Las Vegas Tourism Set to Rebound Strongly in 2026 with Sports, Entertainment and Value Packages Driving Record Visitor Growth

Published on November 17, 2025

Las Vegas is expected to see a significant rebound in tourism in 2026, with visitor numbers projected to rise by roughly one million following a slower year in 2025. Analysts attribute the expected recovery to the city’s growing sports calendar, resorts offering enhanced value, and a wider range of entertainment options beyond gambling, making Las Vegas a more diverse and appealing destination for travelers.

According to the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the city is forecasted to host 40.1 million visitors in 2026, bouncing back from a projected 39.1 million in 2025. While Las Vegas welcomed 41.6 million tourists in 2024, this was still slightly below the pre-pandemic high of over 42 million visitors annually. Industry projections suggest that visitor numbers will remain around 40 million in 2027, indicating a stable recovery path.

Hotel occupancy has mirrored these trends, with a 3% decline expected in 2025, followed by stabilization in 2026, and a modest decrease again in 2027. Resorts are responding with flexible pricing strategies, value packages, and improved guest experiences to attract more travelers and encourage longer stays.

Gaming revenue, a longstanding cornerstone of Las Vegas’ economy, faces headwinds in the coming years. Estimates indicate a 1.7% decline in 2025 and a further 3% dip in 2026, despite modest revenue growth observed in the early months of 2025. These changes reflect shifts in consumer behavior and broader economic conditions affecting discretionary spending.

These forecasts assume no major disruptions such as public health emergencies, financial crises, or geopolitical instability. Apart from the projected increase in visitor volume for 2026, other economic indicators—including gaming revenue, hotel occupancy, and employment—are expected to remain relatively flat or decline slightly over the next few years.

Las Vegas’ tourism sector remains closely connected to the U.S. economy. National trends in consumer confidence, employment, and household spending strongly influence the city’s visitor patterns. Economic stability encourages higher visitation, while uncertainty can reduce discretionary spending on travel and leisure.

Sports have become a central driver of tourism in Las Vegas. Professional teams, high-profile tournaments, and international events are attracting both domestic and global visitors, boosting hotel bookings, dining, and retail sales. These events also diversify the city’s revenue sources, reducing its reliance on traditional gaming. Major sporting competitions draw significant crowds and generate year-round economic activity.

In addition to sports, Las Vegas has expanded its focus on entertainment and lifestyle offerings. Upscale restaurants, live performances, shopping districts, and immersive attractions now play an increasingly important role in the city’s tourism strategy. These initiatives provide visitors with multiple reasons to return, creating a more dynamic experience that competes with destinations such as Florida, Hawaii, and Southern California.

Convention and event tourism continues to support Las Vegas’ economy. Large conferences and trade shows attract attendees from across the country and internationally, contributing to hotel occupancy, dining, and local business revenue. Maintaining visitor numbers near 40 million in 2026 will depend on offering unique, high-value experiences and diverse activities for both leisure and business travelers.

International visitation also plays a crucial role in Las Vegas’ recovery. While tourism from certain regions has declined, a weaker U.S. dollar has increased travel from European markets. Political and economic developments worldwide can affect these trends, highlighting the importance of a strong international reputation for sustaining long-term tourism growth.

Visitor spending in Las Vegas has become more diversified. Tourists are allocating more of their budgets to sports, entertainment, dining, and shopping, reducing dependence on gaming revenue alone. This diversification enhances economic stability and ensures the city remains attractive to both first-time and repeat visitors.

Looking ahead, Las Vegas is positioned for growth in 2026. Sports events, entertainment offerings, value-focused resort experiences, and robust convention activity are expected to stabilize visitor numbers and support continued recovery. By adapting to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions, Las Vegas is reinforcing its position as a leading destination for leisure, business, and sports tourism.