Preservation Hall
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Preservation Hall in New Orleans is steeped in history--the moment you step inside, it feels like you've traveled back in time. From the street the entrance is almost non-descript, giving it a quiet speakeasy vibe that only adds to the charm.The staff were lovely and welcoming. We stopped for a drink beforehand and sat in the patio area, soaking up the atmosphere while looking at the many photos of iconic musicians who have played here over the decades.Once the music starts, it's an unforgettable experience. I thought I knew a little about jazz before walking in, but the musicians here take it to an entirely different level--pure, powerful, and full of soul. The whole evening was magical.I'll fondly remember this night for a long time and can't wait to come back for more.
I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. Before you know it, you will feel your body moving to the music. My husband and I bought tickets through their QR code for a 7:30p.m. show on a Monday night. The show ticket prices are different depending on what row you choose to sit in. We chose the standing option as we weren't sure how long we wanted to stay for the duration of the show. However, we ended up staying even after the show to take pictures with the band members because of how much we enjoyed their performance. Their energy and passion for the preservation of jazz music could be felt every moment of the show.
Cannot miss this iconic stop on a visit to NOLA If you want to hear intimate jazz music this is a really cool venue to visit They have nightly shows where you have to buy tickets ahead of time When I visited it was super hot and they offered hand held fans but I've heard AC has been added No recording is allowed , very cool to hear acoustic performances
Touching your soul with a smile. Preservation hall, jazz master the Greg Stafford band, connected with me in a way that moved me, stirred my soul, felt the history of jazz in New Orleans, and appreciated the artists. Greg Stafford connected to Dixieland Jazz and the audience. Having a sing-along led by Greg and his clarinet player brought the house down. "You are my sunshine" made me think about our Saints in our family that are gone. Greg ended the set with. Participation, sing, along number, " I'll be glad when you're dead you rascal you!".... The music the words were absolutely enjoyable. If you haven't been to preservation hall , get a ticket and go you will not be disappointed. The music connect us with the spirit of New Orleans. Bravo!!!
This was one of the highlights of our NOLA trip. There's so much history at Preservation Hall and it was such an intimate experience. We booked standing general admissions on the night that featured Mark Braud and Haruka Kikuchi. Mark's voice is so soothing and all the musicians were incredible. The band played a tailgate trombone song and incorporated the audience in Big Bad Bully (a song that frequently is an earworm now). No recording or photos were allowed until after the show. We took a photo with Mark and the bass player. The rest of the group scattered after the show was over. Souvenirs and albums were available to purchase outside.
It's a New Orleans icon. It's always a good time. Incredibly talented musicians. Sure, the bench seats are a little uncomfortable. But it's worth the experience!
Preservation Hall is a must when visiting New Orleans. I highly recommend purchasing tickets (on their website) well in advance since they consistently sell out. I wasn't sure what to expect, it exceeded my expectations! The music was phenomenal, the band is fun and engaging and the ambiance was uniquely New Orleans. The space is small. They have bench seating and standing. You wait in line outside and they come and check you in about 30 min prior to show time. Once you're inside, someone will walk you to your seat, if you purchased seats. The show is only 45 min so if your only option is standing, I feel it'll still be worth the experience.
Tourist trap. We waited in line because of the venue's historic significance, and to be fair, the ambience does live up to that reputation. The space itself is atmospheric and charming. Unfortunately, the music was a major letdown. It felt flat and uninspired, especially given the expectations set by the venue's legacy. On top of that, there's a strict no photo or video policy during the performance, which honestly comes across less like preserving the experience and more like an attempt to hide how underwhelming the music is. Adding to the disappointment, the experience is overpriced for what you get. If you're curious for historical reasons, you might stop by once. But if you're coming primarily for great live music or value, this may not be worth it.
What is there to say? If you love Jazz, this is place is a must visit. They book great acts in an intimate venue. We have been there a couple of times and both shows were outstanding. There are many options to watch jazz in New Orleans, but this is a special setting. It is very sparce and kind of crowded, but it really focuses your attention on the music. It can get a little hot and some people need to stand, but the shows are not that long. It is definitely worth a visit.
Preservation Hall is a Nice idea but... 1) it's really not that historic (opened in early 1960's) 2) it's a small, crowded space with limited air flow... has AC but really tough on hot day 3) standing room space is cramped 4) seats are unassigned and on backless benches that are cramped 5) show is very short (45 minutes) If you do go... show up early to enter so you get good seat. Kinda Worth going once but much better value to go to good jazz club on Frenchmen Street.
Had so much fun here! Stopped by to hear the Preservation Allstars ft Mark Braud and had a 10/10 experience! They were so good and I loved how they had a no cell phone policy, it really made everyone enjoy the present moment. Also got some cool merch to take home! Must visit if you are visiting NOLA!
All I can say is... WOWWWW!! IFYKYK. Went here last month for a friend's birthday trip, and was told by a friend that used to live in NOLA, that this was a must-see. So glad we had an opportunity to reserve tickets (highly recommend you do) for this intimate musical experience. It highlights the incredible talent, creativity, passion and FUN these artists have for jazz and their instruments. Feeding off each other's energy and really had you moving in your seat. Front seats are WORTH the money!! Each artist got to highlight a song of their choosing and each one ATE! They left no crumbs. I must have been a smiling fool in the 2nd row seats, but music, personally, is the best way to get through me. Years in music myself, I understand the dedication and commitment it takes. You FEEL that here when they are on stage performing. Jazz and its spontaneity and history is the cornerstone to Preservation Hall. I LOVE that there is no recording/picture taking allowed (unless the artists strictly tell you otherwise). It helps keep their art intact but helps immerse yourselves with them into their craft. Living in the moment. The last song they kindly let us record/take pictures and I will treasure them until I can come back. Side note: that trumpeter (I believe his name was Will?) has a VOICE as smooth as velvet and I was mesmerized. Video shows a brief moment of the night.
I wish I could tell you about the music at Preservation Hall... but honestly, this is what I'll remember instead. Trying to buy a t-shirt. We went on a weeknight and enjoyed the show, but the line after was too long to grab merch. No problem, I figured I'd just swing back another day since we were staying nearby. That turned into a three-attempt ordeal. Attempt #1: Arrived during the unknown sales hours (11am-2pm). Closed for a private event. Attempt #2: Stopped by before a show. Doors open, shirts clearly visible inside. Asked security if I could buy one, flat "no," with zero explanation of sales hours. Completely unhelpful. Attempt #3: Came back again. Doors open during a show. Asked another guard if I could quickly buy a shirt, again denied. This time I'm told sales hours are 11-2. I check my watch... it's 2:15pm. It's sad because once again I could see the shirts. So after three attempts, I couldn't give them money for a simple jazz souvenir for a person who loves the jazz. For a place that represents New Orleans jazz culture, the experience felt unnecessarily rigid and unfriendly, more like dealing with a prison visitation schedule than a music venue. Decent music, perhaps. But the customer experience? That's what stuck with me, and not in a good way.
This is an easy 5-star review. Lazy me would just cherry pick from the other 5-star reviews but... Preservation Hall is a must when visiting New Orleans. Picture exceptional musicians playing traditional jazz in your living room or backyard. There are no frills, light shows, just benches and standing room areas which allow you to be transported back in time when jazz was king. From their website: "Operating as a family business, Preservation Hall supported the unique culture of traditional jazz in New Orleans, which developed in the local melting pot of African, Caribbean, and European musical traditions at the turn of the 20th Century. Preservation Hall was a rare space in the South where racially integrated bands and audiences shared music together during the Jim Crow era." I would strongly suggest that you purchase your tickets well in advance as these shows sell out. In the past the Hall was BYOB and there were no rest rooms. They have upped their game and there is a full bar and bathrooms! Each show is only 45 minutes in length for those 45 minutes you are in for a truly magnificent experience. read more
This is a historic spot. It's small inside- not fancy- it's real. No big lights, no big speakers, no mixers or autotune. Think- sitting in the living room. Old church style benches. Get your tickets early. The musicians were great- music was great. I loved it. read more
4 months ago
I was lucky enough to have visited Preservation Hall twenty eight years ago so I knew I had to come back since we'd be on vacation in New Orleans the first week of May. We made our reservations two weeks prior to our visit, since I believe that's the earliest you are able to. We were in line not long before they opened the doors. We had purchased front row seats and that was a wonderful treat! Being in that intimate setting to see and hear the incredible music performed is such a magical experience. I am thrilled I was able to share it with my fiancé who loved every minute of it! read more
Preservation Hall in New Orleans is steeped in history--the moment you step inside, it feels like you've traveled back in time. From the street the entrance is almost non-descript, giving it a quiet speakeasy vibe that only adds to the charm.The staff were lovely and welcoming. We stopped for a drink beforehand and sat in the patio area, soaking up the atmosphere while looking at the many photos of iconic musicians who have played here over the decades.Once the music starts, it's an unforgettable experience. I thought I knew a little about jazz before walking in, but the musicians here take it to an entirely different level--pure, powerful, and full of soul. The whole evening was magical.I'll fondly remember this night for a long time and can't wait to come back for more. read more
2 days ago
I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. Before you know it, you will feel your body moving to the music. My husband and I bought tickets through their QR code for a 7:30p.m. show on a Monday night. The show ticket prices are different depending on what row you choose to sit in. We chose the standing option as we weren't sure how long we wanted to stay for the duration of the show. However, we ended up staying even after the show to take pictures with the band members because of how much we enjoyed their performance. Their energy and passion for the preservation of jazz music could be felt every moment of the show. read more
5 months ago
Cannot miss this iconic stop on a visit to NOLA If you want to hear intimate jazz music this is a really cool venue to visit They have nightly shows where you have to buy tickets ahead of time When I visited it was super hot and they offered hand held fans but I've heard AC has been added No recording is allowed , very cool to hear acoustic performances read more
Touching your soul with a smile. Preservation hall, jazz master the Greg Stafford band, connected with me in a way that moved me, stirred my soul, felt the history of jazz in New Orleans, and appreciated the artists. Greg Stafford connected to Dixieland Jazz and the audience. Having a sing-along led by Greg and his clarinet player brought the house down. "You are my sunshine" made me think about our Saints in our family that are gone. Greg ended the set with. Participation, sing, along number, " I'll be glad when you're dead you rascal you!".... The music the words were absolutely enjoyable. If you haven't been to preservation hall , get a ticket and go you will not be disappointed. The music connect us with the spirit of New Orleans. Bravo!!! read more
4 months ago
This was one of the highlights of our NOLA trip. There's so much history at Preservation Hall and it was such an intimate experience. We booked standing general admissions on the night that featured Mark Braud and Haruka Kikuchi. Mark's voice is so soothing and all the musicians were incredible. The band played a tailgate trombone song and incorporated the audience in Big Bad Bully (a song that frequently is an earworm now). No recording or photos were allowed until after the show. We took a photo with Mark and the bass player. The rest of the group scattered after the show was over. Souvenirs and albums were available to purchase outside. read more
5 months ago
It's a New Orleans icon. It's always a good time. Incredibly talented musicians. Sure, the bench seats are a little uncomfortable. But it's worth the experience! read more
11 months ago
Preservation Hall is a must when visiting New Orleans. I highly recommend purchasing tickets (on their website) well in advance since they consistently sell out. I wasn't sure what to expect, it exceeded my expectations! The music was phenomenal, the band is fun and engaging and the ambiance was uniquely New Orleans. The space is small. They have bench seating and standing. You wait in line outside and they come and check you in about 30 min prior to show time. Once you're inside, someone will walk you to your seat, if you purchased seats. The show is only 45 min so if your only option is standing, I feel it'll still be worth the experience. read more
Tourist trap. We waited in line because of the venue's historic significance, and to be fair, the ambience does live up to that reputation. The space itself is atmospheric and charming. Unfortunately, the music was a major letdown. It felt flat and uninspired, especially given the expectations set by the venue's legacy. On top of that, there's a strict no photo or video policy during the performance, which honestly comes across less like preserving the experience and more like an attempt to hide how underwhelming the music is. Adding to the disappointment, the experience is overpriced for what you get. If you're curious for historical reasons, you might stop by once. But if you're coming primarily for great live music or value, this may not be worth it. read more
2 months ago
What is there to say? If you love Jazz, this is place is a must visit. They book great acts in an intimate venue. We have been there a couple of times and both shows were outstanding. There are many options to watch jazz in New Orleans, but this is a special setting. It is very sparce and kind of crowded, but it really focuses your attention on the music. It can get a little hot and some people need to stand, but the shows are not that long. It is definitely worth a visit. read more
Preservation Hall is a Nice idea but... 1) it's really not that historic (opened in early 1960's) 2) it's a small, crowded space with limited air flow... has AC but really tough on hot day 3) standing room space is cramped 4) seats are unassigned and on backless benches that are cramped 5) show is very short (45 minutes) If you do go... show up early to enter so you get good seat. Kinda Worth going once but much better value to go to good jazz club on Frenchmen Street. read more
Had so much fun here! Stopped by to hear the Preservation Allstars ft Mark Braud and had a 10/10 experience! They were so good and I loved how they had a no cell phone policy, it really made everyone enjoy the present moment. Also got some cool merch to take home! Must visit if you are visiting NOLA! read more
6 months ago
5 months ago
All I can say is... WOWWWW!! IFYKYK. Went here last month for a friend's birthday trip, and was told by a friend that used to live in NOLA, that this was a must-see. So glad we had an opportunity to reserve tickets (highly recommend you do) for this intimate musical experience. It highlights the incredible talent, creativity, passion and FUN these artists have for jazz and their instruments. Feeding off each other's energy and really had you moving in your seat. Front seats are WORTH the money!! Each artist got to highlight a song of their choosing and each one ATE! They left no crumbs. I must have been a smiling fool in the 2nd row seats, but music, personally, is the best way to get through me. Years in music myself, I understand the dedication and commitment it takes. You FEEL that here when they are on stage performing. Jazz and its spontaneity and history is the cornerstone to Preservation Hall. I LOVE that there is no recording/picture taking allowed (unless the artists strictly tell you otherwise). It helps keep their art intact but helps immerse yourselves with them into their craft. Living in the moment. The last song they kindly let us record/take pictures and I will treasure them until I can come back. Side note: that trumpeter (I believe his name was Will?) has a VOICE as smooth as velvet and I was mesmerized. Video shows a brief moment of the night. read more
6 months ago
I wish I could tell you about the music at Preservation Hall... but honestly, this is what I'll remember instead. Trying to buy a t-shirt. We went on a weeknight and enjoyed the show, but the line after was too long to grab merch. No problem, I figured I'd just swing back another day since we were staying nearby. That turned into a three-attempt ordeal. Attempt #1: Arrived during the unknown sales hours (11am-2pm). Closed for a private event. Attempt #2: Stopped by before a show. Doors open, shirts clearly visible inside. Asked security if I could buy one, flat "no," with zero explanation of sales hours. Completely unhelpful. Attempt #3: Came back again. Doors open during a show. Asked another guard if I could quickly buy a shirt, again denied. This time I'm told sales hours are 11-2. I check my watch... it's 2:15pm. It's sad because once again I could see the shirts. So after three attempts, I couldn't give them money for a simple jazz souvenir for a person who loves the jazz. For a place that represents New Orleans jazz culture, the experience felt unnecessarily rigid and unfriendly, more like dealing with a prison visitation schedule than a music venue. Decent music, perhaps. But the customer experience? That's what stuck with me, and not in a good way. read more
If you are ever in the French Quarter and like live traditional Jazz music, a stop at Preservation Hall is a must. This venue takes you back to the old traditional music halls of the past. No air conditioning, no fancy venue, small bench seats, or if you can't snag one of those , you stand! The show lasts about 50 min with no intermission. Truly world class musicians right up close and in your face. Pro tip, pay the extra for first row seats and you don't have to worry about the cue which lines up an hour before the performance. You still have to wait in the same line, but your seat is reserved so you can show up later. read more
We went to a show at Preservation Hall for an experience with traditional jazz in New Orleans. The space itself is quite small and intimate, with a couple rows of seated benches and some standing area in the back, and they had enough people in there even early on a rainy Friday. We were glad we had bought our tickets online in advance to skip the line. The performers were very talented and all with great experience in their specific area, with several having performed with household names. The show was a little shorter than we expected, around 45 minutes, but it was enjoyable the whole time! The performers take turns singing or starring in the songs and there is a fun banter throughout the performance. Since we went in December, they also did a Christmas song sing along, which was quite fun! read more
I wish I could give this place ten stars. We had a wonderful time. The hall has been maintained so well to where it feels like you've gone back in time. They had a cocktail bar and the room itself was somewhat small but it made the experience that much more intimate. The band was phenomenal. I'd love to go back. Highly recommend getting a seated ticket but you'll have a great time no matter what. read more
This is the hot spot for tradtitional jazz. It's a tiny, dilapidated hall on St Peter St. where famous musicians perform. Opened in the 1950's when jazz was second to rock n roll. Larry Borenstein began inviting musicians to perform "rehearsal sessions" in the gallery itself. These sessions featured living legends of New Orleans Jazz - George Lewis, Punch Miller, Sweet Emma Barrett, Billie and De De Pierce, The Humphrey Brothers ... read more
Touch history experience art in real life and meet new friends. Preservation Hall is a must Do. It is such a short show you can squeeze it in! Do not pass this up- These skilled, talented, passionate musicians and artists. Entertainers. Poets. It is inexpensive, safe, and you don't have to be 21 to get in! PS- there is a bar though! And just walk in history. Please do this. read more
1 year ago
Things to know before you go: 1. Tickets should be purchased online in advance. If you don't want to stand for an hour, be sure to purchase "seated" tickets. 2. They have live music shows every day and several different show times to choose from. 3. They do have air conditioning now! Apparently they recently installed it and you will be glad they did. 4. No phone use or recording during the show. 5. There is no alcohol served. They occasionally host "pop up" bars, but did not have one on the night we attended. 6. It is a very small space and you will be sitting up close to the performers. 7. The show is short - lasted about 50 minutes. We saw Mark Braud and the All Star band and had the best time. The level of musical talent was incredible. read more
Preservation Hall is a special experience! I have been before. This time I bought front row tix for $50. Well worth it! The venue is not large, with a mix of standing room and seats. The music is always phenomenal. It's a blast and a great way to end a night out. I think the venue is ADA accessible if needed. They sell some merch as well. All staff are friendly, and the musicians are awesome. Make sure to tip! read more
2 months ago
Our last evening on our recent trip to New Orleans found us attending a jazz show at Preservation Hall. Something I hadn't done since I started visiting New Orleans at the age of 11, believe it or not. The performance was outstanding, and I enjoyed watching the players perform their individual pieces. Do note, whether you're standing in the back or have actual seats on one of the benches that you purchased, you will be instructed not to video or photograph the actual show. However, the experience was cool. The cavern-like hallway that leads to the small, little room with wooden benches and the instruments at the stage area is very cool. You see the iconic drum kit, you see the standing bass, the piano, and the other horns and instruments used by the players. It leads to a mystical 40 to 50 minutes or so of the band coming in from another door to play a few jazz standard numbers. read more
5 months ago
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Go! Go to the show here! PH is an absolute joy. My cheeks ached from smiling. Be prepared - the venue is tiny and it's bench seating for the most part. The show is pretty short but jam packed with good times. It was definitely a favorite and I would go back in a heartbeat. read more
2 years ago
It's not what I expected. It was located in Preservation hall, they must have finished the renovations. When you arrive you go to Preservation hall and get in line. We were around 10th in line. We arrived at 3pm The place is set up to be old looking. Seating is on benches with no backs. We reserved front row seats. We were on the front row stage left. You can take pictures before the show starts. No photos or videos during the show. The show was phenomenal. Classic Jazz at its finest. The show lasts an hour. Don't forget to tip the band. After the show you can buy souvenirs in the lobby. They sell Christmas ornaments, records, T-shirts, pads of paper, ect. read more
What a surreal experience joining a group of people here on the first night after the remodel. I have probably passed by this place a few times while walking around the quarter but didn't find it until the day of. It has such a humble entrance, just a small plaque with the name on it. I actually bought the wrong date, but the ticket office exchanged it for me with no question after I emailed them over the weekend. After chatting with a group of older folks while waiting at the door and sharing some beers, I was told it was the first night they re-open after the long period of remodeling. The air was electrified even while waiting outside. Inside the hall it's a small room that could only fit 50 people or so? It was just rows of benches. Perhaps this is how people appreciated jazz back in the days. Time flew by and after many songs and audiences cheers, I thought it was too short. This place is a must visit. read more
2 years ago
I am a professional musician and this place is the real deal. Not only are they legendary, but the quality of music is still at the top of what they do. It is a very small venue, definitely reserve seats in advance. There are just a few wooden benches to sit on, no backs on chairs. But, this is the kind of experience you travel the world to see. Totally pure and authentic soul. You will not regret it! read more
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More info about Preservation Hall
726 Saint Peter St
New Orleans, LA 70116
French Quarter
Directions
(504) 522-2841
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http://www.preservationhall.com
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Ask the Community - Preservation Hall
Is the venue handicap/wherkchair accessible? If so, what type of tickets should be purchased; seat or standing?
Yes, definitely. I'd contact Preservation Hall directly but have been there when other guests were using wheelchair
How many people?
It's tight, maybe 50? Definitely need to have tickets ahead of time. It's a small space. Seats are benches, flat room so if you're back you don't see a lot, but you're there for the music, which is great.
Is it 21+?
When I was here in 2015, there were teens/pre-teens with their parents. I would be surprised if they changed it to 21+.
How much general admission?
$20 per ticket. More if you want front seating. I wouldn't do that though.
When are tickets released for future dates not listed on the site?
Yeah, you can look up who's playing when but it's more of a "Walk-Up-And-Listen" kind of joint. There are about 6-7 venues right next to one another and you can pop in and out just taking it all in.
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