The Impact of Declining Tourism on a Popular US Destination

Known for its bright lights, casinos and wild parties, Las Vegas has been a popular place to visit for years. But recently Sin City has seen a decline in tourists flocking to its colourful streets.

Some are blaming the impact of President Donald Trump’s tariffs and trade policies, with travel costs now reportedly rising for tourists visiting the country. Steve Hill, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority president, told KTNV Las Vegas: ‘Some of the decisions our administration has made around international relations [have] caused a drop in tourism. Our international visitation is flat but is making up for a 20+% drop in tourism from Canada, which is our largest international source of visitation,’ Steve added.

Now, fewer tourists are filling the usually bustling casinos, restaurants and bars. Meanwhile, Circa Resort & Casino CEO Derek Stevens reportedly blamed the economy and exchange rates. However, the CEO had a brighter outlook and predicted trade agreements will help settle things down.

He told Fox News : ‘I think in six months, I would believe that Vegas tourism and our economy overall will be in a much better place.’ Robby Starbuck, host of The Robby Starbuck Show, put part of the change down to a shift in generational habits, explaining younger people bet online more, rather than go into casinos.

He said: ‘Another differentiator is that older generations focused on real-life interaction – while younger generations feel just as content with para-social online experiences. The Vegas marketing image is one centred on slots and showgirls, two things young people have no interest in.’ Local business are feeling the decline, too.

Steakhouse hostess Gloria Valdez, 38, has worked in Las Vegas for 15 years and shared her concerns. She told Time: ‘The pandemic was something that was worldwide, and we had the hope that everything would get better. We’re not sure if and when this is gonna stop.’

And cocktail waitress Holly Lang, 47, revealed the Vegas Strip restaurant she works at is seeing a decline in customers. ‘We’ve definitely got a lot less foot traffic and a lot less people gambling,’ she said. ‘A lot of the tables are empty.’

However, there does seem to be some hope for the future, as a $20 million sponsorship agreement has been given the green light from the LVCVA for the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix which could bring more visitors.