Resorts World Las Vegas to Close Poker Room as Online Gaming Rises

Resorts World Las Vegas has announced the closure of its poker room, effective March 30, 2026. The decision highlights a broader trend on the Strip of decreasing poker rooms amid declining tourism and changing consumer preferences.

Las Vegas has seen a 7.5% drop in visitors compared to last year. This shift contrasts sharply with the bustling pre-pandemic era. While Resorts World plans to introduce new gaming options, specific details remain unclear.

Tourism Decline Signals Shifting Travel Patterns in Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) reported that the city welcomed only 38.5 million visitors in 2025. Economic factors, such as rising living costs, have contributed to this downturn.

Cautious consumer spending also plays a significant role. Diane Swonk, chief economist at KPMG, noted the impact of these financial pressures on travel. She stated, “The spending slowdown is real.” This sentiment resonates amid reduced activity in domestic flights and hotel bookings.

International tourism is also facing challenges. Visits from ten of the top twenty tourist-generating countries have decreased. Steve Hill, president and CEO of the LVCVA, acknowledged the need for adaptability. He said, “Despite a challenging environment, convention demand remained steady.”

Online Gaming Growth Drives Poker Rooms Closures in Vegas

With only eight poker rooms remaining on the Strip, the decline follows the earlier closing of Planet Hollywood’s poker room in January 2026. The rise of online gaming has shifted interest away from traditional poker rooms as younger gamblers now prefer online platforms.

Conservative activist Robby Starbuck observed, “Now nearly everyone under 40 who bets seems to do it online.” This shift has led to poker accounting for less than 2% of annual revenue at average Strip casinos.

Major Events and Investments Point to Vegas’ New Chapter

Despite the challenges faced by poker rooms, Las Vegas remains a premier gaming destination. Major events like the World Series of Poker (WSOP) continue to draw large crowds. Ongoing redevelopment projects and investments in new entertainment options at venues like Resorts World indicate a shift.

While the closure of poker rooms may disappoint some, it does not spell the end for poker in Las Vegas. The city will likely maintain its status as a key destination for the poker community with iconic events like WSOP.