City tourism officials note a fundamental shift in the region’s economic drivers, moving away from a reliance on gaming toward a broader portfolio that includes premium accommodations, fine dining, nightlife, entertainment, retail, and large-scale events.
Luxury travel experts highlight that the new focus on upscale hotels and celebrity‑chef restaurants has reshaped the visitor experience, with stadium weekends and high‑cost events drawing attention from a more affluent crowd.
Despite these changes, some travelers find the higher entry costs more difficult to justify, reflecting a broader trend toward premium pricing across the market.
Recent visitor data show a steady decline in overall visitation, with 38.5 million guests arriving in 2025—a 7.5% drop from the previous year—while total direct spending reached a record $55.1 billion in 2024.
The demographic profile of visitors is also evolving. In 2024, 64% of guests reported annual earnings of $100,000 or more.
By 2025, that figure had risen, with 44% of visitors earning $150,000 or more, underscoring a growing emphasis on high‑income tourism.
