RENO, Nev. (May 6, 2021) – The Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (RSCVA) today released transient lodging and room tax statistics suggesting that tourism in Washoe County is performing well, compared to national averages.
“Reno Tahoe is well-positioned and well-equipped for eager travelers taking to the roads and airways in 2021,” said RSCVA President and CEO Charles Harris. “Northern Nevada has been somewhat insulated due to the destination’s outdoor amenities, arts and culture, and the draw of gaming entertainment. The growth of business travel via an enhanced and diversified economy, along with the phenomenal work to grow and maintain flights at Reno-Tahoe International Airport, is also directly contributing to the relative, sustained success.”
Through the first three months of 2021, Taxable Room Revenue in Washoe County was down 0.5%, from $71,977,454 to $71,585,293, compared to the same period in 2020. Cash Occupied Rooms were down 6.4%, 634,849 to 594,188, year-over-year, while Average Daily Rates increased 6.3%, from $113.38 to $120.48.
Travel research organizations, such as Tourism Economics, are now reviewing trends in relation to 2019, due to the March 2020 pandemic shutdown of many segments of the U.S. travel industry. Tourism Economics is reporting that total travel spend in the U.S. was down 31% in March 2021 compared to March 2019. In Reno Tahoe, the first three months of 2021 compared to pre-pandemic, 2019 levels showed declines in Taxable Room Revenue of just 14.7%, down from $83,901,474; and Cash Occupied Rooms, down 21.5% from 757,114; but again showing an increase in Average Daily Rates, up 8.7% from $110.82.
New data from tourism research company Destination Analysts shows that more than seven out of 10 Americans, with a propensity to travel, are actively planning summer trips. Recent studies suggest that travel intenders are currently looking for destinations with wide-open spaces, outdoor amenities, and proven safety protocols, which supports the evidence of Reno Tahoe’s above-average start to 2021.
“With the proliferation of vaccines, anticipated drops in test-positivity, and the June 1 statewide easing of social distancing and occupancy restrictions, we are hopeful that the remainder of this year will be vibrant, successful, and beneficial for our tourism partners in Reno Tahoe,” said Harris.
Reno Tahoe continues promoting responsible travel for 2021, and is continuously working with meeting, convention, trade show, and sports event planners to negotiate future group events at Washoe County event and lodging facilities. For information on how Northern Nevada is working to accommodate travel, please visit the Health and Safety pages on VisitRenoTahoe.com.