Best Times to Visit Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Quick Answer:
For a truly majestic experience in Las Vegas, aim for the crisp air of spring (March to May) or the cooler days of fall (September to November). During these periods, the desert landscape offers a comfortable warmth, perfect for exploring the Strip without the intense summer heat, allowing you to truly soak in the dazzling lights. Imagine enjoying a leisurely stroll under a sky painted with majestic golden sunsets, or perhaps catching a unique outdoor festival before the winter months bring a different kind of charm with festive decorations and fewer crowds.
Best Months to Visit:
Airport Code
LAS
Coordinates
36.17°, -115.14°
Top Things to Do
Bellagio Conservatory's Seasonal Spectacle
Step into a breathtaking, ever-changing floral wonderland within the Bellagio. Each season brings a completely new, elaborate display of flowers and sculptures, meticulously crafted by a team of horticulturists. It's a free, tranquil escape from the Strip's energy, offering incredible photo opportunities.
Exploring the Neon Museum at Dusk
Wander through a graveyard of iconic Las Vegas signs at the Neon Museum. Visiting as the sun sets allows you to witness the historic neon lights flicker to life, casting a nostalgic glow on the desert landscape. Consider a guided tour for fascinating stories behind these luminous relics.
Hike to the Summit of Red Rock Canyon
Escape the city bustle with a scenic drive and hike through Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Trails range from easy strolls to challenging climbs, offering stunning vistas of colorful rock formations and desert flora. Pack plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and aim for an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the midday heat.
A Culinary Journey Through Chinatown
Venture off the Strip to discover authentic Asian cuisine in Las Vegas's vibrant Chinatown. From dim sum palaces to spicy Sichuan eateries and Vietnamese pho shops, the culinary diversity is astounding. Look for the unassuming storefronts for the most genuine and delicious experiences.
💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.
Essential Travel Tips
Don't fall for the first price you see for shows or buffets. Many hotels have concierge desks or kiosks that offer discounted same-day tickets, and you can often find coupons in free tourist magazines scattered around the Strip. If you're flexible, you can save a surprising amount!
The Strip is longer than it looks! While walking is great for people-watching, consider the Monorail for longer distances between hotels on the east side of Las Vegas Boulevard. For a more scenic (and sometimes faster) option, use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, but be aware of designated pick-up zones at each resort to avoid confusion.
Vegas is a foodie paradise, but it can get expensive fast. Look for happy hour deals at high-end restaurants for discounted drinks and appetizers – it's a great way to sample gourmet food without the full price tag. Also, explore off-Strip eateries for more authentic and affordable local flavors.
Tipping is ingrained in Vegas culture, so factor it into your budget. Tip your dealers, servers, bartenders, housekeeping staff, and even bellhops. A common practice is to tip $1-$2 per drink at the casino bar, and $15-$20% for good service at restaurants.
Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable! You'll be doing a lot more walking than you anticipate, even with the monorail. Pack layers, as casino temperatures can fluctuate wildly, and bring sunscreen and a hat for when you venture outdoors, even if it doesn't feel scorching hot.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded casinos and on the Strip at night. Keep your valuables secure and avoid flashing large amounts of cash. If you're drinking, do so responsibly and always have a plan for getting back to your hotel safely.
💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 14°C | 4°C | 57°F | 39°F | 10mm | 2 days | 10.2h |
| Feb | 17°C | 6°C | 63°F | 43°F | 10mm | 2 days | 11.1h |
| Mar | 21°C | 9°C | 70°F | 48°F | 10mm | 3 days | 12.1h |
| Apr | 26°C | 13°C | 79°F | 55°F | 5mm | 1 day | 13.1h |
| May | 31°C | 17°C | 88°F | 63°F | 5mm | 1 day | 14.1h |
| Jun | 36°C | 22°C | 97°F | 72°F | 5mm | 1 day | 14.8h |
| Jul | 38°C | 25°C | 100°F | 77°F | 10mm | 2 days | 14.7h |
| Aug | 37°C | 24°C | 99°F | 75°F | 10mm | 2 days | 13.9h |
| Sep | 33°C | 20°C | 91°F | 68°F | 10mm | 2 days | 12.7h |
| Oct | 26°C | 13°C | 79°F | 55°F | 10mm | 2 days | 11.6h |
| Nov | 19°C | 7°C | 66°F | 45°F | 10mm | 2 days | 10.5h |
| Dec | 14°C | 4°C | 57°F | 39°F | 10mm | 2 days | 9.8h |
All Things to Do in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Bellagio Conservatory's Seasonal Spectacle
attractionStep into a breathtaking, ever-changing floral wonderland within the Bellagio. Each season brings a completely new, elaborate display of flowers and sculptures, meticulously crafted by a team of horticulturists. It's a free, tranquil escape from the Strip's energy, offering incredible photo opportunities.
Best time: All year, but displays are particularly stunning during Spring and Fall.
Exploring the Neon Museum at Dusk
culturalWander through a graveyard of iconic Las Vegas signs at the Neon Museum. Visiting as the sun sets allows you to witness the historic neon lights flicker to life, casting a nostalgic glow on the desert landscape. Consider a guided tour for fascinating stories behind these luminous relics.
Best time: Spring and Fall offer more comfortable temperatures for exploring outdoors.
Hike to the Summit of Red Rock Canyon
natureEscape the city bustle with a scenic drive and hike through Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Trails range from easy strolls to challenging climbs, offering stunning vistas of colorful rock formations and desert flora. Pack plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and aim for an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the midday heat.
Best time: October-April for pleasant hiking weather.
A Culinary Journey Through Chinatown
foodVenture off the Strip to discover authentic Asian cuisine in Las Vegas's vibrant Chinatown. From dim sum palaces to spicy Sichuan eateries and Vietnamese pho shops, the culinary diversity is astounding. Look for the unassuming storefronts for the most genuine and delicious experiences.
Best time: All year.
Catching a Fremont Street Experience Light Show
activityExperience the dazzling Viva Vision light show projected onto the massive canopy of the Fremont Street Experience. This free spectacle features music and vibrant visuals, creating a lively atmosphere in the heart of Old Vegas. Arrive on the hour after dark for the full effect.
Best time: All year, but evenings are more enjoyable in cooler months.
Thrift Diving at the Las Vegas Flea Market
shoppingUnearth unique treasures and vintage finds at the Las Vegas Flea Market, a local favorite held monthly. You can discover everything from antique furniture and retro clothing to quirky art and handmade crafts. Arrive early for the best selection and be prepared to haggle for a great deal.
Best time: Check the schedule, typically held on the third weekend of each month.
Late-Night Jazz at Sand Dollar Lounge
nightlifeImmerse yourself in the gritty, authentic vibe of the Sand Dollar Lounge, a legendary local dive bar known for its live blues and rock music. It's a no-frills spot where you can enjoy fantastic live bands and a cold drink without the Strip's pretentiousness. The music often goes late into the night.
Best time: All year.
Planning your Las Vegas, Nevada, USA adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.
Getting Around Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
The Strip Monorail
This elevated train runs along the east side of the Las Vegas Strip, connecting major resorts from MGM Grand to SAHARA Las Vegas. It's a great way to bypass traffic and the long walks between casinos, especially during hot weather.
Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)
Uber and Lyft are ubiquitous in Las Vegas and offer convenient door-to-door service throughout the city. They are particularly useful for reaching destinations off the Strip or when you need to travel late at night.
Public Bus System (RTC Transit)
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) operates a comprehensive bus system, including the popular 'Deuce' and 'SDX' (Strip & Downtown Express) routes. These are the most budget-friendly options for getting around.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available at all major resorts, the airport, and can be hailed on the street. They offer a reliable, albeit often more expensive, alternative to ride-sharing.
Walking
While the Las Vegas Strip appears walkable on a map, it's deceptively long and can be extremely hot, especially from May to September. Walking is best for short distances between adjacent casinos or for exploring within a single resort complex.
Rental Cars
Renting a car offers the most flexibility if you plan to explore beyond the immediate Las Vegas area, such as Red Rock Canyon or Hoover Dam. However, it's generally unnecessary and inconvenient for navigating the Strip itself.
💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
When's the absolute best time to visit Las Vegas if I want to avoid the extreme heat and the biggest crowds?
For a sweet spot of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, aim for late April to early May or mid-September to mid-October. You'll still get plenty of sunshine for pool time, but the scorching summer temps will be gone, and you'll miss the peak holiday rushes.
Beyond the Strip, what's a must-do 'local' experience in Vegas?
Definitely explore the Arts District downtown. It's a vibrant area filled with independent galleries, quirky shops, and fantastic local eateries that offer a real taste of Vegas beyond the casinos. Check out First Friday if your visit aligns – it's a lively street festival with art, music, and food trucks.
How do I get around Vegas without a car, and what's the smartest way to navigate the Strip?
The Strip is surprisingly walkable, but it's long! Utilize the free trams that connect many of the major resorts, and consider the Deuce bus for a budget-friendly option that runs up and down the Strip and downtown. For longer distances or late nights, ride-sharing services are readily available and usually more cost-effective than taxis.
Are there any 'hidden gem' shows or attractions that most tourists miss?
Absolutely! Look into shows off the main Strip, like the intimate performances at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, or explore the Neon Museum for a fascinating look at Vegas history through its iconic signs. You might also find unique experiences at smaller venues or lounges within the larger resorts that offer more authentic entertainment.
What's the deal with resort fees in Vegas, and how can I avoid unexpected charges?
Resort fees are almost unavoidable at most major hotels on the Strip and are charged daily, on top of your room rate, for amenities like Wi-Fi and gym access. Always factor these into your budget when comparing prices, and check the hotel's website directly for the exact fee amount – it can add up quickly!
Besides gambling, what are some fun and affordable ways to enjoy Vegas?
Vegas offers incredible dining deals, especially during happy hours at many high-end restaurants. You can also find fantastic free entertainment, from the Bellagio Fountains show to the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, or explore the Fremont Street Experience downtown for a dose of old-school Vegas charm without spending a fortune.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.
Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!