I’ve been there 13 times and counting. Although that “and counting” has slowed to a screeching halt recently. I haven’t been since the pre-legalization days (*tear*). Times are changing. Even in Las Vegas. Recent announcement on legalized betting on sports across the United States have also put pressure on Nevada casinos to find new revenue sources as expected drops in sports betting revenue are on the horizon. Less gambling revenues, and more from ancillary services and things to do. Hotels stays have become pricier, and free drinks aren’t even a given anymore. And add a new wrinkle … cannabis! Will this be good or bad for a casino? Who knows; based on surveys, alcohol consumption drops upon legal-ization of cannabis. Less alcohol
may mean less reckless tilts at the blackjack table or slot machine. Could also mean a drop in cover charges to get into the countless nightclubs, or day pool parties (I’ve paid $50 just to get into these places in the past). This may in turn lead to less $13 beers being sold. Revenues decline, perhaps leading
to higher prices, say, $16 beers to make up for the drop? Perhaps. All hypothetical of course, but not out of the realm of possibility. In fact, I’d wager a few bucks on it.
Last May I had the privilege of spending a few days in this fine city, JUST before Nevada rolled out legalization of marijuana (*eyes rolling*). Things definitely are changing. Gone are the massive poker rooms, scaled down in some casinos, gone in others. Brand new Top Golf entertainment center where you can challenge your buddies to see who can swing the least worst of you, while crushing $8 beers, spending $100 in 2 hours at this place. Ostensibly, a driving range! $100 at a driving range!
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