Downtown New Orleans experienced a significant uptick in visitation during the two-week Carnival period, with 2.2 million visits marking the highest downtown turnout since 2020. This represents a 10% increase over the previous year, highlighting a positive trend for the area’s hotel, retail, and hospitality sectors. The data, provided by the Downtown Development District (DDD) in collaboration with Placer.ai, indicates that the tourism engine is revving back to pre-pandemic levels.

Released on February 20, 2026, the Placer.ai-based analysis confirms the surge in visits during the Carnival stretch, specifically from the Friday of Krewe of Cleopatra through Mardi Gras Day. This boost signals potential growth opportunities for landlords, operators, and brokers in downtown New Orleans, emphasizing the area’s recovering economic health.

The report aligns with the DDD service area’s focus on enhancing downtown’s appeal and vitality. Such a marked increase in visitation is crucial for downtown property owners and managers, impacting revenue through higher hotel occupancy rates, retail traffic, and overall consumer spending.

Notably, the data also reveal that Riverwalk’s Lundi Gras festival drew approximately 7,000 attendees, contributing to the vibrancy and economic activity in the downtown core. This momentum is expected to carry into the spring tourism season and other upcoming events, as noted by the DDD.

The visitation growth reflects broader market dynamics, including the increased airlift from Spirit Airlines and a heightened demand for conventions and events at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. These factors support downtown New Orleans as a key hub of tourism and commerce.

Overall, the 2.2 million visits are a promising sign of recovery for downtown New Orleans, setting the stage for strategic investments and planning in commercial real estate and hospitality sectors.

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