Las Vegas may still dazzle, but its sparkle is coming at a steeper price: “No longer a bargain vacation”

Las Vegas, known as “Sin City,” is feeling the effects of inflation as prices for visitors have skyrocketed. The iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, a must-see for tourists, is seeing shorter lines as the cost of a visit has increased. Visitors from the United Kingdom, like John Fischer, have noticed a significant price hike compared to last year, with some even paying $9 for a simple cup of coffee, a price that would be considered outrageous in their home country.

The impact of inflation is evident in the decrease in tourist numbers, with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority reporting a drop in visitors for both March and April compared to the previous year. Hotel occupancy rates have also dipped slightly, with the average nightly rate on the Las Vegas Strip reaching $203 in April, up from $194 in the same period last year.

Steve Hill, CEO and president of the LVCVA, attributes the decline in visitors to a drop in consumer confidence. Big resorts are adjusting their pricing strategies to find a balance between filling rooms and maintaining profitability. International visitors, who tend to stay longer and spend more, are particularly missed in Las Vegas, as they are seen as valuable customers to the city’s economy.

Tourists currently visiting Las Vegas are facing heavy vehicle traffic due to ongoing construction and road closures. This, coupled with higher fuel and insurance costs, has led to increased prices for tours and activities in the area. Despite the challenges, popular events like Dead & Company’s residency at the Sphere and Beyoncé’s upcoming concert at Allegiant Stadium are still drawing crowds.

Looking ahead, Las Vegas is gearing up for a summer full of concerts, festivals, and sporting events. Hill remains optimistic about the city’s resilience, believing that Las Vegas will bounce back and have a great summer despite the current challenges. As visitors continue to navigate the higher prices and traffic congestion, the allure of Las Vegas as a premier entertainment destination remains strong.