BY TPS STAFF

New Orleans is a city that never sleeps, especially when it comes to its legendary music scene. While the famous Bourbon Street may get most of the attention, there’s so much more to explore once the sun sets. From late-night jazz to underground dive bars, New Orleans’ nightlife offers a diverse mix of sounds, styles, and venues where music lovers can experience the true spirit of the Crescent City.

1. Frenchmen Street

For many locals and visitors alike, Frenchmen Street is the heartbeat of New Orleans after dark. Just a short walk from the French Quarter, this stretch of live music clubs, bars, and art markets offers an authentic taste of the city’s music culture. Popular venues include:

• The Spotted Cat Music Club: A small, cozy venue where local jazz, blues, and swing bands perform nightly. The atmosphere is intimate, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the rhythms of New Orleans jazz.
• d.b.a.: Known for hosting local and national acts, d.b.a. offers a variety of music genres, from jazz to funk and blues. Grab a drink from their extensive beer and whiskey selection and enjoy live music into the late hours.
• Three Muses: This venue offers a perfect blend of live music and delicious food, making it ideal for those wanting to experience great jazz while enjoying some top-notch small plates and cocktails.

Pro tip: Frenchmen Street is also known for its art markets that pop up after dark, featuring local artisans and unique handmade crafts.

2. Maple Leaf Bar

Located in the Carrollton neighborhood, the Maple Leaf Bar is one of New Orleans’ most iconic venues for live music. Opened in 1974, this legendary spot has seen performances from countless music legends. The venue is best known for its funky, soulful vibe, and its Wednesday night Rebirth Brass Band residency is one of the most celebrated weekly events in the city.

Late-night revelers flock to the Maple Leaf for its eclectic lineup of local jazz, blues, funk, and brass bands. With its no-frills atmosphere, the Maple Leaf is where you’ll find locals dancing well into the night, grooving to the rhythm of some of the best live music the city has to offer.

3. The Howlin’ Wolf

For those craving a larger venue with a strong lineup of live music acts, The Howlin’ Wolf in the Warehouse District is a go-to spot. Known for hosting a mix of national touring bands and local favorites, the venue offers a spacious dance floor and great sound quality. With genres ranging from rock to funk to brass, you’ll never know what kind of musical magic you might stumble upon.

Late at night, you can head next door to The Den, a smaller, more intimate space connected to The Howlin’ Wolf, where you can catch local up-and-coming musicians and enjoy a low-key but energetic vibe.

4. Tipitina’s

A staple of New Orleans’ music scene since 1977, Tipitina’s is located in the Uptown neighborhood and is one of the city’s most beloved music venues. This iconic spot was founded as a venue for Professor Longhair, one of New Orleans’ most famous musicians, and it continues to be a major destination for fans of local and touring acts.

The energy at Tipitina’s is infectious, especially on nights when the likes of Galactic or The Radiators take the stage. The late-night shows often go well past midnight, and the historic vibe of the venue adds to the experience, making it a must-visit for any music lover.

5. Vaughan’s Lounge

For a truly local late-night vibe, head to Vaughan’s Lounge in the Bywater neighborhood. This old-school dive bar may look unassuming from the outside, but it’s a hidden gem for music lovers seeking a more laid-back, authentic experience. On Thursday nights, legendary jazz trumpeter Kermit Ruffins performs here, turning the intimate venue into a lively party filled with dancing, drinks, and top-tier New Orleans jazz.

Vaughan’s is perfect for those looking to escape the more tourist-heavy spots and mingle with locals while enjoying an unforgettable night of live music in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

New Orleans is a city where the music doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. From Frenchmen Street’s buzzing scene to intimate dive bars and iconic venues, there’s no shortage of late-night options for those looking to experience the soul of the city through live music. So grab a drink, put on your dancing shoes, and prepare for a night out in New Orleans you won’t forget. Whether you’re into jazz, blues, funk, or brass, you’ll find it all—and more—in the Big Easy’s late-night music scene.