Preservation Hall, New Orleans

While it remains one of the most touristy things to do in the Big Easy, one of the best nights spent in New Orleans is to go out for a good creole dinner, followed by listening to jazz at Preservation Hall, and drinks at Pat O'Brien's.

For food, you can't go wrong. Any bad restaurant would go out of business in New Orleans in a heartbeat.

You might have to wait in line for a while, but Preservation Hall is definitely worth it. The band members are old school jazz musicians who love to play and it shows. The $5 it costs to get in is the best cheap thrill you can get in NO.

Once you've had your jazz fill, go next door to Pat O'Briens for hurricanes or other drinks. A lot of the Bourbon Street bars can be loud and obnoxious. Pat O's is way more low key and has an awesome courtyard area for spending time with friends. Also has a good piano bar.

Preservation Hall is a must for jazz lovers. The venue is aptly named – this is the venue for classic American jazz – no Kenny G. modern stuff. Jazz greats have played here and are still playing here. Get there early before one of the sets so you can grab one of the few coveted seats for the audience. If not, you will still enjoy the sounds standing up. Take home a CD as a souvenir from your visit.

Dress Code: Casual

No trip would be complete without a stop at Preservation Hall. This is old-time New Orleans Jazz at its finest. A fantastic interactive show with a very personal feel.

Grab a seat on the floor if you can, so that you can make eye contact with the band. They feed off of the enthusiasm of the crowd.

It's only $5 to get in, and it's quite a show!

Opens nightly 8:00 pm til midnight. The first set is at 8:30 pm. There are no food or drinks, but the sets are only 35 minutes long.

Go enjoy a set, and then go for snacks.

Dress Code: No dress code

Preservation Hall is the place to go to enjoy traditional jazz performances. Come early and queue for entrance to this legendary place. There aren't many seats so keep in mind that you have to stand for 30 minutes, but if you like jazz, it's worth it.

Dress Code: Casual

This place is dedicated to preserving the art of jazz. They take their music seriously. There is no food or drink served in the hall, which is really just an old horse stable that has been renovated into a performance hall. You walk in and drop $5 into a collection bowl and then around 8:30 the music starts. Sets last around a half hour with brief intermissions in between. If you want to step away from the insanity of the Quarter and into a place as pure as they come, this is it.

Dress Code: Come as you are.

It's the most obscure and decrepit building on the street but once inside, you'll discover it has the most energy and history. Great jazz club. Go here for an authentic New Orleans experience!

Dress Code: Casual. Don't be surprised if you have to sit on the floor or stand.

Be sure to go to Preservation Hall for the authentic jazz. They do not serve food or drink. The music begins at 8:30 pm with sets every 35 minutes.

Looking for some civilised entertainment in the French Quarter? Preservation Hall is *the* place for live jazz. For the price of a drink, relax to excellent music in a warm and festive atmosphere.