Frenchmen Street New Orleans
New Orleans' premier destination for authentic live music, vibrant art, and local nightlife, offering a soulful alternative to the French Quarter.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Music comes alive at night
Frenchmen Street New Orleans
Best Time
Music comes alive at night

Highlights
Must-see attractions
New Orleans' premier destination for authentic live music, vibrant art, and local nightlife, offering a soulful alternative to the French Quarter.
"Frenchmen Street is where the locals go for live music, good vibes, and the real New Orleans nightlife!"
🎶 Catch Authentic Jazz
Skip Bourbon Street for the real deal! Frenchmen Street offers incredible live music, from jazz to blues.
🎨 Explore the Art Bazaar
Don't miss the Frenchmen Art Bazaar for unique souvenirs and a great photo backdrop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Music Venues
Immerse yourself in the heart of New Orleans' jazz scene with diverse, authentic live music spilling from every club.

Frenchmen Art Bazaar
Discover unique local art, crafts, and souvenirs in this vibrant open-air market, a perfect spot for a photo op.
Caribbean Fusion Dining
Savor unique flavors at Spicy Mango, a Caribbean fusion restaurant offering delicious food and live music.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Safety First on Frenchmen
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎶 Catch Authentic Jazz
Skip Bourbon Street for the real deal! Frenchmen Street offers incredible live music, from jazz to blues.
🎨 Explore the Art Bazaar
Don't miss the Frenchmen Art Bazaar for unique souvenirs and a great photo backdrop.
🚶♀️ Walk and Discover
The best way to experience Frenchmen Street is on foot, hopping between clubs and soaking in the atmosphere.
💰 Budget-Friendly Fun
Many venues have no cover charge or a small fee, making it an affordable night out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎶 Catch Authentic Jazz
Skip Bourbon Street for the real deal! Frenchmen Street offers incredible live music, from jazz to blues.
🎨 Explore the Art Bazaar
Don't miss the Frenchmen Art Bazaar for unique souvenirs and a great photo backdrop.
🚶♀️ Walk and Discover
The best way to experience Frenchmen Street is on foot, hopping between clubs and soaking in the atmosphere.
💰 Budget-Friendly Fun
Many venues have no cover charge or a small fee, making it an affordable night out.
🌃 Be Street Smart
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your environment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Frenchmen Street is widely praised for its incredible live music scene and vibrant atmosphere, offering an authentic New Orleans experience. Visitors love the diverse musical talent and the lively arts bazaar. However, some reviewers caution about safety concerns, noting the presence of homeless individuals and potential for illicit activity, advising visitors to remain vigilant.
"Great little art area at the Frenchman bazaar and amazing live music"
Pru McLaughlin
"Lots of homeless, I literally watched 2 different drug deals go down. The music and food was great, but the people carry knives and will stare you down if you look like a possible target. Stay safe travelers. Don’t be careless on this street"
Jeremiah Rucker
"If you like music and art as much as I do...this street will be the place you want to live, die, and have your ashes spread on."
Justin Glasser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Frenchmen Street is a short distance from the French Quarter. You can easily walk (about 15-20 minutes), take a quick taxi or rideshare, or hop on the streetcar for a scenic and affordable journey.
Parking can be challenging in the area. There are some paid lots available, but rideshares or walking are often more convenient options, especially if you plan on enjoying the nightlife.
Yes, the New Orleans streetcar system offers a convenient way to get around. While not directly on Frenchmen Street, it can get you close, and it's a classic NOLA experience.
Absolutely! Frenchmen Street is best explored on foot. The main stretch is compact, allowing you to easily move between music venues, art stalls, and restaurants.
Walking is the primary and most enjoyable way to navigate Frenchmen Street. This allows you to spontaneously duck into different clubs and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most clubs on Frenchmen Street do not require advance tickets. Many have a small cover charge at the door, or you can simply pay as you go.
Cover charges vary, but you can expect them to range from free to around $10-$20, depending on the venue and the performers.
Most music venues are 21+ due to alcohol service. However, some establishments might allow minors during certain hours or with adult supervision. It's best to check with individual venues.
Frenchmen Street truly comes alive in the evening and stays vibrant late into the night, especially on weekends. Music typically starts around 7 PM and goes until the early morning hours.
Yes, the Frenchmen Art Bazaar is a fantastic place to purchase unique local art, crafts, and souvenirs directly from the artists.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
Frenchmen Street is renowned for its live jazz, blues, and funk music. You'll find a diverse range of talented local musicians performing every night.
Popular spots include The Spotted Cat Music Club, The Maison, d.b.a., and Fritzel's European Jazz Club. Each offers a unique atmosphere and musical style.
While generally lively and fun, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Some visitors have reported instances of drug deals and recommend staying vigilant.
The Frenchmen Art Bazaar is an outdoor market featuring local artists selling paintings, jewelry, sculptures, and other handmade crafts. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs.
Frenchmen Street is favored by locals for its authentic live music scene and more relaxed vibe, while Bourbon Street is known for its rowdier party atmosphere and tourist-focused bars.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Frenchmen Street offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to Caribbean fusion at Spicy Mango and other local spots.
Beyond Frenchmen Street itself, consider Toup's Meatery or Compere Lapin for excellent dining experiences nearby.
Many establishments on and around Frenchmen Street offer late-night dining, perfect for refueling after enjoying the live music.
You'll find a mix of local Creole and Cajun flavors, as well as international options like Caribbean fusion at Spicy Mango.
Absolutely! Frenchmen Street is lined with numerous bars and music venues, many offering craft cocktails and local brews.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for colorful murals, the iconic Frenchmen Art Bazaar, and the vibrant street scenes. The Frenchmen Art Bazaar itself has a hidden photo op.
It's generally appreciated to ask permission before taking close-up photos of performers. Respect their space and artistic expression.
Golden hour just before sunset offers beautiful lighting. However, the street truly shines at night with its neon lights and lively atmosphere, making for dramatic shots.
The Frenchmen Art Bazaar offers a unique backdrop, and the vibrant street art and architecture provide endless opportunities for memorable photos.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for capturing the nighttime ambiance. A smartphone with a decent camera will also work well for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
🎨 Art Lovers & Shoppers
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of NOLA Music
Popular spots like The Spotted Cat Music Club, The Maison, and d.b.a. are frequently recommended for their quality music and lively atmosphere. Redditors often share tips on discovering hidden gems and catching up-and-coming musicians. The energy is palpable, with locals and visitors alike mingling and enjoying the infectious rhythms. It’s a place where the music truly flows through the streets, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.
Beyond the main clubs, keep an ear out for street performers who add to the vibrant soundscape. The sheer variety ensures there's something for every musical taste, making Frenchmen Street a must-visit for any music lover exploring New Orleans. It’s this dedication to live, local music that solidifies its reputation as the soul of the city's nightlife.
Art, Culture, and Local Flavors
Foodies will also find plenty to savor. From casual bites to more refined dining, Frenchmen Street and its surroundings cater to various palates. Spicy Mango offers a taste of Caribbean fusion with live music, providing a unique dining experience. Other nearby restaurants offer classic New Orleans fare, ensuring you can enjoy a full evening of entertainment and delicious food.
Exploring Frenchmen Street is a multi-sensory experience. The vibrant street art, the eclectic shops, and the diverse culinary landscape all contribute to its unique charm. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, discover new artistic talents, and enjoy the flavors of New Orleans.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit