Frenchmen Street

The Basics

Come to this little slice of live-music heaven to see how New Orleans earns its reputation as a music capital. Join a music pub crawl to access the best live music hotspots (which might otherwise be difficult to find); many crawls include a stop at a traditional New Orleans cocktail bar. You can also opt for a jazz-themed tour with stops at Louis Armstrong Park, Marigny, and Frenchmen Street.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Most venues on Frenchmen Street only allow guests 21 and older, though a few allow children until 10pm.

• You’ll find the most live music venues north of the 500 block.

• Bring some cash with you for cover charges and to tip local street performers.

How to Get There

Frenchmen Street is east of the French Quarter and extends from the university campus to the Mississippi River. It’s within walking distance of the French Quarter, but you can also reach the area by taking a streetcar to the French Market or the St. Claude’s and Prager St. stop.

When to Get There

The best time to enjoy some live music on Frenchmen Street is on a weekday evening; there’s almost always something playing, and you’re more likely to snag a seat or a space at the bar. The street and venues can get crowded on weekends.

Palace Market

If live music isn’t your cup of tea, or you don’t consider yourself much of a night owl, you can still experience the allure of Frenchmen Street with an evening visit to the Palace Market. This open-air market features more than 80 local vendors selling art, jewelry, and other handcrafted goods.

Ways to explore

Frenchmen Street features on many guided tours, especially those centered on music and nightlife. Join a live music pub crawl to discover top local venues—some are easy to miss without insider knowledge. These tours often include a stop at a classic New Orleans cocktail bar, with a drink included. For a broader experience, consider a jazz-themed tour that also stops at Louis Armstrong Park and Bourbon Street. If you prefer a daytime option, there are bike tours and van tours that help you speed up your sightseeing.

Accessibility

Frenchmen Street is relatively flat and wheelchair-accessible, but some sidewalks may be uneven. Check venues individually for wheelchair access.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Power bank, small bag, earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music

What to wear

Casual clothing, comfortable footwear, layers

Not allowed

Drinking alcohol if you’re under 21 years old, smoking indoors

Amenities

Bars, restaurants, shops

Address

Frenchmen Street is located east of the French Quarter and runs parallel to Elysian Fields Avenue. It’s easily accessible on foot from the French Quarter and by streetcar.

Driving

Driving to Frenchmen Street can be challenging because there’s limited parking in the area, and it’s a busy nightlife area. It’s much better to opt for a rideshare if you want to travel by car.

Public transportation

If traveling by public transit, then a streetcar is the best choice. Take the St. Charles or Riverfront line to the French Market stop, which is just a short walk away.

Best times to visit

Frenchmen Street is all about live music and nightlife, so it’s fun to come here in the evening when the party gets started.

Best days to visit

Thursdays through Sundays are the best days to come if you’re after a buzzing nightlife scene.

Best months to visit

Visit in March, April, or May for mild and comfortable weather.

Special events

The French Quarter Festival in April brings multi-day celebrations, while Frenchmen Street offers live music at most of its venues year-round.