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Las Vegas Itinerary: A First-Timers Guide to 3 Days in Vegas

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Las Vegas, Nevada reigns as the Entertainment Capital of the World, wooing an incredible number of diverse visitors from every corner of the planet. The city was built on gambling and bawdy nightlife, but today Las Vegas spoils guests with a wide range of activities and attractions.

In fact, there are so many things to do in Vegas that creating a Las Vegas Itinerary can be quite the conundrum. To help fellow travelers – especially Vegas First-Timers – we have created a perfect plan for spending 3 days in Las Vegas.

3 Days in Las Vegas

A 3-Day trip to Vegas allows just enough time for visitors to get a taste of what the city has to offer – and trust us, it has a lot! On a 3-Day Vegas Trip, visitors can see the flashing neon lights, eat at celebrity chef restaurants, gamble at flashy casinos and visit top attractions…and that’s just Day One!

Our trip plan is ideal for a long weekend in Vegas – but it works just as well for weekdays, too. The city is always buzzing, so it doesn’t matter if you are spending a weekend in Vegas or tacking a few extra days onto a business trip, there are no dull days in Las Vegas!

Additionally, we understand that not all travelers planning a trip to Las Vegas intend on spending 3 days in the city. Some visitors are breezing through on a day trip to Las Vegas, while others are planning to spend 4 nights in Vegas. Therefore, we have outlined Las Vegas Itineraries for longer and shorter stays at the end of the article.

First Time Las Vegas: Must-Do Activities

My first time to Vegas was a birthday trip to celebrate with friends. Beyond getting ourselves there, we had done little in the way of research. While the weekend was, no doubt, a memorable one, our very loose plans resulted in missed attractions and overlooked sights.

On a return trip, I was eager to make up for what I skipped on my first time in Vegas. I designed an itinerary for Las Vegas that featured highlights beyond the casinos and pool parties – and it was fascinating!

As I planned subsequent trips (while living in Phoenix for 10 years, there were countless Vegas trips), I challenged myself to see more. On each visit, I realized just how much I missed on my first time in Las Vegas.

To help other travelers, we created our Las Vegas 3-Day Itinerary with first-time visitors in mind; it is essentially a “First Time Vegas Must-Do List.” That said, visitors who had an initial trip experience similar to mine and are making a return trip to the city will certainly find our Vegas Itinerary useful as well!

Pro Travel Tip : How to plan a trip to Las Vegas will depend on your interests, budget and overall time-frame for your visit. While we highlight what we think is the best plan for things to do in Vegas for first-time visitors, our outline can also be used as a base for a couples getaway or even a Las Vegas family itinerary!

Best Las Vegas Itinerary

Our “3-Day Itinerary: Las Vegas for First-Timers” is formatted in a day-by-day trip plan. In addition to our 3-Day trip outline, we include travel tips for alternate length stays – and advice for how to get there (and around), where to stay and what to pack.

Save, Pin or Bookmark this 3-Day Vegas Itinerary to plan your Sin City vacation!

DAY 1 of Your 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

On the first day of your 3 Days Itinerary, kick off your trip with a few iconic Vegas experiences.

Swing by the Welcome To Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Welcome to Vegas! Make your first stop in the city at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. Located at the south end of The Strip next to the airport, it is one of the most famous signs in the world. The sign was designed in 1959 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Start your exciting vacation by getting your picture taken in front of the iconic Las Vegas sign!

Pro Tip: There is no better time to visit the famous sign than when you first arrive; it is an absolute must-do in Vegas for first-timers! If you are arriving by plane and taking Lyft or Uber to your hotel schedule a stop at the sign on your way.

Check into Your Accommodations on The Strip

With just three days in Las Vegas, staying on The Strip is essential! There are so many hotels to choose from – and we go into more details on where to stay later in the article. Whichever hotel you choose, get checked in, drop your bags and hit the ground running…by going straight to the casino.

Hit the Las Vegas Casinos

Las Vegas casinos are elaborate and loud. The grand rooms are filled with gambling tables, slot machines and a cacophony of ringing bells and falling coins. The dimly lit, maze-like casinos can be bewildering, but during your 3 day trip to Vegas, the flashing lights and noisy slots fade into the background.

Travel Tip: Best Casino in Vegas for First Timers

Gambling in Las Vegas can be intimidating – but it is a Vegas must-do for first-timers! Choosing the ‘best casino’ for your Las Vegas trip planner is less important that choosing the right time and the right games. One of the best Las Vegas tips is to ease into gambling – otherwise, you can lose a bundle of money in the blink of an eye. 

The slots are a good place to start – and Vegas must-do. Some casinos still have Penny Slot machines, which can literally provide hours of low-risk entertainment. However, it is easy to move around the slot machines – all of which have different (and sometimes confusing) rules for winning.

All casinos have table games – like Blackjack, Poker, Roulette and Craps. Table games are fun, but can get expensive, especially if you don’t know the rules of the game. The best time to learn how to play is during the day, when the tables are less busy and the minimum bets are lowest (sometimes $5 per game, but likely 3 times that amount at the luxury casinos). 

Budget Travel Tip: One of the best things about casinos is that, while you are playing, waitresses will bring you free drinks! Just remember to tip the waitstaff. 

See the Sights on The Strip

Now that you are getting warmed up, it’s time to step out onto The Strip – officially known as Las Vegas Boulevard. The extravagant casino complexes that line the world-famous street are a spectacular sight – especially as the sun starts to set and the neon lights begin to glow.

While the scene in its entirety is astounding, we recommend spending the late afternoon and early evening at the Vegas sights in the center of The Strip. Our top picks (which we detail next) are the Bellagio Fountain, the Eiffel Tower, the LINQ entertainment complex and the Flamingoes. 

Pro Tip: When wandering on the Las Vegas Strip, one of the most deceiving facets is that objects are further than they appear. The colossal size of the casino resorts is staggering…and it means that it can take 15 to 20 minutes just to walk to the property ‘next door’. We talk more about the best ways to get around at the end of the post – but keep it in mind as you plan your trip itinerary.

Bellagio Fountain and Conservatory

Without question, the Bellagio Fountain is a must-see on your Las Vegas 3 Day Itinerary. Bellagio Fountain shows – a water, music and light extravaganza – take place throughout the day and you can find a schedule on the official Bellagio website . Beautiful both day and night, the shows are absolutely free for everyone to enjoy!

After watching the fountain show, pop into the Bellagio Hotel and Casino to visit the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. As you walk through the Bellagio lobby, look up to admire the opulent glass ceiling. All three activities – the fountain, gardens and ceiling – are completely free and must-see sights on a First Time Vegas Itinerary!

Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas

Visiting the imitation Eiffel Tower that stands across the street from the Bellagio is another one of the top things to do in Vegas for first timers. Whether you just stand at the base or go up to the Vegas Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck is up to you! If you have time in your 3 Day Vegas Itinerary, take a walk through the Parisian-inspired hotel and casino, too. 

High Roller Observation Wheel and Promenade at the LINQ

The LINQ Promenade, a shopping, dining and entertainment district, is packed with attractions – and visiting is a must on your 3 Day Itinerary Las Vegas. You can go for a spin on the High Roller at the LINQ – one of the world’s tallest observation wheels – or fly 1,000 feet above the Promenade via zipline. Alternatively, keep your feet on the ground and simply enjoy the lightshow after dark (which is free!). 

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo Casino

One of our favorite free things to do on a 3 day trip to Las Vegas is visiting the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel. The habitat, which is set on the grounds of the hotel, is home to a flock of flamingos and other feathered friends…and it is completely free! 

Dine Like a Celebrity

Vegas – with thousands of restaurants – has gained a reputation as a foodie city in recent years. In fact, there are more than 50 celebrity chef restaurants in Las Vegas – from Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen to Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen to Giada and Nobu.

The choices are overwhelming, especially if it is your first trip to Las Vegas. Ultimately, where you decide to dine depends on your tastes and budget – or favorite celebrity chef. (That said, our top pick would be an epic burger at Guy Fieri’s.)

Las Vegas Show

Shows in Las Vegas gained popularity in the 1950s…and they have only gotten bigger and better since then. We think a show is a must on a Las Vegas first trip. Ticket prices vary by show, but you can find info and tickets online .

Some of my best weekend trips to Vegas were highlighted by a Vegas show. Garth Brooks at The Wynn is, hands down, one of the best concerts I have ever attended in my life…but sadly his stint in Vegas is over. An exciting line up of concerts are slated for the new love-it-or-hate-it Sphere – but we haven’t made it to a show yet. 

Some of the other top Vegas performances to consider for your 3 Day Vegas trip are Cirque du Soleil (including Love, One, Ka, O and Mystere at Treasure Island), La Reve, Blue Man Group, The Mentalist and David Copperfield. Impersonator shows – which range from MJ Live to Elvis tributes – are classic entertainment in the city. 

Fun Travel Tip : If you are planning a Girls Weekend in Vegas Itinerary, you might want to get tickets to the Thunder Down Under male revue – and, for guys planning a Vegas Bachelor Party Itinerary, check out X Burlesque for a tasteful topless dance show.

DAY 2 of Your 3-Day Itinerary Las Vegas

Next up on your Vegas 3-Day Itinerary: relax and then feast, let loose and have some more fun – Vegas-style!

Ease into your Day with a Vegas Spa Treatment

Start your second day of your three days in Vegas with a refreshing spa treatment. Going to the spa is a fun activity to include on a Vegas Bachelorette Itinerary, a solo Vegas trip or even a Las Vegas Couples Itinerary!

Spa treatments range from traditional packages – like massages, facials and pedicures – to unique procedures. For example, guests can get a water Watsu Massage at Bellagio, a reviving Royal Flush IV treatment at MGM Grand or even a Turkish bath experience in the Hammam at The Cosmopolitan.

Pro Tip : If spas are not your cup of tea, instead do a Casino Shuffle! Visit a few of the casinos that you have always wanted to gamble in – like Aria, Caesars Palace and the Wynn. When I did this with my sister, we played a small amount of money on the slots at each place. It was a fun way to see and experience the grandeur of each casino.

Sample the Fare on a Las Vegas Food Tour

After a relaxing morning, set off mid-day for an absolute feast on a highly rated food tour. A food tour is not only one of the best things to do in Las Vegas for first timers, but for return visitors as well!

Rather than limiting yourself to just one restaurant for lunch, let a guide lead the way to the best tastes on The Strip! The local guide shares insider tips, hidden gems and a little bit of Vegas history, too. Book it now!

Experience a Las Vegas Pool Party

Las Vegas Pool Parties are legendary – and a must on your Las Vegas trip itinerary! Plan to spend the entire afternoon of Day 2 poolside. 

Essentially day time clubs, international DJs spin music and bartenders sling expensive cocktails in an absolutely energetic atmosphere. The parties are wildest on summer weekends, but there is usually at least one resort hosting a pool party every day of the week.

Choosing which pool party in Vegas to go to will depend on your style. One of the best pool parties we attended was Wet Republic Ultra Pool at the MGM Grand. Other popular picks are Encore Beach Club, Bali inspired Ayu, Daylight and Marquee Dayclub.

It is important to note that many pool parties charge a cover fee, enforce a dress code and may have minimum spends – so be sure to check the specifics.

Tip for Travelers: What if you just want to lounge around the pool and take a dip without the daytime debauchery? No stress, every resort on The Strip has a dedicated hotel pool where guests can sunbath and enjoy a casual swim without the party music. 

Enjoy Dinner on The Strip

Now that you are primed for the evening, get changed, re-hydrate and eat something before heading out to the nightclubs. If you are looking for an elevated Vegas experience, dine at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant (just make sure to get your reservations in advance!). For casual Mexican fare, eat at Nacho Daddy, or if you are on a budget, feast on classic American fast-food at In-and-Out Burger.

Dance at the Vegas Clubs on The Strip

Vegas nightclubs – or rather mega-clubs – maintain an electric vibe with some of the world’s best DJs and packed dance floors. Some of the most epic clubs are Tao at Venetian, Omnia at Caesars Palace, Jewel at Aria, Hakkasan at MGM Grand and Marquee at Cosmopolitan. While most exciting for a Las Vegas Weekend Itinerary, visitors will have no problem finding clubs that are open every night of the week.

All clubs have promoters (which you can find on The Strip, through your hotel or in advance by searching online) who offer VIP status and sometimes free drinks. Dress codes can be strict – for example, many places will deny entry to anyone wearing backless sandals…so read the rules before you go.

Vegas Party Bus

Visitors who are less concerned with which club they go to – and those who don’t want to hassle with transportation and cover charges – can opt for Party Bus package . On a Girls’ Weekend in Vegas, we joined one of the party buses that offered VIP entry into three clubs and included onboard drinks. Our bus even had a stripper pole, which was highly entertaining as the night progressed!

Family-Friendly Night in Vegas

If you are planning a Las Vegas family vacation itinerary – or if you simply want to bypass the club scene – rather than hopping on a Party Bus, take the Big Bus Night Tour. The open-air bus passes by the city’s most dazzling nighttime attractions. Get the details!

Luxury Las Vegas Helicopter Experience at Night

Take things up a notch on a helicopter tour of The Strip at night. The epic helicopter ride lets you experience Sin City from a unique vantage point. The ride is highlighted by a sparkling wine toast in flight. Book it now!

DAY 3 of Your Itinerary for Las Vegas in 3 Days

This is it, the last day of your 3 Days Las Vegas Trip! Time to experience a few more of the best Vegas attractions and sights before heading home.

Indulge in a Buffet Brunch

A Sin City tradition, feasting at a buffet during your 3-day trip to Las Vegas is practically a requirement. Evolving from all-you-can-eat extravaganzas into classy culinary adventures, buffets in Vegas are unlike anywhere else in the world.

Although the buffet meals are not as cheap as they once were (in fact, a few are quite expensive!), diners can expect a culinary treat. Most of the buffets have meat carving stations, omelet stations, heaps of seafood (including sushi) and delectable dessert tables. In true Sin City style, a few even include bottomless champagne!

Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan, Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace, Bellagio Buffet and The Buffet at Wynn are all top choices! 

Food Tip: If a fancy breakfast buffet is not in your budget, hit up Denny’s for a classic American Grand Slam Breakfast. If you prefer brunch, but not a buffet, then try The Henry for their Short Rib Bene or Alexxa’s where they offer Bottomless Mimosas!

Visit Vegas Attractions

After you have stuffed yourself silly, spend the rest of the morning leisurely taking in more of the top attractions in Vegas. We recommend spending time either on the north or south end of The Strip – but ambitious travelers can likely squeeze in attractions at both ends of The Strip.

South Strip Attractions

Exploring the south end of The Strip is one of our favored daytime activities in Vegas. Casual and entertaining, the South Strip has a lot to offer! We are highlighting a few of our top picks for South Strip sightseeing. 

Roller Coaster at New York New York Hotel

The Big Apple Coaster is a thrilling ride that drops and twists while reaching speeds of 67 miles per hour. But, trust me on this one, you won’t want to go on the ride after a big meal! 

Fine Art Collection at ARIA

ARIA’s Fine Art Collection is featured throughout the resort – not inside a stuffy museum. The artwork is free to all visitors – and you can use this helpful brochure to locate and learn more about each piece. 

M&Ms World

We wouldn’t necessarily say that the 4-story M&Ms Las Vegas store is a must-see in Vegas for first timers, but it is a fun place to visit and pick up personalized souvenirs (plus, it’s free to step inside!).

Mandalay Bay Shark Aquarium

The Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay is an exceptional aquarium – and well worth the visit, especially for anyone planning a Vegas vacation for family. Buy your Shark Reef Aquarium tickets in advance !

North Strip Attractions

The north end of The Strip also features a few top attractions for your Vegas itinerary. We are sharing a few of our favorites. 

Gondola Ride at the Venetian

A gondola ride at the Venetian is a perfect addition to a Las Vegas itinerary for couples! The boat pilot serenades passengers as they float along the Grand Canal. 

While at the Venetian, you can also check out the world famous Madame Tussauds wax museum. 

Volcano at Mirage

Another fantastic Las Vegas Strip sight – and one to definitely include on a Las Vegas itinerary for family – is the Mirage Las Vegas Volcano. Watching The Volcano erupt is free, but it only happens in the evenings between 8pm and 11pm (on the hour; check the schedule ) – so be sure to time your visit to catch the action. 

Visit Wynn Hotel and Casino

One of the most luxurious hotels on The Strip, some visitors may be timid about visiting Wynn. We believe it is an absolutely beautiful property; besides, it’s free to walk through! Explore the lobby gardens, gaze at the extravagant floral decorations and gawk at the general swankiness of the hotel. 

Take Part in Top Activities: Tours and Classes

In the afternoon, join a tour or class that captures the essence of Vegas. A guided tour introduces the engaging history of Vegas, while a class teaches participants industry secrets. 

On the intriguing Fremont Tour , visitors get off The Strip and get to discover Downtown Las Vegas. Learn about the origins of Sin City, step into the Fremont Street Experience and find out how the culture has evolved over time. 

On the other hand, if you are planning a Vegas Bachelorette Party Itinerary, book an afternoon Stripper Pole Class for your group of girls! Honestly, I was a little nervous when we included this activity in our Girls Weekend in Las Vegas Itinerary – but it turned out to be incredibly entertaining. Book it here!

Explore Fremont Street at Night

Spend the rest of your Vegas trip on Fremont Street and downtown. While attractions on The Strip are well-known for being ostentatious, Fremont tends to be more laid back…but no less entertaining.

Visitors can take an exhilarating ride on a zip line or swim with the sharks at Golden Nugget. Top museums to visit are the Neon Museum (a collection of historic Vegas signs) and the Mob Museum (which details the city’s history with organized crime).

Historic casinos, modern attractions and a slew of low key bars line the street, enticing visitors to stay longer than just a couple of hours. It’s the perfect way to end your 3 days in Vegas!

Las Vegas Day Trips

While our 3 Days in Vegas Trip Planner doesn’t leave any room for excursions, visitors staying longer – or those on a return trip – may want to consider including a Vegas day trip in their itinerary. 

Grand Canyon Bus Tour

One of the most popular tours from Vegas, trips to the Grand Canyon by bus offers a full day of fun! On a Las Vegas to Grand Canyon itinerary, participants enjoy the ride to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon in a coach bus and make stops at some of the top viewpoints. Optional upgrades on Grand Canyon Itinerary from Las Vegas include the Skywalk and helicopter ride. Find out more!

Hoover Dam from Vegas

Rather than booking an All Day Las Vegas-Grand Canyon Itinerary, embark on a shorter tour of Hoover Dam, one of the most incredible modern-day engineering achievements. On the trip from Vegas, a knowledgeable guide will share information about the dam’s history – once there, visitors can walk across the massive structure.

Plus, this tour makes two extra stops. One at Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign and one on the Colorado River at the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for a different view of the Hoover Dam. Get more details!

Valley of Fire State Park Hiking Tour

Set off on a half day hiking trip outside of Vegas in Nevada’s oldest state park, Valley of the Fire. A guide leads the way through beautiful desert landscapes, red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs on an easy, moderate or difficult hike. Reserve your space!

Red Rock Canyon Scooter Tour

Explore desert landscapes and phenomenal natural rock formations by scooter on a half-day Vegas trip to Red Rock Canyon. Learn more!

LA and Hollywood from Sin City

Head to California and the West Coast on a full-day trip from Las Vegas! Participants travel in a small group to Los Angeles to see highlighted attractions, such as the Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame and celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. Get the specifics!

Zion Utah National Parks Itinerary from Las Vegas

Zion National Park is a gem of the Western United States! Although not particularly easy to get to on your own, visitors can join an organized day trip to Zion from Las Vegas that includes transportation, entry fees, free time to explore and a picnic lunch. Find out more!

How Many Days in Las Vegas?

Determining how long you should stay in Vegas will depend on a variety of factors – including interests, budget and overall time-frame. We believe planning a 3 Day Las Vegas Itinerary is the perfect introduction to the city. If you are still considering how many days you need in Las Vegas, use our tips below to decide what attractions are essential to you!

Travel Planning Tip: Get (and stay) organized for your Vegas Trip by using our Travel Planning Printables !

More Vegas Itineraries

While we have outlined the best Vegas Itinerary for 3 Days (especially for Las Vegas First-Timers), we understand that not all visitors are spending 3 days in the city. To help other travelers plan their best Vegas itinerary, we are offering our top tips for longer – and shorter – stays.

Vegas for a Day

Trying to plan what to do with 1 Day in Las Vegas is no easy feat – the choices are endless! We think the best way to plan a Las Vegas One-Day Itinerary would be to follow our above advice on things to see in Vegas on Day 1.

If you arrive early enough, start off with a buffet dining experience (or book The Strip Food Tour ). On a One-Day in Las Vegas Itinerary, you could possibly carve out a little time to spend poolside or in a spa.

Las Vegas Itinerary 2 Days

Many visitors are limited to just 2 days on a Las Vegas Weekend Trip – but can still see and do a lot! Using our tips above in what to do in Las Vegas in three days, create a 2-Day Las Vegas Itinerary that best suits your interests. For example, if you are taking a party trip, plan a Las Vegas 2 Days Itinerary using Days 1 and 2 of our outlined 3-Day Vegas Vacation.

On the other hand, if you are most interested in varied experiences, highlights and attractions during your weekend to Vegas, then the best 2-Day Itinerary Las Vegas for you might be to follow Days 1 and 3 instead.

Alternate Las Vegas Itinerary 3 Days

While we believe we outlined the best things to do in Las Vegas in 3 days, fellow travelers might have other interests. With just a few tweaks to our outline, you can plan a perfect Las Vegas 3 Days Itinerary that suits your personal interests. 

If the Grand Canyon or one of the other day trips is more appealing than partying at the pool or touring attractions on The Strip, then substitute a tour in your plan for Vegas in three days. If gambling and casinos are of zero interest, eliminate them completely and add more sightseeing!

Vegas Itinerary 4 Days

In a 4-Day Itinerary Las Vegas, visitors will have plenty of time to see the top city attractions and go on a day tour! In fact, we think the best Las Vegas 4-Day Itinerary would be to use the tips in our 3 Days Vegas Trip Planner – and then book a day trip to see more of the surrounding region. Otherwise, find another pool to lounge around!

Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days

With 5 days in Las Vegas there is ample time to see the sights, go on a day trip and more! For us, a perfect 5-Day Vegas Itinerary would include our tips above for a 4 Days in Vegas Itinerary, then – on the last day – see any sights and attractions that you skipped in the first four days.

For example, visit more of the iconic casinos, chill by the hotel pool, or ride the roller coaster at New York New York. Essentially, use the last day of your 5 Day Vegas Itinerary as a catch-all to visit any of the sights you were not able to squeeze into your Las Vegas Travel Itinerary in the first four days.

7 Days in Las Vegas Itinerary

With so much on offer, there is no problem planning what to do with 1 week in Las Vegas! To create a Las Vegas Itinerary 7 Days, visitors could approach things at a more leisurely pace.

Rather than going full throttle – like attending a pool party and then going out to clubs – do those activities on two separate days. Spend one full day downtown on Fremont Street, rather than just half a day. And, perhaps, consider adding one more excursion to complete your Las Vegas travel itinerary.

Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas Itinerary

Visitors trying to plan their own Los Angeles, San Francisco, Vegas Itinerary can use our helpful tips in our Weekend in San Francisco article and in our guide to Coastal California .

However, visitors who want to leave the planning to the professionals can book a 7-Day tour of the three cities. Get more info!

Las Vegas Three-Day Itinerary Travel Tips

Now that you know how to plan a travel itinerary for Las Vegas, we have a bit more advice to ensure you pull off that perfect trip!

Las Vegas Tips For First-Timers

Our 3 days in Las Vegas Itinerary is packed with fun things to do for all travelers. However, we have a few first-time Vegas tips to help keep things on track and enjoyable for all!

Stay Hydrated

One of our top Vegas tips for first-timers is to stay hydrated! With an endless flow of drinks and desert sunshine, it is easy for your body to lose fluids and become dehydrated. That can put a real damper on your trip, not to mention, give you a terrible hangover. There are free places to refill – so bring a Collapsible Water Bottle with you.

Stay Together

Everything in Vegas is huge – the casinos, the clubs and the crowds. If you are planning a First-Time Vegas Itinerary with friends or family, stay together! Additionally, have a back up plan or meeting place in case you get separated from your crew or lose your phone.

Watch Your Drinks

Girls – and guys, for that matter – remember to keep an eye on your drinks while at pool parties, dance clubs and even in the casinos. This is a good tip for anyone imbibing anywhere, but especially in a place where you are letting loose and in unfamiliar surroundings. 

Budget Your Vegas Trip

Our last tip for planning your First-Time Las Vegas Itinerary is to create a budget. It is easy to get swept up in spending money in the city. Gambling, partying and sightseeing can all be big expenditures. However, with careful planning (and some restraint), it is possible to plan a trip that will fit nearly every budget.

Free Attractions

If you are seeking free things to do in Vegas, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained! We have already highlighted some of the best free Vegas things to do – but we have a few more money-saving tips.

Walk through the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace for window shopping. Stroll along the canal at the Venetian Resort (rather than riding a gondola). Wander the cobblestone lanes at Paris Hotel and seek out replica landmarks at New York New York.

Travelers with kids should head to Circus Circus, where there are free daily circus act performances. If you have a car, take a short road trip to see the unique and colorful Seven Magic Mountains art installation, with offers free entry. 

How To Get To Vegas

Las Vegas can be reached by plane, bus or car. Having lived in Phoenix, Arizona for several years, we have made the drive between the two cities numerous times. 

Las Vegas Airport

Flights to Vegas land at the McCarran International Airport (LAS), which is located just off the south end of The Strip. The airport is served by all major US airlines and many international carriers. When we need to buy airline tickets, we start our search on SkyScanner for the best deals. We share more tips in our article, Finding Flights for Cheap .

Airport to The Strip

There are several ways to get from the Vegas airport to The Strip hotels. However, properties are not permitted to run their own shuttles, so you will have to book your own. Shared airport shuttles are the least expensive way to get to the Strip, but also generally take the longest.

Taxis, Uber and Lyft pick up passengers from LAS airport as well. However, you can also book Private Round-Trip transport in advance – or, upgrade your arrival with a Limo ride from the airport to your hotel.

How To Get Around

We love to discover cities on foot…but that is problematic in Las Vegas. Not only are the colossal casinos further apart than they appear, but – any time outside of winter – it is very, very hot. Thankfully, there are a few different options when it comes to getting around Las Vegas.

The Monorail is a convenient way to get up and down The Strip – and they offer several ticket options, including single ride, daily passes and multi-day passes, too. The Deuce and SDX are the cheap local buses which cover The Strip and beyond.

Ride-shares are convenient options for getting around – but use designated pick up and drop off points. Vegas visitors can rent a car , but we don’t recommend it if you are sticking mostly to The Strip and Downtown (Fremont) areas.

An entertaining way to combine transport and sightseeing is with the Big Bus Hop On Hop Off Vegas. The open-air, double-decker bus has two routes and makes stops at all the top attractions. Tickets are available for one or two days. Get your tickets!

Where To Stay in Las Vegas for 3 nights

With 3 nights in Vegas, we think it is imperative to stay in a central location on The Strip. Over the years, we have stayed in many different hotels in Las Vegas, even at a few that no longer exist!

We personally like the MGM Grand, which offers reasonable rates, consistently updated rooms and easy access to the Monorail. Located toward the southern end of The Strip, it is well-suited to a variety of guests (from couples to families to bachelor parties). Check rates and availability!

That said, we have also enjoyed staying in the center of The Strip, where some of the best casinos are clustered together for easy access. Affordable options near the center are LINQ, Flamingo and Harrah’s.

Visitors who want a luxury hotel can opt for one of the 5-star hotels in Vegas, like Cosmopolitan, Bellagio, The Venetian and Wynn.

Start your search for Great Vegas Hotels  and use our Top Tips for Booking the Best Hotels !

What To Pack

Deciding what to pack for your 3-day Vegas getaway can be a challenge. If you are going to clubs, you will need stylish clothes and shoes to match. If you plan on taking tours, you will want comfortable outfits. In the end, you may be tempted to pack everything…just in case! Because we don’t recommend over-packing, we do have a few specific packing hacks . 

Comfortable Shoes

If you plan on leaving your casino resort at all, we highly recommend packing comfortable travel shoes . Actually, even if you are staying within one complex, you will likely be doing a lot of walking – the casinos are just that massive.

For daytime walking, I like wearing lightweight and comfortable shoes, like these from Columbia . Foldable Flats are also ideal for Vegas and easy to switch out with heels, if you carry them in your purse!

Sun Protection

The sun in Vegas is intense! Wearing sunscreen at the pool and while touring the city is essential; you don’t want a sunburn to ruin your vacation. To keep the sun off your face, we also recommend wearing a stylish travel hat and good sunglasses . 

Travel Camera

If your Las Vegas Itinerary planner includes any tours, you will definitely want a good travel camera . We suggest the Canon Rebel  with a 18-135mm lens. It is easy to use, takes phenomenal photos and comes bundled with a ton of fun accessories; making it an excellent budget camera .

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you’ll also want to carry a stylish day bag to tote all your water, sunscreen, camera and other everyday items in. We prefer these small backpacks , but there a loads of styles to choose from. We share our top picks in our blog post, Best Day Bags !

Start planning your trip to Las Vegas ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more trip advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Looking For More Fun-filled USA Weekend Trips? 

We have traveled extensively in the United States and share our best itineraries to help fellow travelers plan their vacations. If you need some inspiration, start with our roundup of the Best Weekend Trips in the USA !

Searching for Top Party Destinations in the US? Gotcha! Get primed with our detailed guides for fun weekends in Indy , Austin , New Orleans , Chicago , NYC and Nashville ! Also check out our lists for Great Winter Vacations and the Top Places to Party for NYE (Vegas is on BOTH!).

Visiting some of the Best Destinations in the US West? Great! We have guides to San Diego , Bend , Malibu , Seattle , Vancouver (WA),  Portland and Denver !

Going on a USA Road Trip? Super! We provide details for some of the most epic road trips in US, including the California PCH , the Oregon Coast and Columbia River Gorge plus our Ultimate Montana Road Trip !

Find all of our honest advice and insider travel tips on our USA Travel Page!

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3 Days in Vegas: The Perfect Las Vegas Itinerary

last Updated: March 27, 2024 las vegas nevada

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Las Vegas and looking for the best 3 day Las Vegas itinerary? Keep on reading for opulent hotels, sugary snacks, and luxurious spa treatments. See, it’s not all kitschy casinos and high-cash table games!

I’ve taken my fair share of 3 day trips to Vegas (heck, I’ve gone just to see Usher perform #noshame and visit the Valley of Fire – my all time favorite day trip). But with all the things to see and do, I always get overwhelmed when attempting to create the perfect Vegas itinerary for you guys!

We’ve been to Vegas dozens of times (now that we live in San Francisco we go multiple a times a year), and are always finding new things to do. While it doesn’t have the beaches we crave in other destinations ( Hawaii , San Diego , and Half Moon Bay , I’m looking at you), we always love our time in the desert.

Want to create your own Vegas itinerary?! Or visiting for the 3rd, 4th, or 5th time? Check out these 100+ things to do in Las Vegas — the ultimate bucket list!

3 days in Vegas is a good amount of time to see the top tourist sites, do a little gambling (I said a little!), and get a little crazy in the clubs/pools. And after your long weekend in Vegas, you’ll be ready to go home back to normal life, I promise you that. Vegas is overwhelming, over-stimulating, and just overall quite a trip.

So when Monique, from get this – My Perfect Itinerary – offered to spill the beans on the perfect 3 days in Las Vegas, I just couldn’t say no. Aaaaand she’s a local, so what could be more fitting?

Enjoy, and lemme know down below in the comments if anything imperative should be added!

A 3 day weekend in Las Vegas is easily doable if you are anywhere on the west coast of the United States. In this guide, I will show you the touristy experiences (actually worth doing) and local tips (I do currently live here!) to give you a well-rounded Las Vegas vacation!

Las Vegas is an extremely famous city known for its epic party scene, amazing year-round weather, luxurious hotels, gambling on every corner, and notable movie spots. Being born and raised in Las Vegas, I will show you the ins and outs of this amazing city!

Where to Stay in Las Vegas?

Were you paying attention when I said Las Vegas is known for its luxurious hotels? Well, if you zoned out in paragraph two… you need to grab a coffee to zone back into this 2,000+ word guide!

Whether it’s your first time in Las Vegas or 100th time, you will want to find a hotel along the Las Vegas Strip for your 3 days in Vegas. When I refer to “The Strip,” this means the four and a half mile strip of hotels and casinos along Las Vegas Blvd. This area is competitive with luxurious and unique hotels, fitting every country you can think of.

Like Egypt? Stay at The Luxor for an Egyptian experience. Their hotel is shaped as an Egyptian pyramid that has a strobe light that (supposedly) can be seen from space!

Like Venice? Stay at The Venetian for some of the best Italian food in the world, gelato shops, and a grand canal weaving through the casino (where you can actually take a gondola ride through the hotel!).

I can go on and on with the unique themes of each hotel, but whichever one tickles your fancy, just make sure you are staying on Las Vegas Blvd between Sunset and Sahara. Since you are only in Vegas for three days, you will want to make sure you are staying in the middle of the action!

IMPORTANT: Just because a hotel has a Las Vegas Blvd address does NOT mean it is on the Las Vegas Strip!

Best Time to Visit Las Vegas?

There is no way to sugar coat it, Vegas is HOT!

The summer is going to be expensive, crowded, and brutally hot. I would 10/10 NOT recommend coming in the summer months.

Plan your 3 days in Las Vegas during either Spring and Fall – you’ll thank me later. The weather is gorgeous during these months (70-80 Degrees Fahrenheit), the crowds are not as bad (keyword here is “as” – Vegas always has A LOT of crowds),  and the pricing is far better.

Psst: If you wanna take any day or over night trips to surrounding National Parks ( Death Valley , Zion , and Bryce are popular from here), do not visit Vegas in the summer. It’s sweltering.

LOCAL TIP: Day clubs are one of the best things to do in Las Vegas. They are open most of the year, but are closed end of Fall and early Spring. The exact dates change yearly, but you can just Google “Las Vegas day club opening/closing day,” and you should be able to find the exact date. Make sure you don’t travel on a date when these are closed!

How to Get Around Las Vegas?

Uber and Lyft are literally swarming every inch of Las Vegas, so you should never have trouble getting one. However, the hotels and airport make it very difficult to get to the pick-up location because for some reason they are still supporting the taxis…  

Hotels will make you walk through the taxi pick-up area and into the parking garage to get to the rideshare area, which if you are drunk and tired this can be very annoying.

And if you aren’t constantly drunk and tired on your vacation, you aren’t doing your 3 day trip to Vegas right!

How Long to Stay in Las Vegas?

Yea, yea, yea, I know this is a guide for the best 3 day Vegas itinerary. And I certainly feel 3 days in Las Vegas is sufficient, especially if you think you’ll be coming back! You’ll see — any more than 3 days and nights in Vegas will surely kick your butt.

BUT, if you’re traveling from far away, you should 100% spend more time here. While Vegas itself is super fun, the day trips around the city are what really make the area so varied!

S ome of the best day trips from Las Vegas are:  

• Valley of Fire State Park
• Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
• Hoover Dam and Route 66
• Black Canyon Kayak Tour (half day) or Emerald Cave Kayaking
• Grand Canyon (West Rim)
• Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks

And now, let’s get this Las Vegas itinerary started!

The Best 3 Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Day 1 in vegas.

UPON-ARRIVAL: WELCOME TO LAS VEGAS

Whether you are driving or flying in to Vegas, you’re first stop will obviously be the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign. This is single-handingly the most touristy thing in Las Vegas, but you are a tourist AND YOU ARE PROUD!

This sign is located off of Sunset Rd & Las Vegas Blvd, the starting point of the “Las Vegas Strip.” Make this the first thing you do during your 3 days in Las Vegas to just get it outta the way.

Plus, it’s free and who doesn’t love free stuff? 😉 If you want more FREE things to do in Las Vegas, don’t forget to check out my guide on 40 Free Things to do in Las Vegas !

NIGHT: DINNER AND DANCING

After checking into your hotel, it’s time for some grub! Regardless of what hotel you are staying at, head over to the Venetian to try out Celebrity Chef, Buddy V’s restaurant and bakery . I am sure you have heard of the show cake boss and if not, are you living under a rock?!

For those of you living under a rock…. Cake Boss is a ten-year, award winning tv show that ended in 2017 so that he could focus his energy on opening bakeries and restaurants around the world. Since 2017, he has already opened up bakeries in 10 different states!

LOCAL TIP: Get pastries to go because after a long night of drinking, these will actually taste like heaven. You can thank me later.

After you’re done with dinner, head back up to your room to get ready for the night and to drop off those yummy midnight snacks!

To “pregame” for the night club, you can spend a few hours gambling at one of the hotels. When you gamble on the Las Vegas Strip, you drink for free! A cocktail server will be walking around asking you if you would like anything as long as you are actively playing.

Not really drinking for free I guess, ha!

Night clubs are not open every night, you will need to research which one you want to go to and make sure they are open the night you are traveling. My top five nightclubs choices are:

Any of these are going to have good music and big crowds! Along with this, you will have to pay an arm and a leg for a drink once you get inside. I would recommend having a few drinks either gambling or at a bar before going in.

LOCAL TIP: Most nights, ladies get in for free. The day you choose to go to the club, look out for guys walking around in nice outfits asking you to come on their guest list. You will find them either in front of the club or wandering around the Las Vegas Strip.

Las Vegas Itinerary Day 2

MORNING: SPA DAY

Day 2 of our Las Vegas itinerary begins at the spa, because what’s better than getting rid of a hangover than by soaking in a tub of warm bubbly water? Every hotel will have a beautifully designed spa that matches the theme of the hotel.

Okay, I know what you’re thinking… Why would I waste time going to a spa when I could do that in my hometown?! Because Las Vegas spas are nothing like spas around the U.S. because of the outrageous amount of amenities they offer!

Caesars Palace Spa for example: When you pay for something on their spa menu (massage, facial, etc), you will gain access to their hotel pool, spa hot tub, sauna, steam room, gym, and snow room. YES, you heard that right.. Snow room .

These packages can get pricey, but I think they are worth every penny! You could easily spend several hours here.

Extra option: If spa’s aren’t really your thang, now’s your chance to either check out the Magic Mountains art installation and/or the Neon Museum (both quick uber rides away).

AFTERNOON: POOL PARTIES GALORE

If the spa didn’t get rid of your hangover, hair of the dog sure will! Time for some day drinking at one of Las Vegas’s day clubs. These clubs typically open around 11am and get packed very quick! My top five day clubs choices are:

• Wet Republic
• Encore Beach Club

NIGHT: DINNER AND BELLAGIO FOUNTAINS

I don’t know about you, but after a full day of day drinking, I need some comfort food and a nap! If you aren’t from the west coast, In N Out will be on your itinerary for today. Actually, no matter where you are from, In N Out is always a good idea!

LOCAL TIP: Get the off-the-menu animal style fries, which is french fries with their sauce, grilled onions and cheese melted on top. Trust me on this one.

If you’re still alive after the day club, you can head over to Hyde at the Bellagio to get the best view of the Bellagio fountains. If you go before 10pm, it is just a restaurant and bar. If you go after 10pm, it turns into a nightclub!

I recommend going before it turns into a club so you can sit outside at a table. Order some cocktails and appetizers to enjoy while watching the Bellagio Fountain Show that goes off every 15-30 minutes.

Being a local, I have seen this show millions of times and it still never ceases to amaze me!

After watching the Bellagio Fountains and enjoying your amazing cocktail, head inside the Bellagio to the conservatory & botanical garden to end your night. This should only take about 15 minutes to walk through, but you’re jaw will drop! This conservatory changes with the seasons and is made completely of real flowers.

Day 3 in Las Vegas

MORNING: BRUNCH IT UP!

Sleep in and head out to Hexx Kitchen for a hearty brunch and bottomless mimosas! This is your last day in Sin City, so there’s no better time than now to start drinking! The wait can be long on Sunday’s, so make sure you make a reservation in advance.

LATE-MORNING/EARLY AFTERNOON: SIGHTSEEING

After your belly is full of yummy food and bottomless mimosa, time for some sightseeing. Dealing with crowds, picture-taking tourists, and the heat is A LOT more fun after bottomless mimosas! Not speaking from personal experience or anything…

Stop 1: Head next door to the Paris Hotel to snap a picture with a much smaller version of the Eiffel Tower! The view is spectacular from next to or underneath the Eiffel Tower, but if you want a picture of yourself with the full Eiffel Tower in the background, you can get a much better view from across the street by the Bellagio Valet.

Stop 2: Walk one block along Las Vegas Blvd to The Flamingo hotel to see the FREE flamingo habitat! Located outside near the LINQ connection, you can see flamingos walking around in their gorgeous habitat with a winding coy pond and many waterfalls.

Stop 3: Continue walking along Las Vegas Blvd to the Linq Hotel and High Roller (the big ferris wheel). I would skip the Linq hotel and head right outside to their promenade where you can go shopping and get a delicious cupcake from Sprinkles! You don’t even need to wait in line for Sprinkles, you can walk right up to their cupcake ATM.

After walking around this adorable area, you can buy tickets for the High Roller. This ferris wheel is so unique because it fits 50+ people per pod! You can either buy tickets to just enjoy the view, or you can buy the VIP package that includes open bar during the duration of the ride. You can get pricing and more information here .

Book your High Roller ferris wheel ticket here!

Stop 4: Time to take your touristy-self to the next level and head to the Venetian for a gondola ride (an absolute must on any cliche Las Vegas itinerary guide)! These can be pricey, but even if you don’t feel like spending the money on the ride itself, you should still go see the lagoon either way.

Book your gondola ride here! Includes entry to Madame Tussauds as well!

Since calories don’t count on vacation (that is a saying, right?),  grab a milkshake at Black Tap and walk around the lagoon with these extravagant milkshakes!

**All of these stops are so close together and easily doable – only 20 minutes to walk all four of these stops!**

LATE AFTERNOON/NIGHT: FREMONT STREET

To end your three days in Las Vegas, you will be heading to downtown Fremont Street. This area of Las Vegas is the polar opposite of what you’ve experienced so far. Be expecting art murals on every corner, old school hotels, “coyote ugly” style bars, and VERY naked street performers!

Did I not sell you?

If you don’t have a car, I recommend booking yourself on a night tour of downtown Las Vegas! THIS TOUR got exceptional reviews — I kinda wanna take it myself next time! It also brings you to the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, which looks completely different at night!

Locals and tourists alike flock to Fremont Street because of the fair pricing and lively bars. This area is tightly packed (like most downtown areas around the world), so it makes bar hopping extremely easy. Every bar in this area is very hip and trendy, so getting to check out as many bars as possible should be your game-plan!

I would start on Fremont Street, which will be the very obvious lit up dome covering the entire street. You will see zip lines running across the top, live concerts playing, naked street performers lining the walkway, and bars selling fat Tuesday drinks (the frozen yard drinks).

After checking out Fremont Street, you can begin your bar hopping excursion! Ladies enter for free in all these bars, and most of them guys will need to pay a cover to get in:

• Goldspike: Outside bar with oversized games like beer pong, chess, shuffleboard, corn hole, twister, jenga, and so much more!
• Commonwealth: Double decker bar with a really fun rooftop bar/club.
• Oddfellows: Older style disco bar with a huge dance area in the back.
• Hogs & Heifers: This is a “Coyote Ugly” style bar with bras hanging from the ceiling and bartenders dancing on the bar.
• Corduroy: They have a really fun photo booth in the back that sends pictures right to your phone for FREE!

LOCAL TIP: Everyone dresses cute/casual for downtown. No need to wear dresses and heels like The Strip nightlife. Most bars are fairly dead until about 10pm, so that is when you should plan to start your night.

BONUS : If you’ve got 4 days in Vegas , promise me (oh promise me) you’ll spend at least one of your days outside of the city. There’s soooo much beautiful nature around the casino-ridden area, it’d be a shame to stay within its boundaries the entire duration of your stay.

That’s a wrap! There is so much to see in Las Vegas, and just when you feel like you’ve seen everything, this city just keeps on growing. And trust me, after partying/exploring for 3 days in Las Vegas, you’ll be ready to head back home for some much-needed rest.

Hopefully you will love this city as much as I do, and crave to come back and see more. If you want to read more Las Vegas guides, you can read more here !

What on this Las Vegas itinerary will you be checking out?

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March 12, 2021 at 10:29 am

One thing not mentioned, another gorgeous drive is up to Mt. Charleston. It's only about 30 minutes or so, & once you gain a little altitude you will feel like you're up in the mountains, pine trees and all! If you go in the summer & it's a zillion degrees in Las Vegas, it will be in the comfy 80's there..just amazing. Stop at the Mt. Charleston Inn & have a meal or a drink, great service & views. In the winter it actually snows!! Go over to Lee canyon, where you can ski, go sledding, & ride the ski lift! It's a wonderful change of pace from the strip..enjoy!!

March 12, 2021 at 11:42 am

Ohhh thanks so much for the tip! I may be headed to LV in July this year so 80's would be great! hahaha

March 13, 2021 at 1:06 pm

Thank you for the excellent guidance. Before the spa (and no spa can beat Qua Baths at Caesars), I kick the hangover in its wimpy ass and go for a run through Hughes Center at dawn. No busy streets to cross except Local and then just nice peaceful sidewalks and manicured landscapes. Nothing beats a five miler ( slow pace…remember we’re hung over), to set the stage for spa, and then pool party

March 27, 2021 at 9:38 am

3 DAYS IS NOWHERE ENOUGH. I DID THE 3 NITE THING MY FIRST TIME IN 82 & EVERSINCE I HAVE ADDED DAYS. UP TO 40 NOW.. I TELL PEOPLE TO TRY AND AT LEAST STAY 5 NITES YOUR FIRST TIME SO YOU CAN ABSORB SOME OF IT…..

March 30, 2021 at 6:16 pm

Listening to this, sounds like a paid advertisement obviously endorsed by the big brands. You must be rich to do this. Alot more can be done on alot less money. 1st suggestion is go to Walgreens and buy your drinks to carry along. Otherwise its $10 per. Best steakhouse a fraction of the cost of the strip, Echo & Rig. But its not close so you should have a car. And if you have a car then go sight seeing. Willow Beach is beautiful. Pioneer Saloon is haunted. Mt Charleston is cool and relaxing and while up there, have a picnic in the meadows of wild horses. And so much more…

March 31, 2021 at 6:18 am

How about visiting the Pinball Hall of Fame or the Mob Museum?

April 4, 2021 at 9:53 am

great additions to any Vegas itinerary!

April 3, 2021 at 4:53 am

You definitely need to stay at the Delano it's next best thing to your Venetian stay and, it's right on the strip. Then stop by Arizona Charlie's to get a reasonable bite to eat. (Good food) and, if you're a Bingo player they play every odd hour. Gambling isn't to bad either. Then if you want to avoid lines Silver Sevens Hotel & Casino is a good spot to eat, reasonable and, good. Needless to say these two are not on the strip but, worth the visit . You definitely gotta get that donut or at least a half dozen from PinkBox Donuts you'll always go back for more. Yum,yum, yummy. Oh yea! If you want to venture out to a great night spot restaurant and, party style laid back superb dining try BLUME it's fantastic no regrets. Just left Vegas March 31,2021 it's getting back to it's old self lookin good. Oh stop by the newly opened Virgin Casino and, don't miss out on Circa down on Fremont now that's worth your visit just an exciting experience. Will be back in May!!

April 4, 2021 at 9:52 am

Thanks for all your tips! Sounds like you had a great time!

April 8, 2021 at 7:23 pm

You also need to see Vegas big production show.

April 12, 2021 at 8:27 am

Also close by is Red Rock Canyon Scooter Tours. They pick you up at your hotel. There's a van version for non-scooter people.

August 7, 2022 at 8:56 am

U mentioned skipping the Linc hotel? Why is that?

September 6, 2022 at 4:52 pm

I almost didn’t read this story since you said you went to Vegas for a Backstreet Boys show and that’s as horrible a time as it gets.

October 11, 2022 at 8:28 am

In the way of transportation/getting around, there also is a monorail, The Deuce bus, and shuttles. Though the monorail runs behind the properties on the east side of The Strip, it can provide a great way to get around without walking the 4.2 miles from one end to the other.

November 3, 2022 at 9:19 am

Thank you so much. Just what I needed to read. We ar going for a week from Ireland. Family thing. But loved your ideas and the fact they are day time events . Will be checking them out. I have been to Vegas many times over the years. Did my fair share of partying there. Now I am on the granny trip. But still plan on blazing some trails. Thanks again

September 29, 2023 at 9:02 pm

Thank you . Loved hearing from a local and wanted some things other than gambling while in town for a few dates. You gave lots of options, even for this one who is not a clubber. Most appreciated, will try some new places since not my first Vega trip.

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Home » North America » Las Vegas

The BEST Las Vegas Itinerary in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)

Whilst there remain doubts as to whether conventional time even truly exists in Las Vegas, there is no downside to a minor bit of planning.

And setting up with a great  Las Vegas Itinerary is a sensational start.

Who knows ?!?

Maybe you will even see some of the things you planned to see in the first place…

Ok, you might find yourself curled up underneath an overused slot machine rather than at your 11am golf game, but it’s fun to try right? From the bleak desert landscapes of Red Rock Canyon to the glittering Las Vegas Casinos, there are some true essentials that form the backbone of any good Las Vegas trip…

What mischief awaits you..?

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

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So you’re heading to Las Vegas ? You back yourself at poker or blackjack so vehemently that you can’t afford your accommodation yet?

That is quite honestly a terrible move. Anyway, I am going to be taking you through the biggest and brightest of Las Vegas, from the Bellagio Fountain to the EPIC Las Vegas skyline, with a ton of info, insider tips, and unique places to visit .

This 3-day itinerary is organised with action from day 1! There is a lot to cover, and since Las Vegas is quite expensive, I expect you not to be able to hit every single attraction I’ve laid out. Take the bones, and use what I’ve gathered to give your trip that special X-factor! It should be easy in Vegas.

There is a top selection of things to do in Las Vegas , and definitely not enough time! I’ve added some saucy extras to my list in case your trip sadly ends up being longer than you planned. Oh no 🙂

3-day Las Vegas Itinerary Overview

• Day 1:  The Fabulous Las Vegas Sign | Mandalay Bay Casino | The Republica Statue of Liberty | The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Bellagio Fountains | The High Roller | Cirque Du Soleil | Caesar’s Palace
• Day 2:  Red Rock Canyon | The Stratosphere Casino | Escape Blair Witch | Eiffel Tower Experience | Seven Magic Mountains
• Day 3:  The Mob Museum | Fremont Street | The Venetian | The Adventuredome Theme Park | The Blue Man Group

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, you’re going to want to stay in a location that makes a Las Vegas itinerary as accessible as possible. This vibrant city is full of accommodation options that cater to all budgets, and there are plenty of great places to stay in Las Vegas!

If you want to be close to all the action, the Las Vegas Strip is the place to be. The symbol of Vegas, this strip is lined with many of the city’s iconic landmarks. From the Fountains of Bellagio to the grandiose Caesars Palace and the Egyptian-themed Luxor Hotel, this is the postcard of Las Vegas!

For a more old-timey Vegas feel, we recommend staying in Downtown Vegas . You’ll still find plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops, but with a more low-key feel. There are quite a lot of good Vegas Airbnbs based around here.

Fremont Street in Downtown Vegas is especially popular, and one of the oldest Las Vegas points of interest. Accommodation in this part of the city is more affordable and just a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip!

Best Hostel in Las Vegas – Sin City Hostel

Sin City Hostel is located on Las Vegas Boulevard, just a ten-minute walk to the north end of the Las Vegas Strip. There is a bus stop in close proximity that runs 24/7 and will take you to and from the Strip and downtown area. This hostel offers free walking tours and free breakfast! It gets busy, so book well in advance if you are headed to Las Vegas for the weekend.

Best Airbnb in Las Vegas – Angel’s Place (With Outdoor Pool!)

There is no better place for groups and families than this incredible Airbnb. With an awesome outdoor pool and a top location near the strip, this super safe, friendly and comfortable Airbnb will provide everything you need for a great stay! The best part: It’s not even that expensive! There are BBQing facilities, a classy kitchen, and enough beds to sleep 8 guests.

There is also ample parking space, with enough drive room for four cars. Family vacation? Go on.

Best Budget Hotel in Las Vegas – The Carriage House

The Carriage House is a great value for your money! Located just a quick four-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll be close to all the action. This hotel offers spacious rooms and each is equipped with a kitchen or a kitchenette! There is also an outdoor pool, fitness center, and tennis court!

Best Luxury Hotel in Las Vegas – The Bellagio

The Bellagio is located in the heart of Las Vegas! This luxurious hotel and casino offer upscale rooms equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV, electronic drapes, bathrobes, a minibar, and more! There is a full-service spa on-site as well as numerous bars and restaurants. This hotel will make your vacation in Las Vegas as lavish as possible!

The hotel itself is just as beautiful as the rooms. You won’t be disappointed. 

Ok, you’ve stumbled through the longest intro on earth, and now it’s time to collect! Here are the best things you can do in Las Vegas. Unless you’re staying for a classy weekend ?

The Fabulous Las Vegas Sign | Mandalay Bay Casino | The Republica Statue of Liberty | The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Bellagio Fountains | The High Roller | Cirque Du Soleil | Caesar’s Palace

Day 1 is all about the strip. There are some things that you gotta do, and Day 1 of your Las Vegas Itinerary is all about ticking those boxes…

8:00 am – Check the Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Every top class Vegas trip starts here. Admittedly, it is seriously touristy, but that shouldn’t stop you from clicking a few picks!

Not only is it pretty essential las Vegas viewing, but it is superbly located upon the Strip, and this gives you a great starting point for the day’s activities. I’d recommend taking the time to stop for an awesome breakfast near the sign.

There are a few great places to mange yourself nearby, including The Egg Shop, Della’s Kitchen and BBQ Mexicana if you fancy a spicy start to the day! If you fancy getting an attraction done early, this is your opportunity to tick the Pinball Hall of Fame off your list! It’s a great little attraction that will start you off before you start playing with the big boys.

• Cost  – Free
• How long should I stay here?  Around 1.5 hours (with breakfast). The signs not that much to do by itself!
• Getting there  – You can drive or taxi, but there is also the ‘Las Vegas Sign’ bus stop right outside

10:00 pm – Mandalay Bay Casino and Beach

Our second stop for the day is your first chance to get hands on with a Las Vegas Casino. The Mandalay Bay Casino offers all of your favourite table games, including blackjack, poker, craps, and roulette. You’ll also find 1,200 slot and video poker machines! If you fancy a small flutter, I won’t tell.

If you’re with kids, see the Mandalay Bay Beach, an eleven-acre aquatic playground! Swim, splash, and soak up the sun at this popular Vegas attraction. Relax on the lazy river, ride a tide in the wave pool, or lounge in the lagoon. Check out the Beach Bar & Grill and the Bikini Bar for all your favorite pool-side snacks and drinks! This attraction is open seasonally, so if you travel to Las Vegas during the warmer months make sure to check it out!

New to the Mandalay Bay is the Polar Journey Exhibit. Get a glimpse into the earth’s polar regions and animals that call it home. You’ll be immersed through eight interactive exhibits including touch walls, teaching robot penguins, stimulated ice flow, and more excited features! This Las Vegas itinerary stop is fun for all ages!

• Cost  – Free entry, but the beach costs $20 for non-hotel guests.
• How long should I stay here?  It’s easy to spend the whole day here! 2 hours is a good amount, however.
• Getting there  – It’s a fifteen-minute walk from the Las Vegas Sign. There is lots to see en route, so don’t worry about getting bored!

12:00 pm – The Republica Statue of Liberty and Leo the Lion

Continuing our odyssey upon the Strip, as we slowly meander northward, we’re going to hit the Republica Statue of Liberty, and Leo the Lion. Paris Las Vegas is somewhere around here too…

Anyway, this section of the Las Vegas strip is so busy you just have to walk it. Your mind will be left blown and wondering when Alice in Wonderland became a corporate entity. There is so much going on, and every casino has made an effort to stand out from the crowd.

Take the opportunity now to stop for a bit of lunch! There is a superb selection of great restaurants to dine at, and if you fancy something cheap, you shouldn’t have trouble locating something easy either. Try the New York Pizzeria, Panda Express (a classic Chinese fast food), and Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. Top munch.

• How long should I stay here?  Lunchtime! Around 1.5 hours should be enough to grab something to eat.
• Getting there  – Heading out into desert heat for another 15 minutes. Sorry guys, but I promise you it is worth it! Yes, we’ll get to the Bellagio…

2:00 pm – Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden is a truly enchanting and magical attraction in Vegas. The exhibits are beautifully and intricately put together by talented horticulturalists and designers who transform a floral playground into the sights and colours of the different seasons. The aroma is gently fragrant with the sweet smell of flowers in bloom.

The attention to detail is astounding and the passionate display of nature lets your imagination wander! Enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of the most picturesque areas in Las Vegas.

This attraction is best enjoyed during the day when you can witness the rays of sunshine streaming in through the glass roof and large windows. However, it is usually less crowded during the later hours of the evening. Pick the time that works best with your Las Vegas itinerary!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 1.5 hours. Again, it’s easy to get lost and trapped inside the Bellagio. Don’t!
• Getting there  – Again, a 20-minute walk up the strip! We’re going to power through…

3:30 pm – Fountains at Bellagio

You might think that choreographed routes in Vegas are limited to showgirls, but even the water can put on a captivating performance! The Fountains at Bellagio provide a dynamic and lively waterworks show!

The fountain projects streams of water that dance with lights and music; the choreography and overall synchronization are highly entertaining! Famous and recognizable musical tunes are chosen to complement this display. Once the sun sets, the lights come on and the show becomes even more delightful!

The fountains are surprisingly large, so you can catch a show from many different places on the Strip. Of course, nothing beats being directly in front of the fountains! Make sure to show up a little early to guarantee a good viewing spot. A lot of hotels facing the Bellagio Hotel will have views of the fountains as well. This free and easily accessible attraction is a must on any Vegas itinerary!

There are shows at regular intervals throughout the day. Monday through Friday the show runs every thirty minutes from 3:00 pm to 8:00, and every fifteen minutes after dark. On Saturdays and Sundays, the start time is earlier but the shows run every thirty minutes during the day and every fifteen-minutes after dark.

• How long should I stay here?  Around five to ten minutes. You can stay for more than one show if you fancy!
• Getting there  – Step outside and grab a great viewing spot!

4:15 pm – High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ

This High Roller observation wheel at the LINQ Hotel and Casino is a 550-foot tall, 520-foot diameter giant Ferris wheel! Located on the Las Vegas Strip, it has been operating since 2014 and is currently the world’s tallest Ferris Wheel!

It features glass-enclosed pod cabins with wonderful 360-degree views of the Strip and the Vegas Valley. The wheel takes 30 minutes to complete one rotation and features 28 spacious cabins. This is a must-do in Vegas for first-timers, there’s really no other experience like it!

Of course, since this is Las Vegas, guests have the option of upgrading their high roller experience to a happy hour ticket! This option includes an in-cabin open bar and a bartender to serve you unlimited drinks for the entire half hour! Guests must be 21 and older to ride in the happy hour cabin.

If you don’t want to purchase an unlimited happy-hour ticket but still want to enjoy a drink, you can also purchase drinks at the wheelhouse bar, located at the base of the giant observation wheel. The best time to experience this attraction is at night so you can see all the lights of Vegas shimmering from above!

Following the wheel, you’re gonna have some time to yourself, so grab a shower, dinner, and some downtime, and be back for your Cirque du Soleil show!

• Cost  – $25 in the day/ $37 at night
• How long should I stay here?  Less than 1 hour
• Getting there  – You’ll never guess, but it is a fifteen-minute walk from the Bellagio…

9:00 pm – Cirque du Soleil

What makes this show to a whole new level is the incorporation of water. The cast is made up of eighty-five acrobats, synchronized swimmers, and divers who perform in and above a one-and-a-half million-gallon pool! You’ll be enchanted by underwater magic for ninety minutes!

The performance is accompanied by a mix of classical Western and world instrumental music. During the show, a live band plays to the side of the stage behind a glass wall. Cirque du Soleil is an entertainment company known for its epic productions and unique staging, and this show is no different!

Located in the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, this show has been in permanent residence since October 1998. Performances are usually given twice a day. If you’re spending a weekend in Las Vegas, we recommend booking your tickets in advance.

Insider Tip: Cirque du Soleil is insanely popular amongst visitors. That’s why it’s important to book your tickets well ahead of time. Luckily, there are multiple shows spread throughout the week and you’ve got plenty to choose from!

• Cost  – Tickets start at $126
• How long should I stay here?  Around 1.5 hours
• Getting there  – Shows usually run at 7 and 9:30 most days. Head back to the Bellagio (15 min walk)

11:00 pm onwards – Caesars Palace

It’s a little cheeky for me to add this one to the list, but why not hey? You came to Vegas for a reason. A nightlife you can experience nowhere else…

This Las Vegas Strip Staple has appeared in countless movies including “The Hangover” and “Ironman”. It’s one of the top Las Vegas’ landmarks and has a lot more to offer than just gambling.

Enjoy the architecture as you walk around the massive columns and frescoes paying tribute to the casino’s namesake. The ancient Rome aesthetic of this casino is truly stunning, with gilded and ornate detail everywhere you look!

The spiral escalators at the entrance to the mall are truly enchanting, as is the rest of this mall’s  grand and gilded interior! At the end of the Forum Shops, there is a 50,000-gallon saltwater Atlantis aquarium that features more than 300 colorful tropical fish!

You’ll also find one of Sin City’s most famous nightclubs inside Caesars Palace, Omnia nightclub. This lavish club has frequent celebrity hosts and popular DJs that play throughout the year. It is one of Vegas’ most upscale nightclubs; there are several dance floors and the venue’s rooftop offers unparalleled views of the Strip! Put this stop on your Las Vegas itinerary if you want to experience the best of Vegas nightlife!

Insider Tip: Check out the Fall of Atlantis show, located next to the Atlantis aquarium. This free show recounts the myth of Atlantis and entertains audiences with special effects, including animatronic figures, fire, and water! The show plays every hour on the hour, starting at 11:00 am.

• How long should I stay here?  All night? All week? WHO KNOWS
• Getting there  – Caesar’s palace is a ten-minute walk from the Cirque Du Soleil’s arena in the Bellagio

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Red Rock Canyon | The Stratosphere Casino | Escape Blair Witch | Eiffel Tower Experience | Seven Magic Mountains

Ok, you’ve been to the Strip. You’ve seen a casino. Now it is time to get out into the wilderness. And maybe stop for a cocktail at lunch. Sound ok?

9:30 am – Check out the wilderness of the Red Rock Canyon

You’ve probably had enough of people by now, particularly tourists. Now is your chance to escape most of the crowds, and see some of the extraordinary Nevada scenery.

Since it is so close, it is a massive waste to go! Yes, the casinos are cool, but how about a massive pile of desert rocks? Especially if you’re a stranger to desert landscapes, there is nothing to be lost exploring this awesome example of geology.

The Red Rock Canyon can take up more of a day depending on how much you’re into hiking. You can also hire bikes to explore the area, or even do it by horseback!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 2.5 hours
• Getting there  – It’s a half an hour drive west of central Las Vegas

12:30 pm – Stratosphere Casino, Hotel and Tower

Okay, it’s about lunchtime, so time to head back to the strip for a little lunch and light entertainment.

There are some pretty cool things to do at the Stratosphere Resort and Casino . For one, check out the observation deck that sits at the top of the tallest freestanding tower in the U.S. It offers stunning 360-degree views of the Strip!

Dine at the Top of The World Restaurant, the only rotating fine-dining restaurant in Las Vegas.  Enjoy amazing views of the city as the restaurant revolves 350-degrees every 80-minutes!

Get your scream on at the Stratosphere’s Skypod Thrill Rides. Located on top of the Stratosphere, there are three attractions that guests can ride for an enthralling experience. You’ll dangle over the building, blast 160-feet straight up, and catapult twenty-seven feet over the Tower’s edge! 

For even more of an adrenaline rush, check out Skyjump. At this Vegas attraction, you’ll take an open-air leap off the Stratosphere, from 829-feet above the Strip. Enjoy the heart-pounding excitement as you rush forty mph to the landing pad down below. Make sure to schedule this into your Vegas itinerary for at least three days if you’re into adventurous activities!

• Cost  – The tower is between $20-$30 (depending on the time of week)
• Getting there  – 30 min Drive back from the Red Rock Canyon. I wish there were things to do en route too…

3:00 pm – Try out the Escape Blair Witch escape room

Have you ever fancied scaring yourself completely silly? Testing your wits against a crafty escape room designer? Running away from horrifying actors?

Then you are going to adore heading to the Escape Blair Witch escape room. Right next door is the Saw experience, which is an escape room of the aforementioned theme.

Whilst there is a crazy amount to see on the strip, this will give you an experience that you certainly won’t forget. It’s widely loved, and seems to be great value for money. If you’re thinking about adding this to your Las Vegas itinerary, make sure to book in advance, since slots can get taken quickly, especially in summer months!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 1.5 hours.
• Getting there  – Walk around the block! 5-10 minute stroll.

5:00 pm – Eiffel Tower Experience

Get the best view of the Las Vegas Strip with these high-altitude attractions! The Paris Las Vegas is a half-scale replica of the actual Eiffel Tower in Paris. You’ll ride a glass elevator forty-six stories up to the top, which allows you to get an unobscured view of your surroundings.

The Paris Las Vegas is located in the middle of the Strip, making this a great place to take stunning photos of Vegas main attractions close-up. Guests are allowed to stay at the top as long as they’d like!

This enchanting tower puts on a show of lights every thirty-minutes from sunset to midnight. Inspired by the real Eiffel Tower’s lights in France, it features choreographed twinkling light displays for visitors to enjoy each night!

Insider Tip: This attraction is best enjoyed at night, you’ll see incredible views of the Las Vegas Strip lite up with a shimmering of lights and get the best views of the Bellagio fountains!

• Cost  – $22 per person
• How long should I stay here?  Less than an hour
• Getting there  – 10 minute Taxi or drive from the Escape room/ Stratosphere Casino. Alternatively you can grab a bus to the ‘Las Vegas at the Paris’ bus stop.

7:00 pm – Top your Insta up at the Seven Magic Mountains

Heading out for sunset at the Seven Magic Mountains is an influencer worthy occupation. Or just something fun to do. There is nothing weirder than a bloke who has stacked some multicoloured rocks in a desert, and you get to enjoy this bizarre spectacle!

The art installation cost $3.5 million of state taxpayers’ money to install, and that is most likely one of the reasons why people make such a massive fuss of it. What greater to way to spend your time than to see how your tax dollars are being wasted?!?

Anyway, it is artistic and cool, so drop by for a wicked sunset! This multi-coloured exhibit has a very strange appeal. Afterwards, get a relaxed evenings rest. The 3rd day is again pretty full on!

• Getting there  – It’s a 25 minute drive south from the Eiffel tower experience.

Sin City Hostel

Sin City Hostel is located on Las Vegas Boulevard, just a ten-minute walk to the north end of the Las Vegas Strip. If you prefer to stay in hostels, we have a curated guide of the best hostels in Las Vegas.

• Free Breakfast

The Mob Museum | Fremont Street | The Venetian | The Adventuredome Theme Park | The Blue Man Group

The Las Vegas itinerary is shaping up pretty well so far. Day 3 is for Downtown Las Vegas, and cleaning up the places in the strip that you haven’t got round to doing yet.

8:30 am – Walk the Mob Museum

The Mob Museum seeks to advance the understanding of organized crime, and the impact it has had on American society. Explore this Las Vegas hidden gems , learn real-life stories, and hear about actual events from the Mob’s history.

Take a self-guided tour where you’ll see interactive exhibits, informative displays, and videos – all you need is an entry-ticket!

The museum spans three-floors; as of 2018 a fully operational speakeasy and distillery exhibit is now open for visitors in the basement. Learn about the history of American prohibition while sipping on hand-crafted prohibition-era cocktails!

Warning : This museum displays graphic photos of murder victims, therefore this attraction is not recommended for children.

• Cost  – Tickets are $32.50
• How long should I stay here?  Around 2 hours. There is a lot to see, and it’s undoubtedly one of the coolest attractions around.
• Getting there  – Located in the centre of Downtown Las Vegas, it’s right next to the ‘Mob Museum’ bus stop.

10:45 am – The Fremont Street Experience

Discover old-school Vegas at the Fremont Street Experience. Located in historic Downtown Las Vegas, this is one of the city’s original streets; it dates back to 1905 when Las Vegas was founded! 

Today, Fremont Street offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere. This seven-block district possesses theworld’s largest LED video screen, called Viva Vision. This 1,500-feet long and 90-feet wide screen canopies over the street and shimmers with bright, changing lights!

The Slotzilla zip-line lets you fly over Fremont street like a superhero (or a seated position if you prefer). Get a unique view of one of Vegas’ most popular streets as you glide over the crowd!

You’ll see all sorts of street performers on this energetic street. From rappers and Vegas showgirls, to cartoon characters; Fremont Street really has it all! This is one of the best places to people watch, you’ll see people dressed in all sorts of costumes. Some are hilarious, some amusingly unconventional, and some…not for kids.

Most of the bars, restaurants, and casinos found on Fremont Street are slightly less expensive than those found on The Strip. This is also a great place to pick up your Vegas souvenirs at an affordable price!

Live music shows play regularly in designated areas of the street. Grab a drink at any number of bars found nearby and enjoy some free entertainment! You should be able to get a great lunch here too!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 3 hours. There is a ton to do and see here! (And lunch)
• Getting there  – It’s a six minute walk from the mob museum.

2:00 pm – Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian

This picturesque shopping mall features cobblestone walkways and an illuminated painted ceiling made to reflect the sky. The Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian feature a quarter-mile-long stretch of shops and restaurants with more than 160 signature stores, including many luxury brands.

There are a handful of restaurants, many led by award-winning chefs like Wolfgang Puck and Emeril Lagasse! You don’t have to be a fan of shopping to enjoy the shops’ Old World Italian design.

For a fun and romantic Vegas activity, take a Venetian gondola ride! Float beneath bridges, under balconies, and beside cafes as your singing gondolier glides through the Grand Canal in an authentic Venetian gondola!

Explore the vibrant Venetian streetscape inside the shopping center, or choose the outdoor gondola ride and experience the open-air right on the Las Vegas Strip! Couples especially will love this romantic addition to their itinerary for Las Vegas! This is definitely amongst the most kitsch things to do in Las Vegas but is still unmissable.

• Cost  – Free. Gondola tickets start at $29.00 per person
• How long should I stay here?  Around 2 hours
• Getting there  – It’s a 10 minute cab from downtown Las Vegas

4:00 pm – Adventuredome Theme Park

This indoor theme park is located in the Circus Circus Resort and Casino. The theme park sits inside a large pink-tinted glass dome. There are twenty-five rides and attractions at the park, including roller coasters, a miniature golf course, climbing walls, a roller skating rink, and laser tag!

Check out the latest arcade video games located throughout the park, including virtual reality games! Find your favorite classic arcade games in their unlimited classic arcade area, where you can play all day!

Enjoy free clown shows daily at noon, 1pm, 3pm, and 4pm, with additional showtimes on Friday and Saturday nights.

If you’re looking for a break from the casinos and bars, this is the perfect place to bring the family for an afternoon of fun and excitement! You could easily spend hours here, so we’d recommend this stop if your planning an itinerary to spend more than three days in Las Vegas.

• Cost  – Undefined, possibly $$$$. $60 for adults, $30 for kids. Plus extras.
• How long should I stay here?  2 or 3 hours.
• Getting there  – It’s a 7 minute drive, or a 25 minute walk from the Venetian

8:00 pm – The Blue Man Group

If you want to add another show to your Las Vegas itinerary, we recommend the entertainment sensation known as the Blue Man Group. For more than thirty years the innovative minds behind this group have been wowing audiences.

Enjoy a fun-filled performance by this world-famous group! These three bald and blue men will take you on a spectacular journey combining comedy, music, stunning visuals, and surprises! This Las Vegas show is perfect for all ages, and is sure to delight. It’s a one-of-a-kind stage show that is the perfect addition to a Las Vegas trip!

Enjoy a comical, musical,  and artistic show featuring lots of audience interaction with this blue-painted cast. This group is constantly switching up their material and coming up with new ways to entertain audiences, it’s an ever-evolving show that you’ll want to see every time you visit Vegas! 

• Cost  – Spenny! $180 per ticket…
• Getting there  – The show is located at the Luxor Hotel and Casino

Oh no! You’ve missed your bus! How are you going to spend your extra days in Las Vegas while you wait for the next one? Let’s see…

Explore the Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas is known for its lavish resorts, buzzing casinos, and world-class restaurants, but to discover the true essence of Vegas we recommend exploring the areas outside these busy buildings!

The entire Strip is less than five miles, but don’t worry, you don’t have to walk its entirety to experience the uniqueness of this extravagant street. Although, if you choose to, the whole street is pedestrian-friendly. There are footbridges at all main intersections for pedestrians to safely cross!

Both sides of the Strip are lined with hotels, casinos, shops, restaurants, and just about anything you can imagine! You’ll see a wide range of street performers and be able to take pictures of all the iconic Vegas attractions!

The whole Strip runs in a straight line, making it easy to give yourself your own Las Vegas walking tour! Of course, if you’re not keen on walking, there are other options. Joining an open-top bus tour will give you the ultimate strip experience without tiring your feet!

Insider Tip: Police allow people to walk down the Strip and the Fremont Street Experience with alcoholic beverages, as long as they’re in plastic containers (no bottles or cans). Also, there are many dispensaries around the Strip, but smoking in public isn’t legal. 

• How long should I stay here?  
• Getting there  –

Head out to the Grand Canyon

If you’re in Vegas, you ain’t far from the Grand Canyon! Admittedly, it is still a long way to go (around a 4 hour car journey each way), but the views are definitely worth it! The scenery on the drive is pretty epic too.

Encompassing 278 miles of the Colorado river, the Grand Canyon is an extraordinary sight, and is on pretty much every tourists must-visit list! Even though it can get busy, it is still very much worth seeing. Don’t let the distance put you off!

You can even take a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon, complete with picnic lunch at the bottom (large-insanely large level budgets only).

• Cost  – Free (or $$$ if you tour)
• How long should I stay here?  At least as long as you spend getting there. (min. 4 hours)
• Getting there  – 4 hour drive east of Las Vegas. Sadly.

Las Vegas is alive with tourism all year. Summers do reach higher temperatures, but lots of Las Vegas attractions take place inside air-conditioned buildings or outside next to a pool! No matter the season, there’s always something to do in Vegas!

The summer months (June-August) produce hot temperatures. It’s not uncommon for the weather to stay around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Luckily, the weather drops down at night and becomes much more enjoyable.

Fall (September-November) is a great time to plan a trip to Las Vegas. The weather is mild and enjoyable.

You’ll want a light jacket during the winter months (December – February). Although temperatures never get too cold, the air does get a bit chilly, especially at night.

Spring (March-May) produces warm days and blue skies. If you’re trying to decide when to visit Las Vegas, this is another great time!

During your first day in Las Vegas, you’re going to need to figure out how to get around! Luckily, this city is extremely tourist friendly, and all forms of transportation are easy to use and very convenient.

The Las Vegas Deuce is a bus that runs throughout the city. There are two buses that run specifically through the areas of the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown. Take the ‘Deuce on the Strip’ bus for convenient transportation to many of the properties located on the Strip.

Uber and Lyft are popular ride-sharing services and offer travelers an easy and convenient form of transportation. Most Las Vegas resorts, hotels, and casinos will have designated pick-up and drop-off areas that you will need to find to catch a ride. These areas are usually marked with signs near the hotel’s entrances/exits. Be sure to find these areas before hailing your ride (I know, but it happens)

Las Vegas is a very pedestrian friendly city. The main attraction in Las Vegas is the Strip, which is literally a single street. You can walk up and down the Strip to see the main highlights of Vegas, and it’s extremely easy to navigate!

Whether you’re planning a three day trip to Vegas or a month long sabbatical, you’re going to want to make sure you pack the right gear !

Remember that Vegas gets hot, so if you’re visiting in Summer, you can spare the coats. It is in the middle of a desert after all!

In terms of safety, Vegas is a cash-heavy city, which means pickpockets are active. Keep your valuables close to your body and stay extra vigilant in crowded areas.

It is common for party promoters to frequent the Strip and attempts to sell VIP passes or discounted tickets to shows or clubs. Although some are legit, it is important to note that some are not.

Scammers are very active in Las Vegas and it is important to stay vigilant and trust your instincts. There are a number of secure and trusted ticket locations in the city that sell tickets to Vegas attractions; purchasing from these types of vendors is a much safer option.

Of course, it is Vegas, so if you plan to drink more than you normally would, try and keep your wits about you, and never leave your drink unattended.

Recreational marijuana is legal in Vegas. Be sure to purchase from a dispensary, and say no to anyone on the street that tries to sell to you as it may be laced. It’s only legal to smoke in private residences. If you walk down the street with a lit joint, you can be fined by one of the many cops.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Las Vegas

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Las Vegas itinerary.

What is the Coolest Things you can do on a Trip to Vegas?

Try visiting Caesar’s Palace and its sensational multi-storey nightclub, hiking in Red Rock Canyon, and enjoying the waterpark at the Mandalay hotel. There are a ton of really cool things to do in Vegas, so just keep your eyes peeled on the strip, and you will stumble onto any number. Heading to downtown Las Vegas is a great option too, for the Mob museum and Fremont Street.

What attractions should I not forget when Planning a Trip to Vegas?

The Mob Museum is often overlooked, as is the pinball hall of fame. When people go to Vegas, they often forget about Red Rock Canyon, and that the Death Valley National Park isn’t too far away either! If you are looking for incredible scenery, don’t ignore either of these unbelievable places!

What should I include on a Las Vegas Itinerary for 3 days?

Don’t miss the fabulous Las Vegas Sign, the Mandalay Hotel and Casino, the Bellagio’s botanical gardens and fountain shows, or Caesar’s Palace. There is so much to take your attention on the strip, so don’t worry if you spend all 3-days wondering up and down. Try and get out to Red Rock Canyon and the Seven Magical Mountains at some point though.

How many days do you need in Las Vegas?

You can be sure to see all the main highlights in 3-4 days if you plan your time.

Las Vegas is a popular vacation destination offering the best mix of entertainment, good weather, and fun attractions. Pulsing with energy and buzzing with excitement, a Vegas vacation makes for the perfect holiday getaway!

Although this city has a reputation for wild parties, buzzing casinos, and crazy nightlife, there is so much more to this unique and diverse city. From world-class restaurants and trendy shopping malls, to unreal shows, there’s something for all ages to enjoy!

We hope you three days in Vegas helps you tick off all the boxes of your Sin City bucket list. This larger-than-life city is the perfect place to take an exciting and memorable vacation. There’s really no place quite like Vegas!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Colleen Kinsey

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19 Secret Las Vegas Tips for First Timers (How to Visit Vegas Like A Pro)

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: February 23, 2020  - Last updated: December 1, 2022

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If you’re planning your first trip to Las Vegas, you should know that it definitely won’t be your last. The energetic atmosphere and the freedom to let loose becomes an addiction.

But if you’re visiting Las Vegas for the first time, know that it will be stimulation overload!

There is so much to see, do, taste, try, drink and play that it can quickly become overwhelming.

But don’t waste your time on the most overrated places in Vegas (trust me).

There are certain things to know before going to Vegas that will help you make the most of your trip.

It can be as wild or as low key as you want it to be. 

If you’ve never been to Las Vegas, for some people it’s hard to understand the appeal.

While drinkin’ and gamblin’ are favorite activities for many, there’s so much more to experience about this energetically wild city.

It’s even the p erfect place to spend a honeymoon or a romantic getaway (read more ideas for couples here ).

The lights, the grandiose casinos, the fountain shows, the people watching, rooftop views…like where I’m going with this? Vegas is a city like no other.

It’s loud, exuberant and knows how to host a party.

But before you hit the ground running, there are some Las Vegas tips for first timers that will be helpful to keep you going for your inaugural trip.

Here’s how to make your first time to Vegas the best trip ever.

This post contains some affiliate links, i meaning I may make a small commission if you make a purchase, at absolutely no extra cost to you.

General Las Vegas Tips for First Timers

Before we get to my recommendations about where to stay in Vegas for your first time and the must-do activities, there are a few things to know before you navigate Sin City. 

Everything is Bigger and Further Away than it Seems

The scale of the strip is so deceiving. Because the hotels and casinos are ultra large, it makes everything appear closer than it actually is.

Honestly, I’ve been to Vegas about half a dozen times, and it still gets me.

This is important to know for planning purposes, especially if you’re travelling with a group and want to coordinate where to meet up.

You might think, “Oh we’re at New York New York and we’ll meet you at the Paris in a few minutes.”

Even though it’s pretty much across the street, it’s probably going to take you a minimum of 20 minutes to get over there. 

For your very first visit to Vegas, I recommend booking a 3 hour tour to show you around the must-see places along the Strip.

With this tour , you can choose whichever time of day you prefer and your guide will bring you to the iconic places, but also hidden gems and secret spots (like the secret pizza shop and happy hour beer for 50 cents)!

Read Next: 5 Day Las Vegas Itinerary: A Mix of Top Attractions and Hidden Gems

Be Prepared to Walk A Lot

This also means you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. Again, no matter how many times I visit, I never get used to the amount of walking I do.

However, this does wonders for my competitive spirit when I want to track how many steps I can get on my fitness tracker (I use the Garmin Venu) in a day! Hint – it was over 30,000 one time.

The Strip (Las Vegas Boulevard) is over 3 miles long, in addition to the vast spaces within the hotels and casinos. 

Consequently, you should bring your comfiest shoes that can handle this amount of walking. But don’t just bring one pair.

Bring a few different pairs (different styles) that you can rotate through to give your feet a break as well. Doing this is a huge life saver.

For me, I always bring a trusty pair of daytime sneakers , a pair of cushy birkenstock-style sandals and a nice pair of comfy wedges to wear at dinner. 

Use Public Transit

The good news is that there are buses, trams and monorails that you can use as a low cost to cut down your walking time.

I recommended purchasing a three-day pass for the Deuce bus which is a double-decker city bus that cruises from the south end of the Strip up to Fremont.

This way you can hop on and hop off when you need to. 

Another new option for transportation is to purchase bus fares through the Uber app! Just open the app and you can compare fares from the different buses and purchase your tickets through the app. 

You could also try the monorail to go north to south on the east side of the Strip. If you’re staying at the Linq, Flamingo, Paris or the MGM Grand, the monorail runs right behind these hotels.

You can purchase one day or multi-day passes here . 

There are also a few free trams to use on the other side of the strip that go in between the hotels owned under the same brand.

Should You Rent a Car in Vegas? 

This depends on what you’re planning to do. In my opinion, I would avoid renting a car for your first trip to Vegas.

If you’re only in town for the weekend or a few days, there will be plenty of things on the Strip and Fremont street that will keep you busy.

And if you’re just sticking to this part of town, you really don’t need the hassle of renting a car. Most hotels charge for parking now and traffic is always busy. 

Read Next: 32 Essential Things to Do In Vegas Besides Gambling

General Tips for Walking the Strip

I will never forget my very first trip to Vegas when I remember asking a staff person at the hotel if I could bring my can of beer outside the casino.

She smiled and replied “this is Vegas, honey, you can bring your drink anywhere.” 

I mean, I knew you could drink anywhere, but as a first timer in Vegas, it was so cool to be able to walk around and bring your open drink anywhere!

Shopping with a glass of wine? Highly recommend!

Now, all that being said, if you want to save a little money on Vegas Vacation, purchase drinks at the CVS or corner stores instead of grabbing one at the casino bar. 

Also, avoid anyone who approaches you on the Strip wanting to offer you free shows or discounts.

This is usually a timeshare presentation that will take an entire afternoon.

The same goes for people in the casinos. They usually approach couples and ask if it’s your first time in Vegas, how long you’re staying, etc.

It’s best to just avoid these people!

And there will be all kinds of characters and interesting people on the Strip.

Anything from impersonators, people dressed up in costumes to buskers and everything in between.

Definitely enjoy and have some fun, but know that if you take a photo with them you will be expected to tip them.

And if you’re planning to visit the famous Las Vegas sign (which is a must do as a first timer), there will usually be someone there who offers to take the photo for you so that you don’t need to take a selfie.

Again, if you let them do this you will be expected to tip.

>> Read more in my full guide to scams and tourist traps to avoid in Les Vegas (and how to not get ripped off).

Tips for First Time Gamblers in Vegas

If it’s your first time in Las Vegas, walking into a casino and choosing where to gamble might be a little intimidating. The hotel casinos are massive.

They’re full of people, lights and sounds and there are no windows so it’s easy to lose your bearings. 

That being said, you don’t need to consider yourself much of a gambler to enjoy some games and have a little casino fun while you’re in Vegas.

Vegas Pro Tip: Order yourself a copy of the American Casino Guide which is the most extensive and trusted resource about all things gambling in Vegas. PLUS, there’s over 150 coupons and basically pays for itself after you use one or two (buffets, shows and match play coupons, meaning you’re paid out 2-1 on your bet).

How to Choose What to Play

I think the most important tip when it comes to gambling on your first trip to Vegas is that the house always has the advantage and therefore you should only gamble what you are comfortable losing. 

I’m no expert, but generally speaking, table games provide you with a higher chance of winning.

Especially games like Blackjack, where you can incorporate a slight amount of strategy that you control.

CASINO TIP: You can book a gaming lesson with a local guide! On this 2.5 hour your, your guide will teach you how to play the most popular table games – roulette, craps and blackjack and share tips on how to get freebies.

For example, if you want to learn how to play blackjack, the dealer can let you know the suggested move based on basic strategy.

Just don’t ask them how much you should bet! 

Slot machines typically have terrible odds, but that doesn’t stop people from playing them, myself included!

They’re entertaining and there are a variety of games to choose from. You can still find penny slots in most of the casinos, you just have to look for them. 

Penny slots can be deceiving though, so be careful. Depending on how many lines you bet, each ‘bet’ can be a few dollars.

So if you’re new to gambling in Vegas and just want to try it out for your first time, scan the machines and look for the ones with a max bet of $0.50 or lower.

This will make your money stretch a little longer! Also, usually when you bet the maximum you have a higher chance of winning.

At the very least, you will never win the max payout if you’re not max betting.

Slot machines at budget friendly casino hotels, Fremont Street and off-strip casinos are known to have “looser” slots. They need to work hard to earn your business.

By contrast, higher end hotel and luxury casinos will have a much lower payout on slot machines, since most people are aleready drawn in to visit.

Branded slot machines usually have the lowest payout and worst return to play.

They’re used to draw people in because they’re flashy and entertaining.

Take Advantage of Free Drinks!

And yes, drinks are still free when you gamble in Vegas ! Whether you’re sitting at a slot machine or table, servers will come around and offer you a drink.

This includes beer, cocktails, water, etc. Just make sure you tip your server a minimum of one or 2 dollars per drink so that they keep coming around!

You can also tip more than this to ensure they come back several more times.

Always Cash Out Before Leaving the Casino

All slot machines in Las Vegas use the ‘ticket in, ticket out’ system now. When you find a machine, insert your bill and when you decide to ‘cash out’ you will get a slip of paper with a bar code and how much it’s valid for.

If it’s your first time in Vegas, I highly recommend going to find a cashier and cashing out your vouchers before you leave every casino.

You’ll be jumping from casino to casino and you might not a chance to go back to the one that you have a voucher for.

Make sure you don’t leave any unclaimed money behind!

Bring Your ID

And it’s a good idea to always have your ID on you. If you look a day under 30, most security guards at the casinos will ask for your ID and you might not be able to enter if you don’t have it on you.

Best Casinos in Vegas for First Timers 

First, I recommend visiting as many casinos as you’d like. It’s fun to visit the different themed casinos and see how they vary.

Enjoy roaming around even if you don’t plan on gambling. Caesar’s Palace and the Bellagio are showy and grandiose.

I like the inside of the Paris hotel, and the New York New York has a fun urban vibe to it. 

I like the Cromwell casino as it’s a little smaller than most and has cheap drinks if you’re not gambling and just want to watch a group hollering around a hot Craps table. 

Any of the casinos on Fremont Street (old Las Vegas) are also good, and most people think they pay out a little more often.

And if it’s your first time in Vegas you have to stop at Binion’s (on Fremont) and take a photo with a stack of a million dollars.

You get a free 5×7 print out of your photo too!

And as a Las Vegas first timer, even if you’re not a gambler, it’s still fun to pull the old school handles on the slots!

Most of them are all digital nowadays (where you push the button to bet), but you can still find a few rows of the analogue machines where you pull the handle. 

Even more, there are still a few casinos left that have machines that payout in coins!

You can find a few of these kicking around at the D on Fremont, El Cortez and Slots A Fun next to Circus Circus.

Where to Stay in Vegas for Your First Time

There are SO many hotels to choose from.

Since you will likely be visiting as many places as you can on the Strip, I recommend choosing a hotel based on location.

If it’s your first time in Vegas, as soon as you arrive on the strip you’ll want to start exploring immediately!

I recommend staying in the middle of the strip for easiest access to check out as many hotels and casinos as possible.

I find it’s so much more convenient to stay somewhere in the middle of the strip instead of one end or the other.

My two favorite hotels I recommend staying in if it’s your first time is either the Flamingo Hotel or Planet Hollywood .

They’re centrally located in the middle of the strip, are moderately priced and are close to a variety of dining options.

You can read my full comparison between the two hotels here .

You can use the map below to compare hotel prices at the same time.

Read Next: The Ultimate Guide to Vegas on a Budget: Where to Eat, Stay and Play and Spend Less

Lower Cost Hotels in the Middle of the Strip

I like staying at the Flamingo because it’s central and a little less expensive than other hotels in the middle of the Strip.

It’s close to the Linq, Paris and across from Caesars which all have great dining options.

And if you’re visiting in the summer, the Flamingo has the best pool in Las Vegas.

In my opinion, this hotel is one of the best places to stay in Las Vegas for first timers. 

Read my full review (+tips) for staying at the Flamingo.

Almost right next door is the LINQ , which is a great value option, since it’s very centrally located. The Linq shopping area is lots of fun, and this is where the High Roller observation wheel is located too. 

If you’re visiting Vegas on a romantic getaway or maybe your honeymoon, the Paris Hotel is an excellent choice.

The romantic French theme is perfect for couples. You can also request a room with a view of the Bellagio fountains!

I would stay away from the cheapest Strip hotels like Circus Circus or the Tropicana. They’re each located at extreme ends of the Strip.

If you’re a Vegas first timer, staying at these hotels would be more of a pain than what it’s worth to save a few bucks.

That being said, if you just want the cheapest room possible and don’t mind making use of the bus to go up and down the Strip, you can definitely find deals at these places. 

Hotel Choices if You Want to Spend a Little More

Caesar’s Palace is a classic choice. It’s famous, there’s lots of action here and it’s smack dab in the middle of the Strip. 

The Bellagio is also a classic and timeless choice if you want something more luxurious. This is the hotel that plays the famous water fountain show synonymous with images of Vegas.

• Read next: These are the 8 Best Vegas Hotels for First Timers

Las Vegas Hotel Tips for First Timers

To score cheaper rooms in Vegas, visit mid-week if you can. I like to book trips from Sunday to Wednesday to avoid paying weekend premiums.

Room costs in Vegas are also mostly driven by events.

There are hundreds of conventions held here every year. This is why I highly recommend you monitor hotel calendars and pricing for random sales or price spikes. 

Hotels in Las Vegas charge ‘resort fees.’ I think this is just a polite way of getting away with Vegas tax.

You will have to factor in a daily resort fee when you book your accommodations.

This will always be a separate fee that you pay the hotel and not when you book online.

It seems that the fees go up every year, and now they range anywhere from $20-50 per night. The resort fees cover things like WiFi and access to hotel amenities like the pool and fitness center.

HOTEL TIP: If you want to avoid resort fees, stay at a hotel on Fremont Street. The Four Queens does not charge a resort fee.

You Can Ask for an Upgrade

You can always ask for an upgrade when you check into your hotel.

This is usually based on availability and whether the hotel is full or not. Politely ask if there are any room upgrades available.

Let them know you’re celebrating something special (birthday, anniversary, getting married, etc). Or especially since it’s your first time in Vegas, that’s also an occasion to celebrate. 

Some people combine this with the $20 trick. Where you wedge a 20 dollar bill (or more) in between your credit card and ID when you hand it to the person checking you in. 

Good to know – you don’t actually need to hide the cash you’re trying to get an upgrade with. Just place it on the counter and ask nicely.

All tips in Vegas must be disclosed, so there’s no need to hide your bribe.

TRAVEL TIP – Peak check-in time at hotels in Las Vegas is usually between 3-7pm. The lineups can be extremely long. Try to arrive a bit early and get checked in.

Your room likely won’t be ready, but you can leave your bags secured with the hotel and ask them to text you when your room is ready.

Then you can hit the casino, go sightseeing, anything you want.

You don’t want to waste any time waiting around on your first trip to Vegas!

How to Get Comps and Fees Waived

No matter what hotel you stay at, sign up for the free loyalty club or player’s card.

Use this card every time you gamble and when you eat the the restaurants owned by the hotels or the same brand of hotels.

MGM properties are generally the easiest to build up rewards with as there are many hotels and status tiers – The Mirage and New York New York are my favorite.

Once you pick a brand, start building loyalty by gambling, dining and shopping at these properties.

Building up status will help you get comps for future trips, but you can also score bonuses on your current stay.

The night before you checkout, stop in at your hotel’s host office and mention that you’ve had a great stay and wanted to know if you have wagered enough to get some of the resort fees or parking fees waived.

Usually the hosts have the ability to check and determined how much you’ve spent on the property to see if you qualify for discounts.

Don’t be afraid to mention it’s your first time visiting Las Vegas and that you’re excited to return.

Attractions That Are Must Do in Vegas for First Timers

As far as Sin City activities go, there’s definitely a lot more to do than just drink and gamble.

Here are some free and paid attractions that you shouldn’t miss on your first Vegas trip. 

Free Las Vegas Activities

Watch the bellagio fountains .

Watching the fountains dance along to the music never gets old no matter how many times you see it.

They are absolutely mesmerizing and should not be missed! They run every 15 minutes at night. Find a nice spot to watch and enjoy for free!

Visit the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

Snapping a pic at the most famous sign in America is a must! It’s located at the very south end of the Strip and there’s a small parking lot to pull into, or you can take the bus there.

There’s usually a lineup of people waiting their turn, but it goes decently fast.

And there will usually be someone offering to take your photo, so make sure you tip them afterwards. 

Head to Fremont Street

A lot of Vegas first timers ask if Fremont Street is worth it and I say absolutely yes! This is the ‘original’ Vegas Strip and was the place to be in the 1950s and 60s.

They’ve done a great job of reviving it but still keeping with the old school, vintage theme.

It’s a pedestrian only street, and not very big, so it’s fun to walk around, check out the old casinos, people watch (there are some crazies here) and listen to free concerts at the outdoor stage. 

Unwind in the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Inside the Bellagio hotel is an incredible themed garden display which changes four times a year with the seasons.

The stunning exhibit comes to life under a 50-foot glass ceiling, so if you’re craving a little sunlight after being in a dark casino, this is the place to be.

If you’re after some nice photo spots in Las Vegas, the Bellagio gardens would be perfect. 

Walk the Strip at Night

Ok, this seems obvious, but the Strip comes to life at night, and you should do this every night on your trip.

The lights and colors are wild and crazy and you really don’t know the vast scale of it all until you’re there in the middle of it.

And while you’re at it, be sure to wander into as many hotel casinos and lobbies as you can. They’re all so different and fun to explore.

Paid Las Vegas Activities that Are a Must Do  

Vegas isn’t the cheapest destination to visit, but if you add some of the above free things to do to your Las Vegas itinerary, paying for a few must-do attractions won’t seem that bad. 

Find Some Bird’s Eye Views of the Strip at Night

You must experience views of the Las Vegas Strip from above at night! You can head to the Stratosphere Observation Deck on either the 108 or 109th floors!

To give you an idea about how high this place is, it’s also the tallest freestanding observation tower in the USA!

It will cost you $24 per adult to head up there, but you can save $4 per ticket by purchasing your tickets in advance here . 

The High Roller is the huge observation wheel located in the Linq Promenade and is an awesome way to take in the sights of the Strip. You can go anytime of day, but I recommend visiting at night or sunset.

One full trip around the wheel is about 30 minutes. And even if you’re afraid of heights you don’t really notice it! 

TRAVEL TIP: Book the happy hour experience where your pod includes an open bar. We did this and loved it. The bartenders are extremely fast and efficient, ensuring you get your money’s worth! Buy your tickets here , especially if you’re travelling with a group. 

Or for the ultimate way to view the Strip from above, book a helicopter city lights tour !

It’s not as expensive as you might think, and you get to see all the glitz and glamour from above, including the Bellagio fountains!

Take in a Show

There are so many shows to choose from here, you can’t come to Vegas for your first time and not see a show!

Absinthe is my all-time favorite show in Las Vegas. I would see it 100 times in a row. It’s a raunchy, burlesque circus-style show at Caesars Palace.

Any of the Cirque du Soleil shows are incredible. KA and O are some of the best acrobatics, or if you prefer something musical, try the Beatles or the Michael Jackson Cirque shows.

Choose your Cirque du Soleil show here . 

Or choose a mind-blowing magic show like the famous Penn & Teller or David Copperfield. 

And if you’re visiting for a stag or bachelorette party, some of the more risque shows are super fun. Drag Brunch, Zombie Burlesque, Chippendale’s…anything you want! See some of the best ones here .

You Might Also Like: Legendary Ideas to Help You Plan the Ultimate Las Vegas Bachelorette Party

Enjoy a Romantic Ride on a Gondola in Mini-Venice

Yes, you can pretend you’re in love in Italy with a gondola ride on the canals at the Venetian hotel. They go from outside to inside and go under a couple bridges (if you kiss underneath them it’s good luck)!

Have a Drink Somewhere Fun!

There are so many places to have a drink and people watch! I love sitting outside at Cabo Wabo at Plant Hollywood.

Or put on something fancy and head to the Fountain Room at Mandalay Bay.

Or sit inside a massive chandelier at the Cosmopolitan hotel and order the secret flower drink. 

Book a Tour

One of the best ways to get the most out of your trip to Vegas is to make use of a tour.

After a full day or two of the busy city, you might want to get out of town for a few hours. And you should! There are some incredible places to see surrounding Las Vegas.

Visit Hoover Dam , go hiking in the Valley of Fire or take a boat ride on Lake Mead . 

Visit a Hidden Gem

Some final things to remember before going to vegas.

Visit Vegas with an open mind. If there are a few things you don’t want to miss, make sure you plan for them but then keep your schedule open the rest of the time.

There are so many things going on that will grab your attention, so you may not stick to the schedule you had planned. And that’s OK.

You may not get to see and do everything you wanted on your first trip to Vegas, but I promise you will be back!  

More Las Vegas Posts:

• 32 Little-Known Money Saving Tips for Vegas (so simple)
• 29 Unique Things to Do Off the Strip in Vegas (non-touristy hidden gems)
• 7 Las Vegas Scams to Avoid – How to Not Get Ripped Off in Vegas
• Free Drinks in Vegas: How to Get Them & What to Order (& best places to go in 2022)
• Dreamy Things to Do in Vegas for Couples: Romantic Getaway Guide
• 10 Overrated Things in Las Vegas You Shouldn’t Waste Your Time On (+ better alternatives)
• Best Places to Drink on the Las Vegas Strip: Views, Fancy Drinks & Deals
• Insider’s Guide to Staying at the Flamingo Las Vegas: Tips and Tricks

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Is a Solo Trip to Las Vegas Fun? – What to See in Vegas Alone

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

One of the most unique cities in the United States, here’s an honest account of a solo trip to Las Vegas and what to see when in Vegas alone.

It hurts to say I took a solo trip to Las Vegas. And I’m an avid independent traveller who, at times, absolutely relishes the freedom of solo travel.

Las Vegas is one of the more unique cities in the United States – fun, vibrant and slightly mind-blowing. Except my memories of it from a trip four years ago are not as crazy as what you see in The Hangover movie, or even remotely on the scale of ‘party’.

I ended up in Las Vegas alone, not because I lost my friends after a drunken stupor. It was never intended as I travelled the Los Angeles – San Francisco – Vegas route, but circumstances made it that way.

Vegas is not the place to be without a mate or three to explore and party with. It’s doable, but it’s not ideal.

Solo Travel in Vegas

Admire casino architecture, travel replica cities, head to downtown las vegas – lights and ziplines, getting around vegas, what to see in las vegas on a solo budget, las vegas day trips – go to the grand canyon, the verdict on taking a solo trip to las vegas.

I didn’t see any other solo travellers in las Vegas. Except for one socially awkward guy sat in a fast food joint wearing a Vegas hat and t-shirt and talked about everything (you guessed it) Vegas. It attracts those types too.

And then there was me – the lone wanderer, trying to infiltrate groups and slide into the throng of spectators at a Casino during a game of Roulette and being asked by members of staff in that to-the-point American way: “You are on your OWN? Where are your friends?”

While I would spend my days poolside sunbathing in the glorious desert heat, this was the tragic conversation I endured for three days in nearly every casino I passed through in the evening – because it’s at night when it’s more uncomfortable to be solo here.

However, I made the most of my time in Vegas. Since most of the city’s income depends on gambling and entertainment, casino owners have to go out of their way to make their properties appealing to tourists, which means I had a city of spectacular sites as my playground. 

Here are all the ways to see Las Vegas as a solo traveller. Be prepared to be blinded by lights in a spectrum of colours and speeds, stunned by the multitude of sounds and overwhelmed by the throng of people and don’t forget your camera! If you are partying hard, it will be a useful tool to recollect the evening the morning after.

Visit Las Vegas Casinos – Join Table Crowds or Explore the Strip

Las Vegas casinos, found on the main road, which is known as ‘The Strip’, have their own style and flair, each with its own unique offering, including shows, artists and other attractions. It’s easy to keep yourself busy since every casino has something going on outside of the general gambling arena but be prepared to fork out for shows including Cirque du Soleil , some of the world’s top magicians and high-profile music acts. You can get a good overview of the rules, etiquette and quirks of Las Vegas Casinos here , including how to join table circles.

If joining gambling tables isn’t your thing to socialise, explore the architecture and attractions. One of the older and more eccentric-looking casinos is New York-New York. Not only are you greeted by the Statue of Liberty, but you can also ride the (rickety and slightly head-ache-inducing) roller coaster around the casinos.

I stayed in Excalibur , which was a giant castle (and also one of the cheapest options). Next door is Luxor, and, as a fan of all things Egyptian, I loved walking around the pyramid-Esque décor and the giant Sphinx. I also wandered around the Caesars Palace shopping mall, knowing I couldn’t afford a thing. Unless I gambled – I guess that’s the point?

Illuminated hotels of Las Vegas at night

What Vegas does best is to try to replicate other cities . If you have ever wanted to go to Paris but couldn’t afford the flight to France, no problem!  The Paris casino has a replica of the Eiffel Tower in front of the casino, and whilst only half the size, it is still a sight to behold, especially at night. Inside you are greeted by Parisian-style streets, but instead of people sipping coffee, they are pulling on the slot machines.

Ever wanted to go to Venice too? It’s right here, with canals, gondola rides and Venice’s famous picturesque bridges. Everything about Vegas is extravagant, an ego in lights.

Downtown (old) Las Vegas is known for its history. The Fremont Street Experience, known for its dazzling Visa Vision light show , declared the world’s largest video screen and home to the Slotzilla Zipline and Zoomline experiences which you can book here from $25 upwards.

For those that have been to Vegas but have never ventured downtown, Fremont Street is partially covered with a giant canopy and every half hour starting at dusk they have various different light shows with a variety of themes.  I was only able to catch one when I was down there, but it’s spectacular and a great alternative to the craziness of the Strip and an interesting insight into what some of the very first casinos looked like in comparison to today’s spectacle!

“The Experience” (as it is known) is not just about the light show.  In addition, you will find street vendors, live music acts, and various displays depending on the time of the year.  The Elvis act (you can’t visit Vegas without seeing one) was brilliant, performing there every weekend. Failing that, you will find many imitations on the Strip.

While you can leisurely stroll the length of The Strip, getting around Vegas is easy due to its many transport routes . Not only do many hotels offer free shuttle trams between venues, but It’s also easy to grab a cab and take the bus to Downtown Vegas. 

If you want the most unique view of Las Vegas without jumping out of an aeroplane, go to the observation deck at the top of the Stratosphere or have lunch in the Top of the World Restaurant.  It sits 800 metres above Vegas and has a restaurant that rotates 360 degrees for a complete view high above the city.

There is also the zipline on the LINQ Promenade – the only zipline on the Las Vegas Strip itself. Get your fast-track ticket here.

The High Roller 550-foot observation wheel is also a popular option, for a 30-minute relaxed journey with a view, also with fast-track tickets . 

I decided to check out the views from the observation deck and ride some adrenalin-pumping rides known as The Strat (formerly The Stratosphere). Thrill Rides and a Sky Jump, all of which hang over the side of the hotel building – a very scary experience but a very unique way to see Vegas!

For those wanting the famed helicopter flight over Vegas, enjoy this 15-minute ride with views of the Bellagio fountain, the laser beam at the Luxor and the bright lights of the Stratosphere Tower. 

Day trips from Vegas are a popular choice for those wanting to escape the action and see more of the wider area. The Grand Canyon isn’t far away and combined with a trip to the Hoover Dam, makes for a great nature-filled escape. It also means you get to visit another US State.

You can book tours in Vegas hotels and tour ticket booths or pre-book online. They all include hotel pick-up and drop-off transfers.

• This bestselling full-day Grand Canyon National Park South Rim trip  includes a quick visit to the Hoover Dam, the scenic landscapes of the Southwest Desert and views of the Canyon from the South Rim at Mather Point, where you will get to spend around three hours exploring. 
• Book the slightly shorter Grand Canyon West bus tour with this skip-the-line ticket that includes a guide and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
• If you are only looking for a Hoover Dam tour, this 3-hour round-trip option with a guide is a good choice.

Other days trips from Vegas include Area 51,  Zion and Bryce Canyons ,  Red Rock Canyon  and  hiking the Valley of Fire .

Spending a week in Vegas? Then you have a lot of exploration options for the daytime – this adventurous checklist on over a dozen Vegas Day Trips has you covered. 

The Grand Canyon is a great day trip from Vegas, perfect for a solo traveller

From sunbathing and sightseeing to shopping and watching some of the world’s most magnificent shows, there’s only one thing I didn’t do in Las Vegas as a solo traveller – party and lose all my money.

While I only gambled away a few dollars, the Casinos were a great place for people-watching before emerging out into the street of bright lights, ready to head to the next stop and do it all again.

Next time I return to Las Vegas, I’m taking a group of friends with me. And that will be a completely different story.

READ MORE: Visit the Destinations page for more US travel stories . 

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

29 May 2022 at 7:53 am

hi Becki, i am travelling solo SF-Las vegas and LA-SA 20days any advice how many days i should spend in each area? thanks.

8 June 2022 at 3:51 pm

This might help: https://www.bordersofadventure.com/the-ultimate-californian-road-trip/ Also give yourself at least 3 whole days in each big city.

Annette | Bucket List Journey says

24 May 2013 at 5:09 pm

I have been to Vegas many times, but never to the Grand Canyon. I will have to change that next time I’m in the area!

25 May 2013 at 3:45 am

It’s amazing how close it really is! Great day trip!

Rashaad says

25 April 2013 at 2:19 pm

I’ve always thought Las Vegas would be a great place to spend a wild weekend – but not to live.

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Las Vegas on a Budget: 73 Insanely Easy Ways to Save Money in Vegas

Last updated on Jan 1, 2024 by Adam Bryan . This post may contain affiliate links.

Where else can you stay at luxury hotels, dine at 5 star restaurants, watch breathtaking A-list shows, and party the night away at world famous nightclubs?

There’s only one place – Las Vegas baby!

But as amazing as this may sound, not everyone can afford to pay top dollar for a Hangover worthy weekend in Sin City.

Or can they?

If there’s one city where you can live like a high roller on a low roller budget, Las Vegas is the city.

From ridiculously cheap 5 star meals at some of the best restaurants to VIP service at some of the finest hotels and nightclubs in Vegas, anyone, and I do mean anyone can live it up in Vegas without breaking the bank.

High Roller Vegas Lifestyle on a Low Roller Budget

Las vegas on a budget.

• Before you go any further…
• How to Save Money on Las Vegas Hotels

The Best Cheap Hotels in Las Vegas

How to save money at las vegas restaurants, best cheap restaurants in las vegas.

• How to Eat at 5 Star Restaurants on a One Star Budget

How to Score Cheap Vegas Show Tickets

Get 50% off las vegas shows, las vegas show discounts and deals, how to party like a celebrity at popular nightclubs (without going broke), how to save money at las vegas attractions, best free things to do and see in las vegas, best cheap paid things to do and see in vegas, how to get around the city without paying a fortune, how to score cheap flights to las vegas.

• How to Save Money in Vegas: Bonus Quick Tips

But there is one rule…

In order to be treated like a VIP in Las Vegas you need to act like a VIP.

Do not…

• Act like you own the place
• Drink out of a neon yardstick
• Dress like a bum
• Disrespect employees, waitresses, or hosts

Act like a respectful VIP and you’ll be amazed at all the great things that’ll come you way.

So with that being said, here’s exactly how you can save money in Las Vegas even when you’re living like a high roller.

Even if you can’t afford to pay top dollar for an insanely outrageous lifestyle in Las Vegas, there are quite a few ridiculously easy and surefire ways for you to live like a high roller while staying on a low roller budget.

You’d be amazed at all the incredible things you can see, do, watch, and eat for under $400 during a weekend getaway – all while living lavishly like a king or queen.

Here’s how.

Here’s the complete guide to everything you’ll need to plan your budget friendly Las Vegas vacation. From finding the best cheap hotels in Las Vegas to dining at some of the world’s best restaurants and buffets, here are 73 insanely easy ways for you to live like a high roller in Las Vegas on a low roller budget:

• Hotels and Resorts
• Restaurants
• Things to Do
• Getting Around the City
• Airfare Tickets

So with that being said, let’s jump straight to the Vegas money saving guide!

Before you go any further…

If you’re looking for discount show tickets, we got you covered below in our complete listing of Vegas show deals where you can save upwards of 75% off on select top-selling shows!

  CLICK HERE for 100+ Vegas Show Deals

How to Save Money on Las Vegas Hotels

Nightly hotel rates in Las Vegas are ridiculously affordable. You can easily find rooms on the Strip for as low as $22 a night. Yes you read that right.

And even if you decided to a little bit, you can still find 4-5 star hotels for less than $150 a night.

You just need to know where to look and how to book them.

Here are some surefire tips that will help you score some awesome Las Vegas hotel discounts and deals as well as get the cheapest rooms possible.

1. Join a Hotel’s Membership Program for Discounts

Every major hotel in Las Vegas offers a “gaming” club that you can join. With this you’ll get immediate access to discounted room rates and exclusive promotions and deals.

Here are all the programs that you can join:

• Caesars Rewards
• MGM Rewards
• Wynn Insider (or Red Card)
• Grazie Loyalty Program

2. Visit Midweek

Las Vegas room rates are absurdly cheap Monday-Thursday, with Tuesday and Wednesday generally being the cheapest.

3. For Weekend Getaways, Come Saturday-Monday

Sure the clubs may not be as bumping on Sunday or Monday, but if you’re looking to come to Vegas for other reasons, this is generally the cheapest way to visit. Even though you’re paying a premium price on Saturday night, you’ll notice a significant drop on Sunday’s room rate. Plus, flying out on a Monday is cheaper than Sunday.

4. Keep an Eye on the Convention Calendar

Vegas is the convention capital of America. Every week there’s something going on. Whether if it’s a small business convention or CES, it’s almost guaranteed that there’s going to be a conference during the week you visit. So in order to save some money on your hotel rate and vacation as a whole, be sure to come during times that aren’t during any major Vegas conventions.

Check out the Las Vegas Convention Calendar .

5. Avoid Fight Weekends (or the Super Bowl)

Unless you’re coming to watch the fight, try to avoid big sporting events and music festivals.

Check out the fight schedule here .

6. If Military (or Veteran), Get a Military Discount on Room Rates

Almost every major hotel on the Las Vegas Strip and beyond (including those near Fremont Street) offer military discounts . Expect to save anywhere from 10-20% on your entire stay.

For the complete listing of Las Vegas military discounts, check out this awesome list of over 115 discounts! !

7. Save up to 35% if You’re a First Responder

First Responders which includes EMT, firefighters, and police officers can save 10% off their stay at at of the Caesars properties .

For the complete list of Vegas first responder hotel discounts, check out this guide .

8. Save 10% if You’re a Teacher

If you’re a teacher, you can save 10% off your entire stay at any of the Las Vegas  Caesars properties .

9. Get a 10% Discount if You’re a Student

Students can save 10% on their room rates at any of the Caesars properties .

10. Take Advantage of AAA Member Discounts

AAA members can save 10% on MGM Mirage Properties.

11. Take Advantage of Local Resident Rates

If you live in Nevada, there are actually quite a few hotels that offer special packages and discounts for locals. Just check the “Offers” page on any hotel that you’re considering for more details.

12. Compare Rates for all Hotels in Your Budget

Using sites like Booking.com ,  Expedia , and TripAdvisor allows you to get the best idea on how much you’ll be paying while also getting an idea of what past guests have to say about their recent stays. Or better, check out Vegas.com for hotel specials and deals.

13. Do Your Research

Not all hotels in Las Vegas are created the same. The difference in quality from a 4 star and a 5 star is very noticeable. The same goes with a 3 and 4 star. My advice, check out each hotel’s website , watch YouTube videos, read TripAdvisor reviews, and compare amenities.

14. Research Resort Fees

Almost every major hotel on or near the Las Vegas Strip has resort fees . These fees can range from $20-32 a night. And the worst part about it is that it’s not initially included in the hotel price. You’ll only get the true total once you start the room booking process.

Thankfully there are a few hotels that don’t charge a resort fee meaning that you’ll only need to add tax to your room rate. Here they are:

• Alexis Park All Suite Resort
• Arizona Charlie’s Decatur
• Arizona Charlie’s Boulder Highway
• Casino Royale Best Western Plus
• Eastside Cannery
• Four Queens
• Fremont hotel and casino
• Main Street Station
• Wyndham Grand Desert

15. Use Your Marriott Rewards to Stay at the Cosmopolitan

Did you know that the Cosmopolitan is part of the Marriott Autograph Collection and that you can use your Marriott Rewards points to book a room there? It’s true! Plus, you can even combine your points and cash to book your room.

16. Share Your Room

This is almost a no brainer. The more people you can squeeze into a room, the cheaper your cut will be.

17. If Your Resort Experience Has Been Poor, Complain

If your room is dirty or you had a bad experience at a hotel’s restaurant, be sure to complain (respectfully).

Chances are you’ll get an apology as well as some nice perks such as a resort credit, show tickets, drinks, vouchers, etc.

18. Stay in the Middle of the Strip

Staying in the middle of the Strip doesn’t mean you’ll find cheaper hotel rates (although most of the cheaper hotels are there), it’s mainly just a better way for you to save money and time when trying to get around the city.

By staying in the main hub area (anywhere between Caesars Palace, City Center, Planet Hollywood, and the Flamingo) you’ll save money by taking less or shorter taxi rides as well as have closer access to cheaper eateries on the Strip.

Heck, you can basically walk from hotel to hotel if you stay in these hub hotels:

• Harrah’s
• Bally’s
• Paris Las Vegas
• Planet Hollywood
• The Cromwell
• Cosmopolitan
• Caesars Palace

19. Always Check out the Promotions/Specials Tab on Hotel Websites

Before you add in your dates on the hotel’s website, be sure to check out their Vegas hotel deals and promotions page. Here, you’ll find any cool promotions that the hotel is running such as free buffet passes, 40% discounts, two free show tickets, free nightclub line passes, etc.

20. If the Strip Isn’t for You, Stay in Downtown Las Vegas

This is the real, genuine Las Vegas that was once the norm before the Strip came along. Here you’ll find really cheap resort room rates as well as cheap eats.

A couple of the more popular ones include:

Golden Nugget

And if Downtown Las Vegas feels a little too sketchy for you, you can alway stay a few blocks off the Strip at one of these hotels:

• Palms Casino Resort
• Rio Las Vegas

Here are some of the best cheap hotels that will still make you feel like a high roller based on your budget:

These hotels are pretty cheap but the overall look and feel of the hotel is still better than any Motel 6. Rates are under $70 a night. Plus, some are even pet-free .

• Tropicana Hotel and Casino

These hotels are the most popular ones on the Strip but they truly have that awesome Vegas feel to them. Rates are under $150 a night.

• Venetian Las Vegas
• Treasure Island
• New York New York
• SLS Las Vegas
• Mandalay Bay

High Roller

These are the best of the best. 5 star resorts with 4 stars pricing. These luxurious hotels are unlike any of the one’s you’d find elsewhere in Las Vegas. Rates are under $200 a night.

• Wynn Las Vegas
• Encore Las Vegas
• Mandarin Oriental
• Trump Las Vegas
• Vdara (non-gaming, non-smoking)

Super High Roller

These super luxurious hotels are usually smaller “hotels” within a hotel. From stellar service and limo transportation to free beverages/snacks and breathtaking suites, these world-renown resorts offer the best bang for your buck, if world-class service is something you desire.

• Aria Sky Suites
• Aria Tower Suites
• Wynn Tower Suites
• Encore Tower Suites

And lastly, if you’re really looking to book a room that would cost you at least $5,000 a night in any other major city, you should check out the SkyLofts at MGM Grand.

From coupons and deals, to clever restaurant hacks and timing, here’s how you can save money at Las Vegas restaurants during your visit:

21. Take Advantage of Las Vegas Restaurant Deals

For awesome restaurant deals and coupons be sure to check out these three site’s Las Vegas restaurant discounts page:

• DestinationCoupons

22. Dine on the Pre-Theater Menu

Generally, most restaurants inside hotels that have a nightly show will run a pre-theater prixe-fix menu.

You’ll get great quality food and a really cheap price.

And best of all, you don’t need to be going to a show or present a show ticket to dine off of this special.

Check out this listing for all the Las Vegas restaurants that offer pre-theater menus.

23. Go During Happy Hour

Cheap drinks at eats with generally emptier crowds. What more can you ask.

Check out this listing for all the Strip restaurants and bars that offer happy hour specials.

24. Go During Reverse Happy Hour

Although most restaurants in Las Vegas stop serving food by 11 pm, there are still quite a few places that will offer a reverse happy hour where you can find super cheap drink and eats.

Here are some places for Reverse Happy House:

• RA Sushi at the Fashion Show Mall
• Buffalo Wild Wings near the Elara
• Seafood Shack at Treasure Island
• Press Lounge at the Mandalay Bar
• Sushisamba in the Grand Canal Shoppes
• Holstein’s in the Cosmopolitan
• Rockhouse at the Venetian
• Hofbrauhaus off the Strip
• Unami Burger at the SLS

25. Eat at Resort Buffets

Why pay $30 a person at a restaurant when you can pay $25 for all you can eat food and drinks?

For the best bang for your buck, eating at a buffet can help you save money without cutting out food quality.

Heck some of the these buffets serve 5 star quality food.

Here’s some of my favorites that’ll give you the best bang for your buck:

• Wicked Spoon at the Cosmopolitan
• Wynn Buffet at the Wynn Las Vegas
• Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace
• Studio B at the M Resort
• Carnival World and Seafood Buffet at the Rio

And lastly, here’s a buffet that’s pretty expensive ($90 a person) but includes unlimited lobster tails, filet mignon, king crab legs, Perrier-Joust (usually $25 a glass), and caviar:

• Sterling Brunch at Bally’s (offered only on the Saturday and Sunday)

26. Vegas Buffet Hack: Go to a Buffet During a Transition Period

Most major buffets including Bacchanal and Wynn Buffet are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

And the pricing for each varies significantly.

For example at the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars (#1 ranked buffet in Vegas), breakfast/brunch is $38 a person and dinner is $55 a person. Brunch runs from 7:30 am to 3 pm and dinner starts at 3 pm.

The Vegas buffet hack is to come to the buffet around 2:30 to get brunch prices. Then as you’re eating slowly, all the brunch food is being swapped out for dinner food.

So basically you’ll be dining at the dinner buffet at brunch prices .

It’s awesome!

27. Join Hotel Gaming Reward Programs

Most if not all major resorts in Vegas offer a gaming program where you can earn rewards and benefits including buffet line passes, discounts at restaurants, and more.

These 2 offer some of the best benefits:

28. Eat at the Hotel Food Court

Some hotels in Vegas actually have a food court where you can find cheap eats from restaurants that you’ll typically find at your mall.

If food is something you’re not looking to splurge on then hotel food courts are usually your best bet.

Here are the best Las Vegas hotel food courts:

• Fashion Show Mall
• Miracle Mile Shops (not really a food court but there are tons of fast casual restaurants throughout)

29. Skip Room Service

Sure it’s convenient but room service in Vegas is absurdly expensive.

If money is tight, the only time you should order room service is if your room actually comes with complimentary room service (such as a few room packages at the Wynn and Encore do).

30. Ask for a Military Discount (or Student Discount)

Some restaurants in Las Vegas offer military discounts that can range from 10-30%.

For the complete listing of restaurants, check out these Las Vegas restaurant military discounts .

Plus, for restaurant student discount, check out this guide .

31. Eat a Big Breakfast or Dinner

One thing that’s I’ve notice about Vegas is that there are a lot of delicious things to snack and munch on during the day.

That’s why usually when I go, I tend to either go to a breakfast buffet, snack during lunch, and eat an average sized dinner.

Not only does this help save me money (since breakfast is usually the cheapest meal especially at buffets), but it essentially allows me to skip lunch at any costs associated with it.

This won’t work for everyone but I thoroughly enjoy implementing this tip.

32. Share or Split Meals

There’s nothing easier than going to a restaurant and splitting an appetizer or entree.

Some places (like some of the one’s below) have generous portions, making it easier for you to dine for 2 for under $20.

If you’re looking for cheap yet delicious food, then this listing is just for you.

Here are the best cheap Las Vegas restaurants that you can still enjoy a quality meal at without breaking the bank:

• Tom’s Urban near New York New York – generic American fare with huge portions
• White Castle near Casino Royale – classic mini burgers
• Shake Shack at the LINQ  – burgers and shakes
• Unami Burger at the SLS – unique twist on burgers
• Five50 Pizza at the Aria – huge pizza slices cooked in a 550 degree brick oven
• Anchor Bar at the Venetian – cheap eats and drinks
• Double Barrel Saloon at the Monte Carlo – awesome happy hour food and drink specials
• Yard House at the LINQ  – expansive beer menu which delicious food options
• Olives at the Bellagio (Lunch) – possibly the best bang for your buck in terms of food quality
• Grand Lux a the Palazzo – great deals and expansive menu that’ll satisfy everyone
• BLT Burger at the Mirage – juicy burgers and shakes
• Beijing Noodle No. 9 – freshly made Chinese noodles at a bargain
• Table 10 at the Palazzo – get the mac and cheese
• Cabo Wabo at the Miracle Mile Shops- $2 street tacos during happy hour
• Serendipity 3 at Caesar’s Palace – frozen hot chocolate and huge portions
• Milo’s at the Cosmopolitan – popular lunch prixe-fix menu
• Mon Ami Gabi at Paris (B reakfast)  – great food and even better views
• Hash House a Go Go at the LING and Rio All Suites – biggest portion sizes I’ve ever seen
• Holstein’s at the Cosmopolitan – good burgers and spiked milkshakes

Feel free to share any of your favorite cheap Vegas restaurants that you believe should be added to this list by leaving a comment below.

How to Eat at 5 Star Restaurants on a One Star Budget

Las Vegas restaurants are the busiest between 8-10 pm, which makes it harder to score a table.

Thankfully, most of these restaurants will run a pre-theater or happy hour menu between 4-7 pm.

You’ll still get the same amazing quality meal, just at a cheaper price.

Here are some 5 star restaurants that you can eat at quite “affordably.” I say “affordably” because you’ll still be paying anywhere from $50-$90 per person but the quality of these restaurants can easily run you $200 or more in any other major city.

• L’Atelier Joel Rubuchon at the MGM Grand
• Picasso at the Bellagio
• Andreas at the Encore
• Bazaar Meat at the SLS
• Carnevino at the Venetian
• Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace
• Eiffel Tower Restaurant at the Paris Las Vegas
• Jean Georges Steakhouse at the Aria
• Twist by Pierre Gagniere at the Mandarin Oriental

You should also consider getting one of these restaurants credit cards that’ll help you save money on your dining costs.

Heck one of these cards helped me eat at a 5 star restaurant for FREE .

P.S. Don’t forget to make reservations. These restaurant apps should help .

If there’s one thing you need to do in Las Vegas, it’s experience a show.

From magic and comedy to world class acrobats and headliners, there’s a show for everyone.

The only downside is that some of these shows come at a hefty price.

Thankfully there are a number of ways that you can save money and score cheap Las Vegas show tickets.

Here’s how:

33. Tix 4 Tonight

These booths, located at the Fashion Show Mall, Circus Circus, Town Square, Planet Hollywood, and Bally’s Grand Bazaar Shops offers tickets for that night for 50% off .

Just be sure to get there early because it can get extremely busy!

For all Tix 4 Tonight booth locations and shows, check out their website .

34. Book Online

The best place to score cheaper show tickets is to purchase tickets on the shows official website.

Generally you find the cheapest prices and you can avoid any convenience fees by printing them at home.

35. Always Check the Promotions Tab on the Website

Every show that’s located in a resort is almost guaranteed to have an ongoing special offer.

Just be sure to click on the “Offers” tab under their show list to find exclusive, deals, promotions, offers, and discounts.

36. Book Through a Third Party

Using third-party Las Vegas travel sites can help you score some of the cheapest show ticket deals in town.

Here are some of the sites you should check out:

• MDC Las Vegas (50% off all show tickets!)
• Vegas Tickets
• Vegas.com Show Deals
• LasVegas.com

37. Hotel Guests Can Get Discounted Show Tickets

Some shows offer discounts to guest staying on property. Just be sure to call your respective hotel and ask about any hotel guest show ticket rates.

38. Take Advantage of Student and Military Discounts

Some shows including all of the Cirque du Soleil Shows (except “O”) and shows on MGM properties offers military discounts. You can book these military discounted show tickets HERE .

Plus some shows will even offer student discounts as long as you have your student ID.

Blue Man Group tends to have the best student discount offer out of all the big production shows in Vegas.

Here are all the shows that you can get 50% off in Las Vegas!

Just make sure to book through the links below to score this awesome deal!

Vegas! The Show

The #1 Vegas show that features showgirls, incredible dancing acts, memorable Vegas icons and headliners, and so much more!  Save 50% Here

V – The Ultimate Variety Show

Experience some of the coolest, most unique acts in all of Vegas including some popular stars from the hit show, America’s Got Talent!  Save 50% Here

• Zombie Burlesque

Not you normal burlesque show. The kicker, the dancers are all Zombies! It’s a super fun show!  Save 50% Here

Recycled Percussion

You’ve seen them on America’s Got Talent, and now you get to watch these talented musicians make music from some of the most unique objects.  Save 50% Here

The Mentalist

Incredible magic, mind reading, and comedy from one of the best mentalists in Las Vegas.  Save 50% Here

Beatleshow Orchestra

A fun and entertaining Beatles tribute show that features only live hits!  Save 50% Here

All Shook Up

“The King” is alive and he’s back in Las Vegas at this hot new Elvis Presley tribute show.  Save 50% Here

Aussie Hunks

As seen on Australia’s Got Talent and So You Think You Can Dance, these guys will dance the night away.  Save $10 Here

Hitzville The Show

Experience the very best of Motown featuring tributes to Moto’s biggest superstars and their biggest hits, all performed live.  Save 50% Here

Las Vegas Live Comedy Club

Check out some of the best comedians fro across the nation including comics who’ve performed on Showtime, HBO, and comedy central.  Save 50% Here

Marc Savrard Comedy Hypnosis

“The funniest show EVER” – Watchas Marc Savard, hypnotize audience volunteers to do unspeakable things.  Save 50% Here

Nathan Burton Comedy Magic

As seen on America’s Got Talent, Nathan Burton is quite possibly the best daytime show in Las Vegas.  Save 50% Here

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater

An amazing and cute cast of housecoats, dogs, parrots, geese, and mice.  Save 50% Here

Stripper 101

Las Vegas’ number one pole dancing class where you can learn sexy moves from real Las Vegas strippers.  Save $10 Here

For exclusive access to Las Vegas show discounts and deals, be sure to check out the list below!

From magic and comedy to headliners and Cirque du Soleil, these are the best cheap shows in Las Vegas:

Cirque du Soleil

Here are the best affordable Cirque du Soleil shows that you must see in Las Vegas:

• Beatles LOVE

Here are the best cheap magic shows in Las Vegas:

• Nathan Burton’s Comedy Magic (daytime)
• Criss Angel’s Mindfreak
• Penn and Teller
• David Copperfield
• Piff the Magic Dragon

Here are the best overall shows in Las Vegas that’ll give you the most bang for you buck:

• Blue Man Group
• VEGAS! The Show
• Absinthe  (use the code 20AMP to save $20)
• V Variety Show

Headliners and Music

• Olivia Newton John
• Rock of Ages
• Donnie and Marie
• Million Dollar Quartet
• Jersey Boys
• Menopause the Musical
• Terry Fator

Here are the best comedy shows in Las Vegas

• Marc Savard Comedy Hypnosis (21+)
• Mac King Comedy Magic Show
• Marc Savard Comedy Hypnosis
• X Burlesque
• Chippendales
• Magic Mike Live

If you didn’t party at one of Las Vegas’ world famous nightclubs, did you really go to Vegas?

And as expensive as some Vegas clubs can get, there are some clever ways to save money while also partying like a rockstar.

39. Get the V Card

This is by far one of the the best VIP experiences in all of Vegas. With the V CARD NIGHTLIFE PASS , there’s no lines, no cover, and most importantly, you’ll get free VIP access to over 31 nightclub’s, day clubs, and strip clubs.

With this card, you’ll get a valid one time use free admission at these participating venues:

• Hyde Bellagio
• Voodoo Lounge
• Sapphire Pol
• Hustler Club

Just to name a few.

SPECIAL OFFER :  Click here to save 50% off the V Card pass!

40. Ladies, Talk to the Club Promoters to Get Free Entry to Clubs

If you can, try to find a club promoter handing out free club vouchers. These guys job is to get as many girls in the clubs as possible so if you can, reach out to them to get yourself on the list as well as get free entry for you and your squad.

You’ll typically see these guys on the street or the pedestrian walkways wearing a club’s t shirt.

41. Reach Out to VIP Hosts on Instagram and Twitter

These guys will typically get you onto the list as long as you text or call them by 8 pm to confirm your spot.

Just search for “VIP hosts in Vegas” on Twitter, and you’ll find plenty.

42. If You’re a Group of Girls, Ask Your Host if Any Guy Tables Are Looking for Girls

Once you do find a Las Vegas promoter , be sure to ask them if they have any groups of guys looking for girls to hang out with them.

This can work two ways:

• They’ll pair you with the guy group in line that way you can both get in quickly
• They’ll send you to the guy group’s table

Either way, they’re both a win win.

43. Get Into a Nightclub for Free by Eating at Their Restaurant

Some restaurants in Las Vegas are also associated with a particular club meaning that if you dine there, you’ll get free access to the nightclub.

Here are some places that do this:

• Dine at Tao or Lavo at the Venetian and you’ll get access to their clubs
• Dine at Adrea’s at Encore and you’ll get entrance to Surrender

44. To Save Money on Drinks, Play Slots on the Casino Floor

I got this tip from Nomadic Matt . To save money on drinks, pop a squat on a penny or nicely slot machine and play slowly. In no time a waitress will come around providing you with free drinks. Be sure to drink quickly and tip nicely and you’ll be on your way to at least 5 free drinks.

Then you can head to the nightclub without having to pay those ridiculous drink prices.

45. Bring Your Room Key for Discounted Room Entry and Shorter Lines

Some hotels have their own clubs meaning that if you’re a hotel guest, you can get discounts as well as wait in your own special line (which is usually shorter than the normal one).

46. Have a 2:1 Girl-Guy Ratio for Free Entry (or Quick Entrance)

The best way to ensure that your group gets into a club as quick as possible is to have a 2:1 girl guy ratio. The more girls you have in your group, the better the chance you’ll get in.

Plus, there’s even a higher chance that you won’t have to pay a cover.

And even if you don’t come to Vegas with a mixed group, you can always make friends in the nightclub line or even at the pools beforehand and go inside the nightclub together.

47. If You Have a Large Group of Guys, Get Bottle Service

As expensive and pricey as bottle service is, it’s honestly one of the best an possible even most affordable ways for a large group of guys (with no girls) to get into a club.

From amazing service and attention, to drinks, and private seating areas, who doesn’t want to live like royalty for a night?

For a party of 6 to 8, expect to pay a least $200 per person which also includes taxes and gratuity.

48. If You Don’t Have a Table, Arrive by 10 pm

Club lines fill up fast so to make sure you get in, be sure to arrive as early as you can.

49. Follow the Dress-Code

And last but not least, be sure to follow the dress code to ensure that you won’t get denied at the door.

Wear this and you’ll be good.

Just like everything else in Vegas, attractions are expensive.

Thankfully there are quite a few ways that you can experience some of the coolest and best Las Vegas attractions without spending a fortune.

50. Get the Las Vegas Explorer Pass

The Las Vegas Explorer Pass allows you to visit 3 to 5 of the most popular Las Vegas attraction for one low price. All you need to do is choose 3 or 5 out of the 25 popular Vegas attractions listed and just present your pass at the ticketing area. It’s so easy!

It only costs $75 for 3 choices or $109 for 5 choices.

Some of the attractions you get access to with the pass include:

• High Roller Observation Wheel (gate price: $23)
• Madame Tussauds (gate price: $26)
• Hoover Dam Tour (gate price: $40)
• Stratosphere Observation Deck Plus VIP Access (gate price: $36)
• VEGAS! The Show (gate price: $95)

Just to name a few…

Get your  Explorer Pass here and save 55%!

51. Print or Download Coupons for Popular Attractions

Almost every popular paid attraction in Las Vegas offers a discount or better, has a coupon. The hardest part is just trying to find them. Thankfully, there are quite a few awesome websites that offer attraction coupons and discounts.

Here are a couple of my favorites:

• Smart Destinations
• DestinationCoupons.com
• Las Vegas Leisure Guide

52. Visit Free Attractions

There are actually quite a few cools things to do in Las Vegas that are 100% free. See below for the complete list of the best free Las Vegas attractions..

Here are all the best free things to do and see in Las Vegas that you must add to your Vegas bucket list.

From free outdoor shows to amazing art galleries and wildlife exhibits, you can find plenty of great free things to do in Las Vegas throughout the Strip and beyond.

So with that being said, let’s jump straight to the best Vegas freebies!

The Aquarium at the Silverton

A 117,000 gallon saltwater aquarium that showcases over 4000 exotic fish and sea life.

Bellagio Conservatory

Elegant arrangements of plants and flowers in a beautiful atrium. It’s truly breathtaking.

CBS Television Research Center

Help the folks at CBS decide which shows they should put on the air and which ones they need to scrap.

Circus Acts

At the Circus Circus hotel, you can watch death defying stunts by unicyclists and acrobats high above the casino floor at the world’s largest permanent circus.

Drink For Free…Kinda

Okay, so you’ll never get free drinks in Las Vegas. However, drinks on  most casino floors are complimentary. The kicker is that you need to be gambling to get some. Just be sure to tip your waitress well and the free drinks will be flowing.

Ethel M Chocolate Factory

Free admission to this world famous chocolate factory which allows visitors a behind the scenes look at the chocolate making process including free samples.

Fall of Atlantis at Caesars Palace

An animatronic display that features the fall of ancient Rome and Atlantis.

Fremont Street Experience

Enjoy a free, jaw dropping light show on the world’s largest video screens. It’s truly one of a kind.

Fountains of Bellagio

Possible the most popular free attraction in all of Las Vegas. Watch as the dancing fountains sing and dance to a world famous soundtrack.

Check out the world’s largest golden nugget. At 61 pounds of pure gold, the “Hand of Faith” can only be found at the Golden Nugget Hotel in Downtown LV.

Gold and Silver Pawn Shop

If you love Pawn Stars then you must visit the real Gold and Silver Pawn Shop in Downtown Las Vegas.

Hershey’s Chocolate World

A sweet 2 story Hershey’s chocolate store that includes Hershey apparel, merchandise, baked goods, and most importantly, candy!

The LINQ Promenade

A shopping, dining, and entertainment mecca featuring some of the more popular and unique restaurant chains from across the nation.

M&M World

Let your tastebuds explore one of the largest M&M candy selections in the world.

Palazzo Waterfall Atrium

A beautiful waterfall that’s becoming one of the more popular photo spots in Las Vegas. Learn more about the Palazzo here .

The Park at New York New York

An outdoor promenade that features dining, entertainment, and nightclub activities in cool and artsy environment.

Shopping Malls

Shopping of course costs money, but believe it or not, many of the malls in Las Vegas are great places to walk around, window-shop, and most importantly, escape the heat.

Favorites include:

• Grand Canal Shoppes
• Miracle Mile Shops
• Forum Shops at Caesar
• Grand Bazaar Shops at the Bally’s

Streetmosphere

Fun entertainment and drama displays throughout the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian.

Volcano Eruption

Every evening at the Mirage, guests can watch as the Mirage volcano explodes in a choreographed display.

Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

If you went to Las Vegas and didn’t get a picture with this world famous sign, did you really go?

Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo

Take an in depth look at a bright display of flamingos, pheasants, ducks, ducks and swans.

Here are some of the best cheap attractions in Las Vegas that you can do for less than $20 .

These are not to be missed!

High Roller Observation Wheel

Experience the world’s tallest observation wheel . At 520 feet this wheel eclipses the world renown London Eye. This 30 minute experience will give you breathtaking views of Las Vegas and the Strip. Go during the day and you’ll only pay $18.

Big Apple Roller Coaster

Travel at speeds up to 67 mph while you’re looping, dropping, and twisting through the New York New York. And oh yeah, let’s not forget about those amazing views of the Strip.

Gondola Ride

No need to go the Venice to experience an authentic gondola ride with a serenading gondolier.

Neon Museum and Boneyard

Check out some of the most famous Vegas neon signs at their final resting place.

Eiffel Tower Experience

Incredible sight seeing from the Las Vegas sized mini Eiffel Tower. But don’t let it fool you, it’s still a great view.

Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat

A beautiful exhibit that showcases white tigers, lions, and leopards (as well as dolphins).

Slotzilla Zip Line

Zip 850 feet across Fremont Street in this one of a kind experience.

Shark Reef at Mandaly Bay

Where else can you pet sting rays, eels, and crabs?

Getting around Las Vegas is actually quite easy.

Whether if you’re trying to get from one hotel to another, you’ll notice just how pedestrian friendly the city is.

However, there are times when you need to take a car to get to where you’re going because walking just won’t cut it (especially in that burning heat).

Thankfully there are a few great ways for you to get around the city without paying a fortune.

53. Don’t Rent a Car

Sure rental car rates aren’t that ridiculously expensive, but the thing that kills you are the parking garage fees. It’s almost not worth it.

54. Don’t Take a Taxi

With the emergence of ride-sharing services, Taxis are becoming more and more irrelevant. Not to mention how overpriced they are compared to Uber and Lyft.

55. Use Lyft

Using Lyft to get around the Strip is by far the cheapest option in Las Vegas. You can literally get from the Mandalay Bay to Wynn Las Vegas for less than $9. In a taxi, that’ll cost you at least $20.

Plus if you sign up using this code, you can get $5 off 10 separate rides.

• Get a free $10 ride credit

56. Use Uber

Just like Lyft, you can get around the strip at half the cost of a taxi. The biggest difference between using Lyft and Uber is the fact that you’ll find more Uber cars on the app than you would Lyft.

• Get you free ride here using UberAdamBryan .

57. Take the Monorail

For only $5 for a single ride ticket or $12 for an all day pass, you can get from SLS to the MGM Grand on the Las Vegas Monorail .

Here are all the places the monorail stops:

• Las Vegas Convention Center
• Westgate Las Vegas

And if safety is a concern, there are several police K9 teams throughout the monorail to ensure your safety and security.

Use this site for Las Vegas Monorail coupons and discounts.

58. Use the Free Trams to Get Between Some Hotels

There’s a free tram between the Monte Carlo and Bellagio with stops at Crystals Shopping Mall and the Aria/Vdara.

This is a great free way to get from hotel to hotel without paying for a taxi or Uber .

Scoring a cheap flight to Vegas can be quite easy as long as you’re open to making a few adjustments here and there.

Here are some easy ways to save money on flights to Las Vegas:

59. Book Your Flight 47 Days in Advance

According to Thrillist , booking your ticket exactly 47 days before your tip is the best way to score the cheapest fare.

60. Use Kayak, Skyscanner, or Hipmunk

These sites will compare flight prices across every airline (except Southwest), thus finding you the cheapest flight to Las Vegas possible.

Here’s the sites:

61. Clear Your Browser’s Cookies

Airline websites use browser cookies to help track your flight searches. As a result, if you continue to check a flight price over and over again, chances are that the flight’s price will actually increase.

That’s why you should clear your browser’s cookie, or better, use an incognito window when shopping for flights.

62. Book from a “Fake” Location

Where a plane ticket is purchases can greatly affect pricing.

International flights are generally cheaper in countries with lower costs of living.

Here’s how booking from a “fake” location can make your flight to Vegas a lot cheaper.

To sum things up, it’s all about using international versions of websites, not the .COM variation.

63. Invest in Airline Credit Cards

If earning airline miles and points from everyday purchases is something that interest’s you, then you should definitely invest in an airline credit card like this awesome one .

The best part is that most, if not all, offer a special bonus incentive once you spend a certain amount of money within 3 months.

These bonus points are usually good for at least 1 or 2 roundtrip tickets.

With the Southwest Airlines credit card , you can literally earn 5 or more roundtrip tickets.

64. When in Doubt, Fly Southwest (and Use Points)

Aside from Frontier or Spirit, Southwest is generally the cheapest airline to fly to Las Vegas from the mainland U.S.

And in my opinion, it’s the best option because it has a secret weapon – Rapid Rewards.

Earning Southwest Rapid Reward Points are so easy that it should be illegal. In less than 3 months, you can find yourself with enough points in your account for 4 or more roundtrip tickets.

Here are some surefire Southwest Airlines hacks to help you save money while also earning free flights as soon and easy as possible.

65. Don’t Fly on a Friday

Instead fly on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday. These are by far the cheapest days to fly if you’re will to travel midweek.

66. Leave Vegas on a Monday for Weekend Getaways

If you’re going to Vegas for a weekend getaway, chances are you’re playing hooky from work on friday, flying to Vegas instead, and staying until Sunday.

Unfortunately this is the most expensive time to go to Vegas.

The best way to do it is to fly into Vegas on a Saturday and leave on Monday .

You’ll notice cheaper airfare and a heck of a lot cheeper hotel rates.

67. If You Can, Take the Earliest or Latest Flight

This isn’t always the case for every airline, but for some, including Southwest , the earliest flight out or the last flight is generally the cheapest option.

Anytime between 5 am and 7 am, or after 8 pm will be the cheapest.

68. Fly In-Direct

If your money is more important than time then taking a flight that has stops in generally cheaper than a nonstop flight.

69. Mix and Math Airlines

Flying in to Las Vegas on one airline and flying out on another can actually save you a lot of money.

70. Fly From an Alternate Nearby Airport

If you happen to live in an area that has multiple airports, then you should consider checking flight prices from each.

For example if you live in Maryland, you have access to 3 nearby airpots – Ronald Reagan (DCA), Baltimore Washington (BWI), and Dulles (IAD). You’d be shocked at how different the airfare prices to Las Vegas are.

71. Sign Up For Your Favorite Airline’s Email Alerts

You’ll get weekly emails about any upcoming flight promotions or deals leaving from your local airport.

72. Carry On Your Bag

Unless you’re flying Southwest, chances are you’ll be paying a checked bagged fee.

That’s why I recommend doing 2 things – bring a carry-on and personal item.

Here are some of the best carry-on suitcases around.

73. Buy a Hidden City Ticket

This can be a huge gamble but if done correctly, it’ll pay huge dividends.

Let’s say you’re leaving from Orlando and you’re looking for a flight to Las Vegas.

You can use the hidden city trick by booking a cheap flight from Orlando to Phoenix with a layover in Las Vegas. Then all you need to do is get off the plane during your layover in Vegas.

BUT remember, this only works when you have a carry on bag.

Use Skiplagged to find hidden city flights.

How to Save Money in Vegas: Bonus Quick Tips

To add to our list, here are some additional insanely easy ways to save money in Las Vegas:

1 . Go to the nearby pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens for cheap snacks, toiletries, or most importantly, bottled water. Don’t buy the ones in the hotel because they are ridiculously overpriced.

2. Grab those coupon books you see in hotel lobbies. You’d be amazed at how many useful Vegas hotel, restaurant, and show coupons you’d find in those things.

3 . If flying into Las Vegas, grab the in-flight magazine for Las Vegas coupons.

4. Don’t gamble. As crazy as it may seem, the amount of people who go to Vegas and not gamble is quite significant. And just think about all that money you’d save. Sure you can win, but the odds are always against you.

5. And last but not least, stick to your budget. Vegas can get crazy. The last thing you’d want to do is leave thousands of dollars in the hole.

But hey if you use some of these insanely easy tips, you’re almost guaranteed to have the Vegas trip of a lifetime!

Thanks for reading! Hopefully this guide has shown you how to properly do Vegas on a budget without missing out on any glitz, glam, or luxury.

Please share this guide on Facebook or pin it on Pinterest.

Thanks and have a great trip!

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About Adam Bryan

Founder of Urban Tastebud focused on sharing awesome trip planning guides and information for the most popular and magical theme parks on earth.

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October 19, 2017 at 9:07 am

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Traveling Alone to Las Vegas: Where to Go and What to Do when you’re Traveling Solo

We receive thousands of different questions about things to do in Las Vegas, but one of the most common questions we receive is from people who are traveling alone that want to know what they can do in Las Vegas when traveling solo. It’s a little weird to us, but it seems most of the people who email us this question are extremely worried about traveling alone, often asking us or saying things like:

• What will people think if I’m alone in Las Vegas?
• Where can I eat where people won’t notice that I’m alone?
• What clubs can I go to if I’m traveling solo? Will people think I’m weird?

It’s VEGAS! Relax! Over 40 million people travel to Las Vegas every year, and a significant portion of those people come here alone. While many visitors think of Las Vegas as the gambling capital of the world, we also have another huge tourism draw, our conventions. Las Vegas is the most popular spot in the world for Tradeshows, Expos, and Conventions.

So what does that have to do with traveling alone? Well, a large percentage of the people coming here for conventions are coming here by themselves, and even the ones who flew in with coworkers are likely hanging out by themselves. I mean come on, most people don’t want to spend time in Vegas with the people that irritate them every day back at the office!

So back to the real source of the problem, what do you do in Las Vegas when you’re alone?

The Top Things to do in Las Vegas when you’re Traveling by Yourself

HAVE FUN! This is Las Vegas; nobody cares that you’re alone. People are spending their time trying to see what trouble they can get themselves into; they aren’t too concerned with how weird you think you may look.

Plus, even the couples that come here will often split up, one playing the tables while the other shops the day away at the Forum Shops at Caesars or some other Las Vegas shopping bonanza. Seriously, nobody cares! For all they know, the person you’re traveling with is down at the pool, shopping somewhere, or playing the slots. RELAX!

Dining Alone? Check out a Local Happy Hour Hotspot

If you’re that worried about sitting alone when you’re out to eat, just check out one of the thousands of happy hours on the Las Vegas Strip. Not only will you find some of the best drink and food deals in the city, but most of the people who hit up these happy hours are either traveling alone or locals who know where to have a good time and score a good deal.

From about 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. almost every bar, restaurant, and pub on the strip offers some sort of happy hour specials. But if you want to hit up a spot where you are guaranteed to see a lot of people, many of them traveling alone – hey, after this you might not be traveling alone – check out the dozens of restaurants and bars at the LINQ or the Fashion Show Mall right on the Strip.

Go solo and Hit up a Las Vegas Spa

99% of the people who go to the Spas on the strip are traveling alone, or at least they are showing up alone. Las Vegas Strip Spas are awesome for solo travelers, and they are an experience like nothing you will see anywhere else in the world. You can lounge the day away sitting aside their private pools, relaxing in their gigantic hot tubs and steam rooms, or getting a massage that will melt away every worry you had before you landed here in Las Vegas.

Check out our list of the top spas on the Las Vegas Strip .

Clubbing Alone in Vegas – Where to Go and How to Get in

Clubbing is one area where going alone may actually help you. Las Vegas Clubs are notoriously hard to get into, especially if you’re with a huge group of guys. Luckily, solo travelers will have an easier time getting into a crowded club alone than they would if they were with a huge group, although women generally have an easier time either way.

One note of caution on the Las Vegas Club Scene: if you do decide to go it alone, I suggest being extra vigilant. Just like anywhere, when you put a bunch of drinking people in a room there are going to be some people looking to take advantage of the situation, making it hard on the solo traveler who has no one to watch their back.

Here is our List of the Top Las Vegas Nightclubs

A better Option for the Solo Traveler: Bars and Lounges : Honestly, you are probably going to have a better time at one of the many bars or lounges in Las Vegas. Not only are they cheaper than the nightclubs, but in my opinion, they are often more fun and much safer for anyone who is out here alone.

Shopping in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a shopper’s paradise. From designer products and luxury swag to discount malls and tourists shops, we have it all. And when it comes to going it alone, shopping is one area where nobody is going to notice.

Some Shopping Hotspots to Checkout…

• Downtown Container Park : Located in downtown Las Vegas, just a couple of minutes’ walk from the Fremont Street experience, Container Park is the newest hotspot for locals. It’s kind of an artsy place, made up of unique stores and shops in a mall constructed with three stories of converted shipping containers.
• The Forum Shops at Caesars : The Forum Shops inside of Caesars Hotel & Casino are an experience that goes far beyond just shopping. The Forum Shops have over 160 specialty stores and fine dining restaurants including Louis Vuitton, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Valentino, Gucci, and some of the biggest names in fashion.
• Fashion Show Mall : Located right on the Las Vegas Strip, Fashion Show Mall is 2-million-square-feet of shopping, restaurants, and one-of-a-kind Las Vegas boutiques. And Yes, as the name implies they actually have an 80-foot retractable runway where they put on concerts, special events, and runway shows.
• Outlet Malls : For those looking to save some money, Las Vegas has two gigantic outlet malls. While both will save you some cash, we recommend the one on North of the Strip at 875 S Grand Central Pkwy. It’s an outdoor mall that features 175 designer and name-brand outlet stores.

How to Get around Town when you’re Alone

For the most part, Las Vegas is pretty safe; at any given time there are hundreds of police officers and security guards on the Strip, so you usually don’t have to worry about the crazies. That’s not to say they aren’t out there; they are; but as long as you steer clear of the scam artists and the bums, you will be okay. It is Las Vegas, so we do attract the rift-raft, but they are generally on the overpass bridges and stay away from the casinos.

As far as the best way to travel, I suggest staying off the buses – hell, I’m a local and most of the people on their scare me – stick to things like the trams, walking, or taking Uber and Lyft. Vegas Solo has an excellent article about solo female travelers using Lyft in Las Vegas .

Free Trams and the Monorail…

There is Free Tram Service in between the Mirage and Treasure Island; a Free Tram that hits The Shops at Crystals, Aria, The Bellagio, and the Monte Carlo; a Free Tram that hits The Excalibur, The Luxor, and Mandalay Bay, and of course the Las Vegas Monorail which has seven stations: MGM Grand, Bally’s / Paris, Flamingo, Harrah’s / The LINQ, Las Vegas Convention Center, Westgate Las Vegas and SLS Las Vegas. Rates for the monorail start at $12 for an unlimited one-day pass for one person.

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12 Best Las Vegas Hotels

From over-the-top resorts to serene, casino-free properties, here are 12 of the best hotels in Las Vegas.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

MGM Resorts International

Las Vegas is a destination that rarely leads with subtlety. Instead, it consistently offers visitors an extra-large dose of neon lights, over-the-top entertainment, and grand experiences they can’t find anywhere else. 2023 was a particularly dynamic year for Sin City tourism — with the debut of Sphere, the much-anticipated return of the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, and residencies from some of the biggest names in the business, including U2, Kelly Clarkson, and Maroon 5. Additionally, there were a few exciting arrivals to the hospitality scene; Travel + Leisure received exclusive access to cover the openings of Fontainebleau Las Vegas and Durango Casino & Resort , both of which welcomed their first guests in December.

Quickly cementing themselves as favorites in the city's highly competitive hotel landscape, these two properties joined the likes of Wynn Las Vegas, a repeat winner in our World’s Best Awards, and the ever-opulent Bellagio Las Vegas. Given the sheer number of luxury accommodations in “America's Playground,” it can sometimes be difficult for travelers to decide where to stay. From the atmosphere and culinary experiences to the location and architectural choices, every hotel has a unique take on the quintessential Vegas trip. The top ones, however, go above and beyond — something that’s easier said than done in a city as extravagant as this one.

Read on to discover the best hotels in Las Vegas.

Wynn Las Vegas

Barbara Kraft / Wynn Las Vegas

Also available to book at Hotels.com

The service is unparalleled; guests consistently reference the staff’s attention to detail and hospitality.

The hotel has its own casino, a feature some travelers may prefer to avoid.

Wynn Las Vegas has reigned supreme in the World’s Best Awards for the last several years, repeatedly earning the number one spot as the best hotel in Las Vegas. It’s a title given for a few reasons, many of which revolve around the resort’s extensive list of activities and amenities. Even with its casino, indoor koi pond, waterfalls, fountains, restaurants (don’t miss Lakeside and Mizumi), pools, retail spots, and spa, Wynn still manages to feel intimate and special — a true testament to its employees working hard to ensure travelers have a faultless experience. The property also underwent a $200-million renovation in 2022, signaling a new era defined by its refreshing interiors and innovative food and beverage concepts. “From its whimsical lobby design and fabulous restaurants to the sophisticated and stylish guest rooms, it’s my favorite place to stay on the Strip,” said T+L special projects editor Elizabeth Rhodes after her January 2024 stay. “I went to Vegas this winter to see U2’s residency at The Sphere. You can walk to the venue from the Wynn via the Venetian, making it a great place to stay during any of the upcoming residencies.”

The Details:

• Standout amenities: Floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Strip, custom Molton Brown toiletries, in-room tablets to easily order room service
• Location: On the north end of the Strip
• Starting rates: $192 per night

Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas

Also available to book at Expedia.com

If you’re searching for a relaxing pool scene in Vegas, you’ll find it here.

It’s one of the city’s pricier hotels.

Travelers who prefer to return to a serene atmosphere following a day filled with Vegas’s sights and sounds should consider booking a room at the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas. Another property that recently received a major refresh , the 389-room hotel now feels more home-like than other Sin City accommodations. Its lobby, which was previously on the 23rd floor, moved to the ground level, where Calacatta Gold Italian marble and a light art deco aesthetic welcome guests and visitors. The latest changes were just part of the first phase of renovation, and more updates will come to fruition following Super Bowl LVIII.

• Standout amenities: Refurbished guest rooms, relaxing spa and pool deck, Tea Lounge
• Location: Toward the middle of the Strip
• Starting rates: $241 per night

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas

Four Seasons Resort

It’s one of the only non-gaming and non-smoking hotels on the Strip.

If you want the true “Las Vegas experience,” you’ll need to go next door to Mandalay Bay.

If one thing is certain, it’s that the top Las Vegas hotels blatantly refuse to be outdone by the other properties in the same bracket. Take the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, for example. The 424-room property wrapped its own renovation in 2023 , bringing a desert-inspired, oasis-like atmosphere to the retreat. Like most Four Seasons resorts, the hotel provides its guests with an elegant, comfortable experience, rounded out by an on-site restaurant, Veranda, and a well-appointed bar, Press. There’s also a palm tree-surrounded outdoor pool, a refreshed spa, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

• Standout amenities: Access to the Mandalay Bay pool complex, 15 specialty suites with wraparound views of the Las Vegas Valley, Forbes Five-Star spa and nail bar
• Location: Southernmost end of the Strip
• Starting rates: $327 per night

Bellagio Las Vegas

Also available to book at Booking.com

It’s a cultural icon in the city.

With over 3,000 guest rooms, this is a massive property.

For over 25 years, the Bellagio Las Vegas has been a Sin City staple — but don’t assume it’s comfortable resting on its laurels. Yes, it’s known for its famous dancing fountains, but the MGM Resorts International-operated resort continues to build and shape its storied legacy. In fact, T+L recently got the first look at the Bellagio’s $110-million renovation of its Spa Tower’s guest rooms and suites, which are now open to guests. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to grab a couple of seats at The Vault , the Bellagio’s newest cocktail bar. “Should you stay at a 25-year-old Vegas property? Probably not, unless it's this one. They have everything you want (and more), and the food and beverage program is always evolving with the times,” said T+L’s news director, Paul Brady .

• Standout amenities: 17 onsite restaurants (including Prime Steakhouse by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten), Bellagio Spa & Salon, Mediterranean-style pool, 156,000-square-foot casino
• Location: Centrally located on the Strip
• Starting rates: $169 per night

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

Request a room with a private terrace overlooking the skyline and the Bellagio fountains.

Expect flashy Vegas vibes; this isn’t a serene hotel.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is where you go if you want a quintessential Vegas experience without ever having to leave the hotel. Many of its rooms were designed with entertaining in mind, so they’re spacious enough to have a few friends over before exploring the on-site casino, nightclub, or poolside bars. It’s these wide-ranging amenities — you can even shop a few designer stores on property — as well as its iconic location that earned the Cosmopolitan the No. 3 spot in the 2023 World’s Best Awards . “Can you believe it's 10 years old? I can't. It’s still outstanding and probably worth whatever rate they're quoting,” said Brady.

• Standout amenities: Dog-friendly rooms, open-air terraces, 100,000-square-foot casino, spa
• Location: Near the middle of the Strip
• Starting rates: $106 per night

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

Connie Zhou / Fontainebleau Las Vegas

Everything is at your fingertips — from a giant pool complex to a spa, casino, and endless dining options.

It just opened in December 2023, so the hotel is still adding finishing touches.

The sibling property of Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is the second newly built resort to open on the Strip in the last 10 years — and it’s a big one. With 3,644 rooms across 60 floors, the hotel has the capacity to host thousands of guests, who can then take advantage of the 150,000-square-foot casino, more than three dozen restaurants and lounges, expansive luxury retail space, and a top-of-the-line spa. There’s also a six-acre pool complex — with seven luxury pools and private cabanas — set to open in spring 2024.

• Standout amenities: Six-acre pool complex (coming soon); 55,000-square-foot Lapis Spa; casino; fitness center with Peloton bikes, Hydrow Rowers, and VersaClimbers
• Location: Northern end of the Strip
• Starting rates: $300 per night

Durango Casino & Resort

Clint Jenkins / Durango Casino & Resort

The food and beverage scene is impressive; the Eat Your Heart Out food hall isn’t a hotel feature you come across every day.

You’ll need to arrange transportation if you want to explore the heart of Las Vegas.

It might have opened in the same month as Fontainebleau Las Vegas, but Durango Casino & Resort is a completely different experience. Even though it’s located 10 miles from the Strip, it still incorporates the glitz and glam you’d expect from Sin City — and there are more than enough dining options to keep your taste buds entertained. If you want steak, there’s Nicco’s; for Mexican, try Mijo; and for pasta, pizza, and oversized cookies, go to Summer House. The Eat Your Heart Out food hall, though, is where you’ll get a taste of everything, from New York’s Prince Street Pizza to Irv’s Burgers. One of the most thoughtful aspects of the entire property is its entrance; guests can head straight to their rooms and other amenities without passing through the 83,000-square-foot casino.

• Standout amenities: 1,000-square-foot speakeasy; outdoor pool area featuring private cabanas, oversized daybeds, and pool chairs; floor-to-ceiling windows in guest rooms
• Location: 10 miles off the Strip
• Starting rates: $249 per night

Caesars Palace Las Vegas

Roger Kisby / Bloomberg via Getty Images

Bacchanal Buffet is one of the best buffets in the city.

The guest rooms themselves are pretty standard.

Caesars Palace is synonymous with Las Vegas; after all, it’s been a stalwart character in the city since 1966. It’s also an enormous resort, with nearly 4,000 rooms spread across six towers. The Rome-themed hotel may portray elements from the ancient city, but much of the property has been recently renovated; the latest update, the Colosseum Tower , was unveiled to the public in late 2023. Along with 440 fresh rooms, the tower includes an exciting new restaurant: Peter Luger Steakhouse . And, of course, we can’t talk about Caesars Palace Las Vegas without mentioning the casino, which is home to 185 table games and over 1,300 slot machines. “When you think of ‘classic Vegas,’ Caesars instantly comes to mind. I love the over-the-top ancient Rome-inspired decor and the hotel’s central location on the Strip. The Colosseum also hosts some of the city’s top residencies — I loved 'Weekends With Adele,'" said Rhodes.

• Standout amenities: Peter Luger Steakhouse, 29th-floor villa suites, family-friendly pool complexes
• Starting rates: $85 per night

Vdara Hotel & Spa

Smoking isn’t (and has never been) allowed on property.

There’s no on-site casino.

Travel + Leisure readers voted Vdara Hotel & Spa into the no. 9 spot in the 2023 World’s Best Awards primarily due to its quality spa, spacious rooms, and excellent location in Aria Campus (formerly CityCenter). With over 1,400 guest rooms — all of which are technically suites — Vdara is more of a mid-sized Las Vegas hotel, so expect elements of intimacy while still being granted the peace and privacy of a larger resort. The Spa at Vdara is the true highlight of the property, and its amenities — a salon, redwood sauna, steam room, and 11 treatment rooms— are spread across two floors.

• Standout amenities: Dog-friendly accommodations, outdoor pool with cabanas, residential-style guest rooms, guests have access to laundry facilities
• Location: Slightly off the Strip
• Starting rates: $109 per night

The Venetian Resort Las Vegas

The Venetian Resort

Its food program includes big names like Wolfgang Puck, Thomas Keller, and Eyal Shani.

With over 7,000 rooms, this isn’t a small, intimate property.

When you book a stay at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, you’re opening yourself up to an experience filled with wonder and genuine fun. As its name implies, the hotel is Venice-themed, and guests begin their stay in the over-the-top lobby decked out in frescoes. There’s also a replica of Rialto Bridge and Venice's Campanile, adding to the Italian-inspired romance. Out of all of the features and amenities, two, in particular, stand out: the Canyon Ranch gym and spa and the three-story Tao complex inside the resort. In the spring of 2022, Tao Group Hospitality reopened Tao Beach Dayclub , where you’ll now find jungle cabanas that come with access to private plunge pools.

"The Venetian was perfect for a Vegas girls' trip. We booked a luxury two-queen suite, which felt spacious even after our luggage was inevitably sprawled out everywhere, thanks to the separate living area," said T+L's digital editorial director Nina Ruggiero. "So many of our favorite restaurants were at our fingertips (there are over 40 to choose from), but the best part is kicking off the trip with a round of Aperol spritzes beside the Grand Canal."

• Standout amenities: Venetian pool deck, TAO Beach Dayclub, complimentary entry to TAO Nightclub
• Starting rates: $167 per night

ARIA Resort & Casino

It has a grown-up, mature feeling that you don’t often find in Las Vegas hotels.

Guests note rooms can be a bit of a hike from the elevators.

Like many of the best hotels in Las Vegas, Aria Resort & Casino comes with all the fixings: pools, a spa, gaming, and plenty of restaurants and bars. Where it really gets its stellar reputation, however, is its Sky Suites . Over 400 suites fall into this category, with the one- and two-bedroom accommodations ranging from 1,050 to 2,060 square feet. Guests staying in the Sky Suites are chauffeured from the airport and taken to a private lounge to check in. Plus, a 24-hour concierge team works to ensure their Las Vegas vacation has everything they want — show tickets, last-minute reservations, and more.

"Staying at Aria feels like doing 'grown-up Vegas' to me. The suites are luxurious and not cheesy, and they have some of the best views of the Strip. If you have the funds to splurge on a Sky Suite, you won't regret it," said Ruggiero.

• Standout amenities: Full-service spa with a salt room and heated stone beds, on-site Carbone restaurant, three pools
• Location: Aria Campus on the Strip
• Starting rates: $139 per night

NoMad Las Vegas

NoMad properties are known for their chicness; this one follows suit.

If you want all the flashing lights and bells and whistles of Vegas, consider another hotel.

A hotel within a hotel, NoMad Las Vegas is found at the top of the Park MGM (a World’s Best Awards regular), in the space that formerly held the Monte Carlo. It’s a small property, with under 300 guest rooms in total, that feels elevated while still playful. Acclaimed bar director Leo Robitschek leads the cocktail program, so be sure to stop in the NoMad bar for pre-dinner sips. And if you’re interested in gambling? No need to go far. The hotel has a small casino, and guests are also welcome to access Park MGM’s larger casino.

• Standout amenities: Roof deck and pool, well-stocked minibars, small casino
• Location: Inside the Park MGM on the Strip
• Starting rates: $135 per night

Know Before You Go

Decide if you want to stay on or off the strip..

The Vegas Strip might be one of the city’s biggest draws, but you don’t necessarily have to stay in this hub of activity. If you choose to stay in another area, there’s a good chance you’ll find better deals. However, it’s important to note that you may end up paying the difference in cab fare to get to the Strip or downtown.

Determine if you want your hotel to have a casino or not.

Some travelers come to Vegas for the gambling; others come for the live music, shows, shopping, and celebrity-chef-created cuisine. If you fall into the former category, an on-site casino may be a non-negotiable. If you don’t care for the gaming aspect of the city, you may want to avoid hotels with casinos, as there’s typically around-the-clock activity and noise.

Consider your must-have amenities and facilities.

For most Las Vegas hotels, the rooms are just one part of the overall experience. Many offer more relaxation-centered concepts — like an outdoor pool or a full-service spa — as well as top-rated restaurants and lively bars. For the best trip to Las Vegas, choose a hotel that most closely aligns with your personal preferences and ideal way to spend a vacation.

How We Chose These Hotels

Lydia Mansel is a travel journalist with extensive experience in the world of luxury hospitality. The Las Vegas hotels on this list were chosen based on past performance in Travel + Leisure ’s World’s Best Awards as well as on-the-ground editor and contributor experience at each property. Additionally, each hotel was evaluated by its guest rooms, amenities, location, culinary offerings, and overall value to travelers.

Getting to the Strip From the Las Vegas Airport (7 Ways)

(This article may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you click and make a purchase. Thank you!)

Imagine you’ve just flown into the Las Vegas Airport (LAS) and you can’t wait to grab your luggage and get to the Strip. But wait! Before you can check into your hotel and get down to having a seriously good time, you’ll need to get from the airport to the Strip.

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Whether you’re visiting Vegas for a one-day conference or spending a week-long vacation, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the best way to go from the Las Vegas Airport to the Las Vegas Strip.

Let’s get started! Here are the 7 best ways to get to the Strip from the Las Vegas airport:

Inside this article:

1. Hop on a Las Vegas Airport Shuttle

Airport shuttles should make the top of your list if you are traveling to Vegas on a budget and want to save money for the casinos.

Here is a list of a few of the most popular companies that offer a shared shuttle service at the airport:

• SuperShuttle
• Showtime Tours

The rates are very cheap for a roundtrip to and from the airport, and all of them are found in the same place at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 at Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran Airport).

You can pre-book at least two hours before your flight arrival, and most of them have apps or boarding booths outside baggage claim that allow you to check-in and book a seat when you arrive.

This may be the cheapest way to travel but it is also the most time-consuming. This is not a private shuttle bus and you’ll have to make multiple stops before reaching your destination, so if you’re staying in the last hotel on the Strip (Las Vegas Boulevard), you may want to reconsider.

It can take 30 minutes to an hour or more to reach your destination.

A major complaint with these services is the lack of punctuality as these shuttles hardly ever arrive on time. It also works on a first-come, first-serve basis, so make sure you have a backup plan in mind in case they are already full when you arrive.

Important note : In order to avoid traffic congestion, no hotel on the Las Vegas Strip provides its own airport shuttle service. If you’d like to take a shuttle from the airport to your hotel on the Strip you will need to use one of the 3rd party shuttle services mentioned above.

You can find more detailed information about using a Las Vegas airport shuttle in my article here .

2. Travel in Style in an Airport Limo to The Strip

Vegas is all about style and money, and if you want to experience both immediately right from the start of your trip, hiring a limo service may be the way to go. When you think of living it up in Vegas, traveling in a limo definitely comes to mind.

You can pre-book a limo of your choice from one of the several companies that offer this service or use the walk-up limousine service available at the airport. These limousines are available on a first-come basis and may not be available if the airport is busy.

In this case, it would be a better idea to book ahead of time with one of the companies that provide private limo service. VIP Limousines of Nevada is one of the most popular limousine service providers in Las Vegas and is a good choice.

The benefit of a private limo is that there will be no unnecessary stops on the way unless you yourself want to stop.

Hiring a limo is a great idea if money is not an issue or you are traveling as part of a larger group, but it is the most expensive option as it can cost around $75 per trip plus tip.

You can also book a Sedan or SUV from a limo service provider, which will be less stylish and less damaging to your wallet.

Note : The Strip hotel you are staying in may also arrange a limo for you, in which case the driver will meet you at the airport baggage claim area. You’ll need to discuss this transportation option with your hotel prior to arriving. However, know that this service is usually reserved for casino high-rollers.

I have a dedicated article where I go into detail about how to get a limo from the airport including cost.

3. Rent a Car at The Las Vegas Airport

If you’re staying in Las Vegas for several days and you plan on visiting locations throughout the city and beyond, it may be a good idea to rent a car instead. You can rent a car for a few hours or days according to what meets your budget and needs.

Las Vegas Harry Reid Airport has a Rent-A-Car Center that houses almost 10 rental companies. The center is three miles from the airport, but the blue and white Harry Reid Rent-A-Car Center shuttle buses can take you there.

If you have reserved a car with another rental company, they will pick you up at Space No. 4 by the taxi staging area at the Harry Reid Rent-A-Car Center.

The biggest downside to renting a car is finding free parking on the Strip . The hotels on the Strip have plenty of parking available but you will have to pay for it in most cases.

RELATED: Should You Rent a Car in Las Vegas? 3 Things to Consider

4. Grab an Uber or Lyft From The Airport To The Strip

Uber and Lyft came to Vegas with a bang in 2014 and broke the monopoly of the Vegas taxis.

Hopping in a Lyft or Uber is one of the most common ways that visitors transfer from the airport to the Strip.

You can book a ride as soon as you land at the airport , and the driver can meet you at a set rideshare location outside the baggage claim area. Rideshare prices are lower than taxi fares and booking limousines.

Plus, there is no cash required to make a transaction as everything is done through the app.

Unfortunately, there can be a downside to rideshare. Due to high demand at certain times of the day, you can face surge prices in Uber or primetime in Lyft that can increase prices significantly higher than Taxi fares.

RELATED: Uber From the Las Vegas Airport to the Strip (How Much?)

5. Ride in a Vegas Taxi To The Strip

Hailing a taxi ride is an old-school way that is always available wherever you go.

You will find the Vegas taxis at the curbside of the airport with a variety of cab companies to choose from. Taxis rides from the airport have recently become more economical in Las Vegas due to the newly implemented “zone pricing” system.

Zone pricing will get you from Harry Reid Airport to your hotel on the Strip for between $19-$27 depending on what zone your hotel is in.

You can see the zone map and the exact fares to your hotel in my article here that discusses more details about taxi fares in Las Vegas.

The taxi rates from the airport to the Strip are fixed so there is no surge pricing like with Rideshare companies. However, it is proper form to tip your taxi driver 10 to 15%. You’ll also be paying an additional $3 if you choose to pay by credit/debit card.

6. Use Public Transportation (Deuce Bus) From The Airport To The Strip

Taking a city bus from the airport is the cheapest way of traveling from the Harry Reid International Airport to the Las Vegas Strip.

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) runs the city buses (aka The Deuce) and has a bus stop at the airport.

Check the route and schedule from the RTC website to find one that suits you best. Tickets can be purchased from a vending machine at level zero in Terminal 1 or booked using the RTC mobile application.

The tickets are as low as $2 for a one-way trip to the Strip.

As with shuttles, a public bus also makes multiple stops, and it can take up to an hour or more to reach your destination. It may also be very difficult carrying your luggage on a bus, especially if you have to switch buses on your route.

The RTC is also undergoing some route deviations, and some routes may be closed for construction on the day of your flight. It would be wise to use an alternative way to get to the Strip, as a reroute could mean a longer trip or even a walk between stops.

This Youtube user shows how to reach the bus stop and use the vending machine to purchase a ticket in his video at 2:57.

RELATED: Ride The Deuce (City Bus) to Explore the Strip & Downtown (Cost & Route)

7. Walking to the Strip From The Las Vegas Airport

If you look outside your airplane window before you land, the Vegas Strip may seem like it’s right next to the airport. While it may look close, walking from the airport to the Strip, while dragging your luggage is not for the faint of heart (especially during the hot summer months).

It’s roughly a 3-mile (4.8 km) walk from the airport to the closest major Las Vegas hotel (Mandalay Bay) on the Strip, but since the Vegas Strip is 4.2 miles (6.75 km) long in itself, it may be much further than 3 miles to reach your final destination.

Using this way to travel to the Strip is a personal choice.

If you are adventurous, on a mission to save money, or just want a different experience, walking may be a good option for you.

Plan your attire according to the time of year you visit Vegas, as a light jacket can make a positive difference in January, or a cap can save you from the blazing heat in June.

It is very difficult to get lost as most of your destinations will be clearly visible ahead of you but it’s recommended to follow a navigation guide on your phone for the shortest route. Security is usually not an issue as the Strip has police and security cameras everywhere.

You will find good sidewalks the entire way to the Strip and on to your hotel.

It’s important to note that there is a serious lack of shade on the way to the Strip, so water, and a hat, are your best friends. Also, there may be some restricted areas when leaving the airport by foot, and you may have to reroute and take a longer path to the Strip.

In his video, this Youtube user shows exactly what to expect if you choose to walk from the airport to the Vegas Strip.

Las Vegas airport transportation is pretty convenient. Getting to your hotel on or near the Las Vegas Strip from the Harry Reid airport is quite easy and there are a multitude of transportation options to choose from.

The best choice for you will depend on your budget and time schedule.

My advice is if you’re only in Vegas for the weekend, don’t waste any of your precious vacation time trying to save a couple of dollars.

Your best bet for getting to your hotel quickly and affordably from the airport is by either taking a taxi or using a rideshare service (Uber or Lyft).

Enjoy your trip to Las Vegas!

Bryan is a Las Vegas local who has spent years exploring the city's vibrant culture and entertainment scene. With his extensive knowledge of the best attractions and hidden gems, he has become an expert on all things Las Vegas. He regularly shares his insider tips with people looking to visit Las Vegas and make the most of their trip. More about Bryan.

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Single Guy’s Guide to Vegas

Las Vegas for Single Guys

We now present a great guide for meeting women in Vegas and having a great “boys night out trip!” You will find advice on getting a good room, clubbing, comps, the pool scene, getting around the strip, entertainment, dining, and more.

Get a Good Room

Las Vegas is no longer a cheap place to stay and eat. The only exception is if you gamble and get “comps” (see next tip regarding comps). $20 rooms are no longer the norm except for certain times during Christmas and Summer. $100-$200 per night is often closer to the average for a reasonable hotel. Don’t be too cheap … a bunch of people staying in one room to save money is no fun and will ruin your trip. You will be spending a lot of time in your room, even if you don’t think so before you go to Vegas. You can only be gambling and going out so many hours per day and will need a room you like to crash and recharge for the night and afternoon. Staying in a cheapo room with cracking walls, a bad shower, low water pressure, noise, dirt, etc., is just going to start things off in the wrong direction. It can make it difficult to get a good nights rest so you look and feel your best. After all, you want to appear confident and smooth when meeting the ladies. A decent room will help you achieve this and a bad room can just have the opposite effect on your all-important self-image. As a minimum look for a 3 star (4 star or higher is suggested) hotel in a good location near Center Strip or CityCenter.

It is not easy to get comped these days. You will need to stay and gamble at the same hotel for almost your entire stay and gamble hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The hotels just don’t give things away unless you play a lot and also let them know you are gambling. You may get show tickets with a few hundred in bets, but a free room requires thousand’s of dollars per day in gambling. You will be money ahead by just spending your money on a good room, nice meal, or entertainment, and skipping the gambling to get comps. Of course, gambling for fun is another story. See our Vegas comps guide for more information.

Meeting Women

In general, the more average hotels with cheaper drinks will attract more approachable women. For example,  Harrah’s Carnival Court is a good place to meet women. Very high-end hotels are often filled with escorts or “gold diggers.”  If you see a woman drinking non-alcoholic beverages like hot coffee/tea at night, they are often but of course not always, escorts. They won’t be drinking alcohol if they are “working,” so don’t bother trying to hit on them. If you are looking for that, see our Sin City Guide for more about that part of Vegas.

Most girls in Vegas are actively looking to do stuff and meet guys. As a result, it is often easier to meet women in Vegas than in your hometown. However, the same rules apply and the competition is just as bad or worse, with more aggressive guys and an international playing field of affluent people. Just play it cool and have reasonable expectations. You are still you in Vegas. The most important things is to have fun and show confidence, which is what will really attract women.

You can also try going to Downtown Vegas during the day as well. The area can get a bit sketchy at night. Look for girls with those big drinks. They will be very drunk after finishing one!

The Club Scene

Low-end clubs are going to give you much better odds of finding girls. It is more fun and not such a scene. Further, it will be tough to get into high-end clubs when they are busy. One exception is if you are staying as a guest in the hotel, since they sometimes have VIP tickets for guests. Otherwise, you will most likely need to recruit some women to get you into a club or will need to tip the doorman a lot. Try to meet women in the fringes of the clubs where it is more quiet. The main dance area is just for dancing and you can’t talk. Unless you just want to dance the night away, skip the dancing. Some of the best clubs in Vegas are at the Cosmopolitan hotel . Tip the bartender $10 to start for better service. You will need their attention to get drinks when they are busy.

Clubs close around 6 AM, but don’t bother looking for action that late. Even Vegas stops as the sun comes up. Drais at the Cromwell has a good late night club. You may want to hit the pool the next day to meet women, so sleeping too late will ruin your daytime action. 

The “cheap and cheesy” clubs and lounges are going to save you money and you will get in faster. The girls are also going to be much easier to approach and you will have more fun. The main benefit of the big name clubs is a nicer place with what are often better looking girls. See our Vegas club guide for more information.

Many of the pools in Vegas are closed during the winter, so you will need to keep that in mind. Also, with a few exceptions you can only stay in the pool of the hotel you are staying at, so make sure to pick a hotel with a good pool if that is important. Hotels with a good singles scene pool are Palms , Rio , Hard Rock , Mirage , Caesars , Flamingo , and MGM Grand . Mandalay Bay has the best pool, but it is more for families. Palms and Hardrock have the best pool clubs. Day club pool parties are a great place to meet the ladies. The vibe is very relaxed. As with most places, you will see more guys than girls and if you are not in good shape it could be intimidating.

Some pools offer European style topless pools. Examples include the Moorea Beach Club at Mandalay Bay and the Venus Pool at Caesars  that has a secret hidden entrance. Another good one is the Sapphire Pool, which is run by the Sapphire strip club , so you will definitely be seeing attractive topless women. As the name implies, the Bare Pool Lounge at Mirage is also topless and one of the best on the Strip. For the most part, don’t go with a bunch of guys if you want to get into these pools. With the exception of Sapphire, most of the girls are not likely to be “topless worthy” and are there just to relax European style. It might also be mostly guys too. Just stick with the Gentlemen’s Clubs unless you are really into the topless pool scene. See our Vegas pool guide .

Location. Getting Around. Best Times to Visit

The  Flamingo , Bellagio and Caesars are center strip and in a “hot area” near many things you will want to do. If possible, try to book your hotel around them. CityCenter is another great area with Aria , Cosmopolitan and Vdara around it. The north part of the strip is quieter and features Venetian , Wynn and Encore .

Hotels in Vegas are often huge and can be around 1/2 mile apart, so unless you have a car or love walking, you will need cabs or the monorail if you are not central to things. You may think you are saving money staying a few miles off the strip, but the cab fare can really add up and make things more expensive than if you just picked a better location. Even with a car, traffic can be insane and waste hours out of your day. You can consider renting a limo and travel the town in style. When shared by enough people the cost is not that much more than if everyone took cabs.

Thanksgiving to Christmas is the cheapest time to stay in Las Vegas. It is also the deadest time, so there is a trade-off. July and August also have dirt-cheap rates, but you will be frying in 100°F weather if you plan on doing much walking outside, but it is fine for hitting the pools. The best weather weather is March, April, May and June. January can be cold with below freezing temps at night. January also has a lot of conventions, so you will be paying more even though the weather is bad. See our Vegas Weather Guide for more info.

The Vegas monorail runs in the back of the hotels, so you will still need to do a lot of walking just to get to the stops. In a lot of cases it is just faster to walk to a nearby hotel. However, it is very useful for getting around from distant locations, like North to South end of the Strip. A daily or weekly pass can save you money and is advisable.

Taxi cabs cannot be hailed. You can only get it at the front of a hotel by waiting in line. The people in the taxi lines don’t normally need tips. Also, the cab drivers get kick-backs from the clubs. Stick to where you want to go when in a cab and don’t get side-tracked. On a long trip, such as from the airport to your hotel, it is a good idea to ask for the estimated amount of a trip before you get in the taxi, which will keep the cab driver honest in what he charges. You can also make note of their drive ID number and let them know your paying attention to it.

NY NY to Stratosphere (South to North end of Strip) is a very long 5 mile walk. It is not easy to do and will make you very tired with worn out feet. This is almost an impossible walk during the hot summer months unless you are into marathons. Have a plan and don’t just walk around the Strip. A good map is also suggested. Always have lots of water with you when you walk during the hot months. This is even more true if you plan to drink a lot, since alcohol will dehydrate your body. Heat stroke is no fun. Wear a light jacket during the colder months.

Downtown vs. the Strip. Downtown has good aspects – Great for gambling. Low table minimums. Old school Vegas. It is fine to visit, but we don’t advise staying there even though the cheap rates can be tempting. There are also some safety concerns, especially at night.

Getting The Best Hotel Rates

The best rates are usually, but not always online. Never take the price of the first rate given when you call a hotel. You will get a better rate if you wait. Book online with a discount source . Be sure to check several online sources and go with the lowest rate. However, you really need to go with a trusted company that has been around for a while (shameless plug for this site, Las Vegas Direct is coming), since there are still lots of bad companies out there, and if you are not careful … you may never get your confirmation and you could be out the entire cost of the prepaid hotel stay! Another savings tip is to not book too far in advance, since the hotels don’t yet know if there is a low enough volume to warrant discounted rates. 1-2 months in advance is a sweet spot to find cheap days. Just search in blocks of 1 week at a time. Sun-Thurs will almost always give you the best rates. Great deals will come up in the search results  on certain dates that are not booked much, since the hotels don’t want empty rooms. Be sure to avoid busy Vegas conventions that can cause prices to skyrocket.

We mentioned that booking online is best, but you can sometimes save a lot by calling and asking for unpublished rates .  Check out our 1-888-ME-VEGAS  24/7 hotline to see what we mean. We have seen customers save 75% or more by calling and a quote just takes a few minutes.

Strip Clubs

Gentlemen’s clubs in Vegas are very accepted and you won’t be seen as a “pervert.” Some are much better than others. Spearmint Rhino is one of the best. Get there before 9p if you want a seat on weekends. The strippers in Vegas fly in from all over the country. The “best of the best” often appear in these clubs. Big conventions get some of the best looking dancers as they see more opportunity. See our Strip Club Guide for more info.

Dining and Entertainment

Do a guys dinner with steaks and drinks. Vegas has many great steakhouses – Smith and Wollensky, Charlie Palmer Steak, Delmonico, Craftsteak, Flemings, Palm, Prime at Bellagio, and SW Steakhouse at Wynn  are some good choices. The House of Blues Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay is also a great place to smoke cigars. See our guide to the best restaurants in Vegas and buffets .

Finally, no trip to Vegas is complete without seeing some shows . Go for one of the top big production shows , like those by Cirque du Soleil. 

Related: Vegas Girls Night Out

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Your crew always embraces the party—anytime, anywhere. Now the boys are going to Vegas for the first time and you’re ready to make it a weekend for the books. The only FOMO you’ll have is when you go home and think of all the things you have to do on that next Vegas trip. Here’s how to make those Snapchat stories lit and those visions of an iconic weekend in Vegas a reality.

First thing's first, check out The Strip.

These are the must-dos for a first timers trip to Vegas: Get that essential Welcome To Las Vegas sign picture, watch the  Bellagio Fountains , take a spin on the  High Roller , and walk down Las Vegas Boulevard to see what adventures you get into.

Daytime Hangs

What should you do during the day? 

Take a few swings at  TopGolf  where you can get your own climate-controlled hitting bay with food and drink service.

Want a piece of the great outdoors? Go off-Strip to take a hike at Red Rock, or take a day trip to the  Grand Canyon  (you can even go  by helicopter ).

Adrenaline Junkies, we're talking to you.

Thrill seekers will love ziplining through  Fremont Street Experience  on the  Slotzilla , or the  thrill rides on top of The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Skypod  that loom 900 feet above the Strip. Get your heart racing inside with a little  indoor skydiving  or on some of the fastest indoor go karts in the country at  Pole Position Raceway .

What’s for dinner?

STK , the trendy steakhouse at  The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas , sounds perfect. Another great choice is  Libertine Social  ( Mandalay Bay ) by James Beard Award-winning chef Shawn McClain, where you'll find New American cuisine with a modern gastropub feel. If you're in the mood for Asian cuisine, try the highly-acclaimed  Momofuku  ( The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas ) for their signature steamed buns and ginger scallion noodles.

If you want a classic burger and a beer, go for  Guy Fieri's Vegas Kitchen & Bar  ( The LINQ Hotel + Experience  ) or  Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill  ( Caesars Palace .)

We'll drink to that.

If you and the guys are feeling like sipping on a beer while watching the big game, take a seat at The Front Yard ( Ellis Island ) or  Beer Park  ( Paris Las Vegas ).

To live like a local, check out the lively downtown scene. Head to the  Fremont East District  for some fun bar-hopping at Commonwealth or Park on Fremont.

This itinerary is stacked to make your first Vegas trip one you'll remember forever. There's nothing quite like your first weekend in Vegas, that is until you come back again. You know what they say: what happens here, stays here.

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Las Vegas Flights

Las vegas airports.

Land right into the heart of all the Sin City action when you book your Las Vegas flights through Harry Reid International Airport . This airport is just 5 miles from downtown Las Vegas, Nevada, which means you can hit the casino floors, buffets, and nightlife as soon as your flight lands.

Considered the main commercial airport for the Clark County and Las Vegas region, this complex includes a number of on-site amenities to keep you entertained between flights. For some pre-flight retail therapy, mosey around the shops, which offer designer brands, apparel, cosmetics, electronics, and more. Alternatively, if youíd like to responsibly test your luck before hitting the casinos on The Strip, check out the slot machines scattered throughout the terminal. Let your tots burn off some energy in the Kids Play Area, or explore the historical flight exhibits at the Aviation Museum.

Other airports that offer flights to Vegas include the North Las Vegas Airport and the Henderson Executive Airport. North Las Vegas Airport is open to general aviation, while Henderson Executive is considered a relief airport.

Airport Transportation

The beauty of these Las Vegas airports is that theyíre conveniently located near the city, so transportation to and from the tarmac is a breeze. For the freedom to explore the region at your will, reserve a Las Vegas car rental and cruise off the lot once you fly into the terminal. All three airports offer taxi and limousine service, while McCarran and Henderson also provide shuttle service. McCarran airport has the added convenience of RTC buses that stop at the terminals.

Las Vegas Activities

When it comes to things to do in Las Vegas , NV, the options are limitless. Known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, this city boasts weird and wonderful activities that all kinds of travelers can appreciate. For some heart-stopping performances, check out the magic shows by Criss Angel Believe, Penn and Teller, or David Copperfield, and marvel at the Cirque du Soleil acrobatics. Celine Dion and the Blue Man Group put on crowd-pleasing concerts, while Jersey Boys and Vegas! The Show are top picks for theater productions. After gallivanting around The Strip all day, rest up and take it easy at one of the best hotels in Las Vegas .

Planning Your Trip

If you are planning to book flights to Las Vegas in the summertime, expect sunshine and temperatures in the triple digits. To beat the heat, grab a cold drink and snag a spot by the pool. Alternatively, winter is cooler, with temperatures ranging between 30 and 60 F, but itís still a popular time of year to visit, especially during New Yearís Eve.

Here at Expedia.com, weíll help you score cheap flights to Las Vegas regardless of when you plan on visiting. Youíll find cheap deals on both direct and non-direct airfare. Plus, when you use our mobile booking app to browse and make reservations, youíll receive access to our exclusive discounts. You can even bundle your cheap tickets to Las Vegas with your hotel and other travel arrangements to save even more money.

Frequently asked questions

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that’ll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You’ll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.
• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, aren’t allowed in the cabin either.
• Comfort should always be your priority when picking what to wear on board. Consider your footwear with care too, as swollen feet and ankles are a common occurrence. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a good idea.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-distance travel is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are another easy way to help lower your risk.
• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won’t be allowed on board.

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