Las Vegas tourism leaders are pushing back against a wave of negative media coverage suggesting the city is losing its appeal. Despite reports of declining visitation and accusations of high prices, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) insists the city remains a world-class destination with strong long-term prospects.

Steve Hill, CEO of the LVCVA, dismissed the idea that Las Vegas is “an experience of the past.” In an interview with CDC Gaming, Hill said that while visitation has slowed in recent months, international travel is up and surveys show that the average visitor is younger than in previous years.

“We’re going through a lull and the summer hasn’t been great,” Hill admitted. “But that’s not an indication of the future for Las Vegas. There’s still no place in the world like this city. People want to be here and the future is exceptionally bright.”

Some outlets, including Fox News, have described Las Vegas tourism as sinking and pointed to social media voices claiming Millennials and Gen Z no longer visit the city for gambling and entertainment. The report also highlighted a 7.3% drop in visitation this year. However, Hill and casino executives argue that the numbers are temporary and tied to economic uncertainty rather than a fundamental decline in demand.

Derek Stevens, CEO of Circa Resort & Casino, echoed that sentiment, saying the downturn is exaggerated. “In six months, I believe that Vegas tourism and our economy overall will be in a much better place,” he said.

One challenge has been a steep drop in Canadian visitation, down nearly 20% in recent months, largely tied to dissatisfaction with U.S. policy. However, international travel from other markets has risen, providing balance.

Pricing has also been a point of criticism, with some visitors claiming the city is too expensive. Hill rejected that perception, noting that Las Vegas remains a strong value compared to other destinations. “There’s a room rate for every budget,” he said. “You can go to lots of places in town right now and get a room for a price you would never be able to pay in another city.”

The LVCVA has launched aggressive marketing campaigns, including partnerships with Expedia and social-media influencers, to promote budget-friendly offerings and reinforce the city’s diverse entertainment options. Upcoming events such as the Canelo Álvarez–Terence Crawford fight at Allegiant Stadium, the NFL’s Raiders home games, the SEMA auto show, and the return of Formula One are expected to boost visitation in late 2025.

Hill also acknowledged shifting travel behaviors, with more visitors from nearby states choosing to stay with friends or relatives instead of booking hotels. This trend contributed to a 6.5% decline in hotel occupancy in June.

Despite the challenges, Las Vegas continues to reinvent itself. The LVCVA Board recently approved extending Formula One’s presence in the city through 2027, underscoring its confidence in tourism’s resilience.

“The naysayers will chatter, but they’ll be shown to be wrong,” Hill said. “Las Vegas has always adapted, and it will continue to thrive.”