Tourism officials are celebrating a banner year for the Shreveport-Bossier region after visitors generated nearly $1 billion in spending across Caddo and Bossier parishes in 2025.

According to Visit Shreveport-Bossier, visitor spending reached an estimated $998.1 million during the year, highlighting tourism’s continued impact on the local economy. The leisure and hospitality industry remains the region’s third-largest employer, supporting nearly 20,000 jobs and generating $127.7 million in earnings for local workers and families.

The tourism organization credited the growth to collaboration among local governments, hospitality partners, businesses and residents, as well as ongoing efforts outlined in its 10-year Destination Master Plan.

“At Visit Shreveport-Bossier, we understand tourism is economic development.,” says Stacy Brown, President & CEO of Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “The work outlined in our 10-year Destination Master Plan is not simply about attracting visitors—it is about creating a stronger, more vibrant community for the people who live here. From infrastructure and beautification efforts to supporting local entrepreneurs and enhancing visitor experiences, these investments help drive opportunity, improve quality of life, and create pride in place.”

Tourism officials also reported an increase in visitation, with room demand growing by 75,000 nights and bringing approximately 150,000 additional overnight visitors to the area. Those visitors contributed to local restaurants, attractions, sporting events, entertainment venues and cultural experiences throughout the region.

Local leaders said the growth reflects increased interest in Northwest Louisiana as a destination.

“Shreveport has always been a city with a unique story to tell, and it’s encouraging to see more people discovering everything our community has to offer,” said Tom Arceneaux, Mayor of the City of Shreveport. “From our arts and culture to our restaurants, festivals, and attractions, visitors are experiencing the authentic character of our city. That growing interest helps showcase Shreveport as a place where people want to spend time, invest, and build connections.”

“This success reflects the strength of Bossier City as a destination and the experiences that continue to draw visitors to our region,” said Tommy Chandler, Mayor of the City of Bossier City. “Whether someone is attending a sporting event, enjoying live entertainment, exploring local attractions, or gathering with family and friends, those experiences help create lasting impressions and strengthen our reputation as a welcoming place to visit.”

Air travel also played a significant role in the region’s tourism growth. Shreveport Regional Airport welcomed more than 800,000 travelers in 2025, representing a 12% increase from the previous year.

“We saw truly historic growth at Shreveport Regional Airport in 2025,” says Larry Blackwell, Director of Airports for the Shreveport Airport Authority. “With the new interactive visitor center, travelers can explore the destination and start planning their visit the moment they arrive. Alongside recent upgrades and expanded dining and retail options at the airport, all these factors help us deliver a more elevated visitor experience to guarantee continued growth.”

Visit Shreveport-Bossier recently partnered with the airport to develop a new interactive visitor center designed to enhance the traveler experience. The center features digital kiosks that allow visitors to create personalized itineraries and send them directly to their mobile devices.

Officials said continued investment in air service development has helped expand access to the region and strengthen connections to key markets.

“The Regional Air Service Alliance is excited to support the Shreveport Regional Airport in its efforts to expand air service and create more travel opportunities for our region,” said Tim Wilhite, Board President of the Ark-La-Tex Regional Air Service Alliance. “Increased connectivity strengthens our ability to attract new businesses, welcome more visitors, and grow tourism, conventions, and economic development throughout Northwest Louisiana. We look forward to continuing our partnership as we work together to enhance the region’s accessibility and competitiveness.”

Visit Shreveport-Bossier officials said they remain encouraged by continued year-over-year growth in occupancy and visitor spending and noted that hotels, restaurants, attractions, event organizers and local businesses all contribute to the region’s success as a destination.

Additional information about tourism initiatives and economic impact in 2025 is available in Visit Shreveport-Bossier’s annual report.