I went to the French Quarter on a business trip just before Katrina struck. The heat, smell and garbage reminded me of Tijuana in the 80s or parts of Jakarta. Except that people in those places were better behaved.
New Orleans is charming in the cooler months, just maintain situational awareness.
I visited New Orleans for NY eve/day for 2020 (little did I know it was to be my last pre pandemic travel!) and I loved it. Great music, food, drinks you can carry around. Frenchman’s street—fun! No smells, being in winter helped I’m sure. My musician high schooler played ragtime on a bar piano and got tips! He wants to move there.