Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, has witnessed a remarkable recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2023. According to the latest data from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), the city attracted a million more tourists and a million more convention goers in 2023 than in 2019, the last pre-pandemic year.
Younger and more diverse visitors flock to Las Vegas
One of the key trends that emerged in 2023 was the shift in the demographics of Las Vegas visitors. The average age of visitors was 40.7 years, down from 43.2 years in 2021 and 46.2 years in 2019. Some 48% of all visitors were Millennials, 27% were Gen X, and only 12% were Baby Boomers. Another 13% were the youngest Gen Zers.
Visitors in 2023 were also more likely to be single, roughly 33%, significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. Also higher were employed visitors, in part due to a decrease in retirees and homemakers.
More visitors were under the age of 40 than in previous years. Higher rates of Asians and Asian Americans and Latinos are visiting. Some 62% of all visitors were white, 16% Hispanic, 12% black, and 7% Asian. By comparison, 72% of Baby Boomers were white, 9% Hispanic, 9% black, and 8% Asian, meaning the younger generations were more diverse.
Visitors spend more on lodging, food, drink, and entertainment
Another notable trend in 2023 was the increase in per-trip spending across most categories, particularly for lodging, food and drink, and shows and entertainment. The overall gaming budget among gamblers was $761.22, up significantly from pre-pandemic figures. The average number of days (4.4) and nights (3.4) stayed in Las Vegas was down from 4.6 and 3.6 in 2021, but the same as 2018 and 2019 figures.
The average trip expenditure on food and drink (among those who spent on these categories) in 2023 was $465, up from 2016 to 2019, when spend ranged from about $320 to $415. The average local transportation expenditure also increased from about $131 in 2019 to $160 in 2023.
Among spending visitors, the average trip shopping expenditure in 2023 was $342.29, up from $281 in 2019. With many productions paused because of the pandemic, fewer visitors spent money on shows (19% compared to more than 40% in past years). The average trip total spent on shows by those who did see them was $177.21, up from the 2016-2019 period.
Convention and trade show attendance rebounds
One of the most important segments of the Las Vegas economy is the convention and trade show industry, which was severely affected by the pandemic. However, in 2023, the city saw a strong comeback in this sector, thanks to the reopening of major venues and the hosting of several high-profile events.
Nine percent of visitors said they attended or worked at a convention, trade show, association or corporate meeting, rebounding from 4% in 2021 and in line with 2017-2019. Among those who attended a convention or corporate meeting, 63% were more interested in attending the event because it was in Las Vegas, a big increase from pre-pandemic results.
Some of the biggest events that took place in Las Vegas in 2023 were the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the World of Concrete, the International Builders’ Show, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show, and the Global Gaming Expo (G2E).
Las Vegas offers more than just gambling
Las Vegas is known for its casinos, but it also offers a wide range of other attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. In 2023, visitors were more likely to visit downtown and paid Las Vegas attractions, and attend sporting events.
Some of the most popular attractions in Las Vegas in 2023 were the High Roller observation wheel, the Bellagio Fountains, the Fremont Street Experience, the Neon Museum, and the Mob Museum. Some of the newest attractions that opened in 2023 were the MSG Sphere at The Venetian, a state-of-the-art entertainment venue, and AREA15, an immersive art and entertainment complex.
Las Vegas also became a major destination for sports fans in 2023, with the city hosting several major events and teams. Some of the highlights were the NFL Draft, the NBA All-Star Game, the NHL Stanley Cup Finals, the UFC 300, and the NASCAR Cup Series. Las Vegas is also home to the Las Vegas Raiders, the Las Vegas Golden Knights, the Las Vegas Aces, and the Las Vegas Lights.
Las Vegas remains a top destination for leisure and business travelers
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Las Vegas has proven its resilience and adaptability in 2023, attracting millions of visitors from around the world. The city has also maintained its reputation as a premier destination for leisure and business travelers, offering a variety of experiences and amenities.
More than three-quarters (77%) of visitors to said they were “very satisfied” with their trip to Las Vegas, up from 70% in 2021. One in five (20%) said they were “somewhat satisfied.” Only 3% of visitors were dissatisfied with their visit.
Las Vegas met (53%) or exceeded (41%) expectations among the majority of visitors. Nearly nine in ten (87%) are extremely or very likely to return to Las Vegas for vacation or leisure.