Las Vegas is famous for its casinos and tourist attractions, yet it’s the conventions, concerts and high-profile meets that classically generated revenue for the city. This has changed, according to Bloomberg, with up to60% of the city’s money coming from tourism. This indicates that Las Vegas remains one of the ultimate tourist destinations, regardless of the impact of COVID-19 and the proliferation of online gambling. There are a few reasons behind this; a big one is glamour.
Las Vegas glitz
There may be an underbelly to Las Vegas, but the city retains a deserved aura of glitz and glamor. The city has a bit of everything, from classic 5-star hotels to low-key motels and desert camping; any family can find something they’ll enjoy. It’s for this reason that Las Vegas also remains one of the most popular cities to get married in; whether at a big hotel or A Little White Wedding Chapel, there are unique and good quality venues for every couple. The fact that Las Vegas recently issued its 5 millionth wedding license, according to the Las Vegas Review Journal, is a testament to its quality.
The journal also highlighted in one recent profile the incredible level of luxury that Vegas is now home to. Of course, Vegas always had a stellar reputation when it comes to its hotels; there are few better anywhere in the world, and very few that are luxury while also being modern. The old guards of Paris and London can contend when it comes to vintage luxury, but not the modern day. Now, to add to this, the number of luxury homes being sold in the Vegas area is increasing year on year. The homes, not just the hotels, are decadent.
Making an entrance
Las Vegas has also pulled off a big-name sports coup which has again increased interest in the city. The AARP recently highlighted the opening of Allegiant Stadium, a 65,000 seater set to host the Raiders, recently poached from Oakland, and already set to host the Super Bowl in 2023 despite being a new stadium. This nods towards the sporting heritage of Las Vegas and the pull the city has, being able to take a franchise away from California.
The Raiders came to Vegas off the back of the success of hockey franchise Golden Knights, who have, according to TheStreet.com, been a huge hit with tourists and local tourism magnates alike. This roaring success is drawing in yet another big money franchise – this time in baseball. Historically, Vegas was a taboo for professional players – the lure of gambling can be disastrous. However, with modern controls, Vegas is likely to now be home to an MLB franchise. Given that baseball teams play 81 times in a season, this is another huge draw for the city.
Not just gambling
Gambling, restaurants and bars have always been the conventional pull of Las Vegas. The top class hotels were an accompaniment. Today, as US News highlights, Las Vegas offersentertainment for a huge range of interests, and the hotels themselves can cater to luxury without requiring any vices. World class spas are present throughout the city, and the shopping scene has never been better.
Vegas has come far culturally, too. As the New York Times highlights, the lockdown pushed an oft-ignored part of Vegas into focus – its thriving creative scene. Art installations and restored buildings along the Fermont East installation are a nod to this, and it shows that there’s a little more to Vegas than simply big-ticket shows and gambling. Creativity is alive in the city, and there’s plenty for more culturally minded people to enjoy as an alternative to the glitz and glamor of the city lights.
Heart of the Metaverse
The next big social happening is likely to be the Metaverse, which refers to a series of interconnected digital worlds that come together into one cogent landscape. The existence of the Metaverse relies on interested parties who are willing to enjoy locations and what they offer from a virtual perspective. As it happens, Vegas is way ahead of the curve in this regard. According to TechCrunch, the Vegas-hosted 2022 is set to be a virtual bonanza, as several tech companies bow out from in-person attendance. While they may not have a physical presence, there is absolutely a virtual one to appreciate.
The fact that CES is moving towards a virtual reality doesn’t mean that Vegas loses its relevance with regard to it. To the contrary, the lights and appeal of Vegas are still absolutely crucial to the success of the conference and the profile of the companies involved. The very idea of Vegas is a critical factor, and shows just how important and prestigious the city remains.
With hotels often right at the top of their game when it comes to using new tech, it means a stay in a Las Vegas hotel isn’t old fashioned, either. The city has stayed on top of its game even through tough times. Still a fantastic destination, tourists will never be bored, and that’s true whether they’re looking for the classic casino experience, or something a little more high-brow and cultured. Vegas remains the king of tourism, and interest in the city has shown that it will continue to retain that crown for years to come.
