Las Vegas tourism officials and casino executives have acknowledged the decline in visitor numbers this summer, citing high prices, the impact of international tariffs, and evolving dining preferences. Steve Hill, president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), stated that decisions related to international relations have affected tourism, particularly noting a drop in Canadian visitors. Derek Stevens, CEO of Circa Resort & Casino, highlighted the rising costs, including expensive dining options, which have influenced visitor behavior.
Industry leaders have also pointed to the challenges in the restaurant business, with Stevens noting that while some visitors are more adventurous during lunch, dinner remains highly competitive. The Culinary Workers Union, representing 60,000 workers, recently renewed several contracts with major casinos, which have increased operational costs. Ted Pappageorge of the Culinary Workers Union emphasized the need for the tipped income tax exemption in President Donald Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ to help workers, although he cautioned that without sufficient tips, the credit may not provide much relief.
Industry observers have suggested that the challenges are partially due to local factors, such as aggressive pricing by hospitality venues. Rob DelliBovi, a hospitality consultant, noted guest dissatisfaction with items like $18 bottles of water in minibars and $37 martinis. Despite these issues, Stevens of Circa emphasized that the city continues to reinvent itself as a worthwhile destination, offering package deals to attract budget-conscious visitors.