Preservation Hall

This is a must for Jazz-​lovers and first-​time visitors to NOLA! It is a wonderful experience to hear and see authentic Dixieland Jazz performed as it has been since its inception! It is a definite «feel-​good» time, especially as you gaze over the crowd and see smiles of joy on every face! I recommend spending a few extra bucks for the «Big Shot» seats, or you will be sitting on the floor or standing in the back.

Wow. This place is AMAZING. My husband had this on our to-​do list during our stay in New Orleans, once he heard fantastic things about it. Preservation Hall is a non-​profit, venue & record label on mission to preserve New Orleans acoustic Jazz music. We came out to Preservation Hall on a Friday night. People do start lining up early in the night even about an hour before the first show even starts. We decided to go to the 8 o’clock show, and got in line around 7:25. Tickets are $ 20 each CASH ONLY. They begin seating at the hour and the show starts about 15 minutes later once everyone is inside. The space is small. Very up close & personal, dark, and the only A/​C are some fans. It reminded me a lot of the prohibition era in an underground music hall. Very personal & intimate space. There are benches to sit on, but only the first 20ish people get seats. From there on people stand. Once the room is filled, people can overflow into the hall and look in via the opening. The set is 45 minutes long and some of the BEST soul music I’ve heard. You don’t really need to go expecting to know the artist because everyone that plays there is phenomenal. It’s very interactive with the crowd. Lots of clapping, a few jokes here and there, and play off the crowds hooting & hollering. The last song of the night they got us to sing along and it was awesome! I danced a lot, but you are in a small space.
They don’t sell food & drinks but it IS allowed inside. There’s a bar right across the street, and a pizza place next door so it’s a good idea to bring something with you. There’s also no bathroom, so I’d recommend going before you get in. Also, NO photo & video is allowed which is a good thing — they really want people enjoying the music.
Could not recommend this place enough! Will definitely be back here next time I’m in NOLA.

The tickets are $ 15. There is usually a line to get in and only the first 20 – 30 people will be seated, the rest of the crowd will be standing. No recording or photos allowed. There are only fans and no AC so does get a bit stuffy.
The shows start at 8−9−10. Be sure to have some change ready for Mr Phil’s aka the tip hat.
The set is 45 minutes long, great traditional jazz. Musicians just follow the music in their hearts eyes closes and immersed. When you get in realx and let the rhythm and the blues will take you away!

You must got here. Stop questioning it, this will be the highlight of your trip to New Orleans. We got here at 6:55pm for an 8pm show on a Sunday and our group of four was about 5^th in line. We got in promptly at 8pm and got seats on the cushions in the very front row. The band was amazing and they were so funny and very engaging with the audience. The music was so fun and everyone in our group agreed it was the best thing we’d spent $ 15 on. Highly, highly recommend!

An absolute must when in NOLA. Cover charge of $ 15, small intimate venue. Show is relatively 1hr long. No restroom unfortunately, so while in line use the neighboring restaurant restroom. The jazz/​blues was amazing, at this point in the night we’ve visited a few. There are signs posted in regards to song request and TIPS, guess they missed the memo– I already paid to hear my fav tunes. on the sunny side of the street, I put a spell on you. ok let me stop.lol. the music was perfect. don’t walk but run to preservation hall.

Simple — an evening of live jazz music in the middle of French Quarters, New Orleans. How can you ever go wrong? You can’t, so go!
You can reserve tickets in advance. They are a fair price and goes back to the Preservation. This spot is actually pretty easy to find. My friends and I noticed it during the day time and just thought we should check it out that night. I’m glad we did!
We arrived about a half hour early. The line does build up closer to doors open so definitely get there early if you want a good seat. A live jazz band plays in a small room (like the living room of a residential home) so it can be really cozy. We were right in front! Normally I don’t like tight spaces, but it works and everyone is friendly and just here to enjoy some music. WOW did I enjoy some good music — amazing professional performers. There are really no words to explain how great the experience is. Please go and listen!
It was so good I still have a CD in my car :)

Every Jazz N Blues fan must hang here! Oh and if you do, show up in line at least 30 minutes prior (on a light night) to grab floor seating up front. Or go online and reserve seating on the benches for approx $ 35-​$ 45 ahead of time! Sitting on the floor with the standard entry fee of $ 20 standing room only is a great great bargain, you won’t be disappointed as the trumpet and clarinet players are nicely right in front of your face (about an arms length in front). I expected to be blared deaf but on the contrary was not!
Charley, on the Clarinet, played as well as sang very well, but softly and I bet his voice would be barely heard by anyone in the back of the room. I was really fortunate to snag this spot, was able to take it all in! A great feeling to be almost part of their gig in a way. They are so laid back awesome and even allowed for group pictures!

If you travel to New Orleans, do yourself a favor and stay away from Bourbon Street for one night and visit Preservation Hall for a performance. Soak in the music of these talented musicians and form an appreciation for their musicianship. Hopefully, you will continue to have a love for the music long after you leave New Orleans.

We were so excited to be in new Orleans & I was told this was a ‘must go’ place. We waited in line nearly two hours due to ‘limited’ seating. They weren’t kidding, we were like the 5^th people in line & we were just about the last people to get a seat. There were already people inside when we got in.
The band members/​musician/​artist were actually all outstanding performers, however, they kept stopping & asking for donations. I was prepared to donate to the cause until they ‘over’ did it… I think it’s okay to make an announcement before & after a show, but in between each song?
There was not even two full sets, there was only like one set & maybe 1 song when they came back from their ‘break’. Needless to say I was a little disappointed in the way it is managed at this venue.
My suggestion would be to maybe first tell me the history of the place, tell us your goals & your cause, then just let me get lost in the music and when I am feeling full of all that old soulful music at the end when I pass the donation jar, I will probably be ready to give you my gold. But they took away from their performance & it made a big difference to me as I didn’t really get to enjoy the music, once you start getting into a song they stopped (yes during the song) for a quip of some kind.
I wouldn’t stand in line here again & have also not recommended it to anyone else, There are too many great musicians in New Orleans for all that nonsense. It’s a shame because I admired the history & understand their goals, I just believe they should approach it differently, in my opinion.
For those determined to see it for themselves, be prepared as it has no restroom facility & no food or beverages. You can take beverages inside, but it is better to know in advance, especially after you have been in line for an hour.

I am really glad that I did the Preservation Hall experience during my short time in NOLA as I think it gave me an authentic jazz experience.
They have three shows at night (8pm, 9pm, and 10pm). We arrived for the 10pm show 40 minutes early and barely got in. For 40 minutes, we waited outside. The bar next door lets you use the restroom facilities while you wait. Then you stand in a small room and watch a group play jazz. It was a cool experience.
Warning: You will have to stand 45 minutes for waiting on line + 45 minute show. You can pay extra to sit, but I do believe you have to reserve that before hand.

The first time I hit nola, we didn’t make it here; the second time, I made it a priority. You kinda gotta shell out time to stand in line and just hope for the best. There aren’t many venues that give me chills, but the history of this one had me grinning with goosebumps. My only real gripe is that they oversell which leaves some ppl standing in the hallway listening without a view of the musicians.
I was last here over a year ago so I’m hoping this was an isolated event but staff refused to say anything to a very loud family who talked through the entire performance. I, on the other hand, wasnt so nice. When you’re shelling out that much money for a ticket to get into an iconic venue, staff should step in to help ensure a positive listening experience.
Can’t wait to visit again, hopefully next time I’ll make it into the music room. :p

Such a one-​of-​a-​kind jazz hall that anyone and everyone should experience when they’re in NOLA. I’d strongly suggest picking up advance tickets online as the hall is surprisingly small and barely held 50 – 60 guests in the audience. This way, my friend and I got prime seats on the side bench right in front of the band. The players killed it and what was an hour show blew by in what felt like a mere 15 minutes.
Logistically, do be aware that there is no restroom or bar though drinks brought in from bars nearby are fine.

My wife and I were in New Orleans and they have a $ 15 show on Sundays at 6, so we got in line about 5:20. We were expecting a large auditorium, but is actually just a really small room that holds about 200. We paid our cash (Cash only) and got lucky to get a front row seat in the general admission.
There are no benches, so be prepared to sit on a mat on the floor. Such a quaint atmosphere. The band came out and it was 5 older gentleman that really knew their jazz. Holy smokes! They started playing and I was blown away! The jazz in New Orleans was great, but this stuff was like these guys were touched by the hands of God. You could tell they had been doing this for at least 40 years each. The drummer was a descendant of Louis Armstrong I believe. The lead guy was super cool between songs and gave some juxtaposition to all us tourists.
There was a piano player, a clarinet player, trombone, drummer, and trumpet. I can’t explain how awesome this was. You have to check it out. It is a MUST SEE!
It will bring tears to your eyes how good these guys are.

No New Orleans trip is complete without visiting a New Orleans Jazz show.
With 3 shows a night and no advanced purchases necessary, Preservation Hall is a good place to go.
But what makes Preservation Hall a truly excellent choice for your Jazz Music listening pleasure are… MANY!
* The Preservation Hall Band is awesome. If you try to isolate and focus on each instrument, you will realize that each musician is very talented on his own. But put together, they are mind-​blowing.
* The music. Dixieland Jazz is one of my favorite types of jazz. That’s probably why I enjoyed this band so much. But they didn’t just stick to Dixieland, they had blues too. Of course, right?
* Live and acoustic. (Sigh of ecstasy.)
* Super tiny venue. I mean, super tiny. I would be surprised if there were more than 50 of us in there. The enclosed space allowed the music to surround me. I could feel the music wrapping around my head enveloping it in a way that amplified music does not. It just feels different.
* The super tiny venue also allowed us to get friendly with the other patrons.
* For $ 20 you get to see this amazing band in this amazing space?
* The building is significant to New Orleans jazz history.
* The band is dedicated to preserving this type American music.

I’ve attempted to get standing room seats twice here, but the lines were too long. Honestly, I didn’t even bother to wait and see if we got in because I would’ve been pissed if I waited an hour and didn’t get in. So I opted for some nearby live jazz (see Jamil Sharif at Maison Bourbon — right up the street).
On my second visit to NOLA, I told myself I had to check this place out. There HAS to be a reason why every single person recommends this show. So I got tickets online for reserved seats ($ 45 each versus like $ 25 for waiting on line). We went right to the front and they checked us in and had us stand on a separate, shorter, VIP line. So far, the ticket was worth it.
RESERVED SEATS:
There are maybe 4 benches for reserved tickets on the sides and front of the stage. They squeeze 4 people per bench and there are no backs so it got uncomfortable after a while. The standing room folks stand in the back — behind the benches. The space is pretty small, but cozy at the same time, so even if you’re standing you get a decent view. You can take pictures of the stage and space before the show starts but they don’t allow it during the show, which sucks. The space itself is really really old in a vintage way — which is probably why this place is so famous.
THE SHOW:
The bandleader (horn player) introduced the band before the show. Idk if he was tired, delirious or confused but every time he introduced a band member everyone else on stage had a confused look on their face as if he said the wrong names. It was so awkward. Not sure what happened there. When they finally started playing it was SO loud, I wondered if I could’ve just stood outside and heard the show for free. The horn player messed up a few times but not enough to ruin the show. It was a great set but not sure if it was worth $ 45.
I’ve seen other shows in the quarter for just 1 – 2 drink minimum that were much better than this show. But maybe I’m feeling this way because 1. I was tired as hell when I saw the 10pm show so I probably wasn’t too into it and 2. $ 45 is pretty damn high for a 45min show. There are also no restrooms or drinks but there is a gift shop!
I say it’s cool to check this place out to experience it once but I wouldn’t come back. There are so many other places where you can enjoy a few drinks and hours of jazz music for a cheaper price.

Preservation Hall lives up to the hype, the name and the legacy. This venue is very intimate showcase of no more than a few people and the lines are extremely long to get into the 8, 9 & 10 o’clock showings.
Even if you’re not a fan of jazz it’s worth experiencing the resident jazz band that’s transports you into what one can imagine to be simpler times of jazz in its hay day.
The cover is $ 20 and again the lines are long but it’s worth being put into a New Orleans bucket list so get there early. The venue is small as to put you into a intimate setting but there really isn’t a bad seat in the house.
The band gets the crowd involved and puts on a hell of a show, I’m still humming the songs played last night in my head as I write this review.
My advice just go and enjoy genuine jazz in a world renowned venue know for exactly that.

Who doesn’t want to be entertained when visiting NOLA? Many come to party and sure, almost anywhere you go there is live entertainment. However, if there is one place to listen live jazz and blues, Preservation Hall has got to be it.
Book your online ticket in advance to get good seats but if you don’t mind waiting in line an hour before showtime, tickets are only $ 15 a pop, cash and standing room only. There is no AC and no bar inside but you’re welcome to bring your own drinks. The room is fairly small. Taking photos or videos is a «no-​no» so sit back, relax, and enjoy the show (unless you’re standing).
Featuring local performers and superb acoustics, prepare for an evening of pure talent that will blow your socks off. As I listened to that evening’s blues, I felt like I was truly experiencing Southern roots in a setting that was nothing short of authentic. In awe. I highly recommend!

What an absolute treat! I had the pleasure of seeing the Preservation Hall Jazz Band last week and it was a wonderful experience.
Preservation Hall can be found in the French Quarters of New Orleans. Established in 1961, the historical music hall is very old and resembles a tiny wooden cottage. Lines begin early prior to the fixed show times (8PM, 9PM, and 10PM), so be sure to arrive at least 45 minutes in advance to snag a spot. Let me repeat that the music hall is TINY. Coordinators will try to cram as many people in as possible, so keep in mind that if you are short (like me) you will need to arrive early for a good view. There is limited seating (most of which can be reserved online) and the majority of the crowd stands throughout the entire show. Tickets were only $ 15 on a Wednesday night, which was an awesome deal.
The Preservation Hall Jazz Band was marvelous. What I enjoyed the most was that the audience got to see their talents shine both as a group and individually. Each member had their own unique style and you could truly feel their passion for jazz music. The band also provided a story with each piece that they played, allowing the audience to understand the background behind their composition.
Lovely experience and I highly recommend if you are looking to indulge in the jazz culture of New Orleans.

Unless you really like standing for a long time, pay in advance for reserved seats. I paid $ 35 for a second row seat. Only drawback was a tall woman sat in front of me. Even if you tend to be someone who doesn’t plan ahead, you should make an effort for this.
One reviewer was unimpressed with the lead musician he heard. The featured musicians change every night or two, so don’t go thinking you will hear the same person he did or any of us.
If you have mobility issues, know that if you go for the 9 pm or 10 pm show, even if you have a ticket, you’re going to stand outside for a bit. They may not begin seating until after your start time. Also there is one big step up (handrail on both sides) and the wooden floor is quite uneven. The benches have no backs, so unless you’re on a bench against the wall, there’s no back support, and not much room. They do everything they can to maximize the space.
Not a good place if you have claustrophobia! But a wonderful, intimate experience, appropriate for all ages. Although, I don’t recommend bringing babies, as someone did at the show I attended. The baby did not cry but I thought it was way too loud for an infant’s ears without protection.
No food or drinks sold, no bathroom. There’s an pizza place next door. The proprietor appears to have had it with Preservation Hall patrons asking to use his restroom. Looked like there was a sign saying he charged for restroom use if you weren’t a customer. He was not welcoming and it seemed unpleasant in there. Too bad. There are ways he could capitalize on a captive audience.

This place is legit! I’m talking about better than the freaking Catalina Wine Mixer legit.
If you are visiting you have to come here at least once. You have two options you can spend 45 a person for a seat up front or get in line early and spend 15 for a bench seat in the back. Other than that your standing. It’s very small and hot but, oh so worth it.
A true insight to the musical history of the city and bourbon street. Great performers and excellent acoustics. Show is about an hour long and it flys by as you could listen to these guys for hours.
Enjoy the show as its one of a kind and clearly a staple in this amazing city.