January visit

Question

Hello. We have a cruise from New Orleans that leaves in late January. We’ll be flying in to New Orleans from California 2 days early. We were thinking of adding a few days to be able to really visit the city but we are concerned that the weather might not cooperate. We can visit a different time, but were wondering if we should take the chance and extend our days since we are in the city anyway. What do you think the chances are of getting nice weather at that time of year vs an ice storm, etc. FYI if we visit on another occasion it will be in September. Thanks for any suggestions.

Answer

Visiting New Orleans in late January is definitely doable, but it’s important to keep in mind that the weather can be a bit unpredictable during this time of year. Here’s what you can generally expect and some considerations to help you decide whether to extend your stay:

Weather in Late January: New Orleans tends to have mild winters, but there is always a chance for colder weather, especially early in the month. Here's an overview of what to expect:

Temperature: Daytime temperatures typically range from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C). Nights can be chillier, especially towards the end of the month, with temperatures dipping into the 30s or 40s°F (1-5°C).
Rain: January is generally one of the drier months, but there is still a possibility of occasional rain showers or even cold fronts moving through, which can bring brief periods of colder weather.
Freezing Weather: Snow or ice storms are rare in New Orleans, but they can happen. Historically, snowfall is extremely infrequent, and when it does occur, it usually melts within a day or so. An ice storm is unlikely, but it’s always a possibility to consider during the winter months.

Should You Extend Your Stay in January? Based on typical weather patterns, you can expect relatively mild conditions, though not always perfect "t-shirt weather." If you're comfortable with cooler temperatures and a bit of unpredictability, extending your stay is a great option. New Orleans has a lot to offer year-round, even in cooler months. You can enjoy many indoor activities like:

Museums and Historic Sites: The National WWII Museum, New Orleans Museum of Art, and The Cabildo are all excellent places to visit during cooler weather.
Jazz and Music Venues: Enjoy the iconic New Orleans jazz scene in cozy clubs like The Spotted Cat Music Club or Snug Harbor, where you can stay warm while soaking in the music.
Food Tours: The city’s food scene is world-renowned, and colder weather is perfect for indulging in rich, comforting dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and beignets.
Shopping and Exploration: The French Quarter, Magazine Street, and Garden District are all great for strolling, and January typically sees fewer crowds, which means more relaxed exploration.

September vs. January: If you decide to visit New Orleans another time, September would offer much warmer weather (typically high 80s to 90s °F / 30-35°C), but it's also hurricane season. While hurricanes don’t always hit New Orleans directly, there is a higher chance of rain, storms, and humidity. If you're hoping for better weather with less chance of rain, late fall to early spring (October to April) is ideal. January gives you a chance to enjoy the city in a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.

In summary: While there’s a small chance of cold or wet weather in late January, it’s also one of the more peaceful times to visit New Orleans with fewer tourists. If you don’t mind a bit of chill, you’ll still have plenty to do and enjoy. If you prefer warmer and more predictable weather, September could be a good option, though keep in mind the potential for storms. Ultimately, if you’re already planning to be in New Orleans for your cruise, it could be worth extending your stay and taking a chance on the weather.

January visit

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