best vegas trip planner

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

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..?

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

A Little Bit About this 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Where to stay in las vegas, las vegas itinerary, las vegas itinerary day 1, las vegas itinerary day 2, las vegas itinerary day 3, what to do with more than 3 days in las vegas, best time to visit las vegas, how to get around in las vegas, plan a trip to las vegas- what to prepare, faq on las vegas itinerary, final thoughts.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

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. 

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

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!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Colleen Kinsey

Share or save this post

Beautiful Las Vegas so Amazing!!!! We have a wonderful time in Vegas

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Work with Me
• Start a Blog
• Yearly Roundups
• 101 in 1001 Goals
• how to start a travel blog
• tips for new bloggers
• write me a guest post!
• Work With Me

A Passion and A Passport

Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

3 Days in Vegas: The Perfect Las Vegas Itinerary

last Updated: May 7, 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!).

Our favorites are The Conrad at Resorts World , Bellagio , Cosmo , and ARIA Resort .

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?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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.

You may also love...

Subscribe To The Newsletter

FOR TRAVEL INSPO   and   FUN

No spam, only fun!

Favorite Destinations

• About Jessica
• How to Plan a Trip
• Fave Travel Companies
• Shop My Faves

Destinations

• World Travel
• San Francisco
• Northern California
• Southern California
• Central Coast

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

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

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

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!

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

Share This Story!

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

The Ultimate 3 Days in Las Vegas Itinerary (2024)

• Last Updated: January 31, 2024

We’re going to help you build the best possible 3 days in Las Vegas itinerary!

First of all, take everything you think you know about Las Vegas and throw it out the window.

Nevada’s neon-lit oasis in the desert may be known as Sin City. But there’s much more to Las Vegas than casinos and strip clubs.

These days, the city proudly bills itself as the Entertainment Capital of the World.

And it’s really not an overstatement to say this.

From legendary musicians to world-class performances, professional sports teams and so much more, you will definitely be entertained for 3 days in Las Vegas.

While Las Vegas is famous for “The Strip,” there is a lot to discover outside of these massive casinos and resorts.

With a weekend in Las Vegas, you can also do a bit of hiking, check out a museum or two, and even jump out of a plane if you fancy it.

In between your explorations of this adult playground in the desert, you’ll have some amazing options for eating and drinking.

Take your pick from the fancy casino buffets, international cuisine from all corners of the globe, or maybe just a good old greasy burger from In-n-Out.

Speaking of drinking, go ahead and crack open a beer before you head out for the day.

Las Vegas is one of the very few places in the US where you can legally drink in public. Cheers!

The biggest problem with travelling to Las Vegas is that there’s just so much to see and do and it’s quite spread out.

But I’m stoked to give you the best opportunity to enjoy your time there with this epic 3 day Las Vegas itinerary.

OUR TIP: Pick up a hop-on hop-off bus ticket for unlimited transportation for either 1 or 2 days!

Table of Contents

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas

The las vegas strip, shark reef aquarium at mandalay bay, titanic: the artifact exhibition and bodies… at luxor, big apple coaster at nyny, fountains at bellagio, gondola rides at the venetian, volcano at the mirage, dinner and a show, red rock canyon, grand canyon, choose your own adventure, 18b arts district, neon museum, fremont street, when to visit las vegas, where to stay in las vegas, getting around las vegas, best budget accommodation – serene, best mid-range accommodation – mgm grand, best luxury accommodation – aria, best restaurants in las vegas, how to spend a perfect 3 days in las vegas.

So you want to spend a weekend in Las Vegas, do you?

The good news is that it doesn’t even have to be on a weekend. This city is ready to party every night of the week!

Actually, it can be beneficial to visit during the week for many reasons.

First of all, the crowds in Las Vegas are way bigger during the weekend.

This is especially true if there’s a festival or another large event in town. So check the calendar to see what’s going on before booking your flight.

You’ve just landed in Las Vegas and the excitement is high.

Perhaps you even hop on a slot machine and order a beer before even leaving the airport. It’s go time, baby!

Consider purchasing a sightseeing flex pass on Get Your Guide to save a ton of money on activities throughout this itinerary!

Before checking in at your accommodation, you might as well make a quick detour for a photo opp.

Just south of the airport, you’ll find the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign.

You can easily jump in a cab or order an Uber and have them cruise you over to the Las Vegas sign to take a few pictures.

Many drivers will also offer to make a pit stop for you at a liquor store.

With your Instagram shot taken and your party supplies secured, you can officially kick off this Las Vegas itinerary.

The Welcome to Las Vegas sign is located in the middle of the road. Every driver in town should know how to get there.

Interestingly enough, the most famous part of Las Vegas isn’t really in downtown Las Vegas at all.

The Las Vegas Strip is actually located south of the city limits in the unincorporated towns of Paradise and Winchester.

The Las Vegas Strip stretches for 6.8 km (4.2 miles) and is full of massive casinos and resorts.

When you think of the Las Vegas skyline, this is what you picture.

Travelling up and down the Las Vegas Strip, you can visit the pyramids of Egypt, the skyscrapers of New York City, and even the Eiffel Tower.

It really is a pretty cool sight to behold and a great way to start day 1.

If you decide to buy the bus pass , you can just hop on the bus and ride it up and down the Strip.

Where and when you decide to hop off the bus all depends on your tastes.

There really is something for everyone along the Las Vegas Strip.

Here are some of the most popular places to add to your 3 day Las Vegas itinerary, going from south to north on the Las Vegas Strip.

Read Next: Check out our post on all the great things to do in Las Vegas to fill your itinerary!

Your journey begins at the southern end of the Vegas Strip at Mandalay Bay.

The main attraction here is the Shark Reef Aquarium, which is home to over 2,000 animals.

Here you can see sharks, rays, turtles, and even a Komodo dragon.

They also have a new exhibit called Polar Journey, which is an interactive look at Earth’s polar regions.

• Cost : USD$36 for adults and $31 for children
• Hours : every day from 10 AM to 6 PM

If you’re a fan of the movie, you’ll definitely want to check out the incredible Titanic exhibition at the Luxor.

Here you’ll find over 250 artifacts recovered from the doomed ship.

There are also impressive recreations of many areas and rooms on the Titanic, including a replica of the Grand Staircase.

Perhaps one of the most unique attractions you can add to your Las Vegas itinerary is BODIES… The Exhibition.

Through an innovative preservation process, they have displayed 13 whole-body specimens here as well as over 250 organs.

Here you’ll get a look at the human body that’s only possible in an anatomy lab.

The exhibit encourages a healthy lifestyle by showing the damage done to bodies through over-eating, smoking, and a lack of exercise.

• Cost : USD$32 for adults and $24 for children. You can also grab a combo ticket for $42 that includes admission to both
• Hours : open daily from 11 am to 6 pm

Read Next: Spending time in the Southwest? Be sure to read our guide on the ultimate 3 days in Phoenix itinerary !

Continuing north on the Strip across Tropicana Avenue, you arrive at New York New York.

This massive casino and resort actually looks like the skyline of New York City, complete with a replica Statue of Liberty!

One of the most fun things to add to your Las Vegas itinerary is a ride on the Big Apple Coaster here.

This epic rollercoaster provides some serious thrills in addition to fantastic views of Las Vegas.

• Cost : $19 for your first ride and $10 for each re-ride (first ride is $23 after 6pm)
• Hours : Mon-Thurs 1pm – 8pm, Fri-Sun 11am – midnight

For a few bucks more, you can tack on the VR experience.

That’s right – you can battle aliens and monsters as you ride a roller coaster.

One of the top things to see in Las Vegas is definitely the fountain show at the Bellagio.

It’s hailed as the most ambitious water feature ever made, and you’ll quickly see why.

Prepare to be amazed at this choreographed display of water, light, and music.

They rotate a wide variety of music, so you can even check it out a few times on your trip.

During the week, the fountain show runs every 30 minutes from 3-8 PM and then every 15 minutes until midnight.

It starts running at noon on Saturday and 11 AM on Sunday.

Best of all, it’s totally free no matter when you see it!

Another popular spot in Las Vegas is the Venetian for their gondola rides.

It’s a little slice of Italy right here in fabulous Las Vegas!

You have the choice between an indoor or outdoor gondola ride.

Either way you go, it’s definitely one of the most romantic things to do in a 3 day Las Vegas itinerary.

• Cost : Mon-Thurs cost $34 per person, Fri-Sun cost $39 per person
• Hours : The indoor rides operate from 10 AM until 11 or midnight and the outdoor ones go from 11 AM until 10 PM.

There are a lot of ridiculous, outlandish things on the Strip, but it’s hard to top the volcano at the Mirage.

Seriously, there’s a volcano right there on the Strip that erupts nightly.

As if the display weren’t cool enough, the music for this show was composed by legendary drummer Mickey Hart of Grateful Dead fame.

He worked with Zakir Hussain (an Indian composer and master of the tabla) to craft an original score. How cool is that?!

You can watch the explosion nightly at 8, 9 and 10 PM. Once again, this is another totally free attraction to add to your Las Vegas itinerary.

Read Next: Want to see more of the Vegas area? Be sure to check out our post on the best day trips from Las Vegas !

As you can see, there’s plenty to see and do to keep you busy on the Strip for a quick trip to Las Vegas.

If you’re motivated, you can check most of those things and then some off your list.

However you choose to spend day 1 on the Las Vegas Strip, you should definitely plan on dinner and a show for your first night in town.

Remember, Las Vegas calls itself the Entertainment Capital of the World. It’s a fair nickname, as your options are nearly endless here.

Each of the large resorts on the Strip has several different options for dining and entertainment.

You could eat sushi then see a magic show. Or you could hit a steak house then see Cirque du Soleil.

Perhaps you’d rather have Italian and see some stand-up comedy.

The choice is yours!

For a list of upcoming shows in downtown Las Vegas, click here .

There are always deals available on shows, especially on weekdays.

When you get out of the show, you’ll walk out to see the Strip in all its neon-lit glory.

Go ahead and take one more walk around, as you’re in for some epic people watching.

We’ve still got a lot to fit into this 3 day Las Vegas itinerary, though, so I recommend taking it relatively easy on night one.

READ MORE: Get out of Las Vegas by taking an awesome Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip !

It may be a bit tough to avoid the temptations of Las Vegas nightlife. But trust me that it’s worth it to have a more enjoyable day 2.

Today you’re heading out on the day trip of your choosing, and it’ll be way more fun minus a hangover!

Life is all about choices, and you’ve got a big one to make today.

With just 3 days in Las Vegas, you really can’t do it all.

Here are a couple of options that are only around 30 minutes from Sin City.

After exploring all that the Strip has to offer on day one, it’s time to get out into nature.

Thankfully that’s not too difficult, as Red Rock Canyon is just 30 minutes away.

This stunning conservation area is 24 km (15 miles) west of the city.

It makes for an easy half-day trip to add to your Las Vegas itinerary.

As the name would suggest, this area is full of stunning red rock formations.

These were carved over millions of years and it’s an absolutely awe-inspiring landscape to visit.

There’s a one-way loop road around the canyon that gives you access to several different viewpoints and trailheads.

It’s a popular spot to do a bit of hiking, rock climbing, or mountain biking.

Click here to read about all the different hikes and trails.

You have a few different options for visiting the Canyon. The easiest is just signing up for a tour that includes transportation from Las Vegas.

Your options range from open-air van tours, to mountain biking, to scooters, and even hot air balloon rides.

This tour on Get Your Guide is particularly awesome and comes highly recommended.

Alternatively, you can just rent a car for the day. This would allow you to potentially hit Red Rock Canyon and the next spot on our list.

In addition to the rental car cost, expect to pay another USD$15 for a day pass to the area for the vehicle.

One of the most popular places to visit within 30 minutes of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam.

This engineering marvel was built between 1931-36 during the Great Depression by thousands of workers.

It has 17 generators producing an amazing 4 billion kilowatts of electricity per year!

The Hoover Dam really is an impressive sight to behold, towering 221 meters (726 feet) above the Colorado River.

You can enjoy some incredible views of the dam from the Mike O’ Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, which connects Nevada to neighbouring Arizona.

To visit the Hoover Dam, you can jump on a tour out of the city.

Being Las Vegas, you have several interesting options. You can kayak down the river, go on a mountain biking tour, or even drive your own Polaris Slingshot out there.

You can always just rent some wheels and check out both Red Rock Canyon and the Hoover Dam in a day.

Alternatively, book an awesome guided tour here .

If you’re feeling super motivated, you can add a day trip out to the Grand Canyon to your Las Vegas itinerary.

Just be advised that it makes for a very long day, as it’s about a 2.5-hour drive to the West Rim.

That being said, it’s worth the effort if you’re not sure if or when you’ll make it back to see the Grand Canyon.

After all, Las Vegas is the closest airport to the West Rim.

One way to cut down on travel time is to visit on a helicopter tour . There are several different options for these as well as land-based tours of the Grand Canyon.

You should consider saving the Grand Canyon for another time as it is one of the most visited places in the United States for good reason.

You can enjoy your time 3 days in Vegas and then rent a car to get yourself to the Grand Canyon separately.

How you spend the rest of your day 2 depends entirely on what day trip you embarked on.

If you just do Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam, you’ll still have plenty of daylight left by the time you get back to Las Vegas.

Here are just a few of the fun things you can do with your afternoon back in Las Vegas:

• Hit a pool party at one of the casinos
• Play KISS mini-golf at the Rio or Twilight Zone at Bailey’s
• Visit the Pinball Hall of Fame
• Ride the thrill rides at the Stratosphere
• Play Top Golf at the MGM
• Go on the High Roller (giant Ferris wheel)
• Visit the Bellagio Botanical Gardens

See how many awesome things there are to do in 3 days in Vegas?

Of course, you could always just try your luck on the slots, at the tables, or at the sportsbook.

Some people skip out on that part of Las Vegas. But it’s obviously a big draw for others.

If you’re not too tired from this busy Las Vegas itinerary so far, it’s time go out and party it up!

How you choose to spend your night is up to you. There are plenty of other shows that are worth catching. One of the more popular shows is The Beatles “Love” show by Cirque du Soleil.

Las Vegas is also home to some awesome dive bars, comedy clubs, breweries, night clubs, and more.

The world really is your oyster on a trip to Las Vegas.

READ MORE: Plan the perfect 3 days in Chicago .

It’s been a massive Las Vegas itinerary thus far, so don’t feel bad about sleeping in a bit on Day 3.

If you haven’t already done so, today is the day to take advantage of one of the city’s countless buffets.

After a nice big meal (and maybe a Bloody Mary or mimosa), you’re ready to take on your final day 3 in Vegas.

The Vegas Strip may be the most famous area of the city, but downtown Las Vegas is where the city was born.

There’s enough to see and do here to spend the entire day exploring the area.

If you’re the artsy type, you’ll definitely want to spend some time wandering around 18b.

Named for the 18 blocks it covers, this is the arts district of Las Vegas about 15 minutes from the Strip.

This vibrant cultural hub is full of art galleries, boutiques, vintage clothing stores, and much more.

It’s the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir or just do some window shopping.

The arts district also hosts many different events. If you happen to be in town on the first Friday of the month, you should definitely head here.

The “First Friday” art walk is a very festive event that draws thousands of people.

For more info and other events, be sure to check out their calendar .

A great addition to any 3 Day Las Vegas itinerary is a trip to the Mob Museum.

This interesting museum takes a closer look at organized crime and its impact on American society.

There are three floors full of exhibits ranging from Prohibition-era speakeasies to 100 years of mob history.

Even with a couple of hours you likely won’t see everything!

Cost : USD$29.95. It costs a bit extra to add some of the special experiences, such as a firearm training simulator

Hours : open daily from 9 AM – 9 PM (closed at 7pm on Sundays)

It doesn’t get much more Vegas than this next stop.

The Neon Museum is full of signs from casinos and hotels of yesterday and is a fun place to check out.

Also known as the Neon Boneyard, it’s home to over 200 signs.

At night, they’re illuminated by ground lighting. Some of them have even been restored to their neon-lit glory!

You have a few options for visiting the museum. It’s possible to take a self-guided tour between 9 AM-7 PM. These cost USD$20 per person.

Alternatively, you can hop on an hour-long guided tour for USD$28. We recommend signing up for an evening tour so you can see the restored signs all lit up. Click here to check out the various ticketing options.

Our massive 3 day Las Vegas itinerary winds down with a visit to Fremont Street.

This sprawling open-air mall is the perfect place to finish up a huge weekend in Las Vegas.

A walk along the Fremont Street Experience is total sensory overload.

The canopied street boasts a whopping 12 million LED lamps and the largest audio-video light show in the world!

There are always free concerts going on here, so check the calendar to see what’s playing.

Make sure you catch the Viva Vision light show on the canopy while you’re down here.

If you need some more thrills, you can take a ride on the SlotZilla zipline.

Fremont Street is also home to several restaurants, casinos, and bars, so stick around as late as you like and enjoy your last night in Vegas!

Las Vegas Itinerary Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do during your 3 days in Vegas itinerary, check out our mini travel guide to help you know where to stay and where to eat.

As far as weather goes, Las Vegas is out in the desert.

The summer can be scorchingly hot. But at least it’s a dry heat and there’s air conditioning virtually everywhere you go.

Temperatures can get pretty low at night during the winter, so bring some warm clothes with you.

Spring and fall tend to make the best times to spend 3 days in Las Vegas.

The next thing you’ll want to do is settle on where to stay in Las Vegas.

Your options are basically endless here. From backpacker hostels to cheap motels, to the massive resorts for which the city is famous.

We recommend checking out the options on Booking.com

When it comes to getting around during your busy Las Vegas itinerary 3 days, you’ve got plenty of options.

There are a few tram lines that operate between some of the bigger casinos.

These are free of charge but not really that useful unless you’re staying in one of those places.

While the monorail is widely regarded as a failure, it may be useful to you at some point in your 3 days in Las Vegas.

It runs from the MGM Grand to the SLS Resort with several stops in between. Click here to check out your options for tickets.

Generally, the most viable public transportation option in Las Vegas is the RTC bus.

These can get you up and down the Strip, east and west on residential routes, and even all the way downtown.

Of course, you can always just get a cab. There are always cabs waiting in front of the bigger casinos.

Uber and Lyft are both available in Vegas as well and are super convenient for getting around.

For further exploration of the area such as visiting the Hoover Dam, you’ll need to either sign up on a tour or rent a car.

Accommodation for your Las Vegas Itinerary 3 Days

There are hundreds of options for accommodation in Las Vegas to suit all budgets.

Here are our top picks for budget, mid-range, and luxury options.

If you’re looking for a decent place to stay without breaking the bank, Serene is a solid choice.

This 3-star hotel has easy access to both the airport and the Strip.

The rooms here are comfortable and there’s a nice outdoor pool you can take advantage of as well.

You can get a room for less than $100 during the week and around $125 on weekends.

Check prices on Agoda

Check prices on Booking.com

There are plenty of resorts in Vegas for under $200 a night before fees. But our pick goes to the MGM Grand.

You’ve got everything under one roof here – a sprawling pool complex, spa, fitness centre, restaurants, bars, shops, and more.

This famous casino also has tons of options for entertainment.

They have comedy, magic, live music, and often host big boxing or UFC fights.

You could honestly never leave the resort and you’d have an awesome vacation here.

Those seeking to live like a high roller in Vegas should book a room at Aria.

This sleek 5-star resort is definitely one of the nicest looking in Las Vegas.

It’s also in a great location right on the Strip.

Staying at Aria, you can catch a performance of Cirque du Soleil or legendary rock bands like Aerosmith .

It’s also really close to T-Mobile Arena where the Las Vegas Golden Knights hockey team plays.

There are so many amazing restaurants in Las Vegas that you could try a new place for every meal and barely scratch the surface.

You can get cuisine from all corners of the globe here. It really is a foodie’s paradise in Las Vegas!

Here are just a few recommendations for where to eat in Las Vegas:

Sage – Farm-to-table New American restaurant with seasonal ingredients and an innovative menu.

Le Cirque – A fancy French restaurant in an opulent space. This is the perfect spot for a date night in Vegas.

Wing Lei – This was the first Chinese restaurant in the US to receive a Michelin star thanks to dishes like their Imperial Peking Duck.

Lago – Delicious Italian food with a view of the Bellagio fountains is what you’ll get at this excellent Vegas restaurant.

Lotus of Siam – Often ranked the best Thai restaurant in the US, this place is absolutely fantastic. They have two locations, and the Sahara Ave location is temporarily closed due to staff shortages from the COVID-19 pandemic. But the Flamingo Road location is up and running! Check their website for updates .

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Sasha and Rachel

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Guide)

17 Best Road Trips From San Francisco, California (2024 Guide)

The Best Los Angeles To Grand Canyon Road Trip (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

20 of the best things to do in knoxville, tn (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in austin itinerary [2024], the perfect 3 days in savannah itinerary (2024 guide), 18 of the best day trips from charlotte, north carolina (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary 2024 (Local’s Guide)

A World in Reach contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no cost to you! Read my full disclosure here .

Ready to spend 4 days in Las Vegas? This 4-Day Las Vegas itinerary will help you plan out everything you need to do during the trip including recommendations on things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and more!

Planning your 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary last minute?

No time to read the full itinerary? Here are some of Vegas’s top activities, tours, hotels, and more! Top Tours and Activities in Las Vegas : 1. “O” by Cirque du Soleil – the most popular Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas! 2. The Mob Museum – one of the best museums in Las Vegas 3. Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas – one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas 4. Venetian Gondola Ride + Madame Tussauds – two iconic Vegas attractions for one price! Best Places to Stay in Las Vegas: 1. The Cosmopolitan – one of the top-rated hotels in Las Vegas 2. Horseshoe Las Vegas – affordable & perfectly located 3. Mandalay Bay – home to some of the best pools in Vegas

When you think of exciting US destinations for a quick getaway, Las Vegas is probably one of the first spots that comes to mind.

Las Vegas is world-famous for its gambling, nightlife, dining, and entertainment. With so many things to do, it’s the perfect destination for a getaway with your partner or a group of friends.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Las Vegas twice, and both times I had a blast experiencing all that Sin City has to offer. But, with so many things to choose from, planning your Las Vegas itinerary can be super overwhelming!

To help with planning the perfect Las Vegas itinerary, Shannon from Three Days in Vegas put together this ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas itinerary. Shannon is a local who lived in Las Vegas for 10 years, so you could say she’s an expert on how to have the perfect trip to Sin City!

This Vegas itinerary was written with couples in mind, but you can easily tailor it for a trip with friends, family, or even a solo adventure!

Keep reading for tips on how to plan a perfect 4 days in Las Vegas, including a day-by-day itinerary, tips on where to stay and eat, and more helpful Las Vegas travel tips!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Welcome to the ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary, where we guide you through diverse experiences ranging from stunning tourist attractions to vibrant nightlife!

Amidst your Vegas getaway, explore world-class entertainment and indulge in exquisite gourmet restaurants while making unforgettable memories.

Sin City offers more than just casinos, it is a treasure trove of culture, art, and amazing outdoor adventures.

Day 1: Explore the Las Vegas Strip

Kicking off your 4-day Las Vegas itinerary, you simply cannot miss exploring the iconic Las Vegas Strip.

Start at the south end at the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign and make your way north to discover a plethora of attractions that this world-famous destination has to offer.

This Day 1 itinerary gives you plenty of options to choose from – pick one or two attractions to visit, or check out all of them!

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

At this point I am sure you are dying to get exploring, so get started with a visit to the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign.

This historic landmark is considered by many as the official southern end of the famous Las Vegas Strip and is located across from Bali Hai Golf Club, one of two nearby golf courses.

There is usually a line to get pictures but it does move fast. On occasions, you might even get an opportunity to grab a pic with Elvis!

After grabbing some amazing photos at the sign (trust me when I say that these pictures are perfect for Instagram), head on up the strip to the next stop.

Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay

Diving into the underwater world of exotic marine life, you’ll be in awe at the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay .

Located right up the Las Vegas Strip at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino , this exciting aquatic adventure features over 2,000 animals and offers an interactive glimpse into some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures.

To take our Las Vegas experience a level higher (or deeper?), sign up for the unforgettable Shark Reef Shark Feed program. This guided tour not only gives you exclusive access to explore behind-the-scenes how sharks feed but also allows you to feed the sharks!

⭐️ BOOK NOW: Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor

When in Las Vegas, one must visit the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor .

This exhibition, located at the Luxor Hotel & Casino , displays over 250 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site of the infamous ocean liner, Titanic.

It also features recreations of famous rooms from the ship to give visitors a realistic feeling of what it was like aboard during its short maiden voyage. I found this exhibit both haunting and fascinating.

Walking through this museum is like stepping back in time, as you learn about the tragedy that happened on April 15th, 1912.

⭐️ Pre-book your Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition skip-the-line tickets!

Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York

The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York is a must-visit for any thrill-seekers exploring the Las Vegas Strip.

This steel hyper roller coaster features a heartline twist and dive maneuver that offers an adrenaline rush like no other.

With speeds reaching over 67 mph and providing more than a 203 ft drop, it’s not for the faint of heart!

The ride begins with a steep incline that provides fantastic views of the strip before rushing down into twists, turns, and drops.

⭐️ Book your Big Apple Coaster tickets here!

Fountains of Bellagio

The Fountains of Bellagio, outside of the Bellagio Resort , is an iconic free Las Vegas attraction that should not be missed during your 4-day itinerary.

The water feature show features complex water displays set to music, and it’s completely free to watch.

It’s one of the must-see sights on The Strip, which has been dazzling visitors for over two decades.

Each show lasts for a specific amount of time ranging from three to five minutes, featuring different songs and effects designed to mesmerize spectators.

Pro tip: the show is best enjoyed at night when you can see both the fountains and their lights!

Gondola Rides at The Venetian

On Day 1 of your Las Vegas itinerary, be sure not to miss the romantic and enchanting gondola rides at The Venetian .

The authentic Venetian gondolas glide down the Grand Canal inside the resort, offering a unique and intimate experience for couples.

Each gondola can seat up to four people, but renting a private two-person boat will make it even more special.

The beautiful waterway tour will take you under bridges while being serenaded by your very own singing gondolier providing an unforgettable experience that you’ll cherish forever.

Don’t forget to admire the stunning architecture inspired by Venice and soak up all of its cultural details while on board.

You can purchase tickets in advance online , making it easy and convenient for you to include this must-visit attraction during your visit to the Las Vegas strip.

Dinner and a Show

By this point in the day, you are probably getting hungry and need a break from the crowds.

When it comes to the Las Vegas experience, there is nothing quite like a night out on the Strip.

There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to shows on the Strip, including musicals, acrobatics, comedy acts, and more.

One popular choice is Cirque du Soleil’s “O” at the Bellagio Hotel , which combines aquatic elements with incredible feats of athleticism and stunning choreography.

Another fantastic option is The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil at The Mirage Hotel (soon to be Hard Rock) for those who enjoy classic rock music paired with jaw-dropping acrobatic stunts.

Many musicians also have residencies in Las Vegas, where they play several shows over a period of time at a Vegas venue. You can see all current and upcoming Las Vegas residencies here .

Here are some more of the most popular shows in Las Vegas:

⭐️ Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil at Mandalay Bay ⭐️ Mystère by Cirque du Soleil at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino ⭐️ David Copperfield at the MGM Grand ⭐️ KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand ⭐️ Penn & Teller at Rio

Day 2: Choose an Outdoor Adventure

On day two of your Las Vegas itinerary, it’s time to step away from the bustling casinos and immerse yourself in the exciting adventure and natural beauty surrounding Sin City.

You’ll be amazed at how many outdoor activities are at your fingertips within a short drive.

Discover amazing things to see at Red Rock Canyon or visit the Hoover Dam before experiencing the unbeatable nightlife.

Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is a must-visit attraction for travelers who are looking to escape the chaos of Las Vegas and immerse themselves in natural beauty.

Red Rock Canyon is a nature lover’s dream located about a 30-minute drive from Las Vegas and a perfect spot to capture those Instagrammable moments.

The canyon is filled with diverse and colorful rock formations, natural beauty, and vivid colors that are sure to awaken your inner adventurer.

As outdoor recreation enthusiasts ourselves, we particularly recommend spending day two exploring and hiking Red Rock Canyon . The Calico Hills area and the Calico Tanks trail are ideal spots to hike, enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape, or indulge in some rock-climbing or other adventure activities.

Red Rock Canyon is under a half-hour drive from the Strip. If you don’t have a car while in Vegas, I recommend taking a tour that will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to Red Rock Canyon, where a guide will show you the best that the area has to offer.

⭐️ This is the best Red Rock Canyon tour from Vegas !

Visiting the Hoover Dam is another top pick for day 2.

Located on the Arizona-Nevada border, this massive structure was built during the Great Depression and provides hydroelectric power to both states.

While there, you can walk across the top of the dam and enjoy stunning views of the Colorado River below.

You can also explore other attractions nearby such as Boulder City, Lake Mead, and even take in the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.

Visiting Hoover Dam makes for a memorable day trip from Las Vegas. Sign up for a guided tour to learn about its history and construction process or you can simply view it from afar at nearby lookout points for awe-inspiring views!

The Hoover Dam is about 45 minutes from Las Vegas. You’ll probably be able to get an Uber or Lyft there, but getting one to return to Vegas might be tricky! (Editor’s Note: I (Sydney) might have personal experience with this…)

Because of this, I highly recommend taking a guided tour to the Hoover Dam from Vegas if you don’t have access to a car.

I recommend this Hoover Dam tour from Vegas . It lasts about 3.5 hours, so you have plenty of time to both see the Hoover Dam and explore more of Vegas itself once you return. You can even add on a stop at the nearby Seven Magic Mountains!

If you want a more in-depth Hoover Dam experience, this 6.5-hour Hoover Dam tour from Vegas includes a guided tour of the Dam, a tour of the power plant, lunch, and more!

⭐️ This is my favorite Hoover Dam tour from Las Vegas !

Grand Canyon

Day 2 of your Las Vegas itinerary is all about outdoor adventures, and what better way to experience the natural wonders than by taking a trip to the Grand Canyon?

Tours for visiting the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas can be booked via helicopter (for the spendy travelers) or by jeep/van/bus and can be done as day trips or overnight stays.

Most of the day trips visit the West Rim of the Grand Canyon , which isn’t part of Grand Canyon National Park. The West Rim is home to the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk, the glass walkway that extends over the canyon’s rim.

Many of the Grand Canyon West Rim day trips also include a stop at Hoover Dam.

There are also full-day tours to the Grand Canyon South Rim from Las Vegas . These tours take you to some of the most beautiful viewpoints of the canyon located within Grand Canyon National Park.

⭐️ I recommend this Grand Canyon South Rim tour from Vegas

Check out the famous Las Vegas Nightlife

After a day of exploring some of the natural wonders around Vegas, you are probably ready for a drink!

You can’t leave without experiencing the city’s infamous nightlife. From sprawling nightclubs and rooftop bars to intimate lounges and live music venues, Las Vegas has it all.

If you’re looking for high-energy dance floors and celebrity DJs, check out Hakkasan at MGM Grand or XS at Encore.

For a more subdued setting with craft cocktails and sophisticated vibes, head over to The Chandelier Bar or Vesper Bar at The Cosmopolitan.

Whatever your preference may be, Las Vegas promises an unforgettable night out on the town!

Day 3: Explore Downtown Las Vegas

On day 3 of our Las Vegas itinerary, you’ll immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant art and culture scene.

Even though Sin City is primarily known for its over-the-top entertainment and glitzy casinos, there’s a hidden gem that lies beneath it all – the thriving world of museums and galleries.

Explore the vibrant side of Las Vegas by checking out some of the best things to do in downtown Las Vegas , such as Fremont Street, 18b Arts District, Mob Museum, Neon Museum, and Area 15.

Fremont Street Experience

On Day 3 of your Las Vegas itinerary, be sure to explore Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas.

Known as the Glitter Gulch, this pedestrian walkway offers an unforgettable experience with its overhead LED canopy that spans across five blocks.

One of the highlights of your trip will likely be experiencing the Fremont Street Experience light show once night falls.

As you gaze up at the incredible display, complete with music and special effects, you’ll feel like you’re in a different world altogether.

18b Arts District

Another fun thing to do on your third day in Vegas is explore the 18b Arts District, located just over a mile from downtown Las Vegas.

The district’s name comes from its original development as an 18-block area dedicated to supporting local artists and art lovers alike.

The district is easily walkable, especially during favorable weather conditions, offering you the chance to discover numerous galleries featuring works by local artists.

We also enjoyed exploring the murals on buildings and walls around the area that showcase some of the most impressive street art we’ve ever seen.

The 18b also has some great vintage clothing stores to explore, cool bars, and one of the hottest food scenes in Las Vegas.

Seeing so many people come together to support this budding creative community in Las Vegas was fantastic.

This 18b Crawl tour , led by a local guide, is a great way to see more of the district.

The Mob Museum

While in Downtown Las Vegas, check out the Mob Museum to learn about organized crime history in America.

This unique museum focuses on the history of organized crime and law enforcement in America, with an emphasis on Las Vegas.

Don’t miss out on visiting their Distillery or Speakeasy while you’re there for a truly immersive experience. This will be one of the highlights of your trip!

⭐️ Book admission tickets to The Mob Museum here!

Neon Museum

We visited the Neon Museum during our exploration of downtown Las Vegas, and it was one of the best experiences on our trip.

The outdoor exhibition space showcases over 200 retired signs from vintage casinos and businesses across town, providing a unique peek into old Vegas.

What we loved about the Neon Museum was not just its historical value but also its artistic appeal.

Walking among these colorful vintage signs under the bright blue sky made us feel like we were in an outdoor art gallery. It was as if each sign had its own story to tell.

The guided tour was informative and engaging, giving us insight into how this nonprofit organization salvages and restores vintage Vegas neon.

I highly recommend visiting at night when the restored electric lights come alive, creating a surreal atmosphere that will leave you awestruck.

Tickets often sell out, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

As young adults exploring Las Vegas, you don’t want to miss out on AREA15, an immersive entertainment and events district located in downtown Las Vegas.

The futuristic architecture and open space concept make it a unique shopping destination that offers a surreal experience.

Make sure to stop by Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart , a store that puts a surrealist twist on traditional grocery stores making for an unforgettable shopping adventure.

It boasts of unique shopping opportunities with hidden “experience rooms” scattered throughout the aisles.

⭐️ Book your Omega Mart tickets here!

Day 4 in Las Vegas: Relax!

After three action-packed days of exploring in and around Las Vegas, day 4 of your Las Vegas itinerary is all about relaxation and fun activities.

Take advantage of the many entertainment options that Las Vegas has to offer, or head to one of the many luxury spas for a relaxing massage or facial.

Treat yourself to a Spa Visit

After three full days of exploring the Las Vegas Strip and enjoying outdoor adventures, it’s time to relax and pamper yourselves on day four.

Las Vegas is home to some of the best spas in the world, offering a wide range of services from massages to beauty treatments and aromatherapy.

Guests can choose from various massage therapies such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, or even opt for a romantic couples’ massage.

The Wynn Spa offers a unique “Lily Pad” experience where guests can rent their own private cabana by the pool while indulging in spa treatments.

If you want something more intimate, you could try out some of the most romantic couples’ massages in Las Vegas like Couple’s Dessert Stone Indulgence or Good Luck Ritual – both offered at The Wynn.

Most of the spas at the resorts on the Strip are pretty pricey, but you can find more affordable places. The Spa at the LINQ has prices a bit closer to what you might pay outside of Vegas. You can also frequently find Las Vegas spa deals on Groupon .

Relax at one of the amazing Las Vegas Pools

There’s no better way to soak up the Las Vegas sun than by lounging at one of the amazing pools.

One of my favorite picks is the Boulevard Pool at Cosmopolitan . This hotel boasts a rooftop pool surrounded by plunge pools with a serene environment overlooking the strip and perfect for relaxing as a couple.

If you’re looking for something more lively, Caesars Palace has the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis with seven different pool experiences – from swim-up blackjack tables to luxurious daybeds with personalized service.

Most Vegas resorts sell pool passes so that you can visit even if you’re not staying at the resort.

If you want to party a bit more, consider visiting one of the Vegas Day Clubs or pool parties !

Enjoy a Final Dinner

As your 4 day Las Vegas trip comes to a close, there’s nothing better than enjoying a delicious dinner as you wind down your trip.

Las Vegas is renowned for its world-class restaurants, offering everything from classic American fare to international cuisine.

Many of the restaurants on the Strip are expensive, but you can treat yourself to a special dinner at a reasonable price.

For a delicious meal that won’t break the bank, check out Chin Chin , a great Chinese restaurant in the MGM that’s among the top-rated restaurants on the Strip. Here, you’ll find delicious food, great drinks, and a nice atmosphere – all at a great price.

For a really special experience, make a reservation at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in the MGM Grand. This restaurant serves French cuisine and even has a Michelin star, but the prices are much less than what you’ll find at Vegas’s other Michelin-starred restaurants.

4 Days in Las Vegas: Top Las Vegas Travel Tips

Ready to start planning the details of your Las Vegas trip? Here are some helpful Las Vegas travel tips!

When to Visit Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a year-round destination, but there are times when it’s better to visit Sin City than others.

Here are the ideal times to plan a trip to Las Vegas:

• Spring (February – April): This season brings mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an excellent time to explore outdoor attractions like Red Rock Canyon or Hoover Dam. You can also time your visit so that it’s over spring break !
• Fall (September – November): Similar to spring, autumn features beautiful weather conditions and less crowded tourist destinations. It’s an ideal time for sightseeing trips and exploring the city’s top attractions.
• Summer (June – August): Summer is the peak season in Las Vegas as many people choose this period for their vacation. However, do expect high temperatures that can sometimes rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime.
• Winter (December – January): Although winter temperatures are mild compared to other parts of the country, they can be too cold for some visitors looking forward to enjoying outdoor activities in Las Vegas.
• Major Events: When planning a trip to Las Vegas, consider the city’s busy events calendar and schedule accordingly. Popular events like New Year’s Eve, Super Bowl Weekend, and Fourth of July attract huge crowds making it hard to secure good accommodation options at affordable rates.

Celebratory events, like a 21st birthday , a bachelor or bachelorette party, or an engagement are also great times to plan a trip to Las Vegas!

Las Vegas has something for everyone throughout the year no matter when you prefer traveling here; however, choosing the right time means you get optimal weather patterns whilst avoiding peak periods with expensive rates that may put a dent in your budget.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Looking for accommodation options in Las Vegas? Here are some recommendations to consider:

The Bellagio

⭐️ Rating: 8.6/10

Known for its luxury and iconic fountain show, offers spacious rooms with beautiful views of the city.

⭐️ Check prices and availability at The Bellagio

The Cosmopolitan

⭐️ Rating: 9/10

This trendy hotel is perfect for young adults looking to experience the night scene in Las Vegas. It features an energetic atmosphere, DJs, and rooftop pools.

⭐️ Check prices and availability at The Cosmopolitan

ARIA Resort & Casino

⭐️ Rating: 8.4/10

With modern decor and a central location on the Strip, this hotel is perfect for travelers who want to explore the city’s most popular attractions.

⭐️ Check prices and availability at ARIA Resort & Casino

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino

⭐️ Rating: 8.2/10

Mandalay Bay is one of the best hotels in Las Vegas if you’re looking to relax by the pool. This resort features an artificial beach with wave pools and lazy river rides.

⭐️ Check prices and availability at Mandalay Bay

The Venetian Resort

⭐️ Rating: 8.8/10

For travelers who love Italian-inspired architecture, The Venetian offers elegant suites styled after Venice’s canals. It also has several high-end dining options and a casino attached.

⭐️ Check prices and availability at The Venetian

Horseshoe Las Vegas

⭐️ Rating: 7.8/10

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly place to stay in Las Vegas, look no further than Horseshoe (formerly Bally’s). It’s not the fanciest place to stay, but it’s perfectly located in the middle of the Strip, the rooms are nice and clean, and the rates are great!

⭐️ Check prices and availability at Horseshoe Las Vegas

Remember to book ahead of time as hotels in Las Vegas tend to fill up quickly!

Another important thing to keep in mind when booking your Las Vegas hotel: most of the hotels charge a daily resort fee , so make sure to account for that in your budget.

A nightly rate might look low, but you’ll likely have to add on a $24-$45 daily resort fee to that price.

This website does a great job of keeping an updated list of Las Vegas resort fees.

Getting Around Las Vegas

Navigating Las Vegas can be overwhelming, but there are several options for getting around the city without breaking the bank. Here are some tips:

• Public Transportation – The RTC (Regional Transportation Commission) offers several bus routes throughout the city, including the Deuce which runs along the Las Vegas Strip. A 24-hour pass costs $8 and a 3-day pass costs $20, making it an affordable option for those on a budget.
• Ride Sharing – Services like Uber and Lyft are popular in Las Vegas and provide a convenient way to get around the city. Fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but it is typically more expensive than public transportation.
• Las Vegas Monorail – The Las Vegas Monorail connects several major hotels and attractions along the Strip. A single ride starts at $5 and day passes start at $13.
• Walking – Depending on where you’re staying and what activities you have planned, walking can be a great way to get some exercise while exploring the city.
• Rental Car – You definitely don’t need a rental car in Las Vegas as both public transportation and ride-sharing are convenient for getting around. But if you want a rental to take a day trip, or if you’re visiting Vegas as part of a longer road trip and are renting a car for that, Discover Cars is the best site for finding the best price and booking rentals.

4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary: Frequently Asked Questions

Is 4 days enough in vegas.

Spending 4 days in Las Vegas is the perfect amount of time to experience the city! You’ll be able to hit the top sights on the Strip and Downtown, check out the nightlife, and go on an outdoor adventure or two.

How to pack for 4 days in Vegas?

When planning your Vegas packing list, make sure to include comfortable walking shoes, a nicer outfit for dinner or going out, a jacket for chilly nights, a swimsuit, flip-flops for the pool, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and your government-issued ID so you can get into the bars and casinos!

How much money do you need in Vegas for 4 days?

Vegas isn’t the cheapest destination. It can be done cheaply, but spending a bit more will give you a better experience. It can also be quite expensive depending on where you eat and stay! For a mid-range Vegas budget, plan on about $200 a day.

4 Days in Las Vegas: Wrap-Up

Las Vegas is the perfect destination for a 4-day trip with your friends, family, or significant other.

With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan an itinerary. However, this 4-day Las Vegas itinerary offers some of the best experiences in Las Vegas for young travelers.

From exploring the famous Strip and enjoying gourmet dining options to outdoor adventures like hiking at Red Rock Canyon or visiting the Hoover Dam, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

After traveling outside of the US for the first time while studying abroad, I quickly developed a love for travel and an obsession for exploring as much of the world as possible. Now, I'm on a mission to teach college students, young adults, and anyone else who wants to see the world how to travel while minimizing their expenses and maximizing their experiences.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Las Vegas Trip Planner

Top attractions in las vegas.

Other notable attractions

Attractions

Top searches in Las Vegas

Popular road trips from las vegas, all road trips from las vegas.

• Las Vegas to Los Angeles drive
• Las Vegas to San Francisco drive
• Las Vegas to San Diego drive
• Las Vegas to Sedona drive
• Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Las Vegas to the Death Valley National Park drive
• Las Vegas to Zion National Park drive
• Las Vegas to Phoenix drive
• Las Vegas to Chicago drive
• Las Vegas to Greater Palm Springs drive
• Las Vegas to Page drive
• Las Vegas to Seattle drive
• Las Vegas to New Orleans drive
• Las Vegas to Tucson drive
• Las Vegas to Vancouver drive
• Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park drive
• Las Vegas to Mexico City drive
• Las Vegas to San Antonio drive
• Las Vegas to Denver drive
• Las Vegas to Monterey drive
• Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park drive
• Las Vegas to Williams drive
• Las Vegas to Nashville drive
• Las Vegas to Santa Fe drive
• Las Vegas to Laughlin drive
• Las Vegas to Moab drive
• Las Vegas to Santa Barbara drive
• Las Vegas to Salt Lake City drive
• Las Vegas to Anaheim drive
• Las Vegas to Colorado Springs drive

Explore nearby places

• North Las Vegas
• Blue Diamond
• Boulder City
• Goodsprings
• Mount Charleston
• the Sandy Valley
• Willow Beach
• Indian Springs
• Searchlight
• Mountain Pass
• White Hills
• Cal Nev Ari
• Dolan Springs
• the Death Valley Junction
• Bunkerville

All related maps of Las Vegas

• Map of Las Vegas
• Map of North Las Vegas
• Map of Henderson
• Map of Blue Diamond
• Map of Boulder City
• Map of Goodsprings
• Map of Jean
• Map of Mount Charleston
• Map of the Sandy Valley
• Map of Nelson
• Map of Primm
• Map of Willow Beach
• Map of Indian Springs
• Map of Nipton
• Map of Pahrump
• Map of Searchlight
• Map of Mountain Pass
• Map of Moapa
• Map of Overton
• Map of Logandale
• Map of White Hills
• Map of Cal Nev Ari
• Map of Mercury
• Map of Meadview
• Map of Tecopa
• Map of Dolan Springs
• Map of Shoshone
• Map of Cima
• Map of the Death Valley Junction
• Map of Chloride
• Map of Bunkerville

Las Vegas throughout the year

• Las Vegas in January
• Las Vegas in February
• Las Vegas in March
• Las Vegas in April
• Las Vegas in May
• Las Vegas in June
• Las Vegas in July
• Las Vegas in August
• Las Vegas in September
• Las Vegas in October
• Las Vegas in November
• Las Vegas in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Las Vegas?

Get inspired for your trip to Las Vegas with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Las Vegas Itinerary
• 2-Day Las Vegas Itinerary
• 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary
• 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary
• 5-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Q&A about Las Vegas

Weather in las vegas, add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

The Ultimate Las Vegas Trip Planner

Nowhere else in the United States offers more activities, sightseeing, dining, and luxury than Las Vegas. Fabulous shows and celebrity residencies are added on a regular basis, new restaurants open frequently, and every year new attractions open to growing crowds from around the world. How can you see it all in one week - or even just a weekend?

If you want to make the most of your Vegas vacation, there is quite a bit of planning ahead that must be done. The good news is that we've already done it for you! Here you'll find the ultimate Las Vegas Trip Planner, complete with the best dining options, hotel information, activities, and more. This is your top-to-bottom guide to everything you'll want to experience when you visit Las Vegas.

Vegas Trip Planning 101

If you want to plan a trip to Las Vegas, the first step is to start determining your budget. In a city renowned for its luxury and temptation, quick splurges and impulse buys add up fast - not to mention gambling options and adult beverages available virtually everywhere. There's no reason to second-guess your vacation idea, though; with proper planning you can have a fantastic trip to Vegas within your price range.

Accommodations

Don't let the opulent atmosphere fool you - there are many Las Vegas hotels that will meet your budget, no matter how high or low it is. Depending on the time of year, many big-name hotels offer luxury rooms at heavily discounted prices. There is also an abundance of off-Strip Las Vegas hotels that are walking distance to the action. You can also look into nearby rental homes.

Transportation

The Las Vegas Strip is generally very "walkable" - the casinos are all located close together with bridges scattered across Las Vegas Boulevard to safely cross the street above the traffic. Taxis and rideshares are also abundant for a quicker travel time. Each casino also has designated rideshare waiting areas and parking structures for rental cars.

Have you heard the expression "the House always wins"? It's true. If you plan to gamble, this will be the most important part of your budget. Determine how much you expect to spend on gambling and expect to lose that exact amount. It's also worth noting that the Downtown Las Vegas casinos boast lower minimum bids than the Strip casinos.

Best Time to Travel to Las Vegas

Las Vegas weather is a very important factor to consider when planning your visit. The city easily surpasses 100 degrees F (28 degrees C) during summer. The casinos are air conditioned, but summer visitors must be cautious about sun exposure and heat exhaustion when walking the Strip. However, hotel rates are usually at their lowest during the summer.

The peak season for Vegas tourism is from late December through March, when temperatures are far milder and the sun is still shining. Due to this, hotel rates are typically higher to accommodate the increased demand. Book early before the rooms fill up!

Planning to spend Christmas, New Year's Eve, or Independence Day in Vegas? Don't worry about restaurants and shops closing in this 24-hour city! In fact, casinos also celebrate holidays with Christmas extravaganzas, Thanksgiving menus, and Fourth of July fireworks shows in Las Vegas .

Plan a Trip to Vegas: Top Things to Do in Las Vegas

In Las Vegas, the entertainment possibilities are truly limitless. Whether you're visiting for business, a guys' or girls' weekend, as a couple, or with your family, there is fun for everyone on Las Vegas Boulevard and beyond.

Every casino offers its own brand of entertainment: from themed performances like Cirque du Soleil to concerts with world-renowned musicians, even free attractions like the Bellagio Fountains or the Flamingo's wildlife habitat with actual flamingos. You'll find dozens of exhibits, art displays, and photo opportunities around every corner of every casino.

Helicopter Tour

If you are blown away by the casinos on foot, then you'll be dazzled when you see them from the sky! The Strip Highlights Night Flight is a Las Vegas helicopter tour that soars over the Strip for aerial views in the evening when the lights and signs are the brightest.

The LINQ Promenade contains shopping, dining, bars, and the Brooklyn Bowl concert venue, where you can bowl during the day and watch big-name artists perform at night. You can also ride the High Roller Observation Wheel. This 550-foot tall Ferris wheel offers a view of the entire Las Vegas Strip (and some of the cabins even have a bar onboard!).

Downtown Las Vegas

Take a short drive to the historic Downtown Las Vegas for a classic casino experience. You'll find cheaper drinks and table games as well as nightlife with a more hipster vibe. Downtown Vegas is also the home of the Mob Museum, Neon Museum, and the incredible SlotZilla Zip Line.

Find a more detailed guide to visiting Downtown Las Vegas here.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who enjoy being closer to nature, there are multiple scenic areas for hiking, camping, and exploring just outside city limits. Both Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire State Park offer hikes of varying length and difficulty within the most gorgeous desert nature imaginable.

Near Hoover Dam, you'll find the Arizona Hot Springs - a favorite hike for Vegas locals as it leads right to soothing natural springs where hikers can bathe. For a woodsier experience, visit Mount Charleston and hike amongst lush forestry and much cooler temperatures. There's also a hotel at the top of Mount Charleston and cozy cabins for rent if you're looking to extend your stay in the wilderness.

These quick and easy day trips from Las Vegas can provide some much-needed peace from the hustle and bustle of the Strip.

Vegas Trip Planning: Las Vegas Hotels

Your Las Vegas hotel isn’t just a place to lay your head each night - it's part of the experience! Each hotel/casino offers a distinct theme like the ancient Roman décor of Caesar's Palace to the pirate-inspired Treasure Island. Some casinos even take it a step further, like the fully operational canals inside the Venetian, replicating Venice itself, or the massive Eiffel Tower at the Paris casino with an elevator to the top.

Each Vegas hotel and casino also offers their own restaurants, nightlife, and activities. It's also worth noting that all hotel guests have access to their hotel's pool free of charge.

Las Vegas hotel pricing runs a broad spectrum. You can find simple rooms in even the nicest hotels for a price that won't bust your budget. Plus, if you travel in the off-season, the prices are usually even lower. If price doesn't matter, you can book luxury rooms and suites with incredible views and amenities!

Visiting with your family? Circus Circus is your best bet! This family-friendly hotel is home of the Adventuredome, a massive arcade and indoor park providing hours of kid-approved fun.

Vegas Trip Transportation Options

Will you need to rent a car in Las Vegas? That depends. If you plan to keep your visit within the Las Vegas Strip, then you can travel back and forth to the various casinos on foot. There's also a free tram connecting Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and Excalibur, as well as a monorail starting at MGM Grand and stopping at each casino for nearly 4 miles down to the Sahara.

Taxis and Ridesharing

Taxis and rideshare services in Vegas are abundant so if your feet get sore, you can get a ride back to your hotel no matter the time of day or night. Note that some taxi drivers only accept cash.

The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) operates multiple bus routes throughout the city for only $2 per trip. Public buses stop throughout the Strip and Downtown Las Vegas. Be advised during summer visits that not all buses have air conditioning.

Rental Cars

If you plan to leave the Strip and explore the hiking areas, you'd be best to rent a car as rideshares may be tough to find in these more remote parts. There are numerous major rental car companies near the Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). All Las Vegas hotels and casinos also have large parking structures.

Where to Eat in Las Vegas

Nowhere else in the world can one find such an enormous variety of restaurants. From upscale dining options by celebrity chefs to hip brunch locales to unique international cuisine, and of course the world-famous buffets, just the Las Vegas dining alone is worth the trip.

Here are our top picks for all variety of Las Vegas restaurants:

Las Vegas Fine Dining

If you’re looking to impress a client or enjoy a romantic date, check out:

• Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris
• Amalfi by Bobby Flay in Caesar's Palace
• The Eiffel Tower restaurant in Paris offers upscale fare at the top of the tower - don't worry, there's an elevator!
• The Top of the World restaurant in the Stratosphere tower is a circular, rotating restaurant that offers an ever-shifting view of the city's expanse beneath you.

Unique Las Vegas Restaurants

• Venture into the Cosmopolitan for a late-night slice of pizza at the aptly named Secret Pizza. That's right, you'll have to find this hidden gem first!
• Visit the Heart Attack Grill at the Fremont Street Experience for a truly indulgent meal. This casual spot boasts the unhealthiest food in the world - from 7-patty burgers topped with 40 slices of bacon to butter milkshakes and a full bar. The restaurant features a scale at the entrance, and guests over 300lbs eat for free.

Day Trips from Las Vegas

If you need a break from the 24-hour mentality of Las Vegas, consider a day trip to other exciting regions beyond the Strip. You can visit Valley of Fire State Park, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, and other world-famous destinations in just a few hours while in Vegas!

Whether you have an entire day or just a few hours, you can enjoy trips from Las Vegas to any of these sites. Papillon offers breathtaking aerial tours, including Grand Canyon Tours From Las Vegas , Grand Canyon Flights from Vegas , and Las Vegas Adventure Tours over the Southwest's most iconic attractions.

No matter how much time you have to spend or what your budget's size is, the ultimate Las Vegas vacation is possible. If visiting Las Vegas is on your bucket list, we can help you make your dream a reality!

Planning A Trip To Vegas FAQs

How much does a trip to las vegas cost.

Travelers can generally expect to spend anywhere from $100-$500 per day, with the average being about $318 per day. Airfare is usually the most expensive part of visiting Vegas so book flights in advance. Additionally, travelers can save money by taking advantage of budget-friendly options for lodging and dining. 

How many days in Vegas should I plan for my trip?

Generally, three days should suffice to see the sights of Las Vegas; from its renowned attractions and eateries and world-famous nightlife. If you prefer a more leisurely trip with plenty of time for relaxation, then four or five days is probably more ideal. Of course, there are also many Las Vegas day trips available which can extend your stay if desired. 

What is the cheapest way to plan a trip to Vegas?

The first step is to book flights and hotels in advance. Many airlines have reduced prices for advanced bookings and numerous hotels offer cheaper rates if reserved early. Look into budget-friendly accommodations and research deals online to find cheaper rates on Las Vegas activities. Finally, consider public transportation instead of taxis or rental cars. 

What is the cheapest time of year to go to Las Vegas?

Visiting Las Vegas during the spring and autumn can be an economical choice, with hotel rates generally cheaper than in summer or winter. It's also a great time for outdoor activities like hiking in nearby national parks, boating on Lake Mead, or taking a Grand Canyon helicopter tour. 

• June 2024 Events
• Vegas Hotel Deals
• The Ideal Hotel for You
• Family Friendly Hotels
• Vegas Show Discounts
• Best Comedy Shows
• Best Magic Shows
• Buffet Coupons
• Save Money in Las Vegas
• Free Things To Do
• Family Friendly Activities
• Vegas Thrill Rides
• Pool Party Schedules

Las Vegas Vacation – A Guide to Planning Your Trip

So you want to come to Vegas! There’s a reason this is known as the Entertainment Capital of the World and over 40 million people visit each year.

To really make the most of your Vegas vacation, it helps to do a little planning and to be aware of some helpful “best practices.”

We’ve got you covered!

Read on for some tips, tricks, and need-to-knows to help you book and plan your Vegas trip .

And for a comprehensive guide to everything else you need to know, check out our 74 Las Vegas travel tips !

Planning Your Vegas Trip

Jump to a specific section:

1. How Long Should Your Vegas Trip Be

2. costs and budgeting, 3. when to go, 4. booking flights, 5. where to stay and booking your hotel, 6. get inspired, 7. packing for vegas, 8. getting around in vegas.

• 9. Where to Eat

10. Shows to See

11. things to do and attractions, 12. vegas nightlife and clubs, 13. where to drink, 14. discounts and vegas savings.

Three days, two nights. No more, no less.

Three days is a LONG time in Vegas, trust us, and you can do a lot (of damage and otherwise) in three days.

LVCVA 2018 Visitor Profile – Average number of nights stayed in Las Vegas.

According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority 2018 Visitor Profile, visitors stayed an average of 3.4 nights and 4.4 days in Las Vegas.

Take however much you think Vegas is going to cost and double it. Maybe even triple it, just to be safe.

Everything is expensive: food is expensive, even if you try to stick to fast-casual chains; booze is VERY expensive; clubs and shows are expensive; gambling is as expensive as you allow it to be.

The days of Vegas being a cheap getaway are long gone, and while there are plenty of fun, free things to do and see, everything else costs money. This is not the place to visit, and then decide you want to penny-pinch. Just lean into it and plan accordingly.

• 80 Ways to Save Money in Las Vegas

Also, you need to know a few things before you visit: first, you have to tip everyone for everything all the time. Have lots of singles on-hand, always.

Second, figure that every dinner at a restaurant is going to cost at least $50 per person. If it’s a more upscale place, figure that to be more like $100 per person.

Simple tips to Save Money in Las Vegas.

This is just the nature of being here. You can always come to Vegas and eat McDonald’s the whole time, but then you’re that guy who came to Vegas and ate McDonald’s the whole time. (Although if you are from the Midwest or East Coast and came to Vegas and just ate In-N-Out Burger the whole time, no one would blame you.)

Shows are also expensive (Tip: Get show discounts ).

If you’re trying to see any one of the headlining Strip shows, plan on spending around $100 per ticket.

Cheap seats at an older show (like Cirque’s Mystere) might run a bit less, but with taxes and fees they still get up there in price. And if you’re picky about where you sit…well, plan on $200+ per ticket, all in.

Residencies tend to run about the same, but if you’re trying to see Lady Gaga, you’re not seeing her for less than $500 per ticket. Sorry.

In all, we would recommend budgeting at least $1,000 per person (not including flights or hotels) for a three-day, two-night trip, and that’s if you don’t go overboard.

• Las Vegas Coupons
• Las Vegas Tipping Guide

Spring in Las Vegas is really quite magical when all the flowering plants are in bloom and when it’s hot enough for the pool but not so hot, you can’t stand to be outside at all. Think March or April, maybe early May.

Usually, by June, it’s an oven, and it stays that way until October, when the temperature plummets just in time for Halloween in Vegas . And then it’s desert cold through February, which is numerically still mostly in the 50s and 60s, but it’s COLD.

Visit The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, excellent pool, dining and nightlife

Holiday weekends —are very popular and thus much more expensive including:

• Memorial Day Weekend
• Fourth of July
• Labor Day Weekend
• New Year’s
• Valentine’s Day
• St. Patrick’s Day
• Christmas in Vegas
• F1 Las Vegas

Don’t forget about fight weekends (big name boxing matches), sports finals ( Super Bowl weekend , March Madness , National Rodeo Finals) and big convention weeks (the Consumer Electronics Show in January).

View the convention schedule and estimated attendees .  

With the exception of a big convention—and you’ll know when one is in town because rooms at even the cheapest properties will be outrageously expensive— mid-week is the best time to visit for the best deals on flights and hotels.

Most of the clubs and shows are fully operational Wednesday through Saturday so you won’t miss the party coming in a little early (…granted, the party atmosphere at the nightclubs and day clubs does escalate on weekends), and you can find good weekday happy hour deals to keep your dining expenses down.

• Busiest and Most Expensive Days of the Year to Visit Vegas

Arriving in Las Vegas at the Mccarran Airport

There is an old traveler’s tale tat flights are cheaper if you book them on a Tuesday. This is not entirely true.

The truth is, the best time to book a flight is when airlines are having sales, which usually happen on Tuesday, hence the old traveler’s tale.

You will know that they are having sales if you sign up for their mailing lists, and this is really the most efficient way to stay in the know on the latest sales for your preferred airlines.

Find the cheapest days to fly to Vegas using Google Flights.

Otherwise, flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and flying “off” times (6 a.m., 9 p.m.) are your best bets. To do some price comparisons, apps like Hopper and Hipmunk are great, and nothing really beats Google Flights when price shopping different travel dates and airlines to specific destinations.

• Las Vegas Airport and Flying Guide

When visiting Vegas, you have two places to stay: on the Strip and off the Strip.

Staying on the Strip has its advantages—you’re right there in the heart of the action already, and don’t need to rent a car or catch a Lyft or taxi every time you want to leave.

If you’re a value traveler, just know that “value” is increasingly hard to come by on the Strip— resort fees have become so outrageous that you’re often tacking on upwards of 50% of the advertised nightly cost of your room per night to have access to an ice machine, or whatever.

Center strip near the Bellagio fountains is a great location to stay in Vegas.

If you’re going to stay on the Strip, know that the hidden costs really add up, and pick a property you actually want to be in—because getting from one side of the Strip to the other can be quite a task, and the Strip is several miles long so not super-walkable if you’re trying to make a quick trip back to your room.

So if everything you want to do and see and eat is at the Cosmopolitan, maybe just stay at the Cosmopolitan, or at least at the Aria nearby.

Map of the strip – click for full view of the map.

Also, if you’re a pool person, the best (and sometimes only) way to access Vegas’s amazing resort pools is to stay at a resort with an amazing pool.

Off the Strip, you have a lot more options (every mid-range hotel chain and its various offshoot brands, including ALL the Marriotts and the Hiltons and etc.), but they’re mostly non-gaming and pretty basic.

No resort fees though!

Locals’ casinos are also getting pretty great, like the Red Rock Resort and Green Valley Ranch, but those are about 20 minutes from the Strip in opposite directions.

Palms resort off the strip in Vegas

Just off the Strip, the newly-revamped Palms and Palace Station casino-resorts are well worth checking out, but mind the resort fees and know that you’ll still need transportation to the Strip.

Downtown Las Vegas (aka Fremont Street) is a great value, though it is an entirely different vibe.

The accommodations, with rare exceptions, are best described as “shabby chic” (often just plain shabby), and they lack the glitz and glam of the Strip. But if you like your Vegas a little more down and dirty and want to mix more with the locals and yokels, DTLV is the place to be.

Be sure to check the best Vegas hotel deals on Vegas Unzipped .  

Airbnb is also an option here, but the hotel industry is doing everything it can to shut it down. It’s a cheaper option than hotels, but make sure that your property is properly licensed through the city of Las Vegas lest you risk your reservation getting unexpectedly canceled.

Also, if you’re sensitive to “vibes,” know that the areas of town where people actually live and where your Airbnb will likely be are pretty…meh. See also:

• The Ideal Hotel for Your Las Vegas Stay
• The Newest Casinos in Vegas

Nothing can get you more excited about going to Vegas, like one of the many movies set in Vegas .

Here are some movies to get you inspired for your Vegas vacation:

• 3000 Miles to Graceland
• Fear and Loathing Las Vegas
• Leaving Las Vegas
• Oceans Eleven
• Ocean’s Thirteen
• Vegas Vacation
• Viva Las Vegas
• What Happens in Vegas

How about a Vegas related book:

• Bringing Down the House: The Inside Story of Six M.I.T. Students Who Took Vegas for Millions by Ben Mezrich
• Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson
• The Strip: Las Vegas and the Architecture of the American Dream by Stefan Al
• Super Casino – Inside the ‘New’ Las Vegas by Pete Earley

Stay up to date on the latest Vegas news and happenings:

• Las Vegas Sun
• Vital Vegas
• Las Vegas Review Journal

Some great Vegas content to follow on Twitter:

• @vitalvegas
• @MeltzVegas
• @LasVegasLocally
• @FacesAndAcesLV
• @EaterVegas

For more ideas and tips, read our post Vegas inspiration while stuck at home . 

CHECK THE WEATHER.

You might be tempted to assume, “It’s Vegas! It’s hot!” and just pack shorts, tank tops, and flip flops, only to get here and it’s 54 degrees and raining.

(Yes, it rains here, and yes, in the winter it gets cold.)

Look, if you’re visiting in the dead of summer it’s going to be hot, but October to April can be unpredictable, and 72 degrees to one person is a lot different than 72 degrees to another (by Vegas standards, 72 is cold), so check the weather and pack accordingly for your temperature tolerance .

Las Vegas strip at night

Also, when it’s 105 degrees outside, it is near-freezing everywhere you go inside.

This is not a joke.

The hotter the temperature, the lower the casinos set their air conditioning.

It’s a good idea to always have a light sweater, sweatshirt, or jacket on-hand. And ladies, we know you want to look cute in your sky-high heels, but just to get from one side of one casino to another requires a LOT of walking.

BRING COMFORTABLE SHOES . This is one of the biggest rookie mistakes people make in Vegas.

Vegas is a pretty casual city and you can go pretty much anywhere in casual clothing, but if you’re trying to hit the clubs bring appropriate (classy!) club attire, and if you’re trying to do some upscale activities, don’t look like a slob.

Most places won’t bat at an eye at a person wearing shorts and sandals, but be mindful of how you present yourself.

So you just flew into town. Now what?

First, you can rent a car.

Renting a car in Vegas is usually pretty cheap; parking a car in Vegas is not. Some hotels waive their overnight parking fees for guests, but not all of them do.

Some don’t charge parking fees at all (Wynn, Venetian), but they make up for it in resort fees.

Also, if you don’t know how to navigate driving on the Strip or how to get the Vegas’s “backstage” area where most of the garage parking is found, it’s really probably best you don’t try to drive around yourself. It won’t save you much money to rent a car yourself, and forgoing that will save you a lot of headaches.

Second, you can take a taxi from the airport to the Strip or wherever you’re staying.

Plan on that costing at least $20 (and that will really only get you as far as MGM…literally across the street).

You also have to wait in line at the designated taxi queue.

Lyft and Uber and the preferred transportation options around Las Vegas. Get a estimated prices before your trip.

Your third option is the most preferred but also the most confusing: rideshare (Lyft or Uber in particular).

While cheaper than taxis, often by a lot (unless they’re surge pricing and then it’s just luck of the draw there), the rideshare pickup area at the Las Vegas airport is an exercise in barely controlled chaos.

Also note, rideshare pickup is on level 2M. That “M” is important.

Transportation Around the Vegas Strip

Once you’re out of the airport at your destination, you have a few different options for getting around Vegas.

Rideshare is, again, preferred over taxis, and all the Strip properties have designated rideshare pickup areas. Once you’re off the Strip it works the same as anywhere else—they come get you where you are.

Hailing taxis here really isn’t a thing, so don’t bank on that.

Deuce transportation in Las Vegas is cheap

There are buses that run up and down the Strip all the way to Downtown Las Vegas, the Deuce and the Strip & Downtown Express (SDX).

They are by far your cheapest option, and the Deuce runs 24 hours a day every day. It does take quite a bit longer, though (though the SDX is a bit faster with fewer stops). 

Ride the monorail from MGM Grand all the way up to The Strat.

Finally, there is the Las Vegas Monorail , which connects several properties along the east side of the Strip all the way to the Las Vegas Convention Center and the SLS Las Vegas. Single rides are $5, unlimited day passes are $13, and unlimited three-day passes are $29.

You do have to walk through the entire casino all the way to the very back to find the monorail station, though, so be prepared for there to still be a lot of walking involved. It’s not quite 24/7, but is in service early and late enough for most people.

On the west side of the Strip, shorter free trams, separate from the Monorail, connect Mandalay Bay to Excalibur, Park MGM to Bellagio, and Mirage to Treasure Island, with stops at the different properties between each. 

• Transportation Options from the Airport to the Strip
• Las Vegas Tram System – 3 Free Monorails on the Strip

9. Where to Eat (Be sure to make reservations in advance, fine dining, great views, cheap eats)

It bears repeating that dining in Las Vegas, especially on the Strip, is expensive, even at “cheaper” places.

That said, there are endless dining options on and off the Strip to suit a wide variety of budgets and preferences.

Wynn Buffet – One of the many buffets on the Vegas Strip.

Part of the fun of dining in Vegas is being inside the gorgeous dining rooms that cost millions of dollars to build out.

Most of those dining rooms are tucked away inside the casinos without a window in sight, which makes the rooms with a view all the more impressive.

View of the Strat at night in Vegas.

Check out the recently revamped Top of the World restaurant on top of the rebranded “Strat” (formerly the Stratosphere) for the best view in Las Vegas, rising 800 feet above Las Vegas Boulevard and rotating a full 360-degrees every 80 minutes. The menu is classic steakhouse fare with a renewed focus on sourcing.

Elsewhere on the Strip, the Eiffel Tower Restaurant at the top of the Paris Hotel’s replica Eiffel Tower offers updated classic French fare and unparalleled views of the Bellagio fountains .

Las Vegas is also home to the highest concentration of celebrity chef restaurants per capita—you can’t throw a pair of dice without hitting a restaurant bearing a famous name.

While there is no shortage of buzzy celeb chef joints , Chef Roy Choi’s Best Friend inside the Park MGM is easily the most exciting new restaurant on the Strip and signals the beginning of a new era of Vegas tourism. Also inside the Park (well, technically inside the NoMad Las Vegas hotel inside the Park), Chef Daniel Humm’s NoMad Restaurant brings the Michelin-starred New York institution to the Las Vegas Strip.

If you’re looking for something a little less expensive but still a unique experience, hop in a Lyft and head down Spring Mountain Rd. to Las Vegas’s excellent Chinatown, where nearly every imaginable Asian cuisine is represented by both dirt-cheap late-night eateries and more formal (but still cheaper than the Strip) high-end restaurants that consistently outshine their Strip competition, at least for those in the know.

Check out the massively popular Raku, Lamaii, or Mordeo for a more affordable gourmet experience, or hit the local favorites Monta Ramen or China Mama for solid cheap eats.

• Best Vegas Buffets And Buffet Coupons

Las Vegas shows tend to have some combination of the following: gravity-defying acrobatics, magic, strongmen, burlesque performers/topless dancers, and comedy.

In other words, variety—that’s the name of the game in Las Vegas, and nowhere else in America (maybe the world?) will you find such a variety of variety shows.

These are the shows that stick around in Vegas for years, but are always changing so you can see them again and again for a different experience each time.

Now you can also see some A-list musicians in residency on a regular basis.

See a resident artist like Lady Gaga in Vegas

Residencies are usually pretty short-lived—a few months at a time for most of them, with only a weekend here and there—so do your research ahead of time before you get your heart set on seeing a performer who isn’t even in town the weekend that you are.

But Vegas has shows seven days a week, and there is something for all tastes. If your tastes run a bit raunchy, you MUST catch one of Spiegelworld’s shows, Absinthe or Opium.

If your tastes are more goth horror and heavy metal magic, check out Criss Angel’s Mindfreak.

Penn & Teller in Las Vegas, via Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/danorth1/23718230300/

If magic with a heaping helping of sarcastic comedy is more your speed, hit Penn & Teller or Piff the Magic Dragon (in fact, if it’s comedy you want, check out our guide to the best comedy shows in Vegas!).

And if it’s Cirque you really want, then Cirque you really should have: everyone has their personal favorites, but KA’s narrative structure sets it apart from all the other Cirque shows and Michael Jackson’s ONE is a spectacle that befits the King of Pop.

• Vegas Show Ticket Discounts
• Best Comedy Shows in Vegas
• Best Magic Shows in Vegas

There are dozens of amazing things to do in Las Vegas for free (check out our guide!), but there are dozens more amazing things to do if you’re willing to throw down some cash.

The FLY LINQ Zipline on the Vegas Strip

Try ziplining down the LINQ Promenade , or under the LED canopy on Fremont Street, or even between the hotel towers at the Rio All-Suites Resort.

Take a spin on the High Roller , jump 829 feet off the top of the Strat, or ride rollercoasters all day under the Adventuredome.

Take a gondola ride through the canals inside the Venetian , take a ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower, or ride a rollercoaster through the Big Apple (with or without VR enhancement).

Delve into multiplayer virtual reality games at MGM and the Venetian, or get a group of friends together to escape The Basement an escape room with live actors).

Take a helicopter tour through the otherworldly Red Rock National Conservation by day or to see the lights of the Strip at night, see the Hoover Dam and the stunning Black Canyon from a boat on the Colorado River, or sample of smorgasbord of some of Vegas’s best restaurants on a foodie tour.

Explore Red Rock Canyon in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is also home to some of the most unique museums you’ll find anywhere in the country (possibly world?), and they are all uniquely Las Vegas. Don’t miss the Neon Museum at night, or the Mob Museum with drinks at The Underground on-site distillery and cocktail lounge afterward.

• Amazing Free Things to Do in Vegas
• 100 Things to Do in Las Vegas With Kids
• Best Thrill Rides in LAs Vegas
• Vegas Bachelorette Parties – The Definite Guide

Maybe you’ve already heard this, but Vegas is pretty popular for its nightclubs !

And now also day clubs , so people can literally party 24/7.

Omnia is one of the most popular nightclubs in Las Vegas

For the full Las Vegas superclub experience, you have to hit Hakkassan inside the MGM Grand or Omnia inside Caesars Palace. (Or both!)

For day clubs, nothing compares to Encore Beach Club, but the newest party in town, KAOS at the revamped Palms, promises some serious completion (and some seriously insane public art pieces).

Day club and pool party at Encore Beach Club is a fun party experience

And if you’re trying to pull an all-dayer-and-nighter, Drai’s After Hours at the Cromwell completes the club circuit.

• Vegas Nightclubs and Club Events
• Las Vegas Pool Parties & Day Clubs
• Las Vegas Bottle Service
• Best Vegas Nightclubs
• Las Vegas EDM

It should come as no surprise that Vegas has many fine drinking establishments, but it can be hard to determine which places have legit cocktail programs and which are all hype.

On the Strip, cocktail aficionados will feel right at home inside The Dorsey at the Venetian and Rosina and Electra Cocktail Club inside the Palazzo.

The Juniper Cocktail Lounge inside the Park MGM is the gin joint to end all gin joints, while nearby Eataly introduces the wider world to the many shades and flavors of Italian Amari.

But for the overall WOW factor, no trip to Las Vegas is complete without a visit to the stunning Chandelier Bar inside the Cosmopolitan. Head to the interior bar on level 1.5 to order the highly Instagrammable “We’re All Mad Here” cocktail.

Chandelier Bar at Cosmopolitan

Downtown Las Vegas also has many fine spots worth exploring.

Check out the Downtown Cocktail Room, Velveteen Rabbit, Commonwealth (especially if you can make advanced reservations at the hidden speakeasy bar inside called The Laundry Room), Oak & Ivy in the Downtown Container Park , and the Kitchen at Atomic for one of the best craft beer selections in Vegas alongside excellent craft cocktails.

For cheaper show tickets and the occasional actually good meal deal, scour sites like Groupon and Travelzoo.

Sometimes you’ll find a good deal at a great restaurant or decent discounts on a show you actually want to see. Mind you, a lot of what’s on there is on there for a reason, but there can be some genuine good finds.

Tix4Tonight is also a solid source for last-minute discounts on shows, tours, and attractions.

And, of course, there’s us!

Sign up for the Vegas Unzipped newsletter for exclusive discounts and the best deals available on hotels, shows, and attractions!

Save Time, Save Money, Enjoy More of Vegas

Sign up and we will send you the best vegas deals and coupons to you..

Brian Eller - Vegas Local

I am a Las Vegas local looking to bring you inside tips and information that can't be found anywhere else. I'll dive into hidden gems and some of the best places to eat and visit in Las Vegas from a local's perspective.

I hope my tips and information can help people plan an enjoyable vacation and do so while saving money.

More About Me | Contact Me

One Comment

The strip, of course, fascinates with its magnificence and riotous life! It seems that all law-abiding America forgets about its strict restrictions and orders. Streep does not fall asleep either at night or during the day. You can go out at any time and plunge into the life of excitement, parties and even debauchery. The most amazing thing is that day and night you can go to any hotel, walk through its luxurious halls and, of course, game rooms. It is easy to lose, and maybe even win a couple of dollars in any room of one of the many hotels on the Strip.

Leave a Reply

Thanks for commenting. Please note that all comments are moderated and your email address will NOT be published. Please use a real name in the name field. Please be courteous and provide meaningful discussions. SPAM, vulgar, or disrespectful comments will be removed.

XHTML: You can use these tags: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

Vegas Events

• June Shows, Events, and Concerts

OUR FAVORITE DEALS

• 20% off High Roller
• 20% off FlyLINQ Zipline

POPULAR VEGAS GUIDES

• 14 Tips on Planning a Las Vegas Trip
• Save Money in Vegas
• Free Things to do in Las Vegas
• 7 Best Hotels in Downtown Las Vegas
• Venetian vs Palazzo

THINGS TO DO

• Things to do in Vegas
• 100 Things to do in Vegas with Kids
• Things to do in Downtown Las Vegas

Vegas Discounts

Save money and get the latest vegas discounts in our weekly newsletter.

• Vegas Guide
• Privacy Policy

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations
• United States

Your Trip to Las Vegas: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Best Hotels
• Neighborhoods to Know
• 48 Hours in Las Vegas
• Day Trips From Las Vegas
• Top Things to Do
• Free Things to Do
• Things to Do With Kids
• Best Museums
• Best Pools in Las Vegas
• Shopping Guide
• National Parks Near Las Vegas
• Best Las Vegas Shows
• Skiing Near Las Vegas
• Best Restaurants
• Food to Try in Las Vegas
• Top Las Vegas Bars
• Kid-Friendly Restaurants

f11photo/Getty Images 

Excitement is always in the air on any flight to Las Vegas with travelers getting giddy about the shows they’ll see, meals they’ll eat, and millions they’ll win while gambling. And Las Vegas makes it easy to find fun at every turn, whether for a business, family fun, a weekend getaway , or even a wedding or honeymoon.

Explore all there is to do in Las Vegas through this guide that showcases some of the fun activities, great hotels, over-the-top dining experiences, and more.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : The weather is mild in January through April and again from October to November in Las Vegas . Summer temperatures typically hit triple digits, but also offer the bigger discounts. December, especially after the National Finals Rodeo early in the month, also offers discounts, but note that some shows and restaurants close during this slow period.

Language: English is the main language in Las Vegas, but most hotels employ staff who speak a variety of languages.

Currency: U.S. Dollar ($)

Getting Around: Rideshare is typically the easiest way to get around Las Vegas, while taxis queue up in front of every resort. The Monorail that snakes behind the resorts on the east side of the Strip, and the Deuce, the RTC bus that stops every 15 to 20 minutes along the Strip, offer easy ways to jump from one resort to the next.

Travel Tip: Casinos are farther apart than they appear. Double that distance in the summer in the heat. Plan ahead before setting out on foot with plenty of water and good walking shoes.

Things to Do

The Entertainment Capital of the World features more than 100 shows ranging from magic and Cirque du Soleil to comedy and resident shows from superstar singers. You can have an adventure with fast race cars, helicopter rides above the Strip, and even ziplines and jumps from 800 feet above the Strip. Kids have a blast seeing tigers, dolphins, flamingos, and more. And when the weather gets hot, the pools open with everything from outrageous parties to water parks.

• No trip to Las Vegas is complete without seeing a show . Top picks include “The Beatles LOVE” at the Mirage, a mix of classic hits from the Fab Four paired with the acrobats of Cirque du Soleil; “Absinthe” at Caesars Palace, a naughty vaudeville-type show that will have you laughing front to back, and Mac King Comedy Magic Show at Harrah’s, a great pick for kids and adults alike with goldfish, a magic tent, and a magician wearing a plaid suit. Don’t be fooled.
• You can check out some of the top attractions the city has to offer, such as the Neon Museum , dedicated to the signs of the past, or the Mob Museum, an ode to all things related to organized crime. Toss in some free attractions , such as the Fountains at Bellagio or the volcano erupting in front of the Mirage to fill in the day.
• Kid-friendly attractions include the Springs Preserve with its gardens, interactive exhibits, and Nevada State Museum, as well as Adventuredome, a theme park inside Circus Circus with roller coasters, water rides, and carnival games.
• Vegas is also a jumping off point for trips to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, and Lake Mean and the Hoover Dam in Nevada.

Need more ideas? Check out a monster list of Vegas activities and attractions.

What to Eat and Drink

More than 50 celebrity chefs call Las Vegas home, serving their famous fare up and down the Strip. As a top dining destination, Vegas caters to the finest of dining along with international cuisines and inexpensive bites.

Television personality Giada De Laurentiis opened her first restaurant specializing in Italian fare at The Cromwell, while “Hell’s Kitchen” host Gordon Ramsay has five restaurants, including Hell’s Kitchen, complete with a red and blue open kitchen, just like the show.

For Asian fare, David Chang has Momofuku, his Korean restaurant at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas that’s always packed, while Morimoto’s eponymous restaurant at the MGM Grand specializes in sushi and Japanese dishes.

Of course, Las Vegas practically specializes in steakhouses , with a different one in every resort. For game changers, try the Kobe beef at José Andrés’ Bazaar Meat at SLS Las Vegas or a chile-rubbed double rib-eye steak at SW Steakhouse at Wynn Las Vegas.

Where to Stay

Las Vegas welcomed 42.5 million visitors from all around the world in 2019 and the city offers about 149,000 hotel rooms catering to every need, budget, and taste. For views of Las Vegas Boulevard, consider staying at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, located in the center of the Strip. Request a room with a view of the Fountains at Bellagio. Family-friendly hotels offer amenities such as bowling alleys and movie theaters to keep the kids entertained. Las Vegas even caters to pets with a variety of dog-friendly hotels.

On a budget? Las Vegas has its share of inexpensive hotels as well, both on the Strip and off. Explore the different neighborhoods you can stay in, and our recommendations on the best hotels .

Getting There

McCarran International Airport serves Las Vegas, with 51.5 million passengers arriving and departing in 2019.   The airport sits just five minutes from the south end of the Strip. Hotels run by Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, and Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas charge for parking, so keep that in mind if you need to rent a car or drive to Las Vegas.

Culture and Customs

While Las Vegas seems like any other tourist destination, the tipping traditions here keep the city running. Everyone from the casino dealers and servers to the bellman, spas, and restaurants expect a tip. Check out our handy guide to tipping in Las Vegas for specific advice.

Money Saving Tips

• Stay mid-week and avoid holidays. Hotels tend to up their rates on the weekends and during holidays, including Presidents’ Day, Columbus Day, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Rates go up when big conventions such as CES and MAGIC are in town, as well.
• Sign up for player's cards, especially if you plan to gamble. Every resort has one, and signing up is free. Some offer rewards after a certain dollar amount of play while others can be used at restaurants and while shopping for a discount.
• Stay off Strip or Downtown. Resorts in the downtown Fremont Street Experience area and just off the Strip (think Palace Station, the Hard Rock Hotel, Rio, Gold Coast, and the Palms) all have lower rates compared to resorts along Las Vegas Boulevard.
• Ask for free upgrades. You never know. The hotel staff at the check-in desk can move you up to a higher floor, offer a better view, or even move you into a bigger room.
• Use hotel reward points when booking your room. If your credit card points go toward travel, definitely look for offers before booking a hotel room.
• Ask to have your resort fee waived. Every hotel charges a resort fee for amenities ranging from a free newspaper and Wi-Fi to access to the hotel gym and local phone calls, whether you use them or not. Ask if the fee can be waived.
• Book show and attraction tickets at discount outlets. Tix4Tonight and Tickets on Demand are just two outlets that offer discounted tickets. Arrive early for the best shows.
• Ride the Monorail or Deuce. The Monorail runs from SLS to the MGM Grand, stopping at the Las Vegas Convention Center along the way, on the east side of the Strip. Single ride tickets cost $5, while an unlimited 24-hour pass is $13, and an unlimited three-day pass goes for $29. The Deuce, the RTC bus, stops every 15 to 20 minutes along the Strip, and also has the SDX that runs from the Strip to downtown Las Vegas. A two-hour Strip pass goes for $6, while a 24-hour Strip pass includes unlimited rides for $8. A free tram connects Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur at the south end of the Strip, while another free tram connects Treasure Island and Mirage.

Learn more about the cheapest ways to have fun by exploring the best free things to do in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "LAS VEGAS HISTORIC TOURISM STATISTICS." March 2020.

Statista. "Number of available rooms in Las Vegas 2000-2019." January 31, 2020.

Las Vegas Review Journal. " McCarran sets 3rd straight annual record with 51.5m travelers in 2019. " January 29, 2020.

Related Articles

More related articles.

24 Hours in Las Vegas: A First Timer’s Perfect One Day Itinerary

Looking to make the most of your one day in Las Vegas? I’ve got you covered.

Most people know Vegas for the Strip’s bright lights, jingling casinos, and endless parties. Even though there’s more to Sin City than just that, if it’s your first time visiting, you’ll definitely want to partake in the must-see attractions of the Strip.

In this guide, I’ve pieced together an action-packed 24 hours in Las Vegas, inspired by my numerous escapades to the city. Having lived in Los Angeles for several years, Vegas became a common destination for spontaneous road trips, EDM festivals, and maybe a little sinning in Sin City. 

Despite being a bustling metropolis, you can get a fairly comprehensive snapshot of Las Vegas in just one day. But, the city’s beauty comes from its amazing day trips, so I would still spend at least a weekend here if you can swing it.

So, here are the essential stops on a Las Vegas day trip itinerary. We will cover all the popular tourist attractions and give tips to help you plan your trip. We’ll start with a drive past iconic landmarks on the Strip and wrap up with a show like Cirque du Soleil. Buckle up for a wild trip in the city that never sleeps!

Sample 24 Hours in Las Vegas Itinerary

Alright, here is the full-day itinerary in one scroll! 

If you’ve only got one day and it’s your first time, you’ll spend most of your time on the Strip. And to fully explore the entire main street, you’ll need a whole day. So, this Las Vegas Strip Walking Tour will help cut down on the guesswork and take you exactly to the best places to go.

Las Vegas Strip Walking Tour

Great for the beginning of your trip

This itinerary begins at the southernmost point at the Las Vegas Sign, then heads north, stopping at the coolest sights on the Strip, and continues to other neighborhoods and attractions.

Morning: Let’s Hit the Strip

• Snap a photo at the  Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign . This will be the southernmost point.
• Marvel at the  Luxor, Excalibur, and New York New York facades.
• Time your visit to catch one of the  fountain shows at the Bellagio.
• See the ever-changing art in the  Bellagio Conservatory.
• Alternative: Take an elevator ride up to the observation deck of the  Eiffel Tower Experience .
• Alternative: Take a helicopter ride  over the whole Strip.
• See the flamingos and other exotic animals at the  wildlife habitat in the Flamingo Hotel.
• Enjoy the Roman-themed decor at  The Forum Shops of Caesar’s Palace.
• Paddle on a  gondola ride at the Venetian’s  Grand Canal Shoppes.
• Play at  AREA15 , an intergalactic neon entertainment complex.
• Make your way to the  Fremont Street Experience  for the free light shows and maybe a zip-line under the LED canopy.
• Check out the open-air shopping center,  Container Park.
• Eat at a  celebrity chef restaurant  like Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen.
• See a  Cirque du Soleil show  or any other live entertainment like a magic show or concert.
• Hit the  casinos or party it up  at one of the many nightclubs and bars along the Strip.

Recommended Places to Stay in Las Vegas: The Strip

• Most iconic resort on the Strip: Bellagio Las Vegas
• Mid-Range with a glorious pool: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Elara Center Strip

Quick Facts to Visiting Las Vegas

Las Vegas has many names: Sin City, The Entertainment Capital of the World, and The City of Lights. With enough neon to stretch over 15,000 miles, this city welcomes you to a world where you can visit Paris, Venice, and New York without leaving the Strip. 

There are over 150 casinos, and it hosts more than 21,000 conventions each year. This city can literally accommodate every person in America in its hotel rooms!

What to Do in Las Vegas in One Day

Morning: time to hit the strip, welcome to fabulous las vegas sign.

Start your day by snapping a photo in front of the  Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign . This sign has been welcoming visitors since 1959 and is the perfect way to kick off your Las Vegas adventure. 

It’s located on the south end of the Strip, just past the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino. The 25-foot-tall classic neon sign is hard to miss, and it’s a fantastic free attraction that’s open 24/7. 

Tips for visiting:  Onsite, there’s plenty of parking and an actual line where people wait to take their photo in front of the sign. The best time to visit is early in the morning to beat the crowd and the heat. 

Best Resort Facades

We will keep heading north from the sign for the rest of the day. The next memorable stop will be the trio of themed resorts:  Luxor, Excalibur, and New York-New York . 

Since we’re a bit short on time, the exteriors of these places are actually more impressive than the interior. We’ll check out other resorts’ inside later in the day!

In case you couldn’t guess where they represent, the  Luxor  stands out with its massive black-glass pyramid and a sphinx mimicking its counterpart in Egypt. The resort’s Sky Beam, the strongest beam of light in the world, can be seen miles away in the night sky.

The  Excalibur  takes you to a storybook world of kings, queens, and knights. The grand castle façade with colorful turrets brings medieval times to life.

The  New York-New York  hotel is easily distinguishable by its skyline façade featuring replicas of important New York City buildings like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, all intertwined with a roller coaster. 

I would put these other resorts on this list:  Bellagio, Caesar’s, Paris, and the Venetian.

Bellagio Fountain Shows

One of the most iconic sights in Las Vegas is the Bellagio Fountain Show. This aquatic spectacle choreographs water, music, and light into a free performance right in front of the Bellagio Hotel.

The fountains dance in sync with various music, from classical and operatic pieces to popular tunes and Broadway hits. Each performance is unique.

How to Visit:  The water show occurs every 30 minutes in the afternoons and early evenings and every 15 minutes from 8 pm to midnight. Check the full schedule here .

Bellagio Conservatory

After the dazzling display of the Fountains of Bellagio, head inside for a different kind of artistry at the Bellagio Conservatory. This 14,000-square-foot floral playground is transformed five times a year to celebrate each season and Chinese New Year. I came just in time to celebrate the Year of the Ox display.

The talented team of horticulturists and designers will craft towering fountains, giant gazebos, bridges, and even life-sized houses, all adorned with real seasonal flowers and plants. The flowers are actually replaced weekly to keep the displays fresh.

How to Visit:  The conservatory is free and open 24 hours a day. Come for a bright and cheerful tour during the day, and then come again at night for the lights.

Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck

Paris Las Vegas is almost the same as seeing the real Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, but at a half-scale replica. Inside, a glass elevator whisks you up 460 feet in the air to an observation deck with a 360-degree view of the Las Vegas Strip. From this vantage point, you can see all the other prominent landmarks we’ve talked about so far.

Insider Tip!  Time your visit to coincide with one of the Bellagio Fountain shows.

The LINQ Promenade

Next on our tour, let’s stroll down to  The LINQ Promenade . This open-air entertainment district has over 40 unique retail, dining, and entertainment venues.

If you’re not feeling the Eiffel Tower Experience, see the city up high on the High Roller , the world’s tallest observation wheel. Hop on one of the cabins for a 30-minute ride, which is particularly special for the sunsets and night lights.

Alternative:  I recommend going to the top of at least ONE observation tower during your visit. If Paris or the Observation Wheel isn’t in your plans, consider heading to the Stratosphere for a ride on one of their thrill rides or  taking this top-rated helicopter tour. 

Wildlife Habitat in the Flamingo Hotel

Take a refreshing break from the glitzy glam of Las Vegas to the Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel. In the hotel’s outdoor gardens, a small tropical oasis is filled with exotic birds, fish, turtles, and many Chilean flamingos. 

The flamingos casually strut around, utterly unfazed by human visitors. They all live in a beautifully maintained environment with streams, waterfalls, and greenery.

How to Visit:  The Wildlife Habitat is open daily from dawn to dusk, and admission here is also free.

The Forum Shops of Caesar’s Palace

In Caesar’s Palace, picture those textbook images you have of Rome, but now combine them with a modern shopping experience. The attention to detail in the interior and exterior makes this an incredible architectural design.

As you wander through the Forum Shops, look up at the expansive painted sky ceiling, which changes from daytime to dusk. You’ll find over 160 specialty shops and upscale boutiques.

The Forum Shops also have some awesome free entertainment options. Catch the Fall of Atlantis show, which features animatronic displays of fire, water, and talking statues nine feet tall. And there’s a 50,000-gallon aquarium with over 300 species of aquatic life.

Gondola Ride at the Venetian

Nothing beats the romance that comes with gliding through the waterways of Venice. But you can settle for the Venetian’s Grand Canal in the United States. 

As you settle into your Venetian gondola, your friendly gondolier, attired in traditional garb, will serenade you with soothing Italian melodies as you drift along the canals. 

The gondola navigates through the beautiful Venetian landscape, passing under bridges, beside cafes, under balconies, and through the piazza. 

How to Visit:  You can choose from indoor or outdoor gondola rides. The indoor ride takes you through the Grand Canal Shoppes with the sky-like ceiling above, while the outdoor ride gives you a view of the Las Vegas Strip. Each ride lasts about 14 minutes and can accommodate four people. 

Afternoon: Las Vegas Adventures Off the Strip

AREA15 is absolutely one of my favorite places in Las Vegas. Just off the Strip, this entertainment complex is not your ordinary mall. AREA15 is an adult playground with art installations, virtual reality experiences, and themed events that will transport you to another dimension.

Once inside, you’ll be welcomed with Burning Man-esque artistic sculptures, psychedelic lighting, and futuristic architecture that will make you feel like you’ve walked into a science fiction movie. From there, lose yourself in the digital landscapes of the interactive “Museum Fiasco” or challenge your senses at the virtual reality arcade.

AREA15 is also home to “Omega Mart,” a mind-bending supermarket-themed art installation created by the internationally renowned art collective Meow Wolf. Uncover secret passages and encounter bizarre products you won’t find in your typical grocery store.

Fremont Street Experience

Fremont Street Experience is a pedestrian-only street that mixes old and new Vegas. Fremont Street is also a gateway to historic casinos and restaurants with classic establishments like The Golden Nugget.

The entire street is covered with a 1,500-foot-long LED canopy. Named Viva Vision, it’s the world’s largest video screen, and it displays light and sound shows throughout the evening.

Every day of the year, live bands play on multiple stages along the thoroughfare (See schedule here ). Talented street performers like musicians, artists, and daredevil entertainers all come out to compete for your attention.

And there’s always someone who gets stuck on the SlotZilla Zip Line, which lets you zoom above the crowds on a high-speed, two-level zip line.

🎰 Get a more comprehensive experience of Downtown Vegas with this Segway Tour

Container Park

Just a short walk from Fremont Street, what might initially appear as a stack of shipping containers is actually a shopping center aptly named Container Park. When you spot the massive, fire-breathing praying mantis sculpture at the entrance, you’ll know you’ve arrived at a destination. 

The maze of repurposed shipping containers has transformed into quirky boutiques selling one-of-a-kind clothing and art galleries with eclectic pieces by local artists.

Heartattack Grill

In the same area, I also had to include the infamous Heart Attack Grill, where the restaurant’s tagline is literally “Taste Worth Dying For!.” And as per their policy, if you weigh over 350 pounds, you’re very publically weighed and invited to eat for free.

This medical-themed establishment is known for its incredibly high-calorie menu, including the world-record Quadruple Bypass Burger, Flatliner Fries cooked in lard, and Butterfat Milkshakes. 

All customers don a hospital gown, and the servers, dressed as nurses, are there to take your “prescription.” And if you can’t finish your meal, you’ll receive a mock spanking from one of the “nurses.”

Evening: Entertainment

Celebrity chef restaurants.

I have spent more money on restaurants in Vegas than possibly anywhere else. Las Vegas has a wealth of celebrity-chef helmed restaurants, some boasting Michelin stars and gourmet delicacies. 

Gordon Ramsay’s has multiple dining ventures, and Giada De Laurentiis’s namesake restaurant is among the most popular. And if you’re into seafood, try Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood for a sustainable seafood menu.

Although I’ve had Gordon’s milkshakes at BurGR and Giada’s mouthwatering carbonara at Pronto, my favorite meal was still the Duck Rice at Momofuku or the dancing noodle experience and wagyu at XPot. But I definitely have a preference for Asian fare.

Cirque du Soleil Show

There are many shows to pick from in Vegas, but none are more famous than Cirque du Soleil. Known for their gravity-defying acrobatics, stunning visuals, and storytelling, there are many shows with their own themes and characters.

“O,”   performed at the Bellagio, has a stage that converts from a solid floor to a 1.5-million-gallon pool in seconds and has synchronized swimming and diving moves. “Michael Jackson ONE” at the Mandalay Bay is for all those MJ fans out there.   “Mystère”  at Treasure Island is excellent for pure acrobatics and powerful athleticism.

I finally crossed off my bucket list with  “KA,”  a martial arts-themed show with an ever-moving stage.

Las Vegas Nightlife

The nightlife here is legendary. Period.

First up, the  nightclubs . Mega-clubs like  XS at the Wynn ,  Omnia at Caesars Palace , and  Hakkasan at the MGM Grand  regularly host world-renowned DJs and cutting-edge visuals.

Try  Skyfall Lounge at Delano  for city views or  Chandelier at the Cosmopolitan  for a drink inside a massive, multi-story chandelier. And we can’t forget about the bars, like the quirky  Minus5 Ice Bar,  where everything from the seats to the glasses is made of ice.

Lastly, Vegas hosts so many music festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival and Life is Beautiful, which bring in top artists from around the world. 

And if you’re not into partying, pull an all-nighter at the casinos to shoot your shot at the table games or slot machines to make it big. I’d say my gambling career peaked after winning a round of roulette on my first try. 23$, baby. 

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Stay on the Strip, especially if it’s your first time in Las Vegas. It’s in the heart of all the action, and you’ll be within walking distance of many attractions and entertainment venues. Downtown Las Vegas, often called “Old Vegas,” is another excellent choice, but you’ll likely have to spend more time transporting yourself around.

Best Hotels on the Strip, Las Vegas

Places to visit with more time, other things to do in las vegas.

• 18B Arts District:  North of downtown Las Vegas, this arts district is one of my favorite neighborhoods. It has galleries, murals, street art, unique shops, and outstanding eateries.
• Neon Museum : This unique museum houses a collection of old Las Vegas signs. Take a guided tour and learn about the city’s history through its signage.
• Mob Museum : This museum takes you through organized crime’s impact on Las Vegas history.
• Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay : An underwater, predator-based aquarium with over 2,000 animals, including sharks, giant rays, and green sea turtles. From experience, I had a great first date here.
• Seven Magic Mountains:   A colorful art installation featuring seven towers of stacked boulders just outside the city.
• Stratosphere Tower:  Take a ride on the thrilling rides at the top of this tower, or enjoy city views from its observation deck.
• Circus Circus:  This family-friendly resort features circus acts, carnival games, and a five-acre indoor amusement park.

Day Trips from Las Vegas

• Hoover Dam : An engineering marvel, the Hoover Dam is a fantastic day trip. You can tour the dam, walk across the top, and even go down inside. 
• Red Rock Canyon : Just 17 miles west of Las Vegas, this natural area has hiking and scenic drives. The red rock formations are a must-see.
• Valley of Fire State Park : The red sandstone formations here are perfect for a day of hiking, camping, and nature photography.
• Death Valley National Park : Despite the ominous name, this park is full of life and beauty, with sand dunes, salt flats, and colorful rock formations.
• Grand Canyon West Rim : While it’s a bit of a stretch, it’s doable as a long day trip. The West Rim has a Skywalk, a glass bridge extending out over the canyon.
• Zion National Park : Another longer day trip option, this park in Utah has beautiful red monoliths and slot canyons.
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area : Have fun with water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
• Antelope Canyon:  Located in Page, Arizona, this famous slot canyon is a photographer’s dream with its sandstone formations and light beams.

Is 1 Day Enough for Las Vegas

While it’s possible to get a taste of Las Vegas in a day, one day is hardly enough time to see the whole city. Las Vegas was built to keep you entertained, and it does a great job at it. With one day, spend most of your time on the Strip.

With additional time, I love the Arts District and think it’s worth visiting another side of the city. Otherwise, go for some day trips in the desert to national parks or Red Rock Canyon. Many people come for an extended weekend, and I would say that’s a reasonable amount of time because the money leaves your pocket quickly in this town. 

Best Time To Visit

For a balance between good weather and manageable crowds, the spring months of March to May and the fall months of September to November are the best time to visit Las Vegas. The hotel rates are often more affordable than the peak summer season.

However, if you want epic pool parties and nightlife, the summer months from June to August may be your best bet. The downside is that the temperature can skyrocket during this time, but you can always get sweet relief from the air-conditioned indoor attractions.

Holiday seasons like New Year’s Eve and Labor Day weekend are super lively. There are high hotel rates and big crowds, but the trade-off is the awesome shows, events, and parties they bring!

Transportation in Las Vegas

How to get here.

By Air:  McCarran International Airport (LAS) is one of the busiest airports in the U.S. The airport is conveniently located near the southern end of the Strip, and taxi, shuttle, rideshare, and public bus services are available for transport to the city center.

By Road:  Las Vegas is well-connected by road. If you’re driving from Los Angeles, the most straightforward route is via I-15 N, which is approximately a 4-hour drive. From Phoenix, the quickest route is via US-93 N, around a 5-hour drive. Many visitors rent a car from DiscoverCars for flexibility during their stay.

By Public Transportation:  Greyhound provides services from cities like Los Angeles , Phoenix, and Salt Lake City . Megabus also runs from Los Angeles, while Flixbus connects Las Vegas with many cities in California and Arizona.

There’s no direct Amtrak service to Las Vegas.

Getting Around Las Vegas

Once you’re in Vegas, you can take  The Deuce,  a bus service that operates 24/7 and runs the entire length of Las Vegas Boulevard up to the Fremont Street Experience.  The Las Vegas Monorail  is another popular choice that runs along the east side of The Strip with seven stops.  RTC Buses  operate numerous routes throughout the Las Vegas Valley.

Do not take a taxi! They are way more expensive than rideshares  like Uber and Lyft. I also recommend checking  DiscoverCars   if you plan on renting a car.

Final Thoughts: Day Trip to Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a fit for many different types of travelers. It’s one of those cities I often recommend international people visit when they’re coming to America just because it’s so different. 

It’s great for luxury travelers, featuring opulent hotels, high-end food, and luxurious spa treatments. But on the other side, it also attracts party animals and adventurers who want to go on exciting trips around Nevada , the Grand Canyon, Red Rock Canyon, and beyond. 

And if you plan on exploring more of the West, don’t miss out on our comprehensive guides to other must-visit spots in Nevada below!

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

• 25 Jaw-Dropping Places in Utah You Have to See Because Photos Don’t Do Them Justice
• Why Now Is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii’s Largest Island Without the Crowds of Oahu
• 17 Beautiful Coastal Towns to Live the California Dream
• Why Everyone Wants to Secure These 7 Lottery-Only National Park Experiences

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Hotel Deals & Packages

Downtown las vegas, walk to allegiant stadium from these hotels, family-friendly hotels in las vegas, hotels on the strip, pet-friendly hotels, view all hotels & casinos, neon city festival | free, all-ages event, vegas shows: the comprehensive guide, best places to catch live music in las vegas, special events & festivals, events this weekend, kid-friendly shows in las vegas, view all shows & events, gordon ramsay dishes on las vegas, budget-friendly fine dining in vegas, late-night dining spots, new restaurants, celebrity chefs, fine dining, bars & lounges, view all restaurants, free things to do in las vegas, 20 ways to celebrate your birthday in vegas, discover downtown las vegas, las vegas with kids, outdoor adventure, museums & exhibits, wedding packages and offers, reasons to have your wedding in vegas, affordable weddings in las vegas, what you need to get married here, find your wedding venue, the 2024 las vegas wedding guide, plan your vegas wedding, formula 1 heineken silver las vegas grand prix 2024, latest in vegas: sports, how to bet on sports in vegas like a pro, four golf courses near the strip, 2024 las vegas raiders schedule, wrestlemania 41, join the millions who follow us, follow us for must-see las vegas experiences, can't miss las vegas hotel deals & updates, how to spend your first guy's trip in las vegas.

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.

Vacations in Las Vegas

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for vacation package deals in las vegas.

Free to use There are no hidden charges or fees.

Filter your deals Filter by free cancellation, free breakfast and more.

Millions of reviews Check ratings based on millions of real guest reviews.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Cheap Las Vegas package deals

Most popular las vegas flight and hotel deals, last minute vacation packages to las vegas, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in las vegas, tips for finding las vegas package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Las Vegas and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $372; Family vacation $328; Romantic vacation $478; Luxury vacation $517; Budget vacation $240.

Why should you book a vacation package to Las Vegas?

The best way to enjoy Las Vegas, saving time and money, is with a vacation package. By bundling together hotels and flights, you will often be able to take advantage of preferential rates, as opposed to standard single rates when booking separately. You will also save time matching hotel availability to your flights. If flexibility isn’t your priority, Las Vegas vacation packages could leave you more money to spend in the city itself, rather than on getting there.

When should you book a vacation package to Las Vegas?

Booking a Las Vegas flight and hotel package is an efficient way to save on stress and cash. For the best deals and rooms, it’s advisable to search for Las Vegas vacation packages during quieter periods. Traveling during the week is generally more affordable than at weekends, and by booking earlier you can help avoid higher rates. The July-August ‘Monsoon’ season is a good time to find Las Vegas travel deals, as most travelers opt to visit during spring and fall when the weather is hotter and dryer. It’s also a good time to get away from the concrete and visit the surrounding valleys, mountains and national parks in cooler weather.

Whilst searching for Las Vegas travel deals, be sure to check out seasonal activities. Most crowd-pulling events such as the NASCAR race, the Super Bowl, and the Rodeo happen during fall and winter as well as major conventions such as the Consumer Electronics Show and the Magic International.

Where should you stay in Las Vegas during your vacation?

For any vacation type in las vegas:.

The Aria Resort and Casino is one of the classiest hotels on the Las Vegas strip, offering private cabana rental alongside a range of first-class, dedicated amenities to make your Las Vegas getaway feel special. The resort is just a 10-minute drive from McCarran International, and offers a 24-hour taxi and limo booking service. If you book a Sky Suite with the hotel, luxury transfer to and from the airport is included.

The Venetian Resort Hotel is a luxurious, whimsical Las Vegas creation. Housed in a sprawling Italianate palazzo, it boasts an on-site grand canal complete with gondolas, renaissance mall, spacious, eco-friendly suites and 10 outdoor pools. The hotel is just 12 minutes by car or taxi from the airport, and it offers a wide range of transport options, from a taxi booking service to a ‘Grazie’ shuttle service (free for Gold and Platinum members), running every half hour between 6.am and 6.30pm.

For family vacations in Las Vegas:

Marriot’s Grand Chateau, 15-minutes’ walk from the strip, boasts spacious family rooms, free valet parking, kids’ activity rooms and a bird’s-eye view of central Las Vegas. Just a ten-minute drive from the airport, head north onto McCarran Airport Connector, carry on to Swenson Street, then left onto E Harmon Ave. The Chateau offers free valet parking.

The Mandarin Oriental offers cozy family rooms and a range of child-oriented services, from children’s afternoon tea to the arrangement of certified babysitters, to ensure a stress-free stay for the whole family. The hotel is around a ten-minute drive by cab or car from the airport and is located right on ‘The Strip’.

For romantic vacations in Las Vegas:

The Desert Rose Resort, just 2 blocks from the southern part of the Strip, is a great choice for couples on a budget. It boasts a range of contemporary condominium suites with private patios or balconies. As it doesn’t host on-site bars or clubs, it’s ideal for those looking for something quieter. Just seven minutes from the airport by car, head north onto McCarran Airport Connector then left onto E. Tropicana Ave. After 1.6 miles, turn left onto Duke Ellington Way – the resort is on the right.

The MGM Grand attracts some of the world’s most famous acts to its numerous nightclubs and showrooms. With pool complexes, a range of signature bars and restaurants, and generously-sized suites, it’s an ideal honeymoon resort. The resort offers tax assistance and features on shuttle service routes to and from the airport (just 7 minutes away, though usually longer via shuttle). If driving from McCarran International, head north onto McCarran Airport Connector and left onto E. Tropicana Ave., then right onto Audrie St. and left towards the resort entrance.

For luxury vacations in Las Vegas:

The Wynne Las Vegas is a dazzling luxurious resort, featuring a full casino, dozens of boutiques and matchlessly designed amenities. The hotel doesn’t offer a free shuttle service, but is located directly on the Strip, and is easily reachable (around 12 minutes) from McCarran International via cab or hired car.

The Four Seasons in Mandalay Bay offers glorious views of the surrounding desert mountains from chic, Art-Deco suites. Alongside stellar on-site restaurants, guests can enjoy tailored treatments in the Forbes Five Star Spa. Limo, taxi and rental car services are available for airport transfers (around 12 minutes away) and beyond.

For budget vacations in Las Vegas:

The Mardi Gras Hotel and Casino is located 5 minutes from the Monorail and offers free shuttles to the Strip and airport transfers (between 7am and 10pm). It also offers free service level parking and a friendly full-service bar and restaurant. From the airport, simply head north on Paradise Road for 2.3 miles. The hotel is on the right.

The Circus Circus Hotel, Casino, and Theme Park is just 5 minutes’ drive from the Convention Center and offers free entertainment nightly. The hotel is just 8 minutes away from the airport by cab, or half an hour way via line 108 bus.

Where to stay in Las Vegas

Las vegas vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

• London package vacations
• Los Angeles package vacations
• Miami package vacations
• Miami Beach package vacations
• Montego Bay package vacations
• Myrtle Beach package vacations
• Nassau package vacations
• New Orleans package vacations
• New York package vacations
• Orlando package vacations
• Paris package vacations
• Playa del Carmen package vacations
• Puerto Rico package vacations
• Punta Cana package vacations
• Rome package vacations
• Saint Martin package vacations
• San Diego package vacations
• San Francisco package vacations
• San Juan package vacations
• Seattle package vacations

5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Vegas | 5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . You can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

If you can find a free weekend or a few extra days, you can take a spectacular road trip from Las Vegas . Sin City has the convenience of being close to several top attractions, cities, and national parks, so don’t miss your chance to explore the great American West!

You can plan a road trip itinerary using our guides on national parks near Las Vegas and things to do outside Las Vegas . However, this article gives you the best Las Vegas road trips to maximize time and mileage. I’ll share 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10-day Las Vegas road trip itineraries so you can find the perfect one for your schedule.

In summary, these are the best road trips from Vegas :

• Grand Canyon , the best 2-day road trip from Las Vegas
• Los Angeles , a fun 3-day car trip from Las Vegas
• San Francisco , one of the most popular 4-day road trips from Las Vegas to California
• Monument Valley , one of the best 5-day road trips from Las Vegas to Arizona
• Arches National Park , the ultimate 10-day road trip from Las Vegas to Utah

Also, before setting off on your weekend getaway from Las Vegas , you’ll want reliable transportation. I suggest reading my guide on renting a car in Las Vegas or, for the ultimate experience, renting an RV in Las Vegas or campervan rentals in Las Vegas .

1. Grand Canyon, the best 2-day road trip from Las Vegas

♦   576 miles, 9 hrs total driving – 2 days, 1 night – Out & back

Taking a road trip from Vegas to the Grand Canyon is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas .

Right outside Las Vegas, you’ll pass the Hoover Dam , where you can spend a few hours. Take a tour of this significant landmark and check the attractions nearby.

Continue towards Grand Canyon Village , also known as the South Rim. While it’s a slower route, to get there I recommend taking historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman. Once in the Grand Canyon National Park you can check its famous viewpoints, restaurants, and beautiful hiking routes.

The park is open 24/7, and the entrance fee is $30 per vehicle. If you have more time, I have some ideas for extending your Las Vegas road trip to the Grand Canyon South Rim .

2-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – 300 miles, 5 hrs.

Get an early start, so you have time to visit Hoover Dam and Boulder City. Then, continue your road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon South Rim. The scenic route is via Route 66, between Kingman and Seligman. This way, you’ll see Angel & Vilma’s Gift Shop, famous restaurants like Mr. D’z 66 Diner, the Grand Canyon caverns near Peach Springs, and the Mohave Museum.

Once at Grand Canyon Village, you can take one of the shuttles to popular lookouts like Hopi Point (it has the perfect sunset views). The Rim Trail, which circles the South Rim, is a great hike to do as a family.

• Recommended accommodations: Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn and The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon are great, or consult our guide on where to stay in the Grand Canyon .

Day 2 – 280 miles, 4 hrs 15 mins

The best way to start your second day is with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour . It’s an amazing way to see the canyon, and we have an entire guide on the top 6 flight tours.

After your helicopter ride, take the free shuttle to one of the lookout points around the South Rim. You can also visit interesting places like the Yavapai Geology Museum and the Tusayan Ruins and Museum before heading back to Vegas.

• Recommended accommodations: Any of the best hotels in Las Vegas will be great for an overnight stay.

VEGAS ROAD TRIP ALTERNATIVES

One extra day.

Use your extra day in the Grand Canyon to visit the West Rim . Here, you can see the Skywalk, a glass balcony that hangs over the edge of the canyon. Visiting the West Rim adds 90 miles and 2 hrs 15 mins of driving.

Two extra days

A couple of extra days at the Grand Canyon means you can hike the Bright Angel Trail , one of the top hikes in the canyon. The path starts at Grand Canyon Village and descends over 4,360 feet into the canyon.

The route is 16 miles round-trip, so you’ll need 2 days to do it. It’s best to hike to the bottom. Camp there overnight, then make the ascent back to the South Rim.

Three extra days

If you have three more days in this area, you can make the trek to Havasu Falls. The falls are part of the Havasupai Indian Reservation, so you must make reservations in advance.

To get to the trailhead, take Route 66 toward Peach Spring. Continue for about 130 miles and turn right onto Indian Road 18. This road leads to the Hualapai Hilltop Parking Lot.

From there, you can hike the Havasupai Falls Trail to the waterfalls, which aren’t far from the Havasupai Campground .

2-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

2. Hollywood, a fun 3-day car trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

♦ 350 miles, 6 hrs 15 mins total driving – 3 days, 2 nights – One-way

When planning a road trip from Las Vegas , consider California. This state is full of gorgeous landscapes, enjoyable cities, and, of course, beaches. My itinerary is for a 3-day road trip from Las Vegas to Hollywood, but you can add more days and take a Vegas road trip to San Diego too.

On this car trip to Los Angeles from Las Vegas , you’ll take a pitstop to 7 Magic Mountains before visiting Mojave National Preserve . The preserve has some of the best night skies in the country, so I highly recommend camping overnight.

Then, head to Joshua Tree National Park and see the wide range of desert flora there. Check out the Cholla Cactus Garden and stay overnight in the park before waking up early for day 3.

The last stop on this road trip from Las Vegas to California is Los Angeles , where you can find unlimited things to do. If you have more time, extend your stay in LA, or drive down to San Diego.

Keep in mind that the end point of this route is different from the starting point. So, when setting up your rental, consider any extra fees for returning the car in a different location and book two one-way flights.

3-day Las Vegas road trip itinerary

Day 1 – 97 miles, 2 hrs.

This  Las Vegas road trip to California  begins with a quick stop at  7 Magic Mountains . This colorful art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone is a nice photo op along the Las Vegas Freeway.

Then, drive the hour or so to  Mojave National Preserve , one of the most amazing destinations between Vegas and LA. Rather than drive through it, take time to appreciate the area, especially the Kelso Dunes and the ancient Mojave Lava Tube. The volcanic tunnel is over 1300 feet long and casts impressive light rays in the afternoon.

One of the most popular things to do here is to hike the Rings Loop Trail, which is a little over a mile long. You’ll see that Mojave National Preserve has lots of Joshua Trees; it actually has the highest density of these trees in the world, even more than Joshua Tree National Park!

• Recommended accommodation:  Hole-in-the-Wall Campground

Day 2 – 125 miles, 2 hrs 15 mins

The next day, make the short drive to  Joshua Tree National Park , which is also in the Mojave Desert. This park is known for its unique landscape of Joshua trees and gravity-defying rock formations.

That said, one of the best sights in Joshua Tree is the  Cholla Cactus Garden . You can take the circular walking trail through the garden of brittlebush, desert lavender, and several species of cacti.

• Recommended accommodations:  Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Yucca Valley  or  High Desert Motel Joshua Tree National Park

Day 3 – 130 miles, 2 hrs

The last stop on this  3-day road trip from Las Vegas  is  Los Angeles . Here, you’ll have your pick of all kinds of tours and activities, so check our guide on to  things to do in Los Angeles  for some ideas.

Everyone likes popular attractions like the  Hollywood Sign  and the  Walk of Fame . Perhaps you’d prefer one of the beaches, like  Santa Monica  or  Malibu . Film buffs can check out the famous  Hollywood studios and theaters , while shopaholics can hit  Rodeo Drive .

• Recommended accommodations:  InterContinental – Los Angeles Downtown  is nice, and we have a guide on  where to stay in Los Angeles

Vegas road trip alternatives

One day short.

If you must cut your trip short one day, skip Mojave and go straight to Joshua Tree. It’ll save you 25 miles and 45 minutes of driving.

An extra day means you can spend two days in LA, which is great because there are so many  things to do in Los Angeles  and Hollywood.

Add two more days to your itinerary, and you can take a  Vegas road trip to San Diego . It adds 120 miles and one hour of driving, and you can see fabulous beaches like La Jolla Cove.

3-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

3. San Francisco, one of the most popular 4-day road trips from Las Vegas to California

♦ 630 miles, 12 hrs 30 mins total driving – 4 days, 3 nights – One-way

Note: This route can only be completed when Tioga Road is open; check dates.

This 4-day road trip from Las Vegas is action-packed and starts with a visit to Red Rock Canyon . Then, you’ll head to Death Valley , where you can see the famous Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Artist’s Palette, and other sights.

Then, you can witness the unique landscapes of Alabama Hills , Hot Creek , and Mono Lake before stopping at Yosemite National Park . This is a must-see on any road trip from Las Vegas to California since Yosemite is full of hiking routes, waterfalls, lookouts, and other landmarks.

The last stop is San Francisco , an amazing city by the bay with all kinds of attractions. Not only is the city surrounded by beautiful natural places, but San Fran itself is tons of fun. Check out iconic areas like Nob Hill, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps. Besides that, there are museums, historic buildings, neighborhoods, and architectural monuments to behold.

With all of the stops along the way, this is the best road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco !

4-day road trip itinerary from Las Vegas

Day 1 – 130 miles, 2 hrs 30 mins.

The first stop on this road trip from Las Vegas to California is right outside Sin City. You’ll start by exploring Red Rock Canyon , known for its fiery rock formations and ancient pictographs. You can check out the sights along the Scenic Loop Drive or do one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock .

Then, you’ll make your way to Death Valley , California , one of the largest national parks in the country. Here, you’ll have your pick of all kinds of attractions and points of interest, like the Artist’s Palette and Badwater Basin , the lowest point in the U.S. There are also hiking trails to overlooks like Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View .

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at The Ranch at Death Valley or check out our guide on where to stay in Death Valley

Day 2 – 230 miles, 4 hrs

Outside Death Valley, there is the town of Lone Pine, a great intermediary between Death Valley and Mt. Whitney. Here, you must see the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If you’ve ever seen a western film, you’ll recognize the landscape of Alabama Hills. Check out scenic Movie Road and the famous Mobius Arch , which perfectly frames the mountain range in the distance.

Later, make the drive to Hot Creek Geological Site , a gorge with bubbling turquoise hot springs. Magma mixes with the cool waters of Hot Creek to heat the thermal pools, which you can hike past for a closer look.

Day 2 of this 4-day road trip from La Vegas ends with a visit to nearby Mono Lake . This saline lake offers lovely views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, as well as hiking and kayaking.

• Recommended accommodations: Spend a restful night at Lake View Lodge near Mono Lake.

Day 3 – 80 miles, 2 hrs

Get an early start in the morning so you can make the long drive to Yosemite National Park . You can stop by Yosemite Village and the Visitor Center for trail maps and info, then decide what to do.

I will say that some of the best things to see here are El Capitan , which is over 7,500 feet tall, and the Half Dome , another granite formation that’s over 8,800 feet tall. The park also has the highest waterfall in the U.S., Yosemite Falls , which is 2,425 feet tall.

There are other waterfalls in the park, as well as lakes and overlooks. You can see some of these while traveling along Glacier Point Road . Also, it’s worth seeing Tuolumne Grove , a giant sequoia forest. Of course, there is lots more to see here, including wildlife and beautiful hiking trails, so check our guide!

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at Yosemite Valley Lodge or one of the places in our guide on where to stay in Yosemite

Day 4 – 190 miles, 4 hrs

Finally, this Las Vegas road trip ends in San Francisco , one of the most enjoyable cities in the country. There is a little bit of everything here, so it’s well worth the drive.

This bay city is known for its relaxed environment and landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge , Fisherman’s Wharf , and Nob Hill . One of the most iconic things to do here is to take a cable car past notable sights like Chinatown and Russian Hill .

San Francisco is full of museums, unique neighborhoods, shops, restaurants, and natural areas like forests, gardens, and beaches. So, be sure to read our guide so you can plan your perfect day in the city.

• Recommended accommodations: The Handlery Union Square Hotel is a nice downtown accommodation, or you can check our article on where to stay in San Francisco

Vegas car trip alternatives

If you can add more days to your  road trip from Las Vegas to California , you can see even more incredible things along the way. Here are some ideas to consider if you have more time.

If you have an extra day, you can spend more time in  Yosemite . You could easily spend three days in the park since there is so much to do there. The  Upper Yosemite Falls Trail  is a gorgeous 7-hour route, and  Tunnel View  is an iconic lookout point.  Mirror Lake  and  Mariposa Grove  are two other lovely spots, and the  Taft Point-Sentinel Dome  hike is a must-do if you have the time.

Another option if you have one more day is to spend more time in  San Francisco . You could even spend a week here and not get bored. So, it’s up to you if you want to see nearby natural attractions or explore the city.

With two extra days, you can spend more time in  Yosemite  or  San Francisco  and take a detour to  Lake Tahoe . A visit to the largest alpine lake in the U.S. adds 150 miles (2 hrs 45 mins) of driving.

Here, you can do different kinds of water sports or visit one of the ski resorts. Lake Tahoe also offers excellent hiking trails like the  Tahoe Rim Trail  and  Eagle Lake .

4-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

4. Monument Valley, one of the best 5-day road trips from Las Vegas to Arizona

♦ 900 miles, 16 hrs 20 mins total driving – 5 days, 4 nights – Loop

This 5-day road trip from Las Vegas has lots of interesting stops, so be prepared. As you leave Vegas, pay a visit to the Valley of Fire , and walk among the dazzling geological formations.

Then, spend a day exploring Zion National Park and some of the hiking routes and viewpoints there. Next, this road trip from Las Vegas goes to Arizona , where you’ll see Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon . You’ll definitely want your camera for these two incredibly scenic places!

The next stop on this road trip from Las Vegas is Monument Valley , an area full of mesas, buttes, and stunning starry skies. Finally, you’ll head to the Grand Canyon , where you can hike along the canyon’s rim or even take a helicopter tour.

As you make your way back to Vegas, take historic Route 66 . It’s a bit longer, but it’s more scenic. As you get closer to Sin City, you can pass through Boulder City and check out the Hoover Dam , too.

5-DAY ROAD TRIP ITINERARY from Las Vegas

Day 1 – 180, 3 hrs 30 mins.

This  road trip from Las Vegas  begins with a stop at the  Valley of Fire , one of the best hiking spots right outside Sin City. Some of the  most popular hikes in Valley of Fire  include the  Fire Wave Trail  and  Petroglyph Canyon Trail .

Besides hiking, you can do the  Scenic Drive  at Valley of Fire, which goes past some famous landmarks. While the park is known for its fiery rock formations, it also has colorful attractions like the  Rainbow Vista  and  Pink Canyon . Plus, this can be a  fun road trip from Las Vegas  to do with kids. They’ll love the  petroglyphs ,  Elephant Rock , and the  Fire Cave .

After spending some time at Valley of Fire, drive a few hours northeast to  Zion National Park .

• Recommended accommodations:  La Quinta by Wyndham Kanab  is comfortable and cheap, but we also have a guide on  hotels and campgrounds in Zion

Day 2 – 120 miles, 2 hrs 20 mins

Day 2 of this  Las Vegas road trip itinerary  is dedicated to exploring  Zion National Park . We have an article about all the things to do in Zion, but I’ll tell you some of the most popular activities if you only have one day.

As I said, the hiking trails here are amazing, so check out  Angel’s Landing ,  The Narrows , or  The Subway . The family-friendly  Lower Emerald Pools  trail is also worth doing. Also, Zion has excellent starry skies, and you can get iconic views from the  Court of the Patriarchs  lookout point.

If you take the  Zion Scenic Drive , you’ll see the  Visitor Center and Museum ,  Court of the Patriarchs ,  The Grotto ,  Weeping Rock ,  Big Bend , and  Temple of Sinawava.

After Zion, head to Page, Arizona, and get some rest for another action-packed day.

• Recommended accommodations:  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  is one of the best, or you can check out our guide on  where to stay in Page

Day 3 – 120 miles, 2 hrs

As you continue your  5-day road trip from Las Vegas , make a quick stop at  Horseshoe Bend . This horseshoe-shaped meander stands nearly 1,000 feet tall and has an imposing presence you have to see to believe. The view from Horseshoe Bend is incredible at sunrise or sunset, but even if you can’t visit then, it’s still beautiful.

Another great thing about Horseshoe Bend is that it’s a very short drive from  Antelope Canyon . We have an article about how to photograph the canyon and which part to visit. I will tell you that if you go to the Upper section in summer in the middle of the day, you can see the famous  light beams  coming through the canyon walls.

Also, be aware that since Antelope Canyon is within the  Navajo Indian Reservation , you must take a tour. A Navajo guide will take you through the canyon and tell you about the geological and cultural history of the area, and you’ll see the canyon’s undulating structure for yourself!

After spending time at Antelope Canyon, drive the two hours to  Monument Valley  and get some rest for Day 4 of this  road trip from Las Vegas .

• Recommended accommodations:  Goulding’s Lodge  is among the most popular, or you can book one of the places in our  where to stay in Monument Valley  guide

Day 4 – 180 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins

Get an early start in the morning and check out  Monument Valley . One of the best things to do here is to take the  Scenic Drive  past fascinating formations. You’ll see  Elephant Butte , the  Three Sisters ,  John Ford’s Point ,  The Thumb , and several other landmarks.

You can also hike the  Wildcat Trail  and capture superb photos at lookout points like  The Mittens and Merrick Butte  and  Artist’s Point .

Be sure to budget enough time to drive to the  Grand Canyon  from Monument Valley since it takes over 3 hours, and you’ll want to rest up for tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations:  Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn  or  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Day 5 – 300 miles, 5 hrs 15 mins

Spend the last day of this  road trip from Las Vegas at the Grand Canyon . Start at  Grand Canyon Village , which is at the  South Rim . From there, you can take one of the shuttles to the  South Kaibab Trail  or  Hermit Road where you can find beautiful viewpoints like Yavapai and Yaki Point  on the Kaibab Rim Route or  Hopi Point  on the Hermit Road Route.

If you want to make your visit extra special, take a  helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon  and see this natural wonder from a birds-eye view.

When it’s time to head back to Sin City, take the return trip via  Route 66 . This way, you’ll pass the most iconic part of this famous highway, then you can stop at  Boulder City  and visit  Hoover Dam .

• Recommended accommodations: Spend the night at one of the  best hotels in Las Vegas

VEGAS ROAD TRIP alternatives

If you’re short on time, you can skip Monument Valley and save 150 miles (about 2.5 hours) of driving.

If you have time, you can make this a  6-day road trip from Las Vegas . You could spend a day in  Bryce Canyon  or check out  Sedona and Red Rock Country .

Bryce Canyon National Park is a short drive from Zion and is known for its incredible hoodoos and rock formations. It adds 120 miles (2 hrs 15 mins) of driving.

Meanwhile, Red Rock Country is in the Oak Creek area of Sedona and has a distinct canyon landscape. Some of the most photographed sights here include  Oak Creek Canyon , Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and  Tuzigoot National Monument . It adds 135 miles (3 hrs) of driving.

If you have two extra days, you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  by visiting  Sedona  and  Phoenix . Check out the iconic attractions along the  Red Rock Scenic Byway . Phoenix is home to the  Desert Botanical Garden , several impressive hiking trails, and  South Mountain Park , one of the largest in the U.S. It adds 295 miles (5 hrs 20 mins) of driving.

Alternatively, two extra days can give you the  best road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon . You’ll have enough time to hike the full  Bright Angel Trail  and camp at the bottom of the canyon.

If you want to extend your trip by 3 extra days, consider adding the  Havasu Falls  to your itinerary. After visiting the Grand Canyon, make the drive to Supai at the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Along with a lodge, you’ll find the  Havasu Falls Trailhead , which takes you past the  Fifty Foot Falls  and  Navajo Falls . Once you get to  Havasu Falls , you can see Carbonate Canyon and stay overnight at the  Havasupai Campground . It adds 140 miles (4 hrs 30 mins) of driving.

5-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

5. Arches, the best 10-day road trip from Las Vegas to Utah

♦ 1,545 miles, 31 hrs total driving – 10 days, 9 nights – Loop

This ultimate 10-day road trip from Las Vegas begins with a stop at the Valley of Fire , where you can take the scenic drive (Mouse’s Tank) past the Rainbow Vista, Arch Rock, and other impressive formations.

The next day, you can visit Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks for amazing lookout points, hikes, and geological monuments. Speaking of which, this road trip from Las Vegas to Utah also includes the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument . Spanning 1.8 million acres, this natural wonder sits between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef , another national park on this itinerary.

Capitol Reef offers excellent hiking and backpacking, and it’s about an hour from Goblin Valley State Park , an awesome place in Utah for wildlife viewing and stargazing.

Two other national parks you’ll see are Arches and Canyonlands , which have thousands of natural arches between them. The tail-end of this Las Vegas road trip includes stops at Monument Valley , Antelope Canyon , Horseshoe Bend , and the Grand Canyon , which I’ve mentioned earlier.

Finally, as you make your way back to Vegas, you can visit Boulder City and Hoover Dam .

10-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – 185 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins.

The  distance from Vegas  to  Valley of Fire  is about 45 miles, so this state park is the first stop. It’s a great place to hike outside Sin City, especially since there are trails for all levels. Not only that, but each route takes you past some incredible sights, like the  Fire Wave ,  Pink Canyon , and  Balanced Rock .

After exploring this red sandstone playground, get back in the car and make your way to  Zion National Park .

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at  La Quinta by Wyndham Kanab  or check our guide to  hotels and campgrounds in Zion

Day 2 – 85 miles, 2 hrs

As one of the top  road trip ideas from Las Vegas , you can’t miss  Zion National Park . That said, if you only have one day there, you must prioritize.

I recommend doing a hike, such as  Angel’s Landing , which takes about 4 hours and leads to an amazing 360° viewpoint. Other photographic spots in Zion include the  Three Patriarchs ,  The Narrows , and the  Emerald Pools .

After a day in Zion, continue this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah’s national parks  by heading to  Bryce Canyon .

• Recommended accommodations: Check out  Bryce Park Place  or our list of suggested  hotels and campsites in Bryce Canyon

Day 3 – 105 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins

Like Zion,  Bryce Canyon  is an excellent stop on this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah . The defining characteristic of Bryce Canyon is the smattering of hoodoos, which are spire-like rock formations.

One of the best ways to see the hoodoos is by going to  Sunrise Point , where you can see them glow in the sunlight. Moreover, there are other intriguing natural sculptures in Bryce, like  Thor’s Hammer ,  Bryce Amphitheater , and  Two Bridges .

If you’d like to do a short hike, I recommend the  Navajo Loop  or  Queen’s Garden Trail . You can combine these routes and loop past  Queen Victoria  and  Wall Street , ending at Thor’s Hammer.

The next stop will be the  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , so head to your hotel and get some rest.

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at the  Cowboy Country Inn  or the  Canyon Country Lodge

Day 4 – 115 miles, 3 hrs 40 mins

Besides Zion and Bryce Canyon, there are lots of other cool  things to do in Utah . The next stop on this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah  is the  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , a remote region in southern Utah.

GSENM covers an expansive area, so you won’t be able to see everything during your trip. I recommend checking out the  Hole-in-the-Rock Scenic Byway , a 55-mile road that winds around several attractions. It’s a good way to see the  Zebra and Tunnel Canyons , the  Devil’s Garden ,  Batty Pass Caves ,  Jacob Hamblin Arch, Coyote Natural Bridge , and more.

The arches in this place are out of this world, as are the  Spooky and Brimstone Gulches . After basking in the magnitude of this natural monument, do the short drive to  Capitol Reef  and rest up.

• Recommended accommodations: Spend the night at the  Capitol Reef Resort  or  Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse

Day 5 – 160 miles, 2 hrs 45 mins

This  Utah national park road trip from Las Vegas  continues with a visit to  Capitol Reef National Park . The area is known for its white sandstone cliffs and domes, which look like dried-up reefs. That said, it’s also in southern Utah’s red rock country, so the landscape is quite beautiful.

You can see lots of canyons, cliffs, gorges, and petroglyphs while traveling along the park’s  Scenic Drive . There are also several trailheads, so consider a short hike like the  Capitol Gorge ,  Goosenecks , or  Sunset Point Trail .

About an hour north of Capitol Reef, you’ll find  Goblin Valley State Park , another interesting  place to visit in Utah . Its desert landscape is characterized by giant hoodoos, which have been nicknamed “goblins.” The park offers excellent wildlife spotting and enjoyable hikes like the  Carmel Canyon Loop  and the  Three Sisters Trail , which leads to a natural monument by the same name.

Another great thing about Goblin Valley is that it’s about 1.5 hours from  Arches National Park , the next stop on this  Las Vegas road trip itinerary .

• Recommended accommodations:  Red Cliffs Lodge  or  River Canyon Lodge

Day 6 – 30 miles, 45 mins

As you might expect,  Arches National Park  is full of natural arches, bridges, and rock structures. It’s the perfect place to visit on any  Las Vegas road trip to Utah .

Some of the most iconic spots I suggest checking out include  Balanced Rock ,  The Windows , and  Turret Arch .  Double Arch  is one of the most famous landmarks in the park, as is  Delicate Arch , which you can reach via a 3.4-mile hike.

If you want, you can hang out in the town of  Moab  before heading to  Canyonlands National Park . Along with shops and restaurants, Moab is home to the popular strong>Corona Arch.

• Recommended accommodations: Consider  Moab Springs Ranch in Moab  or  Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab

Day 7 – 200 miles, 3 hrs 40 mins

Day 7 begins at  Canyonlands National Park , home to exceptional natural landmarks like the  Mesa Arch . I recommend getting there at dawn so you can see the sunrise from the arch.

That said, there are other amazing sights to see here. For example, the  Washer Woman  stands 500 feet tall, and  Monster Tower  is even higher. One of the best viewpoints here is the  Green River Overlook , where you can gaze at an impressive landscape from 1,000 feet up.

The park offers wildlife spotting, hiking, and kayaking throughout its four regions, so I suggest checking beforehand and planning which section to visit during your day here.

Moreover, together with Arches and Canyonlands,  Dead Horse Point State Park  is also worth visiting. Known as the setting for the film  helma & Louise , the park has some family-friendly hikes to beautiful viewpoints. I recommend the  Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail  or the  Visitor Center Nature Trail . They’re short enough to give you time to drive to  Monument Valley  and rest for tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations: Book a room at  Goulding’s Lodge  or check out our guide on  where to stay in Monument Valley

Day 8 – 125 miles, 2 hrs 10 mins

On Day 8, it’s time to bring this  Las Vegas road trip to Arizona . The first stop in this state is  Monument Valley , one of our personal favorites. With its striking landscape of red stone and green desert shrubs, it’s no wonder this place was a backdrop for movies like  Fort Apache  and  Back to the Future III .

If you can time it right, catch the sunrise at  Merrick Butte ; it’ll leave you breathless. Of course, there are other iconic views here, such as the one from  John Ford’s Point . A few other cool sights include  Camel Butte , the  Three Sisters , and  Elephant Butte . If you want to do a self-guided hike, do the  Wildcat Trail  around the  West Mitten Butte .

Monument Valley is the best introduction to Arizona, although as you drive to  Page, Arizona , you’ll see that there is more to come!

• Recommended accommodations: Sleep at  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  or one of the places in our  Page hotels  guide

Day 9 – 150 miles, 2 hrs 50 mins

Antelope Canyon  is an absolute dream to visit, so you must add it to your  Las Vegas road trip itinerary . It’s one thing to see photos of this place and another to walk through the slot canyon yourself.

We have a complete visitor’s guide with tips on how to photograph Antelope Canyon and which tour to take. I’ll tell you that both the  Upper and Lower canyons  are gorgeous, so there’s no wrong choice here!

What’s also great about Antelope Canyon is that it’s close to  Horseshoe Bend , another stop on this  Arizona road trip from Las Vegas . Be sure to make a quick stop here to see the view from nearly 1,000 feet high. You’ll want your camera with you because Horseshoe Bend offers the best images of the  Colorado River .

After an exciting day, drive to the  Grand Canyon  and get some sleep for a full day of exploring tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at  Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn  or  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon , or consult our guide on  where to stay in the Grand Canyon

Day 10 – 300 miles, 5 hrs 15 mins

Last but not least, this  10-day road trip from Las Vegas  goes to the  Grand Canyon . The  South Rim  is where  Grand Canyon Village  is, so I recommend exploring this area. There are popular overlooks and trails here, such as the  South Kaibab Trail  or the  Rim Trail .

If your budget allows, I highly recommend taking a  helicopter tour  over the canyon. Not only is a helicopter ride a good use of your time, but you’ll be able to escape the crowds and see an entirely new view of the Grand Canyon.

Be sure to plan enough time to make the  drive to Las Vegas from Arizona . Right before you hit the city limits, you’ll pass through  Boulder City  and the  Hoover Dam . Consider checking out the  Visitor Center  or  Memorial Bridge  before heading into Vegas.

• Recommended accommodations: Recover from your road trip at one of the  best hotels in Las Vegas

VEGAS car TRIP ALTERNATIVES

If you have an extra day, consider spending more time in  Zion  since there are so many things to see there.

You could also extend your time at the  Grand Canyon  and visit the  West Rim and Skywalk . It adds 90 miles (2 hrs 15 mins) of driving.

Yet another option is to check out  Red Rock Country in Sedona, Arizona . The distinct canyon landscape includes Oak Creek Canyon, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Tuzigoot National Monument. It adds 135 miles (3 hrs) of driving.

With two extra days, you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  by visiting  Salt Lake City . The city is full of impressive temples, parks, natural areas, and, of course, Great Salt Lake. It adds 355 miles (6 hrs 50 mins) of driving.

Another way you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  is by visiting  Sedona  and  Phoenix . Check out the iconic attractions along the  Red Rock Scenic Byway  in Sedona. Then go to Phoenix, home to the  Desert Botanical Garden , several impressive hiking trails, and  South Mountain Park , one of the largest in the U.S. It adds 295 miles (5 hrs 20 mins) of driving.

If you loved the  Grand Canyon , spend your extra time hiking the full  Bright Angel Trail  and camping at the bottom of the canyon.

If you want to extend your trip by 3 extra days, consider adding the  Havasu Falls  to your itinerary. After visiting the Grand Canyon, make the drive to Supai at the  Havasupai Indian Reservation . Along with a lodge, you’ll find the Havasu Falls Trailhead, which takes you past the  Fifty Foot Falls  and  Navajo Falls . Once you get to  Havasu Falls , you can see Carbonate Canyon and stay overnight at the  Havasupai Campground . It adds 140 miles (4 hrs 30 mins) of driving.

Those are the five  best road trips from Las Vegas ! I hope you found an itinerary that works for your schedule. Be sure to check out my map of each road trip so you can see the driving  distances from Vegas  and planned routes.

10-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

If you want more options, check my 10-day West Coast itinerary with Las Vegas as the starting point. It’s true that we didn’t optimize miles and time, but we got to see the main national parks and cities in Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and California.

Finally, feel free to tell me about your Las Vegas road trip below or ask any questions. I’ll be happy to help you out! Safe travels!

Don't miss a 5% discount on your HeyMondo travel insurance  

and the only one that pays all your medical bills upfront for you!

Ascen Aynat

4 replies on “ 5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada ”

Hi , I am from Singapore. My husband & I want to travel to USA in December. We want to go to Las Vegas, Los Angeles , San Francisco, then go Pittsburgh to see my son who is studying there . We want to self drive about 10 days Our flight from SIngapore to SFO We would like to self drive. This is our first time and have not been to USA before . Would you mind guiding us , best itenery , safety route map , how we should book for hotel , how much shall we spend , Car rental and return at any place , the place to avoid?

That’s so exciting! I recommend starting with our guides to Las Vegas , Los Angeles , and San Francisco . You’ll find great ideas for planning your itinerary and where to stay. As for car rentals, I recommend going through Discovercars .

Since you only have 10 days, I think it’s best if you focus on enjoying the areas around Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Then, you can fly out of California and go to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is on the other side of the country, so it’ll take too long to drive all the way from San Francisco. I hope this helps!

Good morning from Australia,

I will be visiting USA August & September 2024. I will be going to several cities and town, but would like to end up in Las Vegas.

I have been to Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon twice previously and was wondering if you would be able to tailor a road trip for me of approx 5 days, departing and returning from Vegas, or departing from Salt Lake City and returning to Vegas.

i would like to visit the large rock formations in the area.

Thank you and regards

Hi Peter, That sounds awesome. I would start by looking at our 10-day road trip from Las Vegas (which goes to Utah), and tailoring it to your interests. For example, skip Zion and Bryce Canyon, and instead check out the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which has some unique formations. There are lots of cool things to see in Utah , but I recommend the national parks at Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Follow our adventures and trips on instagram

Photography Tours

Iceland Photo Tour

Lofoten Islands Photo Tour

Death Valley & Alabama Hills Photo Tour

Monument Valley Photo Tour

Arches & Canyonlands Photo Tour

La Palma Photo Tour

Dolomites Photo Tour

Swiss & French Alps Photo Tour

Atacama & Uyuni Photo Tour

Patagonia Photo Tour

Photography resources

Online Photography Courses

2024 Milky Way Calendars

Photography Basics

Best Camera Settings

Milky Way Photography

Northern Lights Photography

Best Time to See the Milky Way

Travel Guides

NYC Travel Guide

Las Vegas Travel Guide

Grand Canyon Travel Guide

Antelope Canyon Travel Guide

Tenerife Travel Guide

Lanzarote Travel Guide

Fuerteventura Travel Guide

Iceland Travel Guide

Tromso Travel Guide

Bali Travel Guide

About Capture the Atlas

© 2024 CAPTURE THE ATLAS | Photography · Travel · Adventure | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

TERMS OF USE & COPYRIGHT   |   PRIVACY POLICY

A road trip planner that plans your trip for you

Roadtrippers Autopilot™ creates your itinerary based on what we’ve learned from over 38 million trips. You’re never more than a few clicks away from your next great adventure.

• Auto Travel

Let Autopilot take the wheel planning your next road trip, scenic drive, RV journey and everything in between. Then enjoy the ride while uncovering hidden gems along the way.

Get real-time traffic updates and access to wildfire smoke maps to stay informed and connected throughout your journey.

Collaborate

Share your itinerary with your copilots so they can help with the finishing touches.

Let Roadtrippers be your guide, navigating the twists and turns as you roam the open roads with confidence and ease.

Exclusive Access To Autopilot

Roadtrippers offers an automated road trip planner. Let us do the planning for you! Enter in a few key details and we’ll craft a custom tailored trip just for you.

Choose the right plan for you—and try it free for 7 days

Premium planning.

RV-Friendly Tools

Overnight RV Parking

Start free for 7 days

Then $35.99 (that's only $2.99/month), then $49.99 (that's only $4.17/month), then $59.99 (that's only $4.99/month).

† RV-Friendly routing features (including routing warnings for vehicle hazards and propane restrictions) are available in the U.S. only.

Free 7-day trial

Test drive the best features of Roadtrippers Premium for free! Eligible users will get exclusive access to all the tools needed to plan the perfect road trip.

Create a Roadtrippers account to start your 7-day free trial.

Already have a Roadtrippers account?

We need your email address

Before we can sign you up for Roadtrippers, we need your email address. Click the button below to go to your profile.

Plan your next adventure with a Roadtrippers Premium account

Due after 7-day free trial

Thank you for signing up for a Roadtrippers Subscription

Get started planning your next trip now!

Good news...you already have Roadtrippers!

Thanks for being one of our most dedicated users.

• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

If you used to sign in with Roadpass, you should now use the same username and password to log in directly with Roadtrippers above.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

How do you want to plan your trip?

With just a few questions, our newest Premium feature, Autopilot, will plan your next adventure.

This limited time offer on a new Roadtrippers subscription. Valid only for new members residing in the U.S. and Canada that use this coupon code on  roadtrippers.com .