Tourism officials, community leaders and airport representatives gathered Wednesday, June 26, to highlight another year of significant growth across the Shreveport-Bossier area, pointing to increased visitor spending, rising hotel occupancy and record air travel as signs of a thriving regional economy.
During a news conference hosted by Visit Shreveport-Bossier in partnership with Shreveport Regional Airport, officials shared data showing visitors spent an estimated $998.1 million throughout Caddo and Bossier parishes in 2025, underscoring tourism’s role as a major economic driver for Northwest Louisiana.
Visit Shreveport-Bossier President and CEO Stacy Brown said the region’s success reflects years of planning and collaboration among local governments, businesses and hospitality partners.
“At Visit Shreveport-Bossier, we understand tourism is economic development,” Brown said. “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.”
Officials reported that the leisure and hospitality industry remains the region’s third-largest employment sector, supporting nearly 20,000 jobs and generating approximately $127.7 million in earnings for local workers and families.
Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler said the area’s continued growth is helping strengthen the community’s reputation as a destination for entertainment, sports, family activities and tourism.
“This success reflects the strength of Bossier City as a destination and the experiences that continue to draw visitors to our region,” Chandler said. “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.”
Tourism leaders also announced that hotel room demand increased by approximately 75,000 room nights during 2025, bringing an estimated 150,000 additional overnight visitors to the region. Those visitors supported local restaurants, attractions, festivals, sporting events and entertainment venues throughout the year.
Shreveport Regional Airport also experienced a record-setting year, welcoming more than 800,000 travelers, a 12 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Airport Director Larry Blackwell credited expanded services and recent improvements for helping create a stronger first impression for visitors arriving in the region.
“We saw truly historic growth at Shreveport Regional Airport in 2025,” Blackwell said. “With the new interactive visitor center, travelers can explore the destination and start planning their visit the moment they arrive.”
The airport’s visitor center features digital kiosks that allow travelers to build personalized itineraries and discover local attractions, restaurants and events before leaving the terminal.
Officials also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Ark-La-Tex Regional Air Service Alliance, which continues working to expand air service and improve access to Northwest Louisiana.
Tim Wilhite, president of the Regional Air Service Alliance, said stronger air connectivity benefits tourism, business development and economic growth throughout the area.
The positive tourism numbers were presented as evidence that investments in marketing, infrastructure, air service and visitor experiences are paying dividends for both visitors and residents.
Local leaders said they remain committed to building on that momentum and creating opportunities that continue to strengthen the economy and quality of life throughout the Shreveport-Bossier region.