Top 5 Uptown Dive Bars in New Orleans – Local Favorites for Nightlife and Music (Not Just For College Students)
New Orleans’ Uptown neighborhood is a treasure trove of nightlife, where history, music, and character meet in the city’s most beloved dive bars. Whether you’re looking for cheap drinks, live music, late-night conversation, or a scene rich in New Orleans culture, these Uptown bars deliver charm and grit in equal measure. As a local artist inspired by Louisiana’s colors and energy, I often find these places influencing my artwork of New Orleans nightlife and jazz culture.
1. Henry’s Uptown Bar – Magazine Street Classic
Located on Magazine Street, Henry’s Uptown Bar is one of the oldest operating bars in New Orleans. With its welcoming atmosphere, classic cocktails, and neighborhood feel, Henry’s is a hub for locals. The bar’s history and warm lighting make it a perfect stop for photographers and artists seeking vintage inspiration.
2. Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge – Late-Night Legend
A true New Orleans dive bar icon, Snake and Jake’s glows under red Christmas lights and stays open until dawn. From college students to celebrities, everyone has a Snake and Jake’s story. This gritty, atmospheric spot has a timeless visual appeal—perfect for capturing in New Orleans-inspired paintings or prints.
3. Cooter Brown’s – Uptown Local Favorite
Cooter Brown’s is a beloved Uptown dive bar known for its laid-back vibe that welcomes everyone—from longtime locals to curious visitors. It’s a cozy refuge with friendly bartenders, good drinks, and a spirit that embodies New Orleans’ communal warmth. The well-worn wood, vintage signs, and steady hum of conversation make it a treasure trove for artists capturing the city’s soul.
4. Dos Jefes Uptown Cigar Bar – Smooth Jazz & Cigars
Dos Jefes blends dive bar casual with a refined touch—think jazz music, cigar smoke, and dim lighting. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great stop for anyone looking to pair New Orleans nightlife with live music. The mood here often makes its way into my jazz-themed pastel paintings.
5. Carrollton Station – Live Music and Local Energy
For a taste of local music in a laid-back setting, Carrollton Station is a staple. This Uptown live music bar is unpretentious and community-focused, with the kind of atmosphere that makes you feel like a regular on your first visit.
Why Uptown Dive Bars Inspire My Art
These Uptown New Orleans dive bars—from Henry’s to Snake and Jake’s and Cooter Brown’s—are more than places to grab a drink. They’re living art installations of neon light, worn wood, and conversation. My art prints and paintings of New Orleans often capture these colors, shadows, and moods, keeping a little of Uptown’s magic alive on canvas.