Las Vegas, once a bustling hub for budget-conscious travelers, is increasingly shifting its focus toward affluent visitors, according to Reddit users and industry experts. As the city’s tourism numbers show a 12% decline from last year, with occupancy on the Strip dropping 7%, many are criticizing the high prices and perceived exclusivity that have made Vegas less accessible to the average tourist. Industry insiders and celebrities like Rick Harrison of ‘Pawn Stars’ have highlighted these issues, suggesting that the city has intentionally altered its business model to cater to wealthier visitors instead of the broader market.
Rick Harrison, known for his ‘Pawn Stars’ TV show, recently expressed frustration over the inflated prices on the Strip, blaming a ‘COVID hangover’ for the current situation. He noted the exorbitant fees associated with hotel stays, including resort and parking fees, which have made travel more expensive for many visitors. This sentiment is echoed by others, such as Circa Casino and Resort CEO Derek Stevens, who mentioned the disproportionate traffic in the high-end market, with the lower-end segment suffering. The city’s shift to a more exclusive and expensive model is evident in the booming business of private jet charter companies like Cirrus Aviation, which has seen increased demand from wealthy clientele.
Industry insiders like Travis Turner from Cirrus Aviation have pointed out that while tourism as a whole is declining, the high-end market remains strong, with continued growth and increased revenue. Turner emphasized the importance of events and conferences in the city’s tourism landscape, which attract mid-week travel and a diverse array of high-income visitors, including celebrities and athletes. These developments suggest that Las Vegas is prioritizing the affluent market, potentially alienating the budget-conscious travelers who once formed the backbone of its tourism industry.