New Orleans Tourism Statistics - How Many People Visit?

Page last updated: 3 December 2024

New Orleans, Louisiana, is a city known for its cultural heritage, music traditions, Creole cuisine, and annual events such as Mardi Gras.

Overview

How many tourists visit New Orleans each year?

Over 17.8 million domestic tourists visited New Orleans in 2023.

New Orleans attracted 20.36 million visitors in 2019. However, when the pandemic hit in 2020, this number dropped by 38% to approximately 12.67 million.¹
In 2021, around 16.81 million domestic tourists visited New Orleans and this rose in 2022 to 17.36 million visitors.
In 2023, the figure climbed to 17.8 million, though this was still 13% lower than in 2019 (pre-pandemic).

In 2023, New Orleans reported 17.8 million domestic visitors, representing a slight increase of less than 1% from the previous year, yet still 13% below the figures recorded in 2019.

International and domestic tourists spent over $8.75 billion during their trips to New Orleans in 2023.

In 2019, tourists in New Orleans generated $8.11 billion in expenditure. However, it decreased to $4.52 billion in 2020 due to the pandemic.

International and domestic tourist spending recovered in 2021 with $6.71 billion spent.

In 2022 and 2023, visitors spent $8.44 billion and $8.75 billion, respectively.

Domestic and international tourists spent $8.75 billion while exploring New Orleans in 2023.

Domestic tourists spent an average of 2.48 days visiting and exploring the wonders of New Orleans in 2023.

New Orleans is located in southeastern Louisiana, positioned along the Mississippi River and bordered by Lake Pontchartrain to the north.
- The city is situated at approximately 29.95 degrees North latitude and 90.07 degrees West longitude.

In 2023, most people visited New Orleans for non-vacation purposes (43%), which include business, family, and other personal obligations.
Vacations accounted for 26% of visits.
Transient visits, at 15%, reflected individuals passing through the state, while 16% of visits were for group business, such as conferences or corporate events.

Tourism generated nearly 40% of New Orleans’ operating budget, reducing residents’ tax burden.
It supports 75,000 jobs across hospitality and entertainment, vital to the city’s economy and communities.

The best times to visit New Orleans are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).

Spring (March to May)

Weather: Temperatures are typically mild and pleasant, ranging from the low 60s to the upper 70s °F (approximately 15°C to 26°C).
Events: Spring is vibrant with festivals, including Mardi Gras, which culminates in February or early March, and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, held in late April to early May.

Fall (September to November)

Weather: Fall offers cooler temperatures, generally in the 70s °F (around 21°C) during the day, with lower humidity compared to summer months.
Events: October features Halloween festivities and various cultural events, while November is quieter, making it an excellent time for leisurely exploration of attractions without large crowds.

Explore the French Quarter: Stroll through Jackson Square for historic charm and street performances, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife on Bourbon Street.
Immerse in Live Jazz: Visit Preservation Hall for intimate live jazz performances showcasing New Orleans’ musical roots.
Discover Museums: Explore the New Orleans Museum of Art and The Historic New Orleans Collection to dive into art and local history.
Savour Local Cuisine: Indulge in beignets at Café du Monde and tour Mardi Gras World for a taste of festival culture.
Connect with Nature: Visit the Audubon Zoo and relax in the expansive City Park with its gardens and trails.