New Orleans Guide

New Orleans Jazz Tours

Experience birthplace of jazz with live music, historic clubs, and NOLA soul!

76+ tours
From $45
3-5 hours
New Orleans Jazz Tours

Discover New Orleans - the birthplace of jazz music! Jazz tours explore legendary Frenchmen Street (better than Bourbon for authentic music!), historic Preservation Hall (intimate jazz venue since 1961), Congo Square (where slaves gathered creating jazz foundations), old jazz clubs, brass band culture, and music venues throughout the city. Experience live jazz in intimate settings, learn about Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, and jazz legends, visit Louis Armstrong Park, and understand how African, Caribbean, and European musical traditions fused creating jazz. Tours include club hopping, second-line parades (if lucky!), music history lessons, and possibly catching street musicians. It's jazz immersion!

Featured Jazz Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for jazz tours in New Orleans

New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
From $43.5
Free Cancellation

Board your riverboat to the delightful tunes of the Steam Calliope. Experience the sights and sounds of river life that enchanted characters of history and literature - like Mark Twain's Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer - and see the bustling activity of America's second-largest port! The Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off(December 12, 2025 through February 2026) but her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, enjoying traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat. Make sure you check out all four decks - the top deck view is a sight to see! Lunch option available Monday - Saturday. Brunch option available Sunday only. The boat boards at 11:00am and 2:00pm and departs promptly at 11:30am and 2:30pm. We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to boarding.

4.3(5,287)
2h
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New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option
From $58
Free Cancellation

Ready for the ultimate New Orleans night out? Step aboard a classic riverboat for a dinner jazz cruise on the mighty Mississippi River — one of the most iconic things to do in New Orleans! The Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off, her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, enjoying traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat. Regardless of which vessel you board, savor a Creole-inspired buffet, sip handcrafted cocktails, and sway to live New Orleans jazz as the skyline sparkles around you. Whether it’s date night, a group outing, or your first trip to the Crescent City, this two-hour cruise brings all the NOLA magic — food, music, and views included. Book together to sit together! Don’t just visit New Orleans — cruise through it in style.

4.1(7,483)
3h
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Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise in New Orleans
From $107
Free Cancellation

Cruise into a brilliant and romantic sunset aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen! Underneath enchanting skyline views enjoy the lively sounds from Sullivan Dabney, Jr. and the Muzik Jazz band while delighting your taste buds with a deliciously prepared Creole-styled meal (if option is chosen). Grab one or two classic New Orleans cocktails inside at the bar, then take a stroll outside along elegantly designed wrought iron trimmed railings for a night full of stars and warm banter. Become part of the city's unique energy and let the sweet Mississippi River breeze sweep you off your senses onto the dance floor atop our promenade deck for a night full of pure New Orleans magic. 

4.1(1,454)
2h 30m
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Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans
From $43.5
Free Cancellation

On this Sunday brunch cruise, travel along the Mississippi River while enjoying live jazz music and savoring a lovely buffet brunch, if option selected. Otherwise, sit inside in one of our elegantly appointed decks or sit outside on one of our outdoor decks and enjoy the sites and breezes of the Mississippi River. This authentic paddle-wheel riverboat will whisk you away to the romance and ambiance of yesteryear. The Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off, but her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, enjoying traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat. Make sure you check out all four decks - the top deck view is a sight to see! Upgrade your ticket to include the brunch buffet.

4.1(882)
2h
View Details
Court of Two Sisters Live Jazz Brunch Buffet with Mimosa
From $47
Free Cancellation

The Court of Two Sisters' Buffet Brunch boasts is a sumptuous display of hot and cold dishes. They use only the freshest ingredients so the buffet's selections change according to season and time of day. In the morning, a typical selection of hot dishes includes made-to-order omelets, ham, sausage and bacon, grits and grillades, and Gumbo. The afternoon's sampling includes Creole jambalaya, turtle soup, pork ribs, duck a l'Orange, fried catfish, and shrimp etouffee amongst many others. Additionally, one complimentary glass of house wine, champagne or mimosa is included.

4.3(285)
1h
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New Orleans Jazz History and Music Walking Tour
From $60.56
Free Cancellation

Few cities rival New Orleans’ nightlife thanks to its thrilling music scene. From authentic dixieland to big brass and every other jazz style in between, live music options are endless in the city that gave birth to the coolest genre in music. Hear about the origins and culture of jazz before making your way to the 19th century neighborhood that boasts the best music and bars in town. We’ll visit a few of our favorite local clubs, enjoy a beer and discover the talents of some of the city’s best local musicians. There’s nothing quite like a night out in ‘The Big Easy.’

4.7(471)
2h 30m
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New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise
From $88
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a fully narrated city tour of historic New Orleans, where you will visit the world famous French Quarter, Jackson Square, Audubon Park and even uncover the mysteries surrounding Voodoo. Then take to the waters for a cruise on the Mississippi River with the iconic Steamboat NATCHEZ. Enjoy an authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi. Come and discover New Orleans today! The Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off, but her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, enjoying traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat. Make sure you check out all four decks – the top deck view is a sight to see!

4.2(439)
6h 30m
View Details
VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option
From $190.5
Free Cancellation

Please arrive by 5:30pm for early boarding. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a ship staff member to take you onboard. Start the night off with a complimentary Champagne cocktail and get front row access to the Dukes of Dixieland before dining. After enjoying the tunes and maybe a little dancing, settle into your reserved table in the dining room for a dinner buffet featuring local favorites. If you are looking for a little more, upgrade your cruise to include an open call brand bar. After dinner, take a tour of the vessel led by the first mate. Don’t miss this opportunity to cruise through New Orleans in style on an exclusive VIP cruise that can’t be booked anywhere else! Please note the Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off, but her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat.

4.7(835)
3h
View Details
New Orleans Jazz Walking Tour
From $35
Free Cancellation

Our Jazz tour is guided by local musicians, choregraphers, producers, and directors who are apart of the New Orleans Artist community. They are also Natives, Oral Historians, Cultural Ambassadors, and Preservationist. Join us and explore the evolution of music in the city known as "the birthplace of Jazz." Home to Louis Armstrong, Buddy Bolden, Sidney Bechet, Louis Prima, and Sharkey Bonano just to name a few. . .You'll be guided through the last remaining sites where Jazz, champagne, and romance reigned supreme. Learn about the people, the history, and the influences which contributed to the development of America's only gift to world culture... Jazz! ​

4.9(77)
2h
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Creole Queen Weekend Jazz Brunch Cruise on the Mississippi River
From $80
Free CancellationNew

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans with a delightful Jazz Brunch aboard the Creole Queen Riverboat. Enjoy live music as you cruise down the Mighty Mississippi River, savoring a mouthwatering brunch featuring classic dishes like Chicken & Andouille Gumbo and New Orleans Barbecued Shrimp. Choose to indulge in bottomless mimosas or Cajun Bloody Marys while soaking in stunning views of the New Orleans skyline. - Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise with live jazz music on weekends - Brunch options available, featuring delicious Southern cuisine - Optional bottomless cocktails for an additional charge - Board from 10:00 AM, cruise departs at 11:00 AM

4.0(6)
2h 30m
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New Orleans Jazz History and People of Color Tour
From $25
Free Cancellation

Discover the soul of New Orleans—where jazz, culture, and the stories of Gens de Couleurs and People of Color shape the city’s rhythm and spirit. Begin your tour at Louis Armstrong Park—the Birthplace of Jazz—just steps from the French Quarter. This off-the-beaten-path experience blends music, culture, and history, highlighting the rich heritage of people of color in New Orleans. As you stroll through the Treme neighborhood, you’ll explore iconic landmarks, hear powerful stories, and learn about the Gens de Couleur and their lasting impact on Louisiana culture. Discover a vibrant neighborhood full of rhythm, history, and flavor—an authentic slice of local life that deserves a spot on every New Orleans itinerary. All shared with NOLA love!

4.7(3)
2h
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Citywide Driving Tour with Local Jazz Musician
💸Special Offer
$65From $61.75
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

This tour is meant to be a once-in-lifetime experience! During our half-day customized private tour you, your friends, and family will get to SEE ALL OF NEW ORLEANS IN JUST 4 HOURS. It goes by quickly as we will be driving in a tour vehicle with a bit of walking to take pictures with my 24MP 4KCamera at Beautiful Murals throughout the city. DO THIS ON YOUR FIRST DAY! We will visit local historic landmarks including: - French Quarter - Treme - Garden District - City Park/Cafe Du Monde - St. Louis # 3 Cemetery - Hurricane Katrina Damage/ Musicians Village - Uptown Mansions/Tulane University Delicious Beignets Midway through the tour! You will have the kind of undivided attention you just won't get to have on large group city tours. Please message me to tailor and customize this tour to your exact likes and interests. Whether if its Food, French Quarter Architecture, African American History, Jazz, or Murals. I'll help you leave New Orleans with a unique understanding.

4.9(135)
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The Soul of New Orleans: Jazz History Private Tour
From $115.04
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Music, music, music… the beat goes on everywhere in New Orleans, from the buskers on the street corners to the statues in the park to the top-notch bands in the city’s best bars. The city’s known as the Birthplace of Jazz, and the musical scene is very much alive and well in New Orleans! Join your favorite local for this New Orleans jazz tour to hear all about the past and present of this iconic musical city, from the park known as the Ground Zero of Jazz through to the contemporary clubs. In a city packed with places to listen to music, what could be better than having a local host by your side to help you steer clear of the tourist traps and seek out the authentic, hidden gems? See where it all began – at the Congo Square area of what’s now Louis Armstrong Park, where musical styles mingled as slaves, and free people of color gathered on their days off. Seek out further influences as you learn about Creole culture at the Home of the Voodoo Queen.

5.0(4)
2h 30m
View Details
New Orleans Jazz Tour
From $350
Free Cancellation

This is an opportunity to experience live Jazz in varying forms in a pre-selected, safe environment. Venues chosen offer a variety of atmospheres and music styles for your enjoyment. Please contact me BEFORE booking to ensure availability and that venues are open and fully staffed.

5.0(1)
2h
View Details

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Why Choose Jazz Tours in New Orleans?

Birthplace of Jazz

Where jazz was invented - authentic music history!

Preservation Hall

Intimate venue preserving traditional New Orleans jazz!

Frenchmen Street

Better than Bourbon for authentic live music - locals' favorite!

Live Music Nightly

Jazz clubs, brass bands, and street musicians everywhere!

Types of Jazz Tours in New Orleans

Frenchmen Street Jazz Tour

Club-hop authentic music venues with live jazz.

3-4 hoursMultiple clubsLive musicLocal sceneAuthentic

Preservation Hall Experience

Traditional jazz show in historic intimate venue.

2-3 hoursTraditional jazzHistoric venueIntimateMust-do

Jazz History Walking Tour

Visit jazz birthplace sites and learn music history.

3 hoursHistoric sitesCongo SquareEducationalCultural

Jazz Dinner Cruise

Steamboat cruise with live jazz and Creole dinner.

2-3 hoursRiver cruiseJazz bandDinnerRomantic

What to Expect on Your New Orleans Jazz Tours

Duration

Club tours: 3-4 hours. Preservation Hall: 1 hour show. Walking: 3 hours.

Live Jazz

Hear authentic New Orleans jazz in intimate venues - trumpet, trombone, clarinet!

Preservation Hall

No-frills venue (benches, standing room) with traditional jazz - pure music!

Frenchmen Street

Three blocks of music clubs - jazz, funk, brass, blues - locals' favorite!

Street Musicians

Brass bands and street performers throughout French Quarter.

Jazz History

Learn about Louis Armstrong, jazz birth, and New Orleans musical legacy.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Frenchmen Street better than Bourbon for authentic music - locals agree!

2

Preservation Hall tickets ($20-45) sell out - book online weeks ahead!

3

Snug Harbor (Frenchmen) has best jazz - $20-30 cover, worth it!

4

Spotted Cat Music Club (Frenchmen) FREE entry with donations.

5

Second-line parades happen Sundays - follow brass band through streets!

6

Tip street musicians generously - they're often incredible talents.

7

Jazz clubs don't serve food usually - eat before club-hopping.

8

Late night (10 PM-2 AM) Frenchmen Street peaks - that's when locals go!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is Preservation Hall?

A: Preservation Hall is intimate jazz venue (since 1961) dedicated to preserving traditional New Orleans jazz. No-frills room (benches, standing), no drinks/food, pure music! Shows $20-45, 1 hour. Tickets sell out weeks ahead. Acoustic, intimate, authentic - essential NOLA experience!

Q:Is Frenchmen Street better than Bourbon?

A: For music: YES! Frenchmen has authentic live music in multiple clubs. Locals go here. Bourbon is touristy party street. Both worth experiencing but Frenchmen has better music quality. Safer, cleaner, more about music than drinking. Three blocks of clubs!

Q:Can you hear jazz for free in New Orleans?

A: Yes! Street musicians throughout French Quarter (tip them!). Some Frenchmen clubs have free entry (Spotted Cat, d.b.a.). Jackson Square has performers. However, best venues charge $10-30 cover. Budget $20-40 for evening of quality jazz.

Q:What is a second-line parade?

A: Second-line is New Orleans tradition - brass band leads parade, crowd follows dancing with umbrellas and handkerchiefs! Happens Sundays in different neighborhoods. It's spontaneous, joyful, free to join! Follow the music. Quintessential New Orleans experience!

Q:How much do jazz tours cost?

A: Jazz club tours: $45-80 (3-4 hours, multiple clubs). Preservation Hall show: $20-45. Jazz history walking: $40-60. Dinner cruises: $80-120. Club covers separate ($10-30). Tours handle logistics - worth it for first-timers!

Q:Who was Louis Armstrong?

A: Louis Armstrong ("Satchmo") was New Orleans native who became jazz legend - revolutionary trumpet player and singer. Influenced all jazz. Birthplace now Louis Armstrong Park. His legacy is everywhere in NOLA. He put New Orleans jazz on world stage!

Q:When is the best time for jazz?

A: Year-round! Jazz Fest (late April-early May) massive festival. However, live jazz happens nightly 365 days. Evening (8 PM-midnight) clubs peak. Frenchmen Street best Thursday-Saturday nights. Music never stops in New Orleans!

Q:Do you need tickets for jazz clubs?

A: Preservation Hall: YES (book weeks ahead!). Most Frenchmen clubs: $10-30 cover at door (first-come). Some free entry. No reservations needed except Preservation Hall. Arrive early for seats - many venues standing room only.

Don't Miss the Perfect New Orleans Experience

Book your jazz tours today - 76+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit New Orleans?

Iconic French Quarter and historic architecture

World-famous jazz music and culture

Authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine

Rich history and cultural heritage

Mardi Gras celebrations and festivals

Perfect blend of music and culture

Best Time to Visit

Weather

New Orleans enjoys a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) in winter to 90°F (32°C) in summer.

Best Months

February to May and October to December offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with hot, humid weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

January and September offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though with occasional hurricanes.

Plan Your New Orleans Trip

Transportation Tips

Public transportation includes streetcars and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the French Quarter, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Car Rental Deals in New Orleans

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your New Orleans adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in New Orleans

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Ready to Explore New Orleans?

Discover the best tours and activities in New Orleans with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.