Why Las Vegas, Canada, and Mexico Are Seeing Fewer Visitors in 2025: The Impact of Global Changes on Tourism to America’s Entertainment Capital – What You Need to Know

Written By: Ankita Neogi Khan

Ankita Neogi Khan

With over 15 years of experience in digital media, I bring a strong foundation in language, journalism, and storytelling to travel reporting. A graduate in English (Honours) from Presidency College with a Master's in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta, I began my career as a content curator before transitioning into travel journalism. I specialise in aviation, tourism trends, destination news, and industry insights, combining meticulous research, accuracy, and compelling storytelling to deliver credible, engaging, and insightful content for a global audience.

See Full Bio

January 26, 2026 5:44 PM

Image generated with Ai

Las Vegas, known for its glitzy casinos, world-class entertainment, and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower replica at Paris Casino, has long been a bustling hub for tourists. However, the city’s tourism numbers have taken a serious hit. Recent figures from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) show a significant drop in visitor numbers, with a 7.4% decline in 2025 compared to the previous year.

This downturn in tourism comes after a series of strong years, including a remarkable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, when the city saw its tourism numbers rebound in the following years. The pandemic-induced slump in 2020, where visitor numbers plummeted to just 19 million, was followed by a steady recovery to 42.5 million tourists by 2019 and 41.7 million in 2024. But in 2025, Las Vegas is struggling to maintain the momentum.

The Shift in Visitor Demographics and Spending Patterns

Tourism in Las Vegas has historically been a reflection of broader economic trends across the United States, as the city attracts a high volume of travelers from various demographics. This year, however, it’s clear that shifts in consumer behavior and spending habits are impacting tourism.

The first 11 months of 2025 saw 35.4 million visitors come to Las Vegas, far below expectations, and if the trend continues, the city is expected to end the year with about 38.6 million visitors. This represents a steep decline from 2024’s numbers, which showed nearly 42 million visitors. Hotel revenues have also been affected, with average room rates falling by 5%, while revenue per available room dropped by 8.5%.

International Travel Declines Are a Major Concern

One of the key reasons for this dip in tourism is the significant drop in international visitors, especially from Canada. A particularly concerning statistic shows that Canadian tourism to Las Vegas has fallen by 24%. This is a major issue since Canadians have traditionally been the largest international group visiting Las Vegas, with 1.4 million visitors in 2024 alone.

Global tensions, particularly between the United States and other countries, may be adding to the reluctance of foreign visitors. The Visa Integrity Fee introduced as part of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” under President Donald Trump also casts a shadow on future international visits, as it imposes a $250 fee for travelers from certain countries like Mexico, Brazil, and India. The announcement of this fee sent a clear signal to many that Las Vegas may not be as welcoming to international travelers as it once was.

How Las Vegas Can Rebuild and What 2026 Has in Store

Despite the challenges of 2025, there is hope for the future. Las Vegas is gearing up for a busy year in 2026, with major events like WrestleMania 42, the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and America 250, which will surely attract both domestic and international travelers. Furthermore, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, is expected to bring renewed global attention to the U.S., including to Las Vegas.

Even though there are external pressures like the Visa Integrity Fee and new policies such as expanded social media screening for Visa Waiver Program travelers, Las Vegas remains one of the most iconic destinations in the world. With trade shows and events expected to draw large crowds, 2026 could mark a period of rejuvenation for the city.

What This Means for Travelers Visiting Las Vegas

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas in 2026, here are a few travel tips:

1. Book Your Stay Early: With major events on the horizon, hotel rooms will likely be in high demand. To secure the best rates, consider booking your accommodation well in advance.
2. Explore Beyond the Strip: While the Las Vegas Strip offers iconic landmarks and casinos, there are hidden gems off the beaten path, such as hiking trails in Red Rock Canyon or the neon history at the Neon Museum.
3. Consider Travel Insurance: With international tourism on the decline, unexpected changes in travel policies could affect your plans. Travel insurance could offer peace of mind in case of disruptions.
4. Look for Special Deals: With a slight dip in tourist numbers, some hotels and resorts may offer more affordable deals, making 2026 a great time to explore Las Vegas on a budget.
5. Stay Updated on Visa Requirements: If you’re traveling from abroad, check the latest visa regulations and policies to ensure a smooth entry process into the U.S.

What’s Next for Las Vegas: A Bright Future Ahead

While the Las Vegas tourism industry faces some challenges in 2025, the city is far from down and out. With international events on the horizon and major investments continuing in the entertainment and hospitality sectors, Las Vegas is poised to bounce back.

As the global tourism landscape evolves, Las Vegas must continue to adapt to these changes, focusing on a wider range of visitors and providing experiences that are aligned with the growing interest in online gaming and other entertainment avenues. For travelers, this city remains a destination of unparalleled excitement and potential for the coming years.