The Best Blues Bars in New Orleans

There’s a lot of music history that originates in New Orleans. They’ve got the whole seaport culmination of cultures, and it’s allowed this Louisiana city to be home to jazz, soul, funk and the blues. The blues, just like the other genres, is still going strong today – here are some of the best places to hear it in the Big Easy.
Did you know? You can now travel with Culture Trip to New Orleans as part of a small-group tour. From live jazz on the Mississippi River to kayaking on the Louisiana Bayous, booking with us ensures you get the most out of your time in the Big Easy.
Maple Leaf Bar
Bar, Cocktails

Mother-in-Law Lounge
Bar, American, Wine, Beer, Cocktails

Since the mid-1990s, Mother-in-Law Lounge has been one of the premiere blues, soul, funk and jazz bars in New Orleans. The owners are friendly and make Mother-in-Law one of the most welcoming lounges. With an unbelievable track record, Mother-in-Law hosts talents such as Fats Domino, Al Johnson and more – you never know who’s going to play. Located in the outskirts of historic Tremé, Mother-in-Law is a true New Orleans music lounge.
Rock 'n' Bowl
Bowling Alley, Music Venue

BB King's Blues Club
Bar, Beer
When you name your club after the greatest blues guitarist of all time, the pressure’s instantly on to be the best in town. Luckily, this swinging joint on the bank of the Mississippi brings both the music and menu needed to stand out. Tuck into some deliciously blackened redfish before you dance the night away; local musicians are there every day to serenade you with R&B, soul, swing and gospel.
Apple Barrel
Bar, American, Beer

The Blue Nile
Music Venue

Matt Mills contributed additional reporting to this article.
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