Calcasieu Parish welcomed 7 million visitors in 2023
Published 1:22 pm Friday, August 23, 2024
Special to the American Press
The 2023 Travel USA Report, conducted by Longwoods International, said Calcasieu Parish welcomed seven million visitors in 2023, generating $800 million in total spending. This is particularly noteworthy given the economic challenges and industry fluctuations, in addition to the parish currently operating with over 1,000 fewer hotel rooms compared to pre-Hurricane Laura levels. While overall visitation numbers remained consistent with previous years, visitor spending increased by 3.3% compared to 2021, a positive reflection on the region’s ongoing appeal to travelers.
A key takeaway from the data is the high level of repeat visitation, with 82% of overnight visitors having previously visited Lake Charles, and 37% returning within the past 12 months. This indicates a strong loyalty to the destination and satisfaction with the travel experiences offered.
“These numbers clearly reinforce our community’s staying power as a quality destination that visitors continue to find tremendous value in visiting”, said Kyle Edmiston, president and CEO of Visit Lake Charles. “As a community, we cannot take for granted that travelers choose to return to our region time after time to experience the culture, cuisine, and attractions that make our area one-of-a-kind. As we do with all our research data, we will use the information to continue to make data-driven decisions when it comes to our marketing strategies to keep our destination at the forefront of visitor markets to drive awareness, increase visitation and spending.”
The report also revealed that outdoor activities, dining, and shopping are among the top visitor interests. Additionally, the average per person per trip expenditure increased from $184 in 2021 to $195 in 2023.
Lake Charles has successfully navigated industry challenges, maintaining a steady business travel market, while many other destinations experienced declines. This stability reinforces the area’s resiliency as a versatile destination for both leisure and business travelers. Moreover, 84% of overnight travelers expressed satisfaction with their trip, highlighting the positive impact of the destination’s attractions, accommodations, and hospitality.
Tourists are drawn to Lake Charles’ casino resorts, and the “mix of cultural, culinary and outdoor experiences,” said Kathryn Shea Duncan,
media/PR manager for Visit Lake Charles.
The city’s culinary options are a “significant draw,” she said.
“Visitors love to sample authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, from boudin and cracklins to fresh seafood.”
She cited Lake Charles’ Chuck Eats Restaurant Week as an example. In January, over 30 SWLA restaurants offered deals, discounts and special food items to highlight local cuisine. She said that according to data from Zartico – a tech and data company – a quarter of the increased restaurant visits were from tourists.
Festivals and events — like Mardi Gras and Chuck Fest — are also major tourism drivers, as they allow tourists to “immerse themselves in our local culture and traditions.”
A highlight is the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, which allows tourists to explore SWLA’s “diverse wildlife and landscapes, including marshes and Gulf beaches.” Area visitors that come to spend time outdoors also participate in activities like birdwatching, cabbing and fishing.“
