New Orleans is a city that has long been known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and unique blend of influences from different parts of the world. From its famous cuisine to its lively music scene, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this Louisiana gem.
But how is tourism in New Orleans these days? Let’s take a closer look.
Pre-COVID Tourism in New Orleans
Before the pandemic hit, New Orleans was experiencing record-breaking tourism numbers. In 2019 alone, over 19 million people visited the city, generating $10.7 billion in visitor spending and supporting over 90,000 jobs. The city’s famous Mardi Gras celebration alone brings in hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism
Like many other destinations around the world, New Orleans has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The city was one of the early hotspots for the virus in the United States, with strict lockdown measures implemented to help slow the spread.
As a result, tourism came to a virtual standstill for several months. Hotels and restaurants were forced to close their doors temporarily, while major events like Jazz Fest and French Quarter Fest were canceled outright.
Tourism Today
As restrictions have eased and vaccinations have become more widespread, tourism in New Orleans has started to pick up again. However, things are still far from business as usual.
Many hotels and restaurants have reopened but are operating at reduced capacity or with limited hours. Some popular tourist attractions like museums and art galleries remain closed or have restricted hours as well.
Despite these challenges, there are still plenty of reasons to visit New Orleans today. The city’s famous food scene is as vibrant as ever (with many restaurants offering outdoor dining options), while outdoor attractions like City Park and Audubon Zoo provide safe, socially distanced entertainment options.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, tourism in New Orleans has certainly taken a hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the city is slowly but surely starting to bounce back.
While things may not be exactly as they were pre-pandemic, there are still plenty of reasons to visit this unique and lively destination. Whether you’re interested in history, music, or just good food and drink, New Orleans has something for everyone.