Louisiana is hopeful a number of new attractions and hotels will enable it return to pre-pandemic visitor numbers by the end of next year.
New hotels due to open in New Orleans in 2024 include Caesars and a Four Seasons with a 360-degree outdoor observation deck, with a third proposed hotel set to open near the New Orleans Convention Centre.
The state has also invested in existing attractions, including the New Orleans aquarium and insectarium, which has undergone a $40 million renovation project, and the National WWII Museum, which has had a $400 million facelift.
Senior vice-president for communications and PR for New Orleans and Company, Kelly Schulz, told Travel Weekly: “There’s an entire portion of the downtown area that’s practically brand new – or new to those who haven’t visited since Covid.”
Schulz is also hopeful that the Princess Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, opening at Disney World and Disneyland at the end of 2024, will inspire more people to visit Louisiana as the immersive attraction is based on the state.
“We’re happy to have this beautiful representation of Louisiana culture there [at Disney World], where millions of visitors go every year,” she added.
In September, British Airways announced it was increasing direct flights from London to New Orleans from three to five times per week.
With new and revamped attractions and increased airlift, Schulz is confdent the state will return to pre-pandemic visitor numbers by the end of 2024.
Pictured: New Orleans, Louisiana