Las Vegas Faces Dwindling Canadian Visitors: A Thirty-Three Percent Drop in Flights Hits Nevada, California, and Florida’s Tourism – Here’s What You Need to Know About the Shift

Published on December 27, 2025

In 2025, Las Vegas, often considered the entertainment capital of the world, is experiencing a troubling downturn in Canadian tourists, with a noticeable 11% drop in visitors. This decline, which mirrors trends seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, has raised alarms for local businesses and tourism officials. The root cause of this decline seems linked to political tensions and economic barriers that have made it more expensive for Canadians to visit the famous city. Major Canadian airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet, have reported up to 33% fewer passengers traveling to Las Vegas, signaling a significant shift in tourism patterns. This drop is causing ripples not just in Nevada, but across states that typically attract large Canadian crowds.

Decline in Flights and Bookings: The Numbers Don’t Lie

Recent figures released by Harvey Reid International Airport illustrate a stark drop in Canadian traffic to Las Vegas. Flight bookings for the 2025 season show a 31% reduction in passengers from Air Canada and a 33% drop from WestJet. These declines are part of a broader pattern of reduced international travel to the United States, particularly from Canada. With tariffs and rising costs due to political tensions, many Canadians are opting out of trips to Sin City. Not only does this affect airlines, but it also impacts hotels, casinos, and the broader tourism ecosystem that heavily relies on Canadian tourists.

The Economic Impact on Las Vegas and Beyond

Las Vegas, which thrives on the influx of international visitors, especially from Canada, is beginning to feel the pressure. The city’s tourism economy has relied heavily on neighboring countries like Canada, with visitors making up a significant portion of total arrivals. Local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues, are feeling the squeeze as they face a decline in customer spending. Major resorts, such as MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment, have voiced concerns during recent earnings calls, highlighting the softness in international business, especially from Canada. Without a swift recovery in Canadian tourism, Las Vegas could see a prolonged downturn, affecting both employment and local economic growth.

Is the Decline Unique to Las Vegas? The Wider Impact Across the U.S.

While Las Vegas has taken the brunt of the decline, other states typically frequented by Canadians are also witnessing fewer visitors. Some states have seen a 60% reduction in Canadian arrivals. California, Florida, and New York, long-time favorites for Canadian tourists, are reporting similar downturns, which could have broader implications for the U.S. tourism sector. This decline is part of a global trend that affects tourism, as higher costs, political tensions, and ongoing economic uncertainties weigh heavily on the travel industry.

What Should Travelers Know About U.S. Travel in 2025?

For Canadian travelers still interested in visiting the U.S., especially Las Vegas, it’s important to understand the current travel landscape:

1. Higher Costs: With tariffs and inflation affecting the Canadian dollar, expect increased travel costs. This could mean higher prices for airfare, hotels, and entertainment.
2. Travel Restrictions: Ongoing political developments may impact entry policies or restrictions. Be sure to check for any updates before booking flights.
3. Changing Tourism Trends: With fewer Canadians visiting major U.S. destinations, it might be an ideal time for travelers to explore less crowded, alternative spots in the U.S. or even Canadian local destinations.

How Las Vegas is Adapting to the Change

Las Vegas is not sitting idle in the face of this decline. Local businesses and tourism boards are rethinking their strategies, considering ways to make Las Vegas more accessible and appealing to Canadian travelers again. This includes offering discounted packages, special promotions, and loyalty programs designed to attract international visitors. Additionally, the city is focusing more on attracting travelers from Europe and other parts of North America to mitigate the loss of Canadian traffic.

Travel Tips for Canadian Tourists: What You Need to Know

If you’re a Canadian still planning to visit Las Vegas, here are some practical travel tips to keep in mind:

• Book in Advance: Airfares and hotels are becoming more expensive. Booking early can help secure better deals.
• Consider Alternative Routes: With fewer direct flights from Canada to Las Vegas, look for alternative routes or layovers to cut down on travel expenses.
• Stay Updated on Currency Exchange: Fluctuations in the Canadian dollar can impact travel costs. Be mindful of currency exchange rates to avoid surprises.

A Bright Future for U.S. Tourism?

While Canadian tourism to the U.S. is currently experiencing a downturn, it’s important to note that the global travel market is highly dynamic. As political tensions ease and economic conditions improve, there’s potential for a rebound. For Las Vegas, a city built on the art of reinvention, adapting to the new realities of international tourism may be its ticket back to prosperity.