Shreveport, LA, September 24, 2025
News Summary
The 2024 Tourism Report reveals that the Shreveport-Bossier region experienced a significant economic boost, with international visitors contributing $277.4 million to local businesses. The report highlights a marked increase in spending across restaurants and entertainment, with 9.7 million domestic travelers generating $1.4 billion. The upcoming Formula 1 Powerboat Racing event adds further excitement as the area embraces its growing attraction for tourists.
Shreveport, LA – The 2024 Tourism Report indicates a significant economic boost for the Shreveport-Bossier region, with international visitors contributing $277.4 million to local businesses in 2024. This influx is attributed to spending in restaurants, dining, retail, and entertainment sectors, demonstrating the area’s growing appeal to travelers worldwide.
The report reveals that major contributors to this tourism boom include visitors from Canada, the U.K., Mexico, France, and Australia. Notably, the international restaurant and dining expenditure increased by 11.8% in 2024, reflecting a rising popularity of the local culinary scene, particularly in peak months like February and November.
February alone experienced a remarkable 77% growth in entertainment spending compared to 2023, showcasing an increase in tourist engagement in various activities offered in the region.
In addition to international visitors, Shreveport-Bossier welcomed 9.7 million domestic travelers in 2024, generating an impressive $1.4 billion in spending. Of these visitors, 5.5 million were day trip guests, while 4.2 million opted for overnight stays. Furthermore, 86% of overnight travelers were repeat visitors, with 60% expressing high satisfaction with their experience in the area.
The amount spent by domestic travelers during overnight trips was substantial, totaling $933 million. The region’s appeal is further reflected in the sports tourism sector, which alone contributed over $47 million to the local economy in 2024, highlighting the importance of sporting events in attracting visitors.
Meetings and conventions also played a critical role, leading to nearly 70,000 room nights booked in local lodging establishments. This support for local services and businesses is crucial for funding community initiatives and enhancing life in Shreveport-Bossier, as emphasized by local tourism leaders.
The timing of the tourism report’s presentation coincided with World Tourism Day, celebrated on September 27. This global observance serves as a reminder of the importance of tourism in various economies, aligning well with the significant figures presented in the Shreveport-Bossier report.
Visit Shreveport-Bossier is committed to further enhancing tourism in alignment with its 10-year Destination Masterplan (DMP). Anticipation builds as the region prepares for the upcoming Formula 1 Powerboat Racing event scheduled for May 24-26, 2024, as part of the Mudbug Madness festival. The Red River Rumble F1 Powerboat Showdown will showcase about 50 high-speed powerboats, promising excitement for both participants and spectators. This weekend will offer general admission viewing as well as VIP experiences at the Shreveport Aquarium.
As Shreveport-Bossier continues to thrive, the positive impacts of tourism on the local economy, community wellbeing, and unique cultural character remain evident.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the economic impact of international visitors in Shreveport-Bossier in 2024?
International visitors spent $277.4 million in the Shreveport-Bossier region in 2024 on local restaurants, dining, retail, and entertainment.
Which countries contributed to tourism in Shreveport-Bossier?
Major countries contributing to tourism included Canada, the U.K., Mexico, France, and Australia.
How much did domestic visitors generate in spending for Shreveport-Bossier in 2024?
Shreveport-Bossier attracted 9.7 million domestic visitors in 2024 who generated $1.4 billion in spending.
What was the overnight spending by domestic travelers in Shreveport-Bossier?
Overnight spending by domestic travelers totaled $933 million.
What sports tourism contribution was reported in 2024?
Sports tourism contributed over $47 million in economic impact in 2024.
When is the Formula 1 Powerboat Racing set to return to Shreveport-Bossier?
Formula 1 Powerboat Racing is set to return to Shreveport-Bossier, taking place from May 24-26, 2024, during Mudbug Madness.
Key Features of the 2024 Tourism Report
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| International Visitor Spending | $277.4 million |
| Domestic Visitor Spending | $1.4 billion |
| Overnight Spending by Domestic Travelers | $933 million |
| Sports Tourism Impact | Over $47 million |
| Major Contributing Countries | Canada, U.K., Mexico, France, Australia |
| Number of Domestic Visitors | 9.7 million |
| Peak Months for Dining Expenditure | February, November |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Shreveport’s Real Estate Market Navigates Recovery Amid Changes
Shreveport Weather Update and Local Developments
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Shreveport Positioned for Economic Growth Through Major Investments
Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate
- Wikipedia: Tourism in the United States
- Bossier Press
- Google Search: Shreveport Bossier tourism 2024
- The Advocate
- Google Scholar: Shreveport Bossier economy
- KTAL News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
- Sports Travel Magazine
- Google News: Formula 1 Powerboat Racing Shreveport Bossier
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
