Key Point Summary – Why Is Las Vegas So Empty

• Hotel and entertainment costs have soared, pushing out budget travelers
• Recession fears are causing people to cut back on leisure trips
• International tourism remains below pre-pandemic levels
• Vegas has fewer conventions and major events this summer
• Visitors are choosing cheaper or more “authentic” destinations
• Gen Z travelers prefer new experiences over traditional Vegas fun
• Social media may exaggerate decline, but foot traffic is clearly down

Vegas Loses Its Sparkle Amid Rising Prices

Las Vegas, once America’s non-stop playground, is noticeably quieter this summer. Visitors have taken to social media posting photos of half-empty casinos, slow Strip foot traffic, and short lines at attractions. The reason? The cost of visiting Las Vegas has skyrocketed.

From bloated hotel rates and soaring resort fees to $25 hamburgers and $100 shows, Sin City is now pricing out the very travelers who once filled its rooms. With paid parking now the norm, many longtime fans say the city no longer feels like the fun, affordable escape it once was.

Economic Fears Tighten Travel Budgets

Layer on growing economic uncertainty — with inflation still biting and a possible recession looming — and travelers are pulling back on discretionary spending. Las Vegas, seen as a luxury or celebratory destination, is often one of the first to get crossed off the travel list when money’s tight.

Many tourists who do visit are cutting their trips short or downgrading their plans — skipping fancy dinners or high-stakes tables. That’s left casinos and restaurants with fewer high-rolling customers, even as crowds trickle in.

Event Calendar Lacks Big Draws

Adding to the emptiness is a noticeably weaker calendar of summer events. While Vegas normally thrives on packed conventions, expos, concerts, and sporting events, this season has been light. Fewer large-scale gatherings mean fewer corporate travelers and fewer booked hotel blocks during the week.

Weekends still bring crowds, but the city’s once-bustling midweek traffic has cooled significantly, especially downtown and in older Strip hotels.

Fewer Visitors from Abroad

International tourism hasn’t bounced back either. Fewer Canadians, Brits, and Asian tourists are flying into Vegas — partly due to high airfare and unfavorable exchange rates. That’s another big chunk of Vegas’ visitor economy missing from the mix.

Meanwhile, U.S. travelers are looking elsewhere. Budget-conscious tourists are opting for road trips, national parks, or international destinations that offer better value for money.

Generational Shift Changes the Vibe

Vegas is also struggling to attract younger travelers in the same numbers. Gen Z and younger millennials want immersive experiences, cultural adventures, or Instagram-worthy escapes — and they’re less interested in smoky casinos and slot machines.

These shifting tastes are pushing some to explore newer, trendier destinations. Vegas remains a popular party city, but that may not be enough to fill its 150,000+ hotel rooms year-round.

The Real Numbers and Perception Gap

While viral TikToks may claim Vegas is “dead,” the truth is more nuanced. According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, millions still visit monthly — just not at the record-breaking pace of pre-pandemic years.

But the vibe is undeniably different. For those currently visiting, the slower pace actually brings perks: easier dinner reservations, shorter lines, and more relaxed pool scenes.