Las Vegas has once again captured the imagination of Irish travellers, securing the prestigious Destination City award at the 2026 Irish Travel Industry Awards for the second year in succession and third time in all, edging out short listed rivals Cape Town, Lisbon, and New York. The win highlights the city’s enduring appeal in Ireland, where its blend of glamour, entertainment, and accessibility continues to drive bookings through travel agencies nationwide.
Represented in Ireland by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), the destination has pursued an active and targeted strategy to strengthen its position in the market. Annual sales missions to Dublin form a cornerstone of these efforts, with LVCVA teams visiting key travel agents to showcase the latest developments on the Strip and beyond. These missions include familiarisation trips for agents, allowing them to experience first-hand the city’s evolving offerings—from headline residencies and world-class dining to immersive attractions and outdoor adventures. Such initiatives build lasting partnerships with prominent Irish operators like Cassidy Travel, Club Travel, and others, who frequently feature Las Vegas packages in their brochures and online platforms.
Direct flights have played a pivotal role in boosting accessibility. Aer Lingus operates seasonal winter services from Dublin to Las Vegas, typically running from autumn through spring, providing convenient non-stop options that appeal to time-poor Irish travellers.
This connectivity, combined with competitive fares and the city’s reputation for value, has sustained strong demand even amid fluctuating travel trends. Irish agents report that Las Vegas remains a perennial favourite for celebrations—be it stag and hen parties, milestone birthdays, or couples’ escapes—thanks to its unparalleled variety of experiences.
The LVCVA’s promotional activities in Ireland extend to trade events, co-operative marketing campaigns, and digital outreach tailored to local preferences. Collaborations with Irish travel media and participation in industry gatherings ensure Las Vegas stays front-of-mind. Promotions often emphasise the city’s diversity: high-energy nightlife with residencies from global superstars, gourmet restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs, and family-friendly attractions such as the High Roller observation wheel, the Sphere’s revolutionary immersive shows, and day trips to the Grand Canyon or Red Rock Canyon. For those seeking relaxation, luxury resorts offer spa treatments and poolside indulgence, while sports enthusiasts can catch major events or enjoy golf on championship courses.
Sustainability and innovation also feature in recent messaging to Irish audiences. Las Vegas has invested in eco-friendly initiatives, including water conservation programmes and expanded public transport options, appealing to environmentally conscious travellers. Upcoming highlights for 2026 include the continued buzz around major sporting spectacles, with preparations for events that draw international crowds and enhance the city’s global allure.
Feedback from Irish visitors underscores the city’s magnetic pull. Many praise the seamless blend of extravagance and accessibility—the ability to step from a high-stakes casino into a world-class concert or a serene desert excursion. Travel agents note a loyal repeat clientele, with many returning for new shows, hotel openings, or simply the electric atmosphere that defines the Strip.
2026 awards
Previous winners
