UPDATE: Louisiana is making headlines as Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser ramps up efforts to promote the state as a prime travel destination. With travel rebounding post-COVID-19, Nungesser’s initiatives are drawing international attention—just last year, Louisiana welcomed 43 million visitors, generating a staggering $18.1 billion in economic impact.
Nungesser announced that his office utilized a U.S. Commerce Department grant to enhance Louisiana’s visibility in key markets, including Mumbai, New Delhi, Madrid, and Milan. In a few months, the promotional team will travel to Canada, which represents 33 percent of Louisiana’s international market. “Those Canadians love them some Louisiana,” Nungesser stated during a recent Rotary Club meeting in Lake Charles.
The Louisiana Office of Tourism is also creatively marketing the state; in Paris, taxi cabs serve as moving advertisements for tourism. Nungesser highlighted that participation in events like the Rose Parade—where Louisiana showcased an alligator-themed float—has significantly raised the state’s profile. The float’s media exposure over the past four years reached an estimated 10.4 billion people, valued at $144.9 million.
Louisiana’s parks are also flourishing. Nungesser took office nearly a decade ago when seven parks faced closure threats. Thanks to community efforts, those parks are now profitable, collectively hosting over 1.75 million visitors last year. One of the standout parks, Bogue Chitto, has become a hotspot for mountain biking, attracting visitors from up to 15 states. A recent documentary by Prime Video highlights these trails, with 25 percent of proceeds allocated for trail expansion.
In addition to tourism, Nungesser’s office has enacted crucial seafood legislation to ensure transparency. New laws mandate that restaurants label imported seafood, aiming to protect Louisiana fishermen and promote local produce. “If you eat Boudreaux’s crawfish tails, they’re going to be from Boudreaux’s,” he emphasized.
The state is also tackling litter through the Love the Boot Week campaign, which engaged 19,441 volunteers who collectively removed a record 347 tons of litter across all 64 parishes in 2024. Volunteers are set to distribute buckets at marinas, encouraging boaters to help keep waterways clean.
Nungesser’s vision for Louisiana is clear: to transform the state into a leading travel destination while preserving its unique culture and natural beauty. “We’re not going to take our foot off the gas until we have no more trash in Louisiana,” he affirmed.
As Louisiana’s tourism industry accelerates, the focus remains on innovation and community involvement. The state is poised for a bright future, driven by the dedication of its leaders and residents alike. For ongoing updates and volunteer opportunities, visit explorelouisiana.com.
