Best of Nightlife in New Orleans

Sarah Ambrose

New Orleans nightlife has a true "do what you wanna" feel. There are literally countless ways to spend the nights in New Orleans. Simply wander around the streets with a walking beverage or hit the dance floor and dance until dawn. There is no wrong way to take part. For me, when it comes to nightlife, I like to do a little of everything and it depends entirely on the night and my mood. But if I had to choose, here are my personal favorite spots to spend my nights in Nola

Hi-Ho Lounge, Rock 'N' Bowl, The Boot, Snake and Jake's Christmas Club Lounge, The Saint Bar & Lounge, d.b.a., Le Bon Temps Roule, Saturn Bar

  • Hi-Ho Lounge in New Orleans, United States

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    • seambrose

      The Hi-Ho is a great music venue hosting live music, burlesque, DJs, and drag nights. But once a month there's a party at the Hi-Ho Lounge that is not to be missed. It's the dance party with DJ Soul Sister. DJ Soul Sister does some old school spinning with like real records and stuff. She calls herself "The Queen of Rare Groove" and it's easy to see why. Her collection is absolutely other-wordly. You'll be trying to figure out what song she's playing throughout the night. Eventually though, you'll have to just get down and dance. If you're looking for a fun night out with friends that you'll remember for the rest of your life, then find DJ Soul Sister at the Hi-Ho!

  • Rock 'N' Bowl in New Orleans, United States

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    • seambrose

      It's all in the name. Rock N Bowl is part bowling alley and part live music venue. It's one of my favorite spots to head for private parties as the owners make you feel like you're a member of the family. The only thing better than a night out bowling is a night out bowling when there's live music, food, and drinks! Not only that, but Rock 'N' Bowl is kid-friendly especially in the early evening.

  • The Boot in New Orleans, United States

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    • seambrose

      If you're down to get crazy with some college kids then head to The Boot. It's a Tulane and Loyola institution. Expect things to get rowdy but to have an absolute blast. Their happy hours are insanely fun and each year they host one of the best parties in town called Tequila Sunrise. Feeling snacky? Broadway Pizza next door serves pizza by the slice so you literally never have to leave The Boot... and many people never do. The bar is full of students and alumni alike and has been since the 1960s!

  • Snake and Jake's Christmas Club Lounge in New Orleans, United States

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    • seambrose

      When you come up to Snake and Jake's you might think you passed it. This little shack on Oak St. has an entirely different vibe from the rest of the street and blends right in with the residential parts. After you step in you'll likely be greeted by a dog and a room still decked out for Christmas (always has been always will be). This is the place to head with pals for cheap drinks and shots. Everyone in this bar does shots... even the dog.

  • The Saint Bar & Lounge in New Orleans, United States

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    • seambrose

      The Saint equals late night drinks. The crowd starts rolling in around 1 or 2 AM. This dive bar is tucked away in the Lower Garden District (LGD) off of Magazine Street and features some of the most extraordinary New Orleans characters you'll ever meet along with their pet pig Lily. Feeling foggy? Their frozen coffee drink will do the trick.

  • d.b.a. in New Orleans, United States

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    • seambrose

      Locals and tourists alike gather at this Frenchmen Street bar and live music venue. d.b.a. stands for drink better alcohol and for a reason. The menu is full of amazing options including absinthe they prepare for you on the spot. Nothing beats their live music lineup. Earlier shows tend to feature traditional New Orleans jazz while later shows heat up with brass bands, prog jazz ensembles, visitors and more.

  • Le Bon Temps Roule in New Orleans, United States

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    • seambrose

      Who doesn't love to go crazy on a... Thursday night? The Thursday night party with the Soul Rebels needs to get on your New Orleans bucket immediately. The party starts at a New Orleans 10 (which means 11) and finishes at 2AM (but you'll still be dancing past 3) and gets really wild. Sometimes, the band and the crowd switch spots as it's not uncommon for the Soul Rebels to take a seat at the bar for a spell... but don't worry, they keep playin!

  • Saturn Bar in New Orleans, United States

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    • seambrose

      Recently re-opened after a brief closure, this edgy New Orleans dive bar and music venue hosts some of the city's quirkiest shows and one of the best dance parties in town. The Saturday Night Mod Dance Party at Saturn Bar is always a good decision. Don't pass this place up!