KEY TAKEAWAYS: Louisiana‘s Staycation Campaign runs from June 22 through Labor Day to encourage in-state travel. The initiative promotes attractions, restaurants, festivals, parks and small-town destinations statewide. Advertising targets Louisiana residents and nearby drive markets in Missi ssippi and Texas. Officials say the campaign supports local businesses and reflects growing demand for affordable regional travel. The Louisiana Office of Tourism and Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser have launched a statewide marketing campaign encouraging residents to vacation within Louisiana this summer, aiming to increase visitor spending and support local businesses during the peak travel season. The Louisiana Staycation Campaign began June 22 and will run through Labor Day, promoting destinations across the state, including restaurants, festivals, museums, state parks, outdoor attractions and small-town experiences. State tourism officials said the campaign is designed to encourage Louisianans to explore destinations they may not have previously visited while driving economic activity in communities statewide. “Louisiana is filled with incredible destinations, rich culture, unforgettable food, and unique experiences that many have yet to discover,” Nungesser said. “Whether it’s a weekend getaway to a charming small town, an outdoor adventure in one of our state parks, a visit to a museum, festival, or historic site, I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to experience something new, support local businesses and help strengthen communities across our state.” The campaign includes advertising across radio, broadcast and cable television, newspapers and social media. In addition to Louisiana residents, the campaign targets nearby drive markets within about 150 miles of the state, including Biloxi, Gulfport and Natchez, Mississippi, and Beaumont, Texas. Assistant Secretary of Tourism Doug Bourgeois said the campaign reflects changing consumer travel habits that favor shorter, lower-cost vacations. “Travel trends indicate people are looking for affordable, convenient vacations offering authentic experiences,” Bourgeois said. “We expect this campaign to inspire residents and nearby visitors to take more regional trips and help spread the economic benefits of tourism throughout the state.” According to the Louisiana Office of Tourism, the initiative aligns with national travel trends showing increased demand for regional travel. The agency cited U.S. Travel Association data indicating travelers are increasingly choosing shorter, less expensive vacations, while research from Longwoods International found that 41% of travelers planning trips within the next six months intend to visit destinations closer to home. Tourism remains a significant economic driver for Louisiana, supporting businesses in the hospitality, restaurant, retail and entertainment sectors. State officials said the staycation campaign is intended to encourage spending that benefits communities across Louisiana throughout the summer travel season. The Louisiana Office of Tourism has launched a dedicated website with trip-planning resources and destination ideas for travelers interested in exploring the state. ...read more read less