New Orleans has seen much growth in recent years, and when it comes to our economy, the largest source of fuel is our thriving tourism industry. Tourist spending affects our lives in so many ways; every dollar that is spent here is spent several times over within our local economy before leaving, which creates strength in industries and areas of our city well beyond just those that are directly involved in the tourism and hospitality industries. There are many different pieces to the puzzle of our local economy, but tourism in New Orleans brings in $6 billion in a year. With that kind of stimulation for our economy, tourism is undoubtedly an integral part of the success of our city.