Preservation Hall - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

Went to watch a jazz gig (Gregg Stafford), which only lasted for 45min. Really..?! Not worth $25 (standing) ticket. Felt like the performance catered to tourists.

A MUST in New Orleans. Hospitality was great, stories are wonderful and the music is divine. Don't visit NOLA without seeing this historical gem.

The place is beautiful and the music was great. It did seem a bit overpriced (50 usd pp to seat close to the band) for 45-50 mins of music. Would recommend people to look around at locations not so close to Bourbon street for a nice night of music. If you want to spend more than 1 h listening to music definitely don't come here

Toulouse Theater The location of the venue has changed 615 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130United States https://maps.app.goo.gl/bALBkcrui4uB9XFV6?g_st=il

They do have air conditioning now. Get tickets in advance. Fantastic musicians who come from many generations of incredible talent. Must go when you’re in New Orleans!

The coolest thing I think we've done here...

Historic Jazz hall currently undergoing renovations

Played at the Toulouse Theatre; great musicianship but a very brief show of no more than 40mins. A total ripoff for $50! There’s far better value to be had in Frenchmen St.

Note that we went to the Toulouse Theater while Preservation Hall was under construction. Band was half asleep, just like the crowd. Go to a Jazz Club for a better experience.

It was over 40 years ago that I first went to Preservation Hall! It really hasn't changed!

We went to listen to the prevention hall at Toulouse theater. The 3-stars are because the group was brilliant. However I can't help but feel robbed by the price of the tickets for a 45min show.

Music was great but staff woman who seated us was mean. We were first in line and waited 45 minutes outside in the 90+ heat until we were allowed in , which was fine. We paid extra for front row and since we were first inside we expected to be able to choose our seats, but we were told we had to sit at the far left. Although this was still a great view, we are an older couple and froze due to a/c blasting on us. Table beside us did not have this problem. 5 stars for the really great jazz band and zero for the staff member who forced us to freeze.

The jazz was phenomenal on a Saturday night show, wonderful chemistry and the band was having a great time. We didn’t have tickets but stood in a short line and told we likely could get in standing room only. The staff was very kind and helpful.

Such an authentic and wonderful experience 🎷👍🏻

Disappointed, but glad to see it's being upgraded.

Not sure what did I just paid for $100. The better bands on the bourbon street

Wow! The music was incredible, and the atmosphere was amazing. We went to an early evening performance, which lasted 45 minutes. You pretty much have to reserve tickets in advance, I doubt there would be any available at the door. We also paid extra to sit down because I really wanted to enjoy the music and not have to be bothered by having tired feet after a day of walking around the French Quarter. I am glad we did. The seating is simple wooden benches, no cushions, so that might be uncomfortable for some. I loved being up close while the musicians were playing. This is a family friendly venue, there were lots of kids in the audience. After the show, the musicians invited audience members up front to meet them and take photos, which was really nice. There are no restrooms at the venue.

We went to watch the show and it was incredible. A must do in new orleans. We went on a friday evening. The show lasted about 45 minutes!

Everything full of guiris. Plus it was closed and they put us in a shitty theater. A fraud

Great place to listen to jazz. All the musicians are very skilled at their instruments and also very friendly to the audience. I love the way Preservation Hall looks. The old musty wooden house makes you feel like traveling back in time. The place is casual/relaxed. All the musicians are chill. Cracking jokes here and there. Very simple wooden benches for the audience. Great music, in a very genuine and authentic place.

Everything full of guiris. Plus it was closed and they put us in a shitty theater. A fraud

Everything full of guiris. Plus it was closed and they put us in a shitty theater. A fraud

The reviews said family friendly but it’s no one under 21. Walked 30mins with the kids and had to turn around.

Unfortunately closed-looks like it burnt down

Amazing place and music. Buy your tickets ahead of time - it's a very small venue.

We loved the authentic experience! It was like walking back into the 1960s. The bands were great! The musicians are masters in their craft. The best in the world of historical jazz. A must experience in New Orleans.

This was our 2nd visit to Preservation Hall. The first was over 20 years ago when we recall it being an amazing but very hot experience in a minimalist room being entertained by a band of great jazz musicians - most of them in their 70s or 80s. We had to come back and bring our friends. The experience this time was even better, from the articulate introduction by a passionate member of the Preservation Hall team to the vibrant, funny and explosive musicians who really wanted to get the audience involved - we loved every minute of the show. For anyone who wants to experience the real spirit and traditions of New Orleans, Preservation Hall is a must!

Such an amazing experience! The history of Preservation Hall, along with the amazing local artists and their live music makes this a mandatory stop when in New Orleans. Note, photography or recording is not allowed inside but come prepared to enjoy the music experience.

A little disappointed, 45 minutes flat... revised improvisations and an almost classical pianist. Speeches that never end. Very carefully designed services for tourists! The place seems legendary!

Benches, a stage, a 45-minute performance. An audience of curious people, but above all amateurs in this oldest Jazz venue in New Orleans. We don't go there for a drink, but for a musical moment. To see and hear!

Not the right place if you are looking to hear original, authentic jazz. Felt like in a Disneyland attraction about jazz, like a stage put on for the tourists. The musicians spent as much time talking as playing. Only 25 minutes of music after all. Disappointed.

A 45 minute set of classic New Orleans jazz that is a lot of fun. The hall is not air conditioned, so dress appropriately.

The band was awesome! But the ticket management and the place for the ppl who are standing outstanding can get better.

A must stop for jazz fans on a trip to New Orleans. Small, intimate spot with great musicians. The bench seats are uncomfortable, but the show is only forty-five minutes, so it isn't too bad, and you can buy standing tickets to avoid them.

Really authentic with lots of fun history!!! Great music for a great time!!

Rip-off, totally overrated. Crazily expensive for a 45 min set with almost half of the time singalong with the audience. Room is packed with people, no a/c, and on top of that, staff is pretty rude. There are many better options to watch some good music in a nice atmosphere.

Incredible experience! This felt like traveling back in time. Definitely purchase tickets in advance if you want to be able to sit for the show.

It was like walking back in time. Venue was tiny and charming. No speakers, no mics, just raw and amazing. The musicians were world class. Highly recommend visiting.

Seeing a band live at preservation hall is such an amazing opportunity! The experience takes you back in time really immersing you into the music. One of the coolest experiences we had on our trip! I do recommend buying tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

Tourist Trap. The music is fine but it feels very disingenuous. Almost like a Disney’fied version of a jazz show and venue.

Ain’t it. Music is fine but room is small, packed, stuffy, and hot (no aircon, just some 1970s ceiling fans). Audience is instructed at the beginning what to do in case someone feels faint (given above conditions) and several people did leave mid-performance.

Incredible musicians. Highly recommended for those who love traditional New Orleans style jazz or would like to try.

Sells out well in advance, especially for seated admission. Excellent, intimate venue. Performers were ridiculously talented and funny. Could not believe how cheap the tickets were.

It’s suffocating there and super hot. There are other places with great music and better functioning AC… will not go there again… not when in the the summer definitely…

All around it was a great experience

hot and sweaty, leroy had a speech about not needing theory and just playing what sounds good. ok advice, great show, drummer locked in

Absolutely stunning place to feel the soul of NOLA. Dress light - it is super hot inside. And book well in advance, tickets sell out super fast

This place is an amazing step back in history. The jazz is awesome, the hype man is adorable, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Bring a fan because there is no AC and there is one large step that can be a bit aggressive. Buy tickets in advance because there will be standing room only at the end. Also, no restroom so hit up one of the bars nextdoor or across the street. Patty's will give you a drink discount while you wait and after the show if you show them your ticket (15%).

Music is amazing. Show is too short.

Cool spot with tons of history. The musicians were great.

The Band is the best in the land.

What a cozy, intimate and unique experience! Must visit at least once.

Absolutely moved by the performance. The band was all stars featuring Steve Lands. About preservation hall itself one can pithily summarize it as institution. The show that I went to was 45 mins long. They have shows in the evening on weekdays and all over the day on weekends. The pricing for our show and I think it is consistent: 20$ for standing, 40$ for seats and 55$ for front row type seats. I would highly recommend this to everyone.

It was pretty lit, awesome music fun place to go with your family. Recommend!

They played 4 songs, i think, maybe 5. Good music. What i don't like is that they stopped playing to say that they want us to dance. I mean, seriously? Let me enjoy the music the way I want to enjoy the music and don't force me to do so. I will dance if, clap, and give tips if I feel like it not when you tell me to.

I had the opportunity to come here as a chaperone for a field trip and it was amazing. The performers and performance was phenomenal. It was also my first time experiencing live jazz. I'm definitely coming back now that I know about this place!

Had a party in court yard food catered in great, courtyard no seating for Size of party had to ask for tables to be set up, listen to band very good after set we needed to use rest room being older and was told time was over we had to fine another rest room some where else.

This was a unique experience! We are so happy we were able to get tickets! The music is legendary and amazingly performed

A little piece of New Orleans History 🙌

Next level jazz experience. Recommend getting tickets in advance to ensure a spot in this small venue

New Orleans + Jazz = Preservation Hall. Support local artists who support children's musical education. Please more of this!!

Incredible. Mind blowing. So memorable. I’ve been to many jazz venues all over the world. This is like none other.

If you love music you have to check out Preservation Hall. I love music & I have a degree in music. My friend told me I had to go here. I couldn't understand what she was trying to explain to me. I'm still not sure that I can explain what I saw. But this is easily and immediately among the top musical experiences of my life, no question. The performers were all multigenerational musicians, there was no set list, no charts, they just chatted with the audience & played what felt right. The musicality & technical proficiency were seriously out of this world. I was not prepared. My friend said she split her time between watching the band & watching me lose my mind over and over for an hour. I was giddy.

We really enjoyed the gig at this place. The group showing was amazing and the place is so small it was a very personal experience. You get to see the bands playing just two steps from you and with excellent acoustics. The two things I did not like were the place being tiny and closed that it was hot inside and they had no ventilation and as they like to preserve the place as much as they want it, there are a couple of things they could improve without missing the soul of the place.

We scheduled a concert at Preservation Hall. At first look of the building, you have to wonder if it's safe but, once inside, it's okay. We reserved front row tickets which was bench seating and quite uncomfortable. But, you do have an up close view of the band which is nice.

Historic place with amazing history of musicians, however the show we saw was just wayyy too touristy, bad attempt at humorous banter, lots of chat and not nearly enough music. It's ridiculous they charge as much as they do and then still do a big song-and-dance for more tips. They operate it now like a tourist processing machine which way too many people are suckers for. Shame, get back to the music for music's sake! Where's the radical joy of jazz?!

Old Dixieland music. Great atmosphere

Jazz - up close and personal! We booked in advance for this as the venue is quite small and we knew that shows booked out beforehand. After taking our seats the band entered and we were transported back to days of old where jazz was played to the people in such close proximity. And what a fabulous experience it was! Stories were told in between songs and we left feeling elated. Would thoroughly recommend this show if you are ever in New Orleans! Note: You can’t take food or drinks in and you cannot take photos or film inside once the show commences (this rule is strictly enforced) and there are no toilets on site. Additionally, we would recommend the seats over standing, as it was quite cramped back there.

Great piece of history. Really enjoyed the show.

We arrived not knowing you needed reservations weeks if not months in advance. Gate lady was nice but this still was a let down nonetheless

I think the venue is sadly losing the charm that it must have once had. The band were fun, but it was hard to hear the vocals in the room. If I’m to be brutally honest, I’ve heard similar (if not better) music on the streets, which you can hear for longer and for free. When you arrive to the venue you’re shuffled into a space to stand or sit like sardines and there were no refreshments. The band that I saw played 4 songs and then you’re ushered out.

If you like jazz music, stay away. They target to pop culture tourists. 20min of pop songs (what a wonderful world, sunshine etc.), 20min of blabla talking. Waste of money, really disappointed. P.s. asking for tips after 50$ for 20min of playing is ridiculous.

Was a great experience. Saw a sunday show. Seating is on wooden benches with no backs and is fairly close, but show is not long and is highly entertaining

Incredible show from an incredible group of musicians. Wish my Dadio was still with us on this Earthly plane so he could have experienced it with me. The only thing that could have made the show better was if the set was longer, but I completely understand why it isn't. Too much of a good thing tends to ruin it anyway. A must see when in the Big Easy for music fans, history fans, architecture fans, and even fan fans (cause it'll make you wish you brought a fan...one sweaty room!). Audio, video, photo, and use of any type of electronic device is politely prohibited once the show has started. To aid in developing a mental image to anyone who wishes the best way to describe Preservation Hall during one of their historic musical performances brings to mind a scene from the Michel Gondry film, "Be Kind, Rewind". Jack Black and Mos Def use stage fx and old school camera trickery to refilm bootleg versions of famous movies after accidentally erasing a local rental store's entire VHS library. They make an original film about the history of their borough in Passaic, NJ and it's musical claim to fame, a musician by the name of Fats Waller. In their film, "Fats Was Born Here", they create a replica of the building Fats was said to be born in (the same building the video rental store is located in) that has the exterior wall removed so you can see the individual rooms on the interior during a famous "rent party" Fats had thrown so he could pay his rent. It shows a jumping juke joint party filled with so many people having a great time that the floor and house itself flex and dance along to the intoxicating music. It is a highly accurate (if not on the animated side) representation of a Preservation Hall show.

Just incredible. A must see if in New Orleans - but book your tickets in advance and make sure you’re hydrated before entry.

It was a great experience with exceptional performance by a bunch of of excellent Jazz musicians if you like Jazz this is a great venue to enjoy the music !

Definitely one of the big highlights during our trip in NOLA! Our tickets have non-assigned seats, and we arrived there around 7:05 (the show starts at 7:30). We were able to sit in the second row, which is pretty close to the performers. It was a very interactive show!”

Amazing musicians amazing venue. Fantastic experience

This is experiencing history in a way you will never get on a tour or in a museum. You are living that history exactly how it's been lived by so many others over the past 6+ decades! Everything about this place is just soaked in it from the decaying pegboard walls to the old wooden beam in the middle of the room to the intimate seating arrangements. The band will draw you in and interact with the crowd as they give you a dose of true NOLA jazz! Pro Tip: It's very important you get tickets in advance! There's no chance you'll get in the day of, as they book out weeks before (or longer depending on when you visit) due to the very small size of the venue.

I grew up in New Orleans and first attended Preservation Hall in the 1960s. (I am old!) Today, everything seems to be exactly the same. This is a small, cozy environment where you are just a few feet from the musicians. And the music is the real deal, authentic, old school New Orleans jazz. I can't recommend this place enough.

If you're checking Nawlins and marking off a bucket list of things to do, add this to the list. Always good show of jazz.

The one, the only Preservation Hall jazz! If you want to viscerally feel your jazz in yhr heart of NOLA, this is the place for you! After I got home from my trip, I immediately bought 3 Presevation Hall jazz CDs to keep the buzz going!

Was lovely. Music and energy from the performers was great. Love the interaction with the crowd. Would highly recommend. Get your tickets ahead of time because they do sell out.

Just the quintessential NOLA experience. Couldn't stop dancing.

I have been in New Orleans for holidays with my father. What a nice City! We have been to many places with live music - well - in New Orleans you have to Do that. The Preservation Hall was one of the best places! A little bit small inside, but it was an awsome Band there. The atmosphere was incredible! For some Real jazz, you have to go to preservation hall!

Literally the best, most technically incredible music I've ever heard. Fun, intimate venue. It was my number one New Orleans experience. I can hardly believe the talent level of those musicians! A must do

The performance was shorter than expected; performers spent much time asking for tips; the music was not better than the live jazz you can get elsewhere in the city. Overall not worth the money/effort :( dissapointed

Inside hasn't changed in 40 years, but the music is special.

Got a standing room ticket for the 7:30 show and got in line early so I could get over to the far right side and lean against the wall..right behind the last row of benches...a great show...and that little Japanese lady did a damned good job on the Piano despite one of the bass keys being MIA. The clarinet player stole the show for me...his solo's would have been appreciated by Benny Goodman !

Best 45 mins of my trip! I felt like I was in church, that I had chills. I've ben wanting to visit this place since I was a child. I wish the experience was longer. Thank you!!!

Great experience; they play 45/50 minutes sets. They could do one hour (set + one bis). In any case, great experience in an old-fashioned place

Amazing intimate setting, just loved it

It is hard to apply the term AUTHENTIC to music, because who is to be arbiter of that? But here we have dynamic, changing music that still clings to the unique style of jazz associated with New Orleans. Musicianship of this caliber in an intimate setting is transformative. Highly recommended.

In the midst of so much music of all genres, almost a "constant noise" for the city, the concert at the Preservation Hall was a piece of heaven! REAL jazz, without microphones, without bases, great class!

Historic Jazz Hall in New Orleans. Even children can enter. You can buy souvenirs even when there are no concerts. The staff is also friendly.

Great music, a must do for all jazz lovers. This place is legit. Though just a note if you are paying for seats, it's wooden benches. Standing was perfectly fine as show is only an hour.

SAVE YOUR MONEY! I spent $40 per tix for 6 people ($240). Their terse email said to arrive at 2pm for a 2:30 show. They let us in at 2:27, the room was overpacked (very scary safety-wise), show started at 2:45 and they played for 37 minutes of what should have been 45 minutes with way too much banter in between. JUST PLAY THE MUSIC! VERY disappointing. My daughter had to sit behind a column and couldn't see a thing. I would have rather given the money to street musicians. I know it's a historic place, but the whole experience really was a let down. Please, PH, change how you present jazz.

If you even LIKE jazz you need to go. Most amazing experience. Extremely small and personal venue space.

Great intimitate place. Amazing show. Seat are very uncomfortable

Went on a Sunday night and saw Will Smith and the Preservation All Stars. Overall not a good value and disappointing after the reverence this place receives. It may have started as a great place but seems to now be a tourist trap - at least from our experience. It was $40 a person for a 45 minute show, which we knew going in, which they kept to and even ended a little early. However, at least 7-10 minutes of that was spent introducing the band, who played about 4-5 songs, a couple of which had the entire audience singing along for at least half of the song and only a couple of the players playing. Great players but very limited actual playing! And spent another several minutes asking for tips which felt icky after the minimal performance. It is likely luck of the draw, depending on the timing and the band, but we felt our time and money was *much* better spent at a couple of great clubs on Frenchmen street.