Las Vegas Tourism Slump Linked to Economic Downturn
Las Vegas tourism dropped 11.3% in June compared to June 2023, with 10.7% fewer convention attendees. The decline affects service workers reliant on tips. ARIA Resort & Casino housekeeper Shaleah Taylor noted reduced visitor traffic. This mirrors the 2009 tourism collapse during the housing crisis. Experts link the downturn to higher hotel costs, gambling accessibility, and geopolitical tensions, particularly with Canada. Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley and CEO Steve Hill acknowledge the drop but insist it's temporary. Gaming revenue rose 3.5% in June, driven by local casinos.