Las Vegas Tourism Showing Resilience Despite Visitation Dip, Gaming Revenue Up
LAS VEGAS – despite recent reports of declining visitation, Las Vegas’ tourism sector demonstrates ongoing strength, notably in gaming revenue, according to a report released Friday by the Nevada Gaming Control Board.Strip casinos generated $749 million in gaming revenue in July,a 5.6% increase year-over-year. Year-to-date,Strip gaming revenue is up 0.16%.
The positive gaming numbers come as the city addresses concerns about affordability and perceptions among younger travelers. Tourism officials emphasize Las Vegas remains a bargain compared to other destinations, even with resort and parking fees.
“When you do real math, Las Vegas is a bargain,” stated Virginia Valentine, President and CEO of the Nevada Resort and lodging Association, in a recent interview. “Resort fees are now transparent on every quote…If you compare, Vegas is still a bargain.”
Several properties are actively offering promotions to attract visitors.The Strat currently features rooms starting at $49 midweek and $99 on weekends, including taxes and fees, through December 29. The Strat also offers $40 in free slot play per day, waives resort fees, and provides early check-in and complimentary upgrades.
Valentine acknowledged that some properties reducing fees have seen positive results,but countered claims that Las Vegas has nothing to offer younger generations. “It’s just not true,” she said. “The average age prior to COVID has gone from 46 to 43 now.Our visitation is getting younger and not older.”
valentine emphasized the city’s continuous reinvention through competition, leading to diverse deals on rooms and food packages, and that resorts are actively working to address concerns about pricing.