New Orleans, Louisiana is set to welcome one of the most prestigious international travel trade events, IPW 2027, marking a significant milestone for the city’s growing reputation as a global tourism hub. After the successful conclusion of IPW 2025 in Chicago, the U.S. Travel Association announced New Orleans as the next host city for its flagship event in 2027, which is projected to inject over $106 million into the local economy.
Hosted by U.S. Travel Association, IPW is widely regarded as America’s leading inbound travel trade show, designed to showcase the United States to international travel buyers and media. The event is expected to bring more than 6,000 global travel professionals, media delegates, and tourism partners from over 70 countries to New Orleans, providing a platform to promote the U.S. as a premier travel destination.
Global Recognition for New Orleans
According to Walt Leger, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company, being selected as the IPW 2027 host city underlines the city’s capability and appeal.
“It’s truly an honor to be chosen as a host city, considering IPW’s purpose is to spotlight the United States to international buyers. This selection affirms New Orleans as one of the best destinations in the country to attract global visitors,” Leger stated in a press release.
New Orleans, famed for its rich history, music, festivals, and culinary culture, has long been a magnet for international travelers. The city’s dynamic hospitality infrastructure and vibrant tourism offerings make it an ideal venue for large-scale global conventions and cultural events.
Louisiana’s Tourism Industry in the Spotlight
During the recently held IPW 2025 in Chicago, the Louisiana Office of Tourism (LOT) led a robust delegation comprising representatives from several regional tourism boards, including:
- Ascension Parish Tourism Commission
- Houma Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
- Houmas House Estate and Gardens
- Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission
- Lake Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau
- Visit Baton Rouge
- Visit Jefferson Parish
- Louisiana’s River Parishes
- Visit the Northshore
- New Orleans & Company
Together, they conducted over 600 business meetings with international buyers, showcasing the diverse attractions and experiences across Louisiana.
Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser highlighted the economic significance of tourism in Louisiana:
“Tourism is the fourth largest industry in the state and employs over 225,000 people. In 2024 alone, we welcomed 44.5 million visitors and saw an economic impact of $24.8 billion. This industry saves each household more than $1,100 in annual taxes.”
Doug Bourgeois, Assistant Secretary of Tourism, added that IPW provides an exceptional platform for Louisiana to promote its unique identity:
“From outdoor adventures to iconic food and music, Louisiana offers something for every traveler. IPW is a chance for us to share new attractions and connect with visitors across all regions.”
Economic Impact and Strategic Goals
The economic benefits of hosting IPW are substantial. According to the U.S. Travel Association, the show is responsible for generating over $5.7 billion in future travel bookings. For New Orleans, hosting the 2027 edition is expected to produce over $106 million in direct and indirect spending, including hotel bookings, dining, entertainment, and transportation.
Beyond financial gains, IPW 2027 presents an opportunity to:
- Strengthen Louisiana’s global brand as a must-visit U.S. destination
- Drive increased international visitation post-event
- Encourage partnerships between domestic travel suppliers and international buyers
- Highlight local tourism investments, infrastructure, and innovation
The announcement reaffirms New Orleans’ competitive edge in attracting high-profile conventions, especially in the aftermath of challenges the global travel industry faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Gateway to Louisiana’s Cultural Wealth
With its unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences, New Orleans offers an immersive cultural experience that sets it apart from other U.S. destinations. The IPW conference will offer delegates not only networking and business opportunities but also a taste of the city’s world-famous attractions — from the French Quarter to Bourbon Street, and from jazz heritage tours to culinary excursions.
In addition, IPW 2027 will help disperse tourism across Louisiana’s lesser-known but equally enriching regions, from the bayous of Houma to the historic plantations of River Parishes, offering travelers new reasons to explore the Pelican State.
Conclusion
The decision to hold IPW 2027 in New Orleans marks a defining moment for the city’s tourism industry. With more than 6,000 attendees expected and a projected $106 million economic windfall, the event will play a vital role in boosting both domestic and international tourism to Louisiana.
As global interest in culturally rich and experience-driven travel grows, New Orleans stands ready to showcase its unmatched spirit, resilience, and hospitality to the world. The countdown to IPW 2027 has begun—and with it, a new chapter in Louisiana’s global tourism journey.
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