Preservation Hall
Experience the soul of New Orleans jazz in its purest form at this legendary, no-frills historic venue. Pure acoustic magic.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
The classic jazz experience
Preservation Hall
Best Time
The classic jazz experience

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the soul of New Orleans jazz in its purest form at this legendary, no-frills historic venue. Pure acoustic magic.
"It's like you're in a movie – absolutely magical. A must-do in NOLA!"
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Limited seating means shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for this iconic jazz experience.
💧 No Water Allowed Inside
Stay hydrated before or after your show; outside drinks aren't permitted.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Preservation Hall Jazz Band
Experience the heart of New Orleans jazz with world-class musicians in an intimate, acoustic setting. Pure, unamplified magic.

Historic French Quarter Venue
Immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of this legendary, no-frills jazz hall, a true cultural ambassador.

Acoustic Purity
Hear jazz as it was meant to be heard: raw, unamplified, and deeply soulful. A truly immersive auditory experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Authenticity: No AC, No Frills
Book Ahead for This Iconic Jazz Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Limited seating means shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for this iconic jazz experience.
💧 No Water Allowed Inside
Stay hydrated before or after your show; outside drinks aren't permitted.
🌬️ Embrace the Heat
There's no AC, so dress light and be ready for a warm, authentic NOLA vibe.
🪑 Seating Options
Choose between limited bench seating or standing room for a more casual experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Limited seating means shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for this iconic jazz experience.
💧 No Water Allowed Inside
Stay hydrated before or after your show; outside drinks aren't permitted.
🌬️ Embrace the Heat
There's no AC, so dress light and be ready for a warm, authentic NOLA vibe.
🪑 Seating Options
Choose between limited bench seating or standing room for a more casual experience.
🎶 Pure Acoustic Sound
Enjoy the unamplified magic of New Orleans jazz – no mics, just pure talent.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Preservation Hall for its authentic, intimate, and magical New Orleans jazz experience. The world-class musicianship and historic, no-frills atmosphere are highlights, offering a pure acoustic sound that transports audiences. Some note the lack of air conditioning and amenities, but this is generally seen as part of its unique charm.
"I had the chance to experience Preservation Hall about ten years ago, and when I returned to New Orleans recently, I didn’t think twice about going back. It was just as amazing as I remembered! The musicians are incredibly talented, and the whole experience feels so authentic. Close your eyes, and it’s like you’re in a movie ❤️absolutely magical. A must-do in NOLA!"
Sabrina Sabrina
"In the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans lies Preservation Hall, a legendary venue dedicated to keeping the spirit of traditional New Orleans jazz alive. Since its founding in 1961, this humble space has been filled with the sound of live jazz every single night.
There are no microphones, no flashy lights—just the raw energy of the musicians and the pure sound of their instruments. Seating is limited, and sometimes you’ll even find yourself sitting on the floor, but that only makes the experience more authentic and powerful.
The resident Preservation Hall Jazz Band tours the world and is considered one of the cultural ambassadors of New Orleans. For any jazz lover, this place is nothing short of sacred.
Thanks to its central location in the French Quarter, it’s easy to stop by while exploring the city—but with such limited seating, booking in advance is highly recommended. If you want to experience the true essence of New Orleans at night, Preservation Hall is the place to be."
Yusuke
"Never fails to impress everytime I go. The setting is what makes it intimate. Accomodates a small group seated or standing. $25 to stand in the back for a 50 minute set in an atmosphere unlike any other is quite reasonable. An iconic must visit place for jazz/blues fans, or if you love music of any kind. Just pure beautiful acoustic music played for you, no mics or equipments. It's a experience like no other."
Rashmi Bhatnagar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Preservation Hall is located in the heart of the French Quarter at 726 St Peter Street. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in the Quarter, or you can use ride-sharing services or taxis. Parking in the French Quarter can be challenging and expensive, so public transport or walking is often recommended.
Preservation Hall is a historic building with limited accessibility. While they strive to accommodate guests, the venue has stairs and limited space. It's best to contact them directly in advance to discuss specific needs.
Walking is ideal if you're in the French Quarter. Otherwise, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are convenient. Public buses also serve the French Quarter area.
Parking in the French Quarter is notoriously difficult and expensive. There are several parking garages nearby, but it's often more practical to use ride-sharing or walk if possible.
Opt for standing room tickets, which are typically less expensive than seated tickets. Arriving early can also help secure a good standing spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but standing room tickets are generally around $25, while seated tickets are more. It's best to check their official website for current pricing and availability.
Yes, it is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for evening shows, as seating is limited and shows often sell out.
Preservation Hall hosts live music performances every night. Showtimes typically start in the early evening, with multiple sets available. Check their official calendar for specific times.
While some tickets might be available at the door, it's not guaranteed, especially for popular shows. Booking online in advance is the safest bet to ensure entry.
Each set at Preservation Hall typically lasts about 50 minutes, offering a concentrated dose of incredible New Orleans jazz.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
Preservation Hall is known for its intimate, no-frills atmosphere. There are no microphones or elaborate lighting; the focus is purely on the acoustic sound of the musicians and the historic ambiance of the venue.
No, Preservation Hall does not have air conditioning. It's a historic building, and visitors should be prepared for the New Orleans heat, especially during warmer months. Dressing lightly is advised.
Preservation Hall has very limited facilities, and historically, it has not had restrooms available for patrons. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit.
No, outside food and drinks, including water bottles, are not allowed inside Preservation Hall. You'll need to finish any beverages before entering.
You can expect traditional New Orleans jazz, played by the renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band. They perform a repertoire of classic jazz tunes and improvisations.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but flash photography is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the musicians and the intimate atmosphere. It's always best to check for any specific signage or ask staff.
The entire venue offers a unique photographic opportunity due to its historic and intimate nature. Capturing the musicians in action or the rustic interior can yield great shots.
While some visitors capture short clips, it's important to be respectful of the performance and other attendees. Avoid extended filming that might disrupt the experience.
Given the often low-light conditions and focus on acoustic performance, a camera with good low-light capabilities or a smartphone with a decent night mode would be suitable.
While not always explicitly stated, it's generally best to avoid professional audio recording to maintain the integrity of the live performance and respect the artists.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Jazz Enthusiasts
🚶 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Preservation Hall Jazz Band
The band itself is a rotating ensemble of New Orleans' finest jazz musicians, many of whom have deep roots in the city's musical heritage. They are cultural ambassadors, touring the world and sharing the vibrant sounds of their hometown. Their performances are not just concerts; they are immersive experiences that transport audiences back in time, offering a glimpse into the golden age of jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer, witnessing the Preservation Hall Jazz Band is a profound encounter with a vital piece of American musical history.
Beyond the nightly performances, the Preservation Hall Foundation actively works to document and teach the traditions of New Orleans music. Programs like 'Kids in the Hall' introduce young people to the genre, ensuring its future, while initiatives like the 'Lessons' program bring the culture to classrooms globally. This dedication to education and preservation solidifies Preservation Hall's role not just as a venue, but as a guardian of a sacred musical tradition.
Navigating the No-Frills Experience
Another key characteristic is the absence of modern amenities. You won't find microphones, elaborate lighting, or even restrooms readily available for patrons. This deliberate choice to strip away distractions emphasizes the raw, acoustic nature of the music. The sound is pure, unadulterated jazz, played with passion and skill. Seating is also limited, with options for benches or standing room, further contributing to the intimate and communal feel of the space.
While these aspects might seem challenging, they are precisely what make Preservation Hall so special and authentic. It's an opportunity to connect with the music and the musicians on a deeper level, experiencing jazz as it was originally performed in intimate settings. Embrace the simplicity, and you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable musical journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit