As tempting as a tropical overseas vacation might sound right about now, that’s an expensive, time-consuming ordeal that seems excessive to most travelers, especially during shoulder season.
That’s why many Americans are embarking on a quest to re-discover the country’s often overlooked gems, of which, I can assure you there’s plenty.
One of the nation’s most popular cities, for example, just recently broke its all-time tourism record, which, considering its long-lasting status as a legendary vacation spot, is nothing short of impressive.
Las Vegas, otherwise known as the entertainment capital of the world, had a record-breaking 57.6 million passengers pass through its airport this past year, a number that exceeded the previous record by more than 5 million people.
And since the city first rose to mainstream popularity more than 90 years ago, it’s worth exploring – why do travelers keep falling in love with Vegas time and time again?
It’s Never Been Easier To Visit Sin City
If there’s one thing that sets Las Vegas apart from other fun destinations of its kind, it’s the city’s ability to always morph, transform, and re-invent itself in order to stay relevant with every passing generation of travelers.
For example, now that most of us are prioritizing convenience and accessibility above all else, the Harry Reid International Airport is expanding its flights and services to extents that were never even deemed possible a few decades ago.
Just this past September Avelo and Breeze Airlines, two of North America’s most prominent low-cost carriers announced new routes to Sin City, giving budget-conscious travelers even more reason to live out their Vegas dream.
And now that Super Bowl LVIII is just a couple of days away, traffic to and from the airport is set to experience new highs.
American, Southwest, and United are all launching new routes to Harry Reid to help accommodate the ever-growing demand.
Delta, the nation’s most punctual airline, is also following a similar strategy, adding up to 16 new flights and 2,500 seats for football fans looking to get to Vegas this February.
Prices Haven’t Soared As Much As In The Rest Of The U.S.
While Las Vegas has never set itself out to be a budget-friendly destination, visiting the most popular U.S. destination of the year doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, either (I’m excluding potential casino losses here).
At a time when prices across the country have been increasing at record rates, Vegas’ rose notably less, allowing travelers to experience its iconic allure without having to double or triple their spending.
December 2023’s average hotel rates remained barely above 2022 levels, so choosing to spend your holiday in Vegas rather than a place where inflation is more rampant will give you better value for your money.
Even without taking the overall experience into consideration, Vegas prices are currently lower than what you’ll find in comparable cities like Orlando, New Orleans, Miami, or San Diego.
There’s Always A New Hotel, Resort, Or Restaurant Just Around The Corner
This past year alone, the city saw the opening of a new Fontainebleau Las Vegas, a revamped Mirage, and six exciting attractions, including the Punk Rock Museums, The Museum of Illusions, and MSG sphere – and these are just a couple of the many new builds that made news.
This year, the trend is set to continue, with seven new pools scheduled to open in the spring of 2024 as well as a wide array of trendy restaurants, including 1228 Main, Joel’s Chophouse, Winnie & Ethel’s Downtown Diner, and ZAI.
Other Exciting Events To Look Forward To
Though the Kansas City Chiefs vs. San Francisco 49ers game is everything everyone seems to be talking about right now, travelers thinking about exploring Vegas these upcoming months have a lot more to look forward to other than the Superbowl.
One look at the Las Vegas Entertainment Guide tells us that there’s something for every type of traveler happening in Sin City right now.
Music lovers will have the chance to see many of their faves live – Adele, Madonna, Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Bruno Mars, U2, Santana, and Carrie Underwood are all set to perform this February and March.
Beyond the musical acts, those visiting Vegas during these months can also enjoy O By Cirque Du Soleil, laugh along with stand-up comics like Terry Fator or Carrot Top, go on a Grand Canyon sunset helicopter tour, or even enjoy the thrill of the newest Saw-themed escape room.
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