I will be visiting New Orleans in late-January. Will I need a car to get around, or will everything be within walking distance/public transporation? Also, how is the weather during that time of year? Suggestions on things to do? Thanks in advance.

Stephanie,
If you are staying close to the French Quarter, Warehouse Dirstrict, or Garden District; you will not want a car - traffic is unbearable and parking expensive! There is a train that runs along the riverside of the FQ - $1.50 each way. There is a streetcar that runs up St. Charles through the Warehouse and Garden Districts, and there is the cable car that runs along Canal St. Taxis are $3.00 for anywhere within that area. Outside that area, the cost goes up the further away you are. You will be walking withing those three districts and not want a car there. However, if you are staying in New Orleans proper, you will need a car.

I agree with the above post. If you can, stay in the Quarter. Its a beautiful walking district and a horrible parking/driving area. Its cheaper to take a cab occasionally than to put up with the driving hassles.

Hi Stepahnie: I was in N.O. in Jan. 1998. I agree with other posts re hotel in Quarter. You may pay a bit more to stay there but it will be more than worth it in transport cost savings and enjoyment of walking around vs. driving. I stayed at Le Richelieu and recommend it.

Jan. weather was like autumn for me (of course our Jan. weather can be -10) I think it was between 60-70 F but you can check on "weather" on 'net to find out temps. and forecasts.

For sure take a cemetary tour. Very very interesting (I thought). And it is impossible to get a bad meal in N.O. Enjoy!

Several years ago, on the suggestion of the Fodor's guide, my family stayed at the Cornstalk Hotel, in the French Quarter. I do not recommend it. It was twice as expensive as a more modern motel near the French market with free parking. The Cornstalk was a historical hotel. From the outside it was very attractive, but the inside was nothing special and the rooms were uncomfortable. In one room the tv was at a 90 degree angle to the bed. In the other room, the toilet ran all night. Needless to say the beds were small and uncomfortable. The hotel charged for parking and there is no managerial staff present, just employees. But the worst part was the smell of ammonia that woke us up every morning. Because the hotel was a tourist carriage stop, the mules and/or the horses took the opportunity for their "rest stop". Every morning, the hotel staff had to go out and wash down the street with ammonia. It was not a pleasant smell to eat breakfast to.

Go to the French market.