7. Blue Nile
532 Frenchmen St., (504) 766-6193
bluenilelive.com
The Blue Nile is one of the longest-standing music clubs on Frenchmen street, and for good reason. This venue features some of the most energetic funk, blues, soul, and brass shows, featuring local, national and international acts. The spot is also credited for birthing the musical culture of Frenchmen street (or rather its previous incarnation, the Dream Palace).
The intimate venue offers a large drink menu, and house merchandise. Additional features which work alongside this standing jazz club are the street-facing showroom and spacious upstairs balcony, which creates a perfect environment to witness the music of New Orleans in a place where many greats have stood before like Kermit Ruffins or Trombone Shorty.
8. Le Bon Temps Roule
4801 Magazine St., (504) 897-3448
lbtrnola.com
Featuring late night live music and grub, this music club's name is one that's well deserved. This neighborhood staple has been loved by many for over 40 years and has hosted local artists like The Soul Rebels, Kermit Ruffins, and Anders Osborne, along with legendary icons Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown and Walter "Wolfman" Washington.
With affordable tickets to their live musical events, there's no reason to pass up the opportunity to check out this endlessly fun New Orleans venue. Looking to host a private party? Le Bon Temps Roule is willing to cooperate with and accommodate you to make sure you have the event of a lifetime at one of New Orleans' most unforgettable venues.
9. The Maison
508 Frenchman St., (504) 371-5543
maisonfrenchman.com
The Maison prides itself in being a true, bonafide New Orleans jazz club. The spot features a wide array of rotating groups which you can enjoy alongside a delicious meal in their dining room. This spot even offers reserved seating for a truly premium experience out on the town.
The Maison also offers several other unique special events and opportunities. These include a Jazz Brunch every Sunday, a drag show every Friday and Saturday, mixology classes, a Murder Mystery, and more! So check out this location today and see what suits your tastes.
10. d.b.a.
618 Frenchmen St., (504) 942-3731
dbaneworleans.com
This eccentric spot packs a punch, offering a selection of craft beers and cocktails along with live music and special guest artists. Have a birthday or maybe a business party coming up soon? Look no further, cause d.b.a. hosts private events.
And if you can't get enough and wish to take a piece of d.b.a. home with you, check our their array of merchandise from t-shirts to baseball hats!
Mingle To The Sound of Live Music
There's no better way of getting to meet people than taking part in some music filled fun, especially when that music is live! Whether you prefer a more intimate setting with billiards and beers or one of New Orleans' most famous cocktails and club-like dance floors, you're guaranteed to find either or and anything else in between while in the Crescent City!
