Trying to figure out what are the 10 best fun things to do in New Orleans for adults at night? Well, Enjoy live jazz on Frenchmen Street, vibrant bars on Bourbon Street, haunted history tours, craft cocktails at Bar Tonique, and scenic views from rooftop bars like Hot Tin Roof for fun things to do in New Orleans for adults at night.
New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant nightlife, jazz music, and rich cultural heritage, offers an array of exciting activities for adults seeking nighttime entertainment.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone in the Crescent City after dark.
Here, we’ve curated a list of the ten best fun things to do in New Orleans for adults at night to ensure you experience the city’s unique charm and energy.
10 Best Fun Things to Do in New Orleans for Adults at Night 2024
1. Immerse Yourself in Live Jazz Music
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and no visit is complete without experiencing its soulful sounds. Frenchmen Street, located in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, is the go-to destination for live music lovers. With iconic venues like The Spotted Cat Music Club, d.b.a., and Blue Nile, you’ll find an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, and other genres performed by talented local musicians. These intimate settings offer an authentic experience that captures the essence of New Orleans’ musical heritage.
2. Explore Bourbon Street’s Nightlife
Bourbon Street, situated in the heart of the French Quarter, is synonymous with New Orleans nightlife. This bustling street is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, each offering a unique flavor of the city’s party scene. From the famous Pat O’Brien’s with its signature Hurricane cocktail to the lively Cat’s Meow karaoke bar, Bourbon Street provides endless entertainment options. Don’t miss the chance to visit Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in America, for a taste of history along with your drink.
3. Savor Local Cuisine on a Food Tour
Indulge in the culinary delights of New Orleans by embarking on a nighttime food tour. Companies like Doctor Gumbo Tours and Crescent City Cooks offer guided tours that take you through the city’s historic neighborhoods, where you can sample iconic dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. These tours not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide fascinating insights into the cultural and historical significance of New Orleans’ cuisine.
4. Take a Haunted History Tour
New Orleans is renowned for its haunted history and ghost stories. For a spine-tingling adventure, join a haunted history tour that explores the city’s most famous haunted locations. Tours like Haunted History Tours and French Quarter Phantoms offer nighttime excursions that delve into the eerie tales of the French Quarter, including stops at haunted houses, cemeteries, and voodoo shops. These tours combine storytelling with historical facts, making for a thrilling and educational experience.
5. Experience the Thrills of a Casino Night
For those who enjoy gambling, New Orleans boasts several casinos that come alive at night. Harrah’s New Orleans Casino, located near the Mississippi River, offers a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines, poker, and table games. The casino also features live entertainment, dining, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes it a popular spot for nightlife enthusiasts. Try your luck and enjoy the excitement of a night at the casino.
6. Enjoy Craft Cocktails at Speakeasies
New Orleans’ cocktail scene is as diverse as its music. For a sophisticated night out, visit one of the city’s speakeasies or cocktail bars. Bar Tonique, located in the French Quarter, is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and cozy ambiance. Cane & Table offers a tropical twist with its rum-based drinks and Caribbean-inspired menu. For a truly unique experience, head to Jewel of the South, where classic cocktails are served in a historic Creole townhouse setting.
7. Dance the Night Away at Nightclubs
If dancing is your idea of fun, New Orleans has plenty of nightclubs to keep you moving until the early hours. The Metropolitan Nightclub, located in the Warehouse District, is a premier spot for electronic dance music (EDM) and features multiple dance floors and bars. Republic NOLA offers a mix of live music and DJ sets, catering to a variety of musical tastes. For a more laid-back vibe, check out One Eyed Jacks, known for its indie and alternative music scene.
8. Stroll Along the Moonwalk Riverside Promenade
For a more relaxed evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Moonwalk Riverside Promenade. This scenic walkway, located along the Mississippi River, offers stunning views of the city skyline and the river. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic walk, people-watching, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the river at night. The nearby Woldenberg Park often hosts live music and cultural events, adding to the charm of the riverside experience.
9. Unwind at a Rooftop Bar
Rooftop bars provide a fantastic way to take in the panoramic views of New Orleans while sipping on a refreshing cocktail. Hot Tin Roof at the Pontchartrain Hotel offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River. Alto at the Ace Hotel features a chic rooftop pool and bar, perfect for a relaxing evening under the stars. These rooftop venues provide a sophisticated ambiance and are ideal for both casual and upscale nights out.
10. Attend a Theatrical Performance or Burlesque Show
New Orleans’ vibrant arts scene includes a variety of theatrical performances and burlesque shows. The AllWays Lounge & Cabaret is a popular venue for avant-garde theater and burlesque, featuring both local and visiting performers. The Saenger Theatre hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances in a beautifully restored historic setting. For a unique and entertaining night, explore the diverse array of performances the city has to offer.
Fun Things to Do in New Orleans for Adults at Night FAQs
1. What are the best places to listen to live jazz music in New Orleans?
Answer: The best places to listen to live jazz music in New Orleans include Frenchmen Street with venues like The Spotted Cat Music Club, d.b.a., and Blue Nile. These spots offer an authentic jazz experience with performances by talented local musicians.
2. What is the nightlife like on Bourbon Street?
Answer: Bourbon Street is the epicenter of New Orleans’ nightlife, known for its lively atmosphere, bars, clubs, and restaurants. Notable spots include Pat O’Brien’s, Cat’s Meow karaoke bar, and Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar. The street is famous for its festive vibe and wide variety of entertainment options.
3. Are there any haunted tours available at night in New Orleans?
Answer: Yes, New Orleans offers several haunted tours at night. Popular options include Haunted History Tours and French Quarter Phantoms. These tours explore the city’s most haunted locations, including cemeteries, haunted houses, and voodoo shops, providing a thrilling and educational experience.
4. Where can I find the best craft cocktails in New Orleans?
Answer: New Orleans boasts a vibrant cocktail scene with several standout bars. Bar Tonique in the French Quarter is known for its expertly crafted cocktails. Cane & Table offers a tropical twist with rum-based drinks, and Jewel of the South serves classic cocktails in a historic Creole townhouse setting.
5. What are some good options for dancing and nightlife in New Orleans?
Answer: For those looking to dance, The Metropolitan Nightclub in the Warehouse District is a top spot for EDM with multiple dance floors. Republic NOLA offers a mix of live music and DJ sets. For a more relaxed atmosphere, One Eyed Jacks is known for its indie and alternative music scene.
6. Are there any scenic places for a nighttime stroll in New Orleans?
Answer: The Moonwalk Riverside Promenade is a great spot for a nighttime stroll, offering beautiful views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. Nearby Woldenberg Park often hosts live music and cultural events, adding to the scenic and relaxing experience.
7. Can I enjoy rooftop bars in New Orleans?
Answer: Yes, New Orleans has several rooftop bars that offer stunning views and a sophisticated ambiance. Hot Tin Roof at the Pontchartrain Hotel provides breathtaking views of the city and the river. Alto at the Ace Hotel features a chic rooftop pool and bar, perfect for a relaxing evening under the stars.
Conclusion
New Orleans is a city that comes alive at night, offering a diverse array of activities for adults seeking memorable experiences. From the soulful rhythms of live jazz on Frenchmen Street to the vibrant nightlife on Bourbon Street, the city caters to every taste and preference.
Whether you’re indulging in the rich local cuisine on a food tour, exploring the haunted corners of the French Quarter, or savoring craft cocktails at a chic speakeasy, New Orleans promises an unforgettable adventure.
The city’s unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment ensures that every night out is a new opportunity to discover its unparalleled charm. For an evening filled with excitement, elegance, and a touch of mystique, New Orleans is the ultimate destination for nighttime fun.