Las Vegas Tourism Experiences Decline in 2025 Amid Optimism for Recovery
Las Vegas welcomed approximately 38.5 million visitors in 2025, marking a noticeable decline in tourism and the lowest annual figure since the city’s resurgence after the pandemic in 2021. This represented a 7.5% drop from 2024 and remained well below the pre-pandemic peak seen in 2019.
Reduced Travel Demand Leads to Lower Tourism and Hotel Performance in 2025
According to data from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), the decline in tourism was mainly driven by weaker leisure travel and a reduction in international visitors. Key influences included economic uncertainties, changes in consumer confidence, and political factors that complicated cross-border travel, particularly from Canada. Additionally, increased prices along the Las Vegas Strip deterred some budget-conscious travelers, as reported by local media.
The hotel industry reflected these trends, with average occupancy falling just above 80%, a drop of over three percentage points compared to the previous year. Average daily room rates decreased by around 5%, settling near $183, while revenue per available room declined by 9%.
Despite these decreases, Las Vegas outperformed much of the U.S. hotel market, where occupancy rates hovered in the low 60% range. The city maintained its status as the U.S. leader in hotel capacity, offering more than 150,000 rooms.
Conventions and Major Events Bolster Recovery Prospects for 2026
The convention sector remained a stable pillar for Las Vegas tourism, with about six million attendees participating in trade shows and business events in 2025—nearly matching the previous year’s figures. Industry experts highlighted conventions as a reliable visitor source amid challenging leisure travel conditions.
Las Vegas also hosted an exciting lineup of major events throughout the year. WrestleMania 41 set attendance records at Allegiant Stadium, while the Las Vegas Grand Prix attracted global attention once again in November. Additional highlights included UFC International Fight Week and the National Finals Rodeo, enhancing the city’s vibrant sports and entertainment scene. The Sphere’s immersive production of The Wizard of Oz drew over two million attendees, generating hundreds of millions in revenue.
Looking ahead, local tourism officials are optimistic about a rebound in 2026. The Las Vegas Convention Center expects to welcome around 1.2 million trade show visitors, supported by the return of prominent events like ConExpo-Con/Agg and several new exhibitions.
The coming year will feature another WrestleMania, a Formula One race, additional UFC events, and the rodeo finals. Increased international visitors are anticipated due to the 2026 World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Despite the hurdles faced in 2025, city leaders are confident that Las Vegas is poised for growth, thanks to its diverse event offerings and strong convention business.
