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Live Music Venues in the French Quarter

New Orleans is the birthplace of Jazz

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New Orleans is the birthplace of Jazz and is synonymous with live music, becoming a melting pot of genres. French Quarter entertainment can include anything from brass bands, rock bands, cover bands to karaoke, scattered throughout New Orleans, with countless venues that showcase its legendary sound. Below are just a few of our favorite live music venues:

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Preservation Hall

Located on St. Peters Street in the historic French Quarter, through the iron gate lies one of the world’s most respected music venues and the spiritual home of New Orleans jazz, Preservation Hall. This historic venue is dedicated to preserving traditional jazz, and is home to the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, who play four or five hour-long sets each night. Featuring some of the best musicians in the city in an intimate setting and no amplification, it offers a truly authentic jazz experience.

Tipitina’s

A favorite among locals, Tipitina’s is a legendary venue that hosts a variety of music genres, from funk to rock. Music clubs are rarely dedicated to a single musician, but this changed when local music enthusiasts opened the venue in 1977 in dedication to performer, composer, and pianist Henry Roeland Byrd, known as Professor Longhair. The venue has a deep connection to New Orleans’ music scene and is a must-visit for live music lovers.

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The Spotted Cat Music Club

Frenchman Street is home to the city’s best Jazz, with The Spotted Cat at its epicenter. Located in the Marigny, this small but lively club is one of the French Quarters best music venues; perfect for those looking to enjoy old-school jazz in an up-close setting. From brass quartets to big bands and swing, there is so much on offer. The energy here is contagious, making it a hotspot for both locals and tourists.

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