Las Vegas is facing a significant slowdown in tourism this summer, with hotel occupancy plummeting by 6.5% and visitor arrivals dipping over 11% compared to last year. Locals are jokingly referring to the famous Strip as a “ghost town” due to the low number of tourists.
The main reason for the decline is the rising cost of traveling in Las Vegas. Travelers are being priced out of the city, with reports suggesting that $9 cups of coffee, $100 buffets, and $279 VIP movie packages are becoming the norm. This, combined with hidden resort fees and expensive hotel stays, has made room rates average $163.64.
Locals are also feeling the pinch, with hospitality workers reporting a 50% drop in tip incomes due to the decline. The city’s residents who work in the hospitality industry are worried about job security as discretionary spending evaporates.
International tourism, particularly from Canada, has also sharply contracted, believed to be driven by strained diplomatic relations and rising visa-related expenses. Analysts warn that unless pricing strategies shift, middle-class travelers will find Las Vegas too expensive.
However, some downtown and off-Strip venues are seeing modest gains as visitors opt for budget-friendly show halls and hotels without resort fees. The city’s luxury resorts, such as the Fontainebleau and Resorts World Las Vegas, are investing heavily in AI-powered concierge services and VIP-driven group travel to attract more affluent clientele.
Locals argue that the Strip’s shift towards luxury has come at the expense of its former accessible charm, making it feel like a corporate money trap rather than a bargain paradise. As the city continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether Las Vegas can balance high-end attractions with affordability for all visitors.
Source: https://www.themirror.com/travel/las-vegas-tourism-drops-trump-1305779