The more sophisticated version of Bourbon as the locals call it. And by locals, I mean the parents of freshmen at Tulane that claim to know everything. If I had a dollar for every time, I heard a parent say, “I prefer Frenchmen because it’s where the locals go,” I would be able to rent out a balcony on this street. Now, while it is probably just as touristy as Bourbon Street, Frenchmen is a little calmer and has slightly classier bars and better live music. A lot of local talent aspires to make it to Frenchmen Street, and often times those who have made it big come back to Frenchmen to practice their craft. I recommend treating the experience similar to Bourbon Street and bar hopping. Don’t forget to take advantage of open container laws.  

A more traditional jazz bar, also located on Frenchmen Street. Its decor is island themed. The Marsalis Family and Charmaine Neville are frequenters. The tickets go out fast, but if you are a fan of authentic New Orleans Jazz, this place is a must go.

A massive two-story club on Frenchmen Street. There is usually live music downstairs that consists of a combination of jazz or funk. On a poppin' night, upstairs features a mix of hip-hop and EDM. There is also a balcony overlooking the street on the second floor. 

Another dive bar off Frenchmen which is hit or miss. I have had fantastic nights and subpar nights here. It is worth checking out, but you may realize very quickly that it is an off night. 

A dive bar in the Marigny area of New Orleans. They offer a variety of music and sometimes even comedy shows. On Saturday nights, they do a show called setdeflo.club, which features local New Orleans DJ Lil Jodeci. He spins a sick house music set, featuring moods from R&B tracks.

Quintessential NOLA experience. Located deep in the Bywater area, Bacchanal is almost hidden and used to be before it became a treasure of the city. It’s one of those places that you can spot locals and tourists alike enjoying the ambiance because it is just that great. At first glance, it seems like a bar with a long line and a bouncer checking IDs. Once you break through the doors, you come across a wine store. Pick any bottle, or two or three or ten, and they will give you a bucket with glasses. You may also select cheese and meat. Make your final purchase at the cashier, and in the back, you will find a beautifully lit patio with live music. Before you know it, the meat and cheese come to your table beautifully displayed with bread and various accompaniments. There is also additional food available for purchase in the form of tapas. Bacchanal is an easy way to have an incredible New Orleans experience.

A bar on Frenchmen Street that offers live music in the front and the back. It is one of those bars that keeps going. There’s a top portion to rent out as well. 

One of the top places to see live music on Frenchmen Street. There is usually a long line and a pricy cover, but it is the best place to dance to jazz or funk music in the area. 

Another Frenchmen bar with live acts that has a fish tank. A chiller vibe in terms of the wildness spectrum on Frenchmen Street. However, they play crowd-pleasers for the more seasoned ear. For example, you have to know music a little more than the Pat O’Brien’s crowd. People of all ages go, to your right you may find a group of teenagers while to your left you may see their grandparents. Also, was one of the few places without a cover on Halloween.

This brewery is very close to Bacchanal and offers a cool craft beer experience. Also, an easy substitute if you are more of a beer person. There is a very cool backyard to chill out. They make their own beers and host plenty of special events such as food trucks and yoga.