New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and the city's musicians have refined and expanded the genre in many ways. Frenchmen Street, located just steps from the French Quarter, is the beating heart of the New Orleans live music scene. This is where you can find some of the best jazz venues in the city, such as The Spotted Cat, Snug Harbor, Tipitina's and more. The Spotted Cat on Frenchmen Street is the illustrious destination for all things jazz, metal and funk in New Orleans.
This is a must-visit bar and music venue, where you can listen to and dance to local favorites, such as the Washboard Chaz Blues Trio, Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns, Miss Sophie Lee, Hot Club of New Orleans and more. The small, informal space is adorned with quirky artwork by local popular artist Dr. Ready. Snug Harbor is another great jazz venue on Frenchmen Street. Members of New Orleans' musical royalty, such as Charmaine Neville, Stanton Moore and James Singleton, are the pillars of this club.
Although Tipitina's isn't primarily known for jazz, any music-related New Orleans list would be negligent if it excluded this institution. A short walk from the French Quarter, head to Frenchmen Street to see the highest concentration of the best live music in New Orleans. Don't let the lack of neon lights fool you; behind those plain wooden signs and dark windows that dot the 500 and 600 French blocks, you'll find some of New Orleans' most famous music venues, along with elegant and up-and-coming artists. The French, crowded, boisterous and vibrant, might be the stretch of asphalt with the most consistent music in New Orleans. It's where the New Orleans jazz tradition thrives in a relaxed and discreet environment, perfect for hanging out with old and new friends indoors or on the tropical patio. From Jazz Fest and French Quarter Fest to Creole Tomato Fest and Bayou Boogaloo, New Orleans festivals are always a great time to celebrate the region's music, food, culture, and more. There's no better place to hear live jazz than New Orleans.
So if you're looking for a great night out filled with amazing music and atmosphere, head to Frenchmen Street for an unforgettable experience.
