Las Vegas is experiencing a downturn in tourism this summer, with a noted decline in visitors as Americans become more budget-conscious and fewer international tourists make their way to the iconic city. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority has reported a significant double-digit drop in visitors in June compared to the same month last year, marking the first such decline since 2021.
The main contributing factor to this slump appears to be financial considerations, with the costs associated with flights, resort fees, and service charges adding up for potential visitors. A noticeable decrease in convention traffic, a significant revenue driver for the city, has also been reported, coupled with a decline in international visitors, particularly those from Canada and Mexico.
Statistical insights reveal that 3.1 million people visited Las Vegas in June, which is 400,000 fewer than the previous year—a decline of approximately 11.3%. Additionally, hotel occupancy has dropped by 6.5%, and the average daily room rate has fallen to $163.64. Traffic at Harry Reid Airport has also seen a decrease of 4.1% year-over-year.
Despite these figures, major casino operators along the Strip remain optimistic. They attribute the current downturn primarily to normal seasonality, which they have not experienced for some time. Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg expressed no concerns about the decline, citing it as part of the typical fluctuations in this seasonal market. Similarly, Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts International, shared his confidence in Las Vegas’s resilience and expressed optimism for the latter half of 2025, anticipating a resurgence with several large conventions on the horizon.
Travel experts note that there are still opportunities for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy Las Vegas during this slower season. Visitors may find lower airfare and hotel costs, making the city more accessible. Strategies suggested include traveling from Sunday to Thursday, which can offer significant savings, and dining at upscale restaurants during lunch instead of dinner to cut costs.
Overall, while this summer has been challenging for Las Vegas tourism, the potential for affordable travel experiences could attract visitors looking for budget-friendly options.