Patrick Leonard Calls for End to Las Vegas Resort Fees
Professional poker player Patrick Leonard has publicly criticized the resort fee practices in Las Vegas, asserting that they harm the city’s attractiveness to tourists. His comments come in light of a significant drop in the stock price of Caesars Entertainment, which fell by 59% over the past year.
In a recent post on X, Leonard highlighted how resort fees contribute to a negative perception of Las Vegas, suggesting they are a major factor behind the decline in tourism. He urged Caesars to “eliminate resort fees,” arguing that these mandatory nightly charges leave visitors feeling misled from the outset of their trips. Leonard pointed out that many travelers are often surprised to find that the advertised room rate does not reflect the total cost of their stay due to these additional fees.
Resort fees are compulsory charges that hotels add to room rates to cover various amenities and services. Leonard illustrated the frustration many visitors experience by providing an example: a guest who leaves their hotel is approached by a showgirl asking for $30 for a photo and then buys a cappuccino at Starbucks for $11. In just ten minutes, this visitor has spent $120 on a photo, a coffee, and access to a room they have already paid for.
Widespread Agreement on Resort Fees
Leonard’s remarks resonated with many online, drawing widespread agreement from users who share his view that resort fees should either be included in the room rate or adjusted based on demand. Some commenters suggested that if hotels continue to impose these fees, they must provide genuine premium services in exchange.
These discussions occur amid growing concerns about Las Vegas tourism trends heading into 2025. Although casino revenues have remained stable, state data indicates a significant drop in hotel occupancy rates and visitor numbers. This summer alone saw a 7% decrease in tourists visiting Las Vegas, with many attributing the decline to rising costs associated with resort amenities.
For Leonard and numerous travelers, eliminating resort fees could serve as a straightforward solution to rebuild trust with visitors and improve the overall experience in what is often referred to as America’s gambling hub. As the debate continues, the future of Las Vegas tourism may hinge on how the industry addresses these concerns.
