by Ann E. Smith

Created on: November 20, 2008   Last Updated: March 18, 2011

New Orleans is world famous for its nightlife. Those who visit party along with the eclectic people who call New Orleans home. There is no shortage of great bars in this city, with some offering live jazz music while others feature cross-dressing strippers. You can find it all in New Orleans, and that is part of why people love The Big Easy.

With such a large bar scene, you may wonder where you should spend your time drinking. Here is a list of some of the city's best bars, as well as why they made the cut.

Pat O'Brien's

This is probably one of the most famous bars in New Orleans. Located in the French Quarter, this lively place is a must-stop if you are a tourist. Doormen will greet you, as you step into a charming carriageway entrance. From that point, you can select one of six areas to go grab a drink.

Locals can be found in the main bar area. Anyone who is familiar with New Orleans knows how entertaining the locals are, so if you want to hear some lively conversation, grab a seat in here.

For those who want to hear live music, Pat O'Brien's offers dueling pianists, and this area is often jam packed with tourists living it up and bravely drinking the mega-strong Hurricanes. This red rum drink was created at Pat O'Brien's, and drink with caution as they are very strong!

Pat O'Brien's also has a pretty patio area where you can just unwind a bit. Food is also served to help soak up some of the effects of the strong drinks.Pat O'Brien's truly is an institution. If you could only visit one bar on this list, this is it.

Old Absinthe House

Looking for a watering hole in the French Quarter that has a bit less of a touristy feel? Well, this place is it. Located on Bourbon Street, the Old Absinthe House is a great place to relax and unwind a bit, all while in the thick of things.

For history buffs, this bar is in a building that dates all the way back to 1807, and it still has a cozy feel to it. Its walls contain framed photographs of celebrities who have visited, and there is a jukebox. Jukeboxes always add ambiance to a place, as if this one needed any help in that area.

The atmosphere is casual, and the bar features certain happy hour specials. And, more than likely, you will find yourself staying for conversation, fun and drinks long after happy hour ends.

Club Decatur

While this place, also located in the French Quarter, looks like a more typical bar, there is nothing typical about its all-day happy hour. That's right, an all-day happy hour is the norm and it

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