Las Vegas took a major hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, with casino revenue down over 45% in 2020. But this iconic gambling and entertainment destination is betting big on its comeback.
Major casino operators like MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn Resorts lost billions in 2020. With travel restrictions and lockdowns in place, Las Vegas saw tourist visits plunge to historic lows. However, there are positive signs of a rebound as casinos reinvent themselves for the post-pandemic reality, where online casinos like Rabona Online are dominating.
Road to Recovery
While the early days of the pandemic spelt doom for Las Vegas, the city has shown remarkable resilience. Here’s a look at the road to recovery:
2020
- March to June – Nearly 3-month lockdown with all casinos closed
- June – Casinos reopen with strict safety protocols
- Visitor volume down 55% for the year
2021
- Casinos gradually ease restrictions as vaccination rates improve
- Major events and conferences resume under health safety rules
- Visitor traffic picks up but still 36% below pre-pandemic levels
2022
- Massive events like CES tech show return successfully in January
- Mask mandates lifted as COVID risks decline
- Visitor volume closes in on pre-COVID figures
- Gambling revenue highest since February 2020
2023 and Beyond
- Continued growth expected with Vegas reclaiming its place as a top global tourist draw
- Several operators set goals for 30%+ growth in visitors over coming years
Innovations Casinos Using to Stage a Blockbuster Comeback
Casinos are leaving no stone unturned to bring visitors back. From cashless gambling to virtual reality games, they are reinventing the Vegas experience.
Cashless Payments
The pandemic fueled demand for contactless payments. Nearly 60% of transactions on casino floors are now cashless using systems like:
- Digital wallets
- Smartphone apps
- Prepaid cards
- Loyalty card payments
This is faster, more convenient, and improves hygiene standards.
Virtual Reality Games
Cutting-edge VR tech is taking gambling into new realms. Environments with 360-degree views and touch feedback add realism. Some incorporations include:
- Slots with VR glasses
- VR rooms for first-person games
- Augmented reality gambling floors
It makes for a futuristic and engrossing experience attractive to younger visitors.
Smart Technology
Tablets built into blackjack tables, predictive analytics software, IoT sensors, and more tech innovations create a modernized experience:
- Digital playing surfaces allow remote multiplayer penny slots blackjack
- Analytics software tracks visitor trends/preferences to customize offerings
- Sensors gather real-time data on occupancy levels for safety and service improvements
Biometrics
Facial recognition, iris scanning, and fingerprint tech is being integrated for visitor ID, payments, and marketing. Benefits include:
- Enhanced security
- Personalized offers based on tracked preferences
- Queue management optimization
Nightlife and Entertainment
Pool parties, nightclubs, shows, and music festivals are intrinsic for Vegas. Safety innovations used by entertainment venues include:
- Advanced air filtration systems
- Contactless digital ticketing
- Crowd scanning tech to prevent overcrowding
- Cashless payments
- Use of the latest stage mechanization and effects
These measures allow visitors to enjoy Vegas’ world-famous entertainment scene with greater safety and convenience.
Resorts World
The 3,500 room Resorts World costing $4.3 billion is the first Vegas mega resort built from scratch in over a decade. High-tech features include:
- State-of-the-art air filtration with UV lighting
- Contactless check-ins via digital keys
- Advanced customer data analytics
- All suites have smart lighting and temperature controls
With luxury shopping, celebrity chef restaurants, and one-of-a-kind concerts at the 5,000-seat theater, it exemplifies Vegas’ tech-driven future.
List of Visitor Volume Growth Targets by Major Casinos:
| Casino Operator | Growth Target by 2026 |
| MGM Resorts | +30% |
| Caesars Entertainment | +35% |
| Wynn Resorts | +25% |
Last Word
Las Vegas has exemplified the phrase “the show must go on” in its determined efforts to bounce back post-COVID. Early signs show the iconic city is regaining its mojo.
But obsession with safety and technology adoption means Vegas will likely reinvent itself to be smarter, cleaner, more efficient, and more forward-looking. The gaming capital aims to increase visitor numbers by 30% by 2026. And if initial success achieving near pre-pandemic visitor traffic is any indication, the house will likely win when it comes to leading the tourism industry’s comeback.
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