In New Orleans, you can never predict the weather. In January, it could be 60 degrees or may be 40 degrees. I recommend checking the weather before you leave and packing layers as well as comfortable shoes for walking. You do not have to worry about Hurricanes in January. Hurricane Season is from June-October.
For a weekend trip, we recommend using Uber and Lyft to get around. If you are staying in the French Quarter, parking can be difficult, so we do not recommend renting a car. For those who wish, New Orleans does have Blue Bikes, an App based ride share program.
All of them! Parkway (for Po’boys), The Joint (for BBQ), Luke, Ruby Slipper or Mother’s (for brunch), Compere Lapin or Meril (upscale local cuisine), Napoleon House (Muffuletta), Felix’s and Gumbo Shop(affordable local cuisine) and so many more great places like: Brennan’s, Court of Two Sisters, Royal House….