A wave of fortune swept through the Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Thanksgiving Thursday, transforming one visitor’s holiday into an unforgettable memory. While many were focused on gratitude for family and friends, this lucky guest experienced a different kind of blessing – a staggering jackpot.
The win unfolded on a Dragon Link slot machine, a high-limit game where a single $25 bet blossomed into an astonishing $1,152,000. The identity of the winner remains a secret, adding an air of mystique to the incredible story.
This remarkable payout arrives at a curious time for Las Vegas. Despite a recent dip in tourism – September saw just over 3 million visitors, an 8.8% decrease year-over-year – casino revenue is surprisingly on the rise.
The Strip experienced a 5.5% increase in gaming revenue, while downtown casinos saw an even more significant jump of over 8%. This suggests that while fewer people are visiting, those who do are spending more at the tables and slots.
Conversations with tourists this fall reveal a common thread: the rising cost of a Las Vegas experience. Many expressed surprise at the prices, noting that Sin City is becoming increasingly expensive.
A couple traveling from the United Kingdom, completing a cross-country road trip, found Vegas noticeably pricier than other American cities. A simple morning coffee for two cost them $20, a figure they considered excessive.
“I thought that was quite a lot,” the husband remarked. His wife added, “Having a coffee that was $14 was crazy. I just wasn't expecting that. It was just a latte with a few extra flavors.”
The concerns weren’t limited to coffee. Other visitors echoed similar sentiments, citing the high cost of basic necessities like bottled water and even simple drinks. One woman recalled paying $12 for a lemonade.
A father celebrating his son’s 21st birthday shared that a gin and tonic at the pool set them back $25, and a single cup of coffee cost $13. The financial surprises continued, with one young man hearing reports of a $95 ATM fee on the Strip.
These anecdotes paint a picture of a Las Vegas evolving beyond its reputation as an affordable getaway. While the casinos are benefiting from increased revenue per visitor, the rising costs may be reshaping the city’s appeal for some.
