The Potential

First time visitors were more likely than repeat visitors to participate in those activities that are considered typical “tourist” activities. The largest difference for the first time versus repeat visitors includes Bourbon Street, cemeteries, and city tour activities.

In 2015, 37.1% of respondents were first-time visitors to New Orleans. The decrease in this figure compared to prior years indicates that New Orleans is successfully attracting repeat visitation.

New Orleans Culture provides a wide variety of options that are often narrowly defined through the experience of the first time visitor. Developing a plan that honors the resident experience and provides a unique opportunity for repeat visitors can provide a platform for the future of economic growth for the cultural economy and set the Louis Armstrong Cultural Center apart as a contemporary authentic experience to balance the historic authentic experiences of the French Quarter. The Cultural plan will play a tremendous part in lifting the economic considerations for the most marginalized communities across the city. Essential to both the Cultural center and the culturally activated moments around the park is the design of space that acknowledges past inequities and builds strong economic pathways for the development and the people supporting its growth.