Nightlife Itinerary

Late Night Itinerary

If you’re a night owl, New Orleans is your town.  From live music, tons of bars, and a cocktail culture like no other, there's something for everyone here. 

The French Quarter

Known for its vibrant nightlife, Bourbon Street and its balconies aren’t the only highlights of this oldest of New Orleans neighborhoods.

Pre-dinner drinks – Try Bar Tonique on Rampart Street for an off-the-beaten-path French Quarter find for craft cocktails and eclectic ambiance. The Hotel Monteleone’s Carousel Bar is also a delight for a specialty cocktail on an ever-so-slowly moving merry-go-round bar.

Dinner – After your first round of cocktails, choose from trendy French Quarter dining options like 3rd Block Depot Kitchen & Bar, Jewel of the South, or Sylvain.

Late-night music – You can’t go wrong with a hurricane and sing-along music at the piano bar in Pat O'Brien's. Be sure to check out the schedules at Preservation Hall and House of Blues. Prefer a DJ? Join the dance party at The Gold Mine, where the dance floor stays packed until the wee hours of the morning.

Late-night food and drink – You’ll find plenty of places for late night grub and drinks including Erin Rose Bar for drink specials from midnight to 4 a.m., killer po-boys, and famous frozen Irish coffee. The Will and The Way offers food and drinks until 2 a.m. daily.

The Arts/Warehouse District

Pre-dinner art stroll – Before making the late-night scene, wander galleries in the neighborhood with a stroll on Julia Street.

Dinner – Some of the best restaurants in town are in the Warehouse District, including Emeril’s New Orleans, Meril, Cochon, and Compére Lapin. Grab dinner and drinks before moving along.

After-dinner drinks – For a cozy ambiance and extensive wine list, check out NOSH – short for New Orleans Social Club, where live jazz and craft cocktails rule. And The Rusty Nail is the perfect dive-bar stop featuring craft beers and an extensive scotch menu.

Late night activities – Check the schedules at music venues like Howlin’ Wolf and Republic, which bring legendary and up-and-coming artists to the stage.

Uptown/Garden District

The Garden District is much more than daytime walking tours and beautiful neighborhood architecture. Here’s your go-to guide to after hours in uptown New Orleans.

Happy hour – Hit happy hour at The Chloe lobby bar for a classic New Orleans cocktail and a view of the streetcar. If you’re feeling like craft beer, head to The Bulldog or Avenue Pub.

Dinner Head to Jacques-Imo's Cafe for authentic Cajun cuisine and the chance to secure a reservation in the two-top pickup truck parked outside. Or grab small plates and craft cocktails at Bouligny Tavern on Magazine Street.

 Late-night music – The Uptown area is filled with incredible music venues and local crowds favorites including Maple Leaf Bar, Tipitina's, and Le Bon Temps Roule.

Late-night eats – After a night of dancing and drinking, nothing’s better than finding that perfect late-night snack. Satisfy those late-night cravings at Crêpes à la Carte.

Mid-City & Esplanade Ridge

Mid-City offers a neighborhood vibe and funky late-night finds.

Dinner – Beloved by locals and regulars, chef-owned Katie's Restaurant not far from Canal Street is stellar. If you’re in the mood for a margarita or a burrito,  Juan's Flying Burrito can oblige.

Drinks – Mid-City has no shortage of great hangout spots. Choose from hundreds of beers served on an outdoor deck at Bayou Beer Garden. Vino lovers will adore Bayou Wine Garden next door. And if you really want the local experience, unwind over drinks and barbecue at Twelve Mile Limit, known for its budget-price craft cocktails.

Late night music – Catch an array of local bands and singer-songwriters at Chickie Wah Wah and Banks Street Bar.