UPDATE: Louisiana’s tourism industry is booming as Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser ramps up efforts to attract explorers from around the globe. Just announced, Louisiana welcomed 43 million visitors in 2023, generating a staggering $18.1 billion in spending—an increase of 5.4 percent from 2022.
As travel resumes post-pandemic, Nungesser and his team are aggressively marketing the Bayou State, recently leveraging a U.S. Commerce Department grant to raise awareness in major cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, Madrid, and Milan. This summer, they will embark on a promotional tour in Canada, which accounts for approximately 33 percent of Louisiana’s international visitors.
Nungesser emphasized the importance of outreach, stating, “Those Canadians love them some Louisiana.” He highlighted unique strategies, including wrapping taxi cabs in Paris as mobile billboards and sponsoring the prestigious London Jazz Festival to further promote the state’s distinctive culture.
The latest data reveals a remarkable 16.9 percent increase in international visitation, with spending surging to $1.7 billion. “The return on investment for our promotional efforts has been incredible,” Nungesser added, referring to the extensive media coverage from the Rose Parade, which reached an estimated 10.4 billion people over four years.
Louisiana’s vibrant culture is on full display with an alligator-themed float that participated in the 136th Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. Nungesser noted the volunteer-driven effort to decorate floats with natural materials, enhancing the state’s visibility as a premier travel destination.
In addition to tourism, Nungesser is also focusing on revitalizing Louisiana’s state parks. Upon taking office nearly a decade ago, seven parks were at risk of closure. Now, thanks to community support and improvements, those parks are profitable, welcoming over 1.75 million visitors last year.
Nungesser aims to develop resort conference centers within state parks to attract business gatherings, further stimulating local economies. He stated, “We have over 350 groups that meet every year all over Louisiana,” and plans to ensure these centers enhance rather than compete with local businesses.
At the heart of Louisiana’s appeal is its rich culinary tradition. Recently passed legislation mandates that restaurants disclose the origin of imported seafood, enhancing transparency for consumers. “We want people to ask before they eat,” Nungesser stressed, advocating for local fishermen and seafood producers.
The ongoing community initiative, Love the Boot Week, has also gained momentum, with over 19,441 volunteers participating last year to remove a record 347 tons of litter. “It has become a movement,” Nungesser noted, highlighting efforts to keep Louisiana beautiful.
As Louisiana pushes for an increase in both domestic and international tourism, the focus on cultural events, park enhancements, and community involvement is set to position the state as a must-visit destination. Stay tuned for more updates as Nungesser and his team continue to pave the way for a thriving tourism industry. For more information on volunteer opportunities and events, visit explorelouisiana.com.
