I attended 4CC (2018-2019 Season) and Skate America (2019-2020 Season) which were fortunately (for me) both in the West Coast region. From what I recall, the Anaheim 4CC rink was more modern and better equipped (such as with a center jumbotron). With the Orleans Skate America arena, I've gotta say the hotel and rink itself are more old-fashioned. Not necessarily dirty, but the style was just older and less modern. Instead of a center jumbotron, there was a big screen on of the walls, though it was not HD quality and a bit fuzzy. Regardless though, the atmosphere was excellent in Vegas.
I think Skate America could really benefit from being in Vegas because the location is a pinnacle for entertainment. Maybe I'm biased, but I think not as many people (aside from diehard fans) would travel all the way to a city for figure skating alone. With Vegas, borderline fans might make a trip out of Vegas too - there are shows, buffets, etc to entertain yourself during non-skating hours. Other cities might have a few attractions, but not as densely packed or compelling to the general masses as Vegas. Also, non-skating fans do visit Vegas for shows and some might attend a figure skating event for the first time as it might be a "show" for them. This helps with bringing figure skating to a bigger audience. Clearly there was some strategy to naming Vegas 2 years in a row (and from what I saw in person, the events were generally well attended).
Random side note but one of my favorite skaters is Kaori. At both the events I attended, Kaori was present but made some big mistakes ... I hope I'm not the one cursing her performances with my attendance!
I think Skate America could really benefit from being in Vegas because the location is a pinnacle for entertainment. Maybe I'm biased, but I think not as many people (aside from diehard fans) would travel all the way to a city for figure skating alone. With Vegas, borderline fans might make a trip out of Vegas too - there are shows, buffets, etc to entertain yourself during non-skating hours. Other cities might have a few attractions, but not as densely packed or compelling to the general masses as Vegas. Also, non-skating fans do visit Vegas for shows and some might attend a figure skating event for the first time as it might be a "show" for them. This helps with bringing figure skating to a bigger audience. Clearly there was some strategy to naming Vegas 2 years in a row (and from what I saw in person, the events were generally well attended).
Random side note but one of my favorite skaters is Kaori. At both the events I attended, Kaori was present but made some big mistakes ... I hope I'm not the one cursing her performances with my attendance!