PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2025

CVB Contact: Sheila Snow
Phone: 318.387.5691
E-mail: ssnow@monroe-westmonroe.org

Discover Monroe-West Monroe Recognizes the Power of Travel During National Travel and Tourism Week

Travel Powers the Economy, Builds Opportunity & Connects America

MONROE-WEST MONROE, La. — National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) shines a spotlight on the U.S. travel industry’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness May 4 – May 10, 2025.

"Travel is one of our nation's most powerful economic engines—supporting millions of jobs, fueling businesses and propelling industries forward,” said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman. “National Travel and Tourism Week reinforces the pivotal role travel plays in building a stronger, more prosperous America."

Since 1983, NTTW has underscored the travel industry’s contribution to U.S. economic strength, community vitality and quality of life. In 2024, the travel industry generated $2.9 trillion in economic output, supported more than 15 million jobs and produced $190 billion in tax revenue—equivalent to $1,490 per household.

In Ouachita Parish, the travel industry contributes more than $30.11 million to the local economy, supporting local businesses and fostering long-term growth. Discover Monroe-West Monroe is recognizing travel’s impact with an average amount of $199 spent daily by visitors and through high-impact sporting events hosted at such facilities as: Sterlington Sports Complex, Ike Hamilton Expo Center, West Monroe Sports & Events and Ouachita Sportsplex.

“We are proud of our area and believe our service, people, experiences, and efforts showcase all there is to Discover in Monroe-West Monroe.” said President and CEO Alana Cooper. “This National Travel and Tourism Week, we celebrate travel’s undeniable impact and reaffirm its importance in shaping our local economy and quality of life.”

Visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.


About Discover Monroe-West Monroe

Discover Monroe-West Monroe promotes Ouachita Parish as a destination for leisure travel, conventions, meetings and sporting events, creating a positive economic impact for our local community through increased visitor spending and sales tax collections. For more information about Discover Monroe-West Monroe, visit https://www.monroe-westmonroe.org/