Las Vegas' city lights, nightlife and casinos attract 38 million people annually. You can visit the fountains of Bellagio, the Mob Museum, catch live performances or spend your night gambling at one of the many casinos. From world-famous resorts to natural wonders just outside the city, there's something here for every kind of traveler.
We'll explore Las Vegas tips for first timers, things to do and more in this travel guide.
Las Vegas Tips for First Timers
Your first time in Vegas is awe-inspiring, but it's also overwhelming. Before we go any further into this Las Vegas travel guide, here are a few tips that will help you survive your first visit.
1. Pick Your Months with Caution
You might view the best time to visit Las Vegas as the summer, but don't forget that this is a desert where temperatures can swell to 100°F for over 70 days. If you plan on seeing sporting events, such as F1 racing, be sure to pick your dates with caution.
2. Stay for 3 to 4 Days Max
Remain in Vegas for no longer than four days. A Las Vegas 3 day itinerary allows you to let loose, enjoy the local nightlife and indulge, but you won't be overwhelmed in the process.
3. Careful of Added Fees
How much does a trip to Las Vegas cost? More than it seems from the onset. Resort fees are often tacked on top of hotel fees to help pay for amenities, such as Wi-Fi or premium television channels that you're unlikely to use anyway because you're out having fun. Always check the resort fee before booking, since it can add $30 to $50 per night to your total.
4. Be Mindful of Using Cabs
Cabs make your life easier, and it's not that you shouldn't use them at all, but you need to be at dedicated stands to be picked up. Due to the traffic in the area, prices can quickly creep up on you. Instead, consider using the monorail or tram system.
5. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Extra
Hotels are used to guests asking for upgrades. You may be turned down and still be left in the room that you paid for originally, or it's possible that you receive a free upgrade that you received simply because you asked.
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Las Vegas 3 Day Itinerary
Three days is just the right time for a trip to Vegas. A sample itinerary may include:
- Day 1: Start your day at a bistro, head to the Eiffel Tower viewing deck, go to the Bellagio fountains and then keep the night open to gamble.
- Day 2: Eat at the top breakfast, lunch and dinner eateries in the area. Visit the Mob Museum, go shopping at Container Park and go to Fremont Street at night.
- Day 3: Head to Red Rock Canyon, visit the local cities and stay at one of the resorts in the area.
Not sure what to do during your 3-day stay? Below we have a list of things to do in Las Vegas that will keep you occupied for your entire stay.
Things to Do in Las Vegas
1. Explore the Casinos
You have plenty of casinos to choose from:
- Caesars Palace
- Bellagio
- Red Rock Casino
- Many others
2. Mob Museum
Located on Stewart Avenue, the museum is dedicated to organized crime and law enforcement. If you're an organized crime "buff," this is a must-see attraction.
3. Go to Shows
Perfect for anyone trying to come up with bachelor party ideas, you'll find plenty of shows around the Strip. Free and live concerts are common, and if you're staying at one of the resorts below, you might be able to enjoy some of these shows 100% free. For a modern twist, catch an immersive production at the Sphere, one of the city's newest must-see attractions.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
The Strip has no shortage of accommodations for budgets of all sizes. A few of the most popular places to stay include:
MGM Grand
Trendy clubs and a sprawling resort casino are at your fingertips when you book at MGM Grand. You'll find that pricing is lower than the other options on the list, and it's still a stunning 4-star hotel.
Bellagio Hotel & Casino
Walk outside to see the famous fountains and feel like you walked right out of a movie. Bellagio is a luxury casino resort with fine dining, pools, hot tubs, casinos and a 5-star experience that is unforgettable.
Caesars Palace
Caesars is another 5-star hotel that looks like you stepped back into ancient Rome. Spend time exploring the stunning exterior, play games at the casino or dine in one of the world-class restaurants.
Be sure to do your own research online and put in budget constraints to find more great places that you can stay.
When is the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas?
Planning to elope in Las Vegas, going for a bachelor party, or just want to travel around the area for no reason at all? Some times of the year are better than others. Since Vegas is a desert, it's best to avoid the scorching heat.
The Strip, pools and everything the area has to offer are best experienced during:
- March to May
- September to October
Spring and Fall offer the best months of the year to enjoy pool parties, cooler temperatures without intense heat. These shoulder seasons also tend to bring smaller crowds than peak summer weekends.
If you're more worried about your budget and maximizing your dollar during your stay, then consider going during the summer or winter months. While the temperatures are less favorable, hotels will have lower prices, and you can score some good deals on upgrades for premium accommodations.
How Much Does a Trip To Las Vegas Cost?
Travel costs to and from Las Vegas vary, depending on your location. Single travelers can spend $150 - $500 for a flight or more, and then add in the hotel, food and drinks, entertainment and other expenses.
If you stay budget-friendly, you can stay within the $1,000 to $2,000 range, but if you splurge for a mid-range hotel or a luxury one, you might spend $150 - $400+ per night.
You have a lot to consider before planning your trip, and we recommend adding a 20% cushion on top of your budget for those times when you need a taxi or find an event that you want to go to unplanned.
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With Celebration.com Travel, our experts are waiting to plan every single detail of your trip for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Las Vegas?
Three to four days is the sweet spot. That gives you enough time to experience the Strip, catch a show or two, spend a night gambling, and fit in a day trip without burning out. Any longer and the pace and desert heat can start to feel overwhelming, especially for first-timers.
What is the best time to visit Las Vegas?
March to May and September to October offer the most comfortable temperatures and the best pool season, making them ideal for enjoying everything outdoors. Summer brings intense desert heat, while winter is cooler, but both seasons come with lower hotel rates and better upgrade deals if you're traveling on a budget.
How much does a trip to Las Vegas cost?
Costs vary widely depending on where you're flying from and your travel style. A budget-friendly trip typically runs about $1,000 to $2,000 per person, while mid-range and luxury hotels can cost anywhere from $150 to $400+ per night. Watch for resort fees added on top of your room rate, and build in roughly a 20% cushion for taxis, dining, and unplanned events.
What is the best way to get around Las Vegas?
The monorail, tram, and rideshare services are the easiest ways to travel along the Strip. Distances between resorts look much shorter than they actually are, so plan on using transport rather than walking everywhere, particularly in the heat. If you take cabs, use the dedicated stands, since traffic can make fares climb quickly.
What is there to do in Las Vegas besides gambling?
Quite a lot. You can catch a Cirque du Soleil show or a concert at the Sphere, watch the free Bellagio fountains, zipline over Fremont Street, or ride the High Roller observation wheel. For a change of scenery, popular day trips include the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, and Red Rock Canyon, all within easy reach of the city.
Is Las Vegas good for a bachelorette or 21st birthday party?
It's one of the top destinations for milestone celebrations. With world-famous nightclubs, dayclubs, live shows, and upscale dining all concentrated in one place, it's easy to build an unforgettable group celebration. Popular options include pool parties at Encore Beach Club or Wet Republic, bottle service at clubs like XS or Omnia, and renting a limo or party bus along the Strip.