"The casinos are empty."

That's not some internet hot take—that's Brian Torres Sauzo, a food runner at Westgate Las Vegas, describing what he sees every day. And the numbers back him up: Vegas tourism dropped nearly 8% in 2025, the lowest visitor count in four years.

The Quick Hit

• What happened: Vegas visitor numbers down ~8% in 2025
• The damage: About 3 million fewer visitors than 2024; casino floors noticeably quieter
• Why you should care: Tourism drives everything in Vegas, including comps and promotions
• The move: Expect more aggressive promotions as casinos fight for fewer customers

The Numbers Are Brutal

According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, 2025 was a rough year. The Strip saw gaming revenue dip 6% in December alone, and the full-year visitor decline adds up to roughly 3 million people who didn't spend money in Vegas compared to 2024.

That's 3 million fewer gambling dollars, 3 million fewer hotel nights, and 3 million fewer tips for the workers who keep the city running.

Officials point to two main culprits: a drop in international tourists and broader economic anxiety. Canadian travelers specifically have been canceling trips to the U.S. as a response to ongoing trade disputes. When your northern neighbors decide to stay home, Vegas feels it.

Casino Workers Sound the Alarm

The Culinary Union Local 226, which represents 60,000 hotel and casino workers in Nevada, is increasingly concerned. Members report shorter shifts, slower tips, and an overall sense that things aren't where they should be.

Torres Sauzo's description of empty casino floors isn't hyperbole—it's what workers are experiencing daily. The high-roller whales might still show up, but the steady stream of tourists playing $25 blackjack and feeding slot machines has slowed down.

Immigration policy concerns are adding another layer of worry. Many hospitality workers fear that aggressive federal enforcement could further destabilize the local workforce.

What This Means for Degenerates

Here's the silver lining for gamblers: when casinos need business, they compete for it. Expect more aggressive promotions, better comps for mid-level players, and potentially looser slot settings as properties try to attract whoever is still willing to visit.

Circa's Canadian dollars at par promotion is exactly the kind of move we'll see more of—casinos getting creative to bring in customers who might otherwise stay away.

For sports bettors, the sportsbook experience in Vegas remains strong. The Super Bowl will bring a surge regardless of the broader tourism trends. But outside of major events, the cushion of casual tourist money that kept Vegas humming is noticeably thinner.

The Bottom Line

Vegas isn't dying, but it's definitely not thriving right now. For workers, that's a genuine hardship. For gamblers, it might actually create opportunities—casinos competing for fewer dollars means better treatment for those of us who show up. Just don't expect the Vegas of five years ago. This is a different market, and everyone's feeling it.