LOUISIANA NAMED TOP STATE AT 2025 JRNY AMERICA AWARDS IN LONDON

BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana emerged as a major winner at the 2025 JRNY America Awards in London last week, recognized with three of the 11 awards, earning more honors than any other U.S. destination. Louisiana was awarded the prestigious State of the Year, while the city of New Orleans received two additional accolades — Best Food City and Best New Tourism Initiative for the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service out of New Orleans.

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser praised the recognition as further proof that Louisiana’s cultural richness and accessibility are drawing visitors from around the world. “We’ve always said there’s nowhere quite like Louisiana – and the world is taking notice,” said Lt. Governor Nungesser. “International travelers are discovering that Louisiana offers everything they’re looking for: incredible food, music, and history, all at an unbeatable value. These awards are a testament to our people, our diverse culture, and the unforgettable experiences that make visitors feel right at home.”

According to the JRNY America Awards committee, the State of the Year award honors destinations that demonstrate excellence in tourism through innovation, sustainability, and visitor satisfaction. Louisiana’s selection reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting authentic culture, exceptional hospitality, and one-of-a-kind experiences across every region of the state.

“Louisiana is one of the best international destinations in the world. With its diversity of culture, music, and food, Louisiana stands out among the 49 other states,” said Louisiana Office of Tourism Assistant Secretary Doug Bourgeois. “I’m so proud Louisiana won this award. This recognition is a tribute to the cumulative efforts of Louisiana’s tourism industry to create rewarding, authentic experiences that keep visitors coming back.”

The JRNY America Awards celebrate the very best in American tourism, recognizing destinations, experiences, and organizations that make exploring the United States truly unforgettable. Each award honors innovation, creativity, and passion within the travel industry, highlighting those who enrich the visitor experience and showcase the diversity of America’s landscapes, cultures, and communities.

The JRNY America Awards feature 11 categories judged by a panel of travel industry experts, including authors, editors, tour operators, destination managers, and sustainability professionals.

JRNY magazine, co-founded by writer Kav Dadfar and photographer Jordan Banks, is a leading travel publication in the United Kingdom and is expanding its reach into the U.S. and Australia. The publication recently earned its second consecutive Consumer Publication of the Year title at the World Travel Awards held in London earlier this month.

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