New Orleans & Company officially presented its strategy as the host city of IPW 2027 during a press conference held at the Broward County Convention Center, where its CEO, Walt Leger, highlighted urban transformation, tourism growth, and the city’s global positioning.

The event marked the beginning of the road toward the next edition of the leading B2B inbound tourism marketplace in the United States, with a message focused on culture, infrastructure, and the international expansion of the state of Louisiana’s largest city.

“New Orleans doesn’t just welcome the world, it transforms it”

During his remarks, Leger emphasized the city’s unique character, highlighting its combination of culture, history, and economic dynamism.

“New Orleans is unique because we are known for beauty, power, and culture at the same time. But we don’t just welcome the world, we move it,” he said.

The executive described the city as a key point in American commercial and cultural history, connected to the Mississippi River and its role as a hub for the exchange of goods, music, and cuisine.

Transformation of the waterfront and destination growth

One of the central themes of the presentation was the transformation of the waterfront, which evolved from an industrial area into a public recreational space with the new Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park.

Leger highlighted that it is a continuous 2.5-mile corridor, considered one of the most important urban development projects in the United States in terms of public space.

The project integrates with its proximity to the French Quarter, one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the country, strengthening the city’s tourism offering.

Record tourism and economic impact

New Orleans recorded more than 19.4 million visitors in the past year, with sustained growth in international tourism.

The economic impact translates into billions of dollars in tourism spending and tens of thousands of jobs linked to the industry.

Leger also emphasized the importance of air and rail connectivity, which continues to expand to facilitate access for both domestic and international visitors.

Gastronomy, music and global recognition

The presentation also highlighted New Orleans’ positioning as one of the culinary capitals of the United States, boosted by the arrival of the Michelin Guide, which has recognized local restaurants with stars and distinctions.

The city was also designated in 2025 as a UNESCO City of Music, reinforcing its cultural identity based on jazz, blues, gospel, funk, and other genres originating in the region.

“These are not just music styles; they are the essence of our city,” Leger said.

Infrastructure, connectivity and international growth

The CEO of New Orleans & Company outlined key infrastructure investments, including the expansion of Louis Armstrong International Airport and the launch of new air routes, such as the direct connection to London operated by British Airways.

He also highlighted the development of new hotels, attractions, and transportation improvements aimed at strengthening the destination’s competitiveness ahead of the next decade of major international events.

Road to IPW 2027

New Orleans will host IPW 2027, an event that has not taken place in the destination for a decade.

Leger closed his presentation by inviting the global travel industry to reconnect with a city that, according to him, “is not just a destination, but an experience and a feeling.”