From PBS NewsHour.

Fewer people are flocking to Sin City, and many on social media claim America’s gambling capital is empty. But, that’s not the whole story.

Tourism is down so far this year in Vegas, with total visitor volume so far in 2025 declining 8% compared to 2024, as international travelers are increasingly avoiding the U.S., and domestic travelers grow anxious over the state of the economy.

But, despite the downturn in visitors, gaming revenue has remained relatively flat, or even increased in some pockets of the city. This limited grwoth comes as properties on the Las Vegas Strip chase the luxury market, and budget-conscious consumers look elsewhere for bargains.

PBS News’ Tim McPhillips spoke with David Cárdenas, dean of the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and Jacob Orth — @JacobslifeinVegas — a Las Vegas-based influencer and real estate agent, to break down what is happening in Vegas, and what it means for U.S. tourism’s outlook.

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