Stop killing the goose that laid the golden egg: It’s time to eliminate junk fees and high prices on the Strip

By Nevada Assemblyman Ken Gray

Once upon a time, Las Vegas was America’s playground—an affordable, exciting, and welcoming destination for middle-class families, blue-collar workers, and retirees alike. People from all walks of life could come to Nevada, enjoy world-class entertainment, try their luck at the tables, and leave with memories that lasted a lifetime. But today, that golden goose is being strangled by nickel-and-dime tactics that are driving the very lifeblood of our tourism economy away.

The average American can no longer afford a trip to the Las Vegas Strip. What used to be a budget-friendly getaway now costs hundreds of dollars per day—before a single chip is placed on a table or a show ticket is purchased.

Let’s break it down.

— Hotel rates on the Strip now average nearly $200 per night. — Resort fees—mandatory, non-negotiable—add another $40—$55 per night. — Parking, which used to be free and widely available, is now another $20—$40 daily hit to your wallet. — Food and drinks? Expect to spend $60—$150 per person, per day, even without high-end dining.

And that’s before you factor in the hidden charges—automatic gratuities, CNF fees (concession and franchise surcharges), outrageous ATM fees, “energy surcharges,” and steep early check-in or late checkout costs. Families that once visited annually are now priced out. Budget-conscious travelers are choosing other destinations. First-time visitors are leaving with a sour taste—and not from the $25 cocktails.

Nevada’s economy depends on tourism. It is our golden egg. And if we don’t act soon, the Strip’s insatiable appetite for short-term profits through junk fees and inflated charges will destroy the long-term viability of our tourism sector.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

If we eliminate resort fees, restore free parking, and put a stop to deceptive add-ons, gaming revenues will increase. Why? Because tourists will have money left in their pockets to actually spend in the casinos. They’ll stay longer, eat more, tip better, and maybe even see another show or two. If tourists believe they’re getting a great value—or even feel like they’re getting over on the hotels—they will undoubtedly spend more at the tables and on other revenue-generating activities. That’s not just good economics—it’s common sense.

I’m calling on resort operators and tourism officials to work with us to bring affordability and transparency back to the Las Vegas Strip. Let’s stop trying to gouge people at every turn and get back to offering real value for a fair price.

Let’s return Las Vegas to the people who made it what it is—not just high rollers and convention-goers, but everyday Americans looking for a great time at a price they can afford. If we want to keep Nevada strong, we must stop killing the goose that laid the golden egg.

It’s time to end the junk fees—and bring the tourists back. One more thing now that I think about it…bring back the buffets please. Make Las Vegas Great Again!