12 INSANE Things to Do in New Orleans at Night (Tried & Tested)

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Let me tell you – New Orleans during the day is great, but at night? That’s when this city becomes magic! After dozens of visits, I still get goosebumps walking past a jazz quartet at 1 AM, watching steam rise off my midnight gumbo, or ducking into tiny bars where locals spin stories as wild as the drinks they’re mixing.

The best things to do in New Orleans at night aren’t just the obvious Bourbon Street chaos (though that’s fun too). I’ve spent years discovering the hidden spots and local secrets I wish someone had told me about on my first trip – the kind of places that’ll make you text your friends saying ‘you won’t believe where I am right now.’ Let me show you my New Orleans!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this food tour through New Orleans’ historic French Quarter! They take you past tourist traps to authentic spots serving real gumbo and jambalaya, plus access to legendary institutions like Cafe du Monde. Skip the guesswork and enjoy NOLA’s best local dishes. This food tour is absolutely a must-do on a New Orleans itinerary in my opinion!

Best Things to Do in New Orleans at Night

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, New Orleans promises a memorable nighttime experience. Here are the best things to do in New Orleans at night.

1. Explore the historic French Quarter

Start at the corner of Royal and St. Louis Street around 8 PM when the daytime crowds thin out but the neighborhood energy picks up. In my opinion, the real French Quarter reveals itself after dark. Locals emerge from air-conditioned hideaways, restaurant patios fill up, and you can actually hear yourself think while walking down Royal Street.

I always begin at the Cabildo and Presbytère flanking St. Louis Cathedral on Jackson Square. The cathedral’s floodlighting creates dramatic shadows against the Pontalba Buildings’ cast-iron galleries, built in the 1840s and still housing working apartments above tourist shops. Walk down Pirate’s Alley (officially called Père Antoine’s Alley) behind the cathedral – it’s genuinely atmospheric at night and connects you to Royal Street’s antique shops and art galleries.

Royal Street between St. Louis and Ursulines offers the Quarter’s best window shopping after dark. Stop into M.S. Rau Antiques (630 Royal) to see museum-quality pieces, or browse the contemporary art at Gallery Burguières (721 Royal). These shops stay open until 9 PM and the staff actually knows their inventory.

For food, skip the tourist traps on Decatur Street. Instead, hit Sylvain (625 Chartres) for elevated Creole fare in a 1796 building, or grab a late-night po’boy from Johnny’s Po-Boys (511 St. Louis) – they’re open until 3 AM and locals actually eat there. The debris roast beef po’boy is what you want.

2. Experience the legendary Bourbon Street

Look, Bourbon Street is touristy as hell, but it’s also legitimately fun if you know how to do it right. Skip the neon-lit hurricane stands and head straight to the music. Start at Preservation Hall (726 St. Peter, just off Bourbon) around 7 PM, then work your way down.

House of Blues (225 Decatur, technically off Bourbon but close enough) books solid acts if you want recognizable names. For authentic jazz, Maison Bourbon (641 Bourbon) has been showcasing traditional jazz since 1963 – yes, it’s touristy, but the musicians are legitimate and there’s no cover charge. The Funky Pirate (727 Bourbon) features blues and R&B with local players who’ve been working the circuit for decades.

The balcony experience is worth doing once. Pat O’Brien’s (718 St. Peter) invented the Hurricane cocktail in 1943 and their balcony overlooks the courtyard, not the street chaos. For actual street views, try the Napoleon House balcony (500 Chartres) – their Pimm’s Cup is historically accurate and the building dates to 1797.

Practical notes: bathrooms are scarce and often disgusting. Use hotel lobbies (Omni Royal Orleans at 621 St. Louis is closest). The crowds peak between 10 PM and 1 AM Friday-Saturday, so plan accordingly. And yes, you can walk around with drinks – just keep them in plastic cups.

3. Listen to live jazz at Preservation Hall

This isn’t some nostalgic tourist trap – it’s the real deal. Preservation Hall has maintained the same mission since 1961: showcasing traditional New Orleans jazz performed by musicians who learned from the originators. The venue holds exactly 100 people, with about 30 seats and everyone else standing or sitting on floor cushions.

Shows run nightly at 8, 9, and 10 PM Monday-Wednesday, with additional 5 and 6 PM shows Thursday-Sunday. Tickets cost $25 for standing room, $40 for “Big Shot” reserved seating (which just means wooden benches). Buy online at preservationhall.com – they typically release tickets two weeks before the month. The 5 PM Thursday shows are often less crowded if you have flexibility.

The musicians rotate but you might catch Wendell Brunious (trumpeter from a legendary musical family), Mark Braud (carries on a five-generation musical lineage), or members of the Preservation Legacy Band. These aren’t tribute acts – they’re carrying forward an unbroken tradition that connects directly to Buddy Bolden and Jelly Roll Morton.

No air conditioning, no bar, no bathrooms inside the hall. Use the facilities at nearby bars beforehand. Photography and recording are prohibited, and they’re serious about it. The performances last exactly 45 minutes with complete turnover between shows. It’s intimate enough that you’ll hear every note and see every expression – which is exactly the point.

4. Join a guided ghost tour

New Orleans ghost tours range from historically accurate to complete nonsense. For actual documented hauntings backed by research, book with French Quarter Phantoms ($22 online at frenchquarterphantoms.com). Their guides use city archives, police reports, and newspaper records rather than just repeating urban legends.

The tours hit genuinely haunted locations: the LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street) where Delphine LaLaurie’s documented torture chamber was discovered in 1834, the Sultan’s Palace (716 Dauphine) site of the 1972 mass murder that inspired American Horror Story: Coven, and Hotel Monteleone (214 Royal) where staff still report elevator stops on the non-existent 14th floor.

Ghost City Tours offers family-friendly options at 8 PM nightly ($30), while their adult-only “Killers and Thrillers” tour at 9:30 PM ($35) covers documented murders and violent crimes. Tours By Foot runs free tours (tips expected) that focus more on history than supernatural claims.

Cemetery access after dark requires licensed guides due to city regulations. Haunted History Tours ($25-35) provides the only legal nighttime access to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where you’ll see Marie Laveau’s supposed tomb (it’s actually her daughter’s) and learn why above-ground burial became necessary in a city built below sea level. Tours last 90 minutes with about a mile of walking.

5. Take a Mississippi riverboat evening cruise

The Steamboat Natchez is the only authentic steam-powered riverboat still operating on the Mississippi River. Evening dinner cruises run year-round from 6-9 PM, departing from the Toulouse Street Wharf behind Jax Brewery (400 Toulouse Street). Tickets cost $89 for the cruise with three-course dinner, $45 for cruise-only.

The dinner features legitimate Creole dishes prepared onboard: jambalaya with andouille and shrimp, red beans and rice, carved roast beef, and bread pudding made from Leidenheimer French bread. The Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland provide live jazz throughout the cruise. Two dinner seatings accommodate different schedules.

The boat travels upriver toward Audubon Park, then downriver past the French Quarter and Algiers Point. You’ll see the city’s working port operations – New Orleans handles more cargo tonnage than any U.S. port except Houston. The captain provides historical commentary about river navigation and the port’s economic significance.

Note: The Steamboat Natchez undergoes annual Coast Guard inspection starting July 15, 2025. During maintenance periods, the Riverboat City of New Orleans substitutes with identical service. Parking costs $15-20 in nearby lots. Board 30 minutes early to explore the engine room and hear the 5:30 PM calliope concert. The boat operates rain or shine with full indoor seating available. For all these reasons, I highly recommend doing a dinner cruise in New Orleans after dark!

6. Check out Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen Street is where New Orleans musicians actually hang out after their Bourbon Street gigs end. The three-block stretch between Decatur and Dauphine features the city’s most authentic music scene without the tourist markup.

Start at The Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen) – it’s tiny, cash-only, and showcases traditional jazz Tuesday through Sunday starting around 8 PM. No cover charge, just tip the musicians generously. Next door, Snug Harbor (626 Frenchmen) books serious jazz acts in a proper listening room with table service and a solid Creole menu.

Blue Nile (532 Frenchmen) spans two floors with funk, brass bands, and soul music. The upstairs balcony provides perfect people-watching over the street scene below. d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen) combines excellent live music with the neighborhood’s best beer selection – over 200 varieties plus an extensive whiskey menu.

The Frenchmen Art Market operates nightly in a fenced lot at 619 Frenchmen from 7 PM to midnight (1 AM weekends). Local artists sell handmade jewelry, paintings, and crafts directly – prices are reasonable and you’re supporting actual New Orleans creators.

Food options include Dat Dog (601 Frenchmen) for late-night comfort food until 3 AM weekends, Three Muses (536 Frenchmen) for upscale small plates with live music, and the weekend Burrito Man who sets up on corners selling $5 head-sized burritos. The pineapple pork is legendary among locals.

7. Take a nighttime guided cemetery tour

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 requires guided tours due to city ordinance – you cannot enter independently. The cemetery, established in 1789, contains above-ground tombs necessary because New Orleans sits below sea level. During yellow fever epidemics, bodies buried underground would literally float back up.

Save Our Cemeteries offers the most historically accurate tours ($20) focusing on burial customs, architecture, and notable residents like Homer Plessy (of Plessy v. Ferguson) and chess champion Paul Morphy. Tours run daily at 10 AM and 1 PM with additional 3 PM weekend tours.

For nighttime access, book with licensed operators like French Quarter Phantoms or Haunted History Tours ($25-35). These 90-minute tours cover the cemetery plus surrounding Tremé neighborhood, explaining how above-ground burial influenced New Orleans’ unique jazz funeral traditions.

Marie Laveau’s tomb (actually her daughter’s) remains the most visited site. The Xs carved into the tomb are modern tourist additions – the original Voodoo Queen’s burial customs didn’t include such markings. The pyramid tomb belongs to actor Nicolas Cage, who purchased it in 2010 for his future use.

Wear closed-toe shoes – the walkways are uneven 19th-century brick and stone. Bring water and sun protection for daytime tours. The cemetery sits in the Tremé neighborhood, historically significant as the birthplace of jazz but requiring caution after dark if walking independently.

8. Walk through the Garden District

The Garden District showcases antebellum mansions built by wealthy Americans who wanted to outdo the Creole aristocracy in the French Quarter. Magazine Street provides the main commercial corridor with excellent restaurants and bars staying open late for evening exploration.

Start at Washington Avenue and Magazine Street, then work your way toward Jackson Avenue. I love the Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington). It serves dinner until 10 PM in their landmark turquoise and white Victorian building. Even if you’re not dining, the exterior architecture exemplifies the district’s ornate style.

Anne Rice’s former home (1239 First Street) draws literary pilgrims to its Greek Revival mansion where she wrote several Vampire Chronicles novels. The house tour isn’t available, but the exterior showcases typical Garden District architecture: raised foundation, wraparound galleries, and elaborate millwork.

Magazine Street between Jackson and Louisiana offers late-night dining options. Coquette (2800 Magazine) serves contemporary Creole until 10 PM Tuesday-Saturday. Tracey’s (2604 Magazine) provides authentic Irish Channel neighborhood atmosphere with excellent roast beef po’boys until midnight.

The oak-lined streets (First, Second, Third, Fourth, Coliseum, and Chestnut) feature mansions worth viewing after dark when interior lighting reveals architectural details. St. Charles Avenue streetcar runs 24/7 for $1.25, connecting the district to downtown. The ride itself provides narrated views of additional mansions and Loyola/Tulane universities.

9. Dinner at a Creole restaurant

Looking for another top attraction in New Orleans at night? Neyow’s Creole Café (3332 Bienville Street) serves authentic neighborhood Creole food without tourist pricing or atmosphere. Located in Mid-City near Bayou St. John, it’s where locals eat when they want the real thing. The chargrilled oysters come six to an order for $12, topped with garlic, herbs, and Romano cheese – simple preparation that lets the Gulf oysters shine.

Their red beans and rice on Mondays follows traditional New Orleans custom. Monday was historically wash day when women needed a dish that could simmer unattended while doing laundry. Neyow’s version includes proper andouille sausage and the rice is cooked separately, not mixed together like amateur versions.

The gumbo changes daily but always includes a proper dark roux that takes 45 minutes to prepare correctly. Thursday features seafood gumbo with shrimp, crabmeat, and oysters. Saturday brings chicken and andouille. They serve it over rice with hot sauce and crackers on the side – the traditional accompaniments.

The Bow Wow Punch ($8) combines multiple rums with fruit juices and has developed a cult following among locals. It tastes deceptively mild but packs serious alcohol content. Dinner entrées range from $15-22 with generous portions designed for working people, not tourists taking Instagram photos.

I recommend making a reservation for weekend dinner service. The atmosphere stays neighborhood casual – this isn’t fine dining but rather authentic Creole home cooking prepared by people who learned from their grandmothers.

10. Watch street performers at Jackson Square

Jackson Square transforms after 7 PM when the daytime portrait artists pack up and the evening musicians take over. The performers here aren’t random buskers – many are professional musicians supplementing club gigs or showcasing their skills to potential bookers.

Position yourself near the Presbytère (751 Chartres) for the best acoustics. The cathedral steps provide seating, though the iron benches along the square perimeter offer better views of multiple performers simultaneously. The Pontalba Buildings’ galleries create natural amplification for acoustic instruments.

Regular performers include Doreen’s Jazz New Orleans (traditional jazz trio, usually Thursday-Sunday), various brass bands that rotate through weeknights, and individual blues guitarists who’ve been working the square for decades. Tipping is expected – $5-10 for extended listening is appropriate, especially if you’re taking photos or videos.

The square’s history adds context to the performances. Andrew Jackson’s statue commemorates the Battle of New Orleans, fought two weeks after the War of 1812 officially ended due to slow communication. The cathedral, rebuilt in the 1850s, replaced the original 1718 structure where Louisiana Purchase ceremonies occurred.

For late-night food after the performances, Mother’s Restaurant (401 Poydras) serves debris roast beef po’boys 24/7. The walk from Jackson Square takes 10 minutes and passes through the business district, well-lit and safe after dark.

11. Visit the Frenchmen Art Market

The Frenchmen Art Market operates in a fenced lot at 619 Frenchmen Street, open nightly from 7 PM until midnight (1 AM Friday-Saturday). This isn’t tourist junk – local artists rent booths monthly to sell original work directly. You’ll find legitimate handmade items at reasonable prices because there’s no retail markup.

Regulars include metalworker Johnny Donnels creating custom jewelry and sculptures, photographer Michael DeMocker selling local scene prints, and various artists producing everything from silk-screened shirts to hand-blown glass pieces. Many artists are present at their booths and willing to discuss techniques or accept custom commissions.

Prices reflect local economics rather than tourist expectations. Original paintings start around $25-50, handmade jewelry runs $10-40, and screen-printed shirts cost $15-20. Most vendors accept cash and cards, though bringing cash helps with smaller purchases and tips.

The market’s location puts you in the heart of Frenchmen’s music scene. You can browse art while live music spills out from nearby clubs, creating a natural soundtrack for shopping. String lights provide adequate illumination, and the fenced area feels secure for evening browsing.

The market closes during major storms but operates year-round otherwise. Weekend nights feature more vendors and larger crowds. Weeknight visits offer better conversation opportunities with artists and more relaxed browsing without navigating around large groups.

12. Relax at Hot Tin rooftop bar

When in New Orleans, you’ve gotta check out Hot Tin’s rooftop bar. It occupies the 11th floor of the Pontchartrain Hotel (2031 St. Charles Avenue) in the Garden District. The bar provides 270-degree views of downtown New Orleans, the Mississippi River bend, and extending toward Lake Pontchartrain. It’s designed as a 1940s artist’s loft with eclectic furniture, vintage collectibles, and glass doors opening onto outdoor terraces.

I love the cocktail menu here. It features house creations like the “Garden District” (gin, elderflower, cucumber, lime) and “River Bend” (bourbon, fig, lemon, herbs) alongside classic options. Expect $12-16 per cocktail with premium ingredients and proper preparation. They also stock local Abita beer and a curated wine selection focusing on French and California bottles.

Operating hours are 2 PM to midnight Sunday-Thursday, until 1 AM Friday-Saturday. The bar maintains a strict 21+ policy with no exceptions. Seating is first-come, first-served with no reservations accepted. Arrive around 5:30 PM for sunset views or after 9 PM when the city lights create dramatic scenery.

The outdoor terraces provide the best photo opportunities, especially the western-facing balcony overlooking St. Charles Avenue and the river. The indoor space stays comfortable year-round with climate control, while outdoor areas can be hot in summer or cool in winter – dress accordingly.

Parking costs $15-20 in nearby lots or use street parking on St. Charles (check restrictions). The St. Charles streetcar stops directly in front of the hotel, providing $1.25 transportation from downtown or the French Quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Things to Do in New Orleans at Night:

Are you keen to expand your knowledge of the best things to do in New Orleans at night? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the best nighttime activities in New Orleans.

What is New Orleans nightlife like?

New Orleans’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse. It’s a city that truly comes alive after dark, offering everything from lively jazz clubs and bustling bars on Bourbon Street to more laid-back live music venues on Frenchmen Street. You’ll find a mix of tourists and locals, all drawn to the city’s unique blend of music, food, and culture. Whether you’re into dancing the night away, enjoying a quiet drink, or soaking in live jazz, there’s something for everyone.

Can you walk around New Orleans at night?

Yes, you can walk around New Orleans at night, especially in popular areas like the French Quarter and the Garden District. These areas are generally safe and well-lit, with plenty of people around. However, like any city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit and populated streets, and consider taking a cab or rideshare service if you’re traveling longer distances or exploring less familiar areas.

What should I not miss in New Orleans?

In New Orleans, don’t miss experiencing live jazz music, which is the heart and soul of the city. Venues like Preservation Hall and the Spotted Cat Music Club are must-visits. Also, explore the French Quarter for its historic architecture, vibrant street life, and culinary delights. Be sure to try local dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. Lastly, a stroll through the Garden District to admire the beautiful homes and a visit to a traditional Voodoo shop are also highly recommended.

Is Bourbon Street open every night?

Yes, Bourbon Street is open every night and is one of the liveliest spots in the city after dark. The street is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, most of which stay open until the early hours of the morning. It’s a hub of activity, known for its energetic atmosphere, live music, and neon lights. Keep in mind that it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during festivals.

Is the French Quarter safe at night?

The French Quarter is generally safe at night, particularly in the busier parts like Bourbon Street and around Jackson Square. There’s usually a strong police presence, and the areas with bars and restaurants tend to be well-lit and populated. However, as with any busy urban area, it’s wise to stay alert, stick to the main streets, and avoid walking alone in less crowded areas late at night.

Do New Orleans bars have a dress code?

Most bars in New Orleans do not have a strict dress code, especially the more casual and music-focused venues. The atmosphere in New Orleans is generally laid-back, and you’ll find that most places are accepting of all kinds of attire. However, some upscale bars and clubs, particularly in the French Quarter, may have a dress code, usually requiring smart casual wear. It’s always a good idea to check in advance if you’re planning to visit a more upscale establishment.

Recap: Best Things to Do in New Orleans at Night

In conclusion, New Orleans at night is an experience like no other. From the soulful rhythms of jazz music to the historic charm of its streets, the city offers a night-time adventure that’s both vibrant and deeply rooted in culture.

My personal favorite has to be visiting a jazz club. There’s something magical about being immersed in live music, feeling the energy of the city through the melodies of talented musicians. It’s an experience that truly captures the spirit of beautiful places in New Orleans.

Whether you’re strolling through the French Quarter, enjoying Creole cuisine, or relaxing at a rooftop bar, each activity offers a unique glimpse into the heart of this incredible city. Remember to embrace the local culture, try new things, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of your stay in New Orleans night adventure.