A holidaymaker was left stunned after ordering two drinks at a popular Las Vegas venue – only to be hit with an eye-watering bill. The city of Las Vegas is a globally adored destination, pulling in visitors with its blend of opulent, high-roller casinos, dazzling resorts, award-winning dining spots, striking architecture and plenty more besides.
It’s also a major player on the events circuit, luring world-class performers to the so-called ‘entertainment capital of the world’ to wow huge crowds across a host of specially designed arenas. The Sphere has emerged as a firm favourite thanks to its mesmerising video displays and 4D sensory experiences.
Kenny Chesney, a well-known country singer, is about to perform a series of shows at the Sphere as part of a sought-after Las Vegas residency. However, it seems fans will have to pay for more than just tickets when attending on of his shows.
One country music enthusiast posted a snap of their receipt after purchasing two drinks at the Sphere’s well-known Arc Bar. Alongside their picture, they expressed their disbelief at the total: “I can’t believe how much two drinks were in Vegas, look at the price”.
The bill showed the tourist was charged $20 (£14.78) for a ‘Chesney’ Coors Light on draught, while a double Bacardi set them back $34 (£25.12). A ‘Chesney’ cup was also thrown in at $3 (£2.22).
Shelling out $57 (£42.12) for two drinks might sound eyewatering, but that wasn’t the end of it. Once Nevada’s sales tax of $2.62 (£1.94) and Clark County’s levy of $2.15 (£1.59) were factored in, the subtotal soared to $61.77 (£45.62).
To add insult to injury, a tip of $12.54 (£9.26) pushed the final tally for just two drinks to an eye-watering $74.31 (£54.89).
The eye-popping bill ignited fierce debate after being posted on Facebook, with dozens of users weighing in. One said: “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas but, the cost of drinks is outrageous everywhere in the U.S.”
View 2 ImagesThe Las Vegas Sphere is a popular arena (stock image)(Image: Madeleine Deaton via Getty Images)
Another was stunned, saying: “Wtf that’s ridiculous why are they charging so much? They must never get repeating customers”.
One person confessed: “Insane! I would’ve walked. I take my flask everywhere I go.” Another declared: “Tips on taxes is morally wrong”.
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However, some put it down to the reality of visiting such spots. One commenter observed: “That’s because you went to a tourist attraction, that’s where they cost lots of money and I have been to Vegas and that’s how they make money money.”
Someone else agreed, adding: “This is anywhere these days.” Meanwhile, another user chimed in: “This is inside the Sphere if you look at the receipt. It’s the same as buying drinks in any arena. They always overcharge at arenas or events. That goes for everywhere. Plenty of cheap drinks in Vegas elsewhere”.