The global spread of coronavirus in the past 10 months has triggered significant changes, including in Las Vegas. The impact of these changes will be further highlighted during this year’s Super Bowl, as casino operators navigate their properties through coronavirus restrictions.
Despite the limited capacity in casinos, restaurants, and bars, Las Vegas remains a popular tourist destination. Visitors continue to throng to enjoy all that Las Vegas casinos have to offer. However, there is a significant difference in the demographic of visitors to Las Vegas during the ongoing coronavirus situation.
The latest Visitors Profile from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority reveals that in 2019, 49% of visitors arrived in Sin City by car. These individuals continue to visit Las Vegas, with many coming from places like California and Arizona to enjoy and bet on the Big Game.
Over half of those who fly to Las Vegas won’t be there for the Super Bowl. This will assist casinos in complying with the capacity restrictions imposed by the Nevada government.
Nevada casino capacity limits
The viewing experience of the Super Bowl will not resemble those of prior years due to ongoing concerns about Coronavirus in Las Vegas. There are still restrictions on how many people can gather together to maintain safe social distancing.
The number of people allowed in casinos, restaurants, and bars is restricted to just 25% of their full capacity. This means that sportsbooks and parties will see a 75% decrease in spectators for the Super Bowl. While the experience might still be enjoyable, it’s bound to be different from what many are used to.
Nevada Gaming Control cracking down
The Nevada Gaming Control (NGC) is stringently implementing these restrictions. The gaming industry’s government supervisor issued a reminder about the prevailing health and safety protocols to casino operators last week.
This Industry Notice is a reminder to licensees that each gaming property in Nevada is still subject to the rules of Directive 035, Section 8, as per the Nevada Gaming Control Board. This directive restricts public gatherings to either 50 people or 25% of the fire code capacity of the area where the gathering is to take place, whichever is less. For gaming properties with two or more separate rooms, arenas, areas, or buildings, this rule can be applied individually to each separate space. This only applies if each space is divided from other spaces by a solid wall and each has its own fire code occupancy capacity.
Please be aware that the Board will strictly enforce Directive 035 without any exceptions, starting from February 07, 2021. Any potential breaches of Directive 035, whether related to the Super Bowl game or otherwise, will undergo investigation, and if warranted, disciplinary action may be taken.
Please wear your masks and adhere to the restrictions implemented by the casino operators. These measures are in place for everyone’s safety. The capacity limitations are challenging for all parties involved. However, all casino staff are complying with these rules to ensure an optimal Super Bowl experience for all.
Those wanting to watch the Super Bowl in Las Vegas may face issues due to capacity limits at casinos, restaurants, and bars. However, numerous places are still available where you can enjoy the Big Game and place your bets.
Where to watch and wager
Super Bowl viewing options will be fewer than usual due to many parties not taking place. Operating a special event with limited capacity is challenging. However, certain casinos, restaurants, and bars will still offer viewing facilities.
Remember, for any occasion, it is necessary to reserve seats at any restaurant in Las Vegas. This also applies to the Super Bowl; it doesn’t receive any special exceptions. Make sure to plan ahead.
Securing a seat in a sportsbook for the Super Bowl will be challenging as always. The seats are limited, and some might require prior reservation. Even getting there early might not guarantee a general admission seat.
Seats in the sportsbook at Circa were fully booked over a week ahead of the Super Bowl. For a chance at a seat, guests can turn up extremely early to try for one at the limited number of video poker machines overlooking the sportsbook. Additionally, Stadium Swim offers 300 general admission tickets and cabanas for those who prefer to watch the game outdoors.
Several sportsbooks seats along the Vegas Strip will be exclusively accessible through reservations. Anticipate these limited seats to be booked before the games commence. Casinos situated off the Vegas Strip may have a higher number of general admission seats free on the day of the games.
It would be advisable for anyone planning to visit to do some research and bring a mask, given that there will be fewer watch parties and specials.
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