By PEAKLIFE
As the sun dips below the horizon, New Orleans sheds its daytime skin and reveals its nocturnal alter ego—a city pulsating with vibrant nightlife and a multitude of after-dark adventures. Whether you’re in the mood for the laid-back charm of a dive bar, the lively energy of Crescent City’s club scene, or want to immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of a jazz bar, there’s always something exciting to experience in the city.
Here are the best things to do at night in New Orleans.
1. Jazz Clubs
The streets and clubs of New Orleans come to life with what has been called “America’s only original art form.” Great jazz can be heard all over this town in the French Quarter, the Marigny, the Treme, uptown on Oak Street, and St. Claude Avenue. From traditional jazz to acid jazz, there is something for every ear, every day of the week. Tipitina’s, Preservation Hall, Palm Court Jazz Café, and Polo Club beckon music lovers in New Orleans.
Once a hidden gem among locals, Frenchmen Street is now recognised as one of New Orleans’ best spots for finding live music. The sounds of jazz, reggae, and blues spill out of clubs lining the corridor, making for a buzzing and vibrant atmosphere. Audiences flock to Frenchmen from all over the world to get a taste of authentic New Orleans music. Visitors frequent clubs like Snug Harbour, The Spotted Cat, d.b.a., Blue Nile, and Café Negril for the very best jazz music.
2. Late Night Food
New Orleans likes to stay up late, and so do some of its best restaurants. From freshly made Philly Cheesesteaks and decked-out hot dogs to beignets, bubbly, and 24/7 breakfast, the options are endless. No matter what part of the city your night is winding down in, there is at least one restaurant, bar, or lounge with a kitchen cooking up until the crack of dawn. Grab it to go, or sit down and stay awhile with a group of friends; the choice is yours. Step into Café Du Monde, The Elysian Bar, Palm & Pine, Tracey’s, and Bouligny Tavern, where culinary excellence meets the social side of New Orleans nightlife.
Sports bars also have their fair share of extravagance in New Orleans. New Orleans is filled with a host of hangouts perfect for sports bingeing. Local, national, international, college, or professional, no matter the season or sport, these spots have you covered. A match and a drink at Manning’s, Bayou Beer Garden, and endless other options await sports and beer fans.
3. Dance Clubs
From tango parties to twerking, bars and clubs offer music to keep your feet moving. This is a town where the dance floors are always crowded and second lines keep the beat in the street. From DJ-powered parties along the St. Claude corridor to Latin night pop-ups, there is always a dance club open. Dance the night away at The Saint, The Parish Room, and Catz Meow, among many other options.
4. Casinos
Gambling in New Orleans has been popular for decades since it was legalised. Horse-race bets have been allowed since the 1920s and have remained popular since. Gambling and casinos in New Orleans remain a prominent part of the city’s economy and nightlife. Place your bets and collect your winnings in New Orleans at Harrah’s Casino, within easy strolling distance of the French Quarter and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Centre, delivering high-octane Vegas-style gaming, entertainment, and restaurants.
5. Night Scene at Frenchmen Street
The Frenchmen Art Bazaar is a nighttime showcase of art from a variety of local artists. Enjoy paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and accessories like jewellery and handbags. You will also find several late-night eateries that are open along Frenchmen Street and in the adjacent Faubourg Marigny neighbourhood. For wood-fired pizza and natural wine, check out Margot’s, Dat Dog for deluxe-style hot dogs, and Ayu Bakehouse for delicious sweet and savoury pastries.
6. Night Tours
New Orleans is magical 24 hours a day but the city comes alive after dark. Explore the boundaries of your circadian rhythms with tours that skip along neon-lit streets and bask in the glow of a starlit sky. Themed by nightlife, music, and forays into the supernatural, evening tours set the stage for a night to remember.
New Orleans nightlife also offers a fusion of burlesque, theatre, and drag shows across numerous venues in the heart of the city, showcasing various art forms in all their glory. From performances to stand-up comedy, indulge in an unforgettable night of entertainment like no other.
