Las Vegas Tourism Declines 5% in April Amid Trade Uncertainty

Las Vegas experienced a notable slowdown in tourism and gaming revenue in April 2025, with visitor numbers down approximately 5.1% year-over-year and passenger traffic at Harry Reid International Airport declining 3.4%. The Las Vegas Strip saw a nearly 3% drop in gaming revenue and a decline in hotel occupancy, though revenue per available room and average daily rates increased modestly. Despite overall declines, convention attendance surged nearly 14% thanks to major events like WrestleMania and the return of several large trade shows, providing some economic relief. The tourism downturn has been attributed in part to consumer uncertainty linked to evolving federal policies, including the impact of President Donald Trump's global trade war, which has caused some visitors to stay home. Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford and other officials welcomed a federal court ruling striking down many tariffs, a decision they argue will benefit the local economy. While the current downturn is concerning, local authorities do not believe it signals a deeper economic crisis comparable to the COVID-19 pandemic or the Great Recession.