LAS VEGAS ( FOX5 ) — A slowdown in Las Vegas tourism this year is squeezing small businesses on the Strip, with managers saying they are relying on locals’ deals and specials to keep traffic coming.

At Fuel Bar on the Strip, managers say the drop-off is real.

“It’s definitely down. I’ve been on the Strip 18 years, bartending,” said Vahe Manoukian, general manager of Fuel Bar.

According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, visitor volume for Sept. 2025 is down nearly nine percent year over year.

“As a bartender, we save. The best thing you can do is — when you have your busier months — don’t change your lifestyle. Stay within your means,” a bartender said.

LVCVA says they want locals to enjoy the Strip, but pricing varies

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authorit

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