Jazz preservation hall standing alternative with kid

Question

We are very sad that we could not get tickets to the preservation hall other than standing. We were naive noticing they were not sold out on the website but when we went to purchase realized they only have standing tickets for the reminder of our visit in NOLA :(

Anyway, wondering if our 10 yr old son would be able to even see the musicians or get too tired if only standing for the show. Any advice on this? Should we skip it? We were very excited to take our son who is just starting playing the trombone. Are there other good choices to see jazz with kids? We are here until Monday morning.

Thanks in advance!

Answer

It's understandable that you'd be disappointed about not being able to secure seated tickets at Preservation Hall, especially given how excited you are to introduce your son to the vibrant New Orleans jazz scene. Standing during the show can be a bit challenging, particularly for kids, as it can be hard for them to see the musicians and might make the experience less enjoyable if they get tired. However, if your son is truly interested in jazz and playing the trombone, the experience of being in Preservation Hall could still be magical, even if it's standing. It’s a very intimate setting, and the energy of the musicians and the crowd can be exciting.

That said, if you're concerned about the standing tickets, here are a few alternatives to enjoy jazz in New Orleans with your child:

The Spotted Cat Music Club – This venue in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood has a laid-back vibe and often features local jazz bands. It’s a smaller venue, so it’s more likely your son will be able to see the musicians up close, and the environment is more casual, making it a bit easier for families with kids.
Jazz at the Palm Court Jazz Café – The Palm Court is another fantastic spot for live jazz, and they tend to have a more family-friendly atmosphere. The setting is a bit more comfortable for sitting and relaxing while enjoying great music.
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro – This well-known jazz club in the Faubourg Marigny has a more traditional setting and usually provides seating, which would be a good option for your son. It’s also an excellent place to hear quality jazz performances and enjoy some food while you’re there.
Frenchmen Street – If you want a more casual, open-air experience, Frenchmen Street has several clubs with live music that often welcome families. Places like d.b.a. and The Blue Nile sometimes have earlier shows or less intense performances that might be easier for your son to enjoy. The street itself has a lively atmosphere, and there are plenty of places to walk around while enjoying the music from the sidewalks.
The New Orleans Jazz Museum – If you’re looking for a different way to introduce your son to jazz, the New Orleans Jazz Museum often has family-friendly exhibits and programs. They don’t always feature live performances, but it’s a great way to learn about jazz history, and there’s a chance to enjoy smaller, more informal live music sessions.

If you're still set on seeing Preservation Hall, I would recommend arriving early to grab a spot near the front of the standing area. That way, your son will have a better chance of seeing the musicians, and it won’t be as tiring if you’re close to the stage.

Regardless of where you decide to go, New Orleans has an incredible jazz scene, and you’re sure to find a memorable experience for your son to enjoy!