Las Vegas reported lower visitor numbers despite rising casino earnings. KTNV reported that while Nevada casinos saw revenue increases in October and November 2025, Las Vegas itself experienced a 5.2% drop in visitors in November compared with the same month last year. This came despite major events including the SEMA/Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week trade show, the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, and three Raiders home games, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.
The decrease in visitors comes as Downtown Las Vegas casinos report higher revenue, contrasting with declines on the Strip. According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board, downtown casinos saw a 10.3% increase in gaming earnings, while Strip casinos experienced a 0.5% decrease. Despite the revenue gains downtown, overall visitation did not rise, prompting analysis of these trends and their potential impact on the local economy.
Hotel performance also reflected this trend, with declines in occupancy and average daily room rates. According to FOX5 Vegas, revenue per available room dropped 5.2% year-over-year. Both the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown areas were affected, with the Strip experiencing a smaller decrease in occupancy compared to downtown hotels.
In contrast, regional destinations like Laughlin and Mesquite saw increases in visitor numbers and gaming revenue in November. Laughlin reported a 10.6% rise in visitors and an 11.6% increase in gaming revenue, while Mesquite saw a 3.0% increase in visitors and a 10.7% boost in gaming earnings. These areas of growth are being monitored as part of ongoing evaluations for tourism strategies.
Las Vegas entered the new year with large crowds for Christmas and New Year’s events, hinting at a possible boost to year-end tourism numbers. MGM Resorts President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle told KTNV, “With stabilization in the fourth quarter and growth in 2026 and beyond, we remain very bullish on Las Vegas.” Visitors like Kelbys Terron, speaking to Channel 13, said the celebrations were worthwhile, noting, “Oh yeah it was — the fun’s just getting started!” Holiday period data is expected by the end of January.
