Las Vegas Travel Guide [2024]

One of the most popular destinations in the entire United States, Sin City welcomes nearly 42 million travelers from around the world every year. With so many exciting opportunities it’s easy to understand why. Las Vegas is filled with some of the nation’s most exclusive resorts, world-class entertainment and awe-inspiring activities that guarantee memories made to last a lifetime. 

Famous for its unbeatable nightlife and casino scene, Las Vegas has something for everyone. In order to maximize your trip to Las Vegas, we suggest planning your trip with plenty of time to spare. Las Vegas can seem overwhelming at first, with it's seemingly endless amounts of activities and attractions to see. However, with the perfect itinerary, you can capitalize on Sin City's diverse offerings and entertainment. Read through our Las Vegas travel guide for transportation, lodging, entertainment and dining tips.

Time Zone 

Pacific Daylight Time 

Language 

English 

Currency 

American Dollar 

How to get to Las Vegas 

As one of the busiest cities in the Southwest and also one of the most desirable vacation destinations in the region, Las Vegas makes it easy for guests to quickly reach its vibrant and bustling streets. 

Whether you’re flying in internationally or plan on embarking on a bit of a road trip before your stay, there are several quick and hassle-free transportation options available to help get you to Las Vegas as soon as possible. 

Driving In 

There is one major roadway passing in and out of Las Vegas and it’s I-15. However, as it is the most often used by travelers heading to and from Los Angeles, this is one of the busiest roadways in the region. What should be only a four-hour trip between the two cities can often end up being twice that depending on the day of your travels, so making sure you either leave yourself enough extra travel time or find a way to leave during the week will be your best bet. 

However, if you’re looking to avoid serious traffic congestion, you may want to consider heading down to State Road 160. This two-lane road may add about 40 miles to your trip. However, with the number of hours you may otherwise be stuck sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic on the highway, it may just be worth it. Another benefit of this unexpected adventure will be the variety of beautiful sites seen along the route, including the picturesque Red Rock Canyon.  

Flying In 

For travelers flying in from a distance, you may be pleasantly surprised by Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). The seventh-largest domestic airport, LAS, has undergone significant renovations and improvements in the last few years. 

The airport itself caters to the numerous tourists coming into the area to take advantage of the city’s booming casino scene. With over 1,400 slot machines spread throughout the terminals, travelers can enter the Sin City spirit before leaving the airport. 

By Rail/Train 

Travelers looking for a scenic and nostalgic start to their holiday may love the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas by train. The city is accessible by train directly from 76 different cities, with 126 trips scheduled daily, making it a straightforward travel method for visitors coming in from around the country. 

Getting around Las Vegas 

Las Vegas is an urban destination like no other. Luckily, the city has spared no expense when it comes to transportation, making it one of the easiest cities to navigate in the entire region. Whether you prefer to explore the city on foot, in a private car or on mass transit, there is no shortage of options. Rest assured, you will find your way to every attraction and adventure on your Las Vegas travel list during this vacation. 

Behind the Wheel 

Las Vegas is designed to be car-friendly. Several main highways lead directly through the city, which are laid out in a grid system, making it simple to traverse. The city is also packed with several public parking options, ensuring you have a safe place to keep your car no matter where you want to go. Whether you’ve brought your own vehicle or plan on renting one, you can feel confident when it comes to driving around Sin City. 

Make the Most of Mass Transit 

If you stay on The Strip, you want to take advantage of the Las Vegas Monorail. Running from the SAHARA at the city’s North End to the MGM Grand in the south, this exceptional means of transportation can have you traversing the entire strip in just over ten minutes. 

Six of the city’s well-known resorts offer monorail stations and the Las Vegas Convention Center, home to several renowned events throughout the year. Travelers can pay $5 for a single-way or a $32 fare for a three-day unlimited pass. 

The city’s double-decker bus system is a fantastic option for visitors who want to go from The Strip to Downtown, with stops occurring every 15 to 20 minutes. Keep in mind that travelers can purchase a pass at any one of the self-service kiosks. However, it is much more convenient to simply download the Southern Nevada’s Regional Travel Commissions app, where you can buy and download a pass directly to your phone. 

Seeing the Sights on Foot 

The unbelievable number of attractions and entertainment opportunities spread throughout the city makes it an ideal place to head out on foot. However, if you plan on traveling around the city by walking, it’s incredibly important that you not only dress for the warmer temperatures but also use sunscreen and possibly even a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun. 

Best Time to Visit Las Vegas 

Las Vegas is, quite literally, a sprawling oasis in the middle of the desert. But what does that mean for travelers looking to find the perfect time to visit? Las Vegas is a fantastic holiday destination all year long, depending on what you’re looking for. Take a look at these monthly highlights that can help you choose the best time to book your stay. 

Spring and Fall 

If you’re looking for more moderate temperatures to make the most of this incredible city, then spring or fall is where it’s at. When you visit Sin City between March and May or September through November, you can expect some of the region’s most unbelievable weather. Temperatures typically stay between the 70s and 80s, dropping significantly in the evenings. However, travelers may want to keep in mind that this fantastic weather does come with a price. Hotel rates and ticket prices often soar during these months, some of the year's busiest. 

Summertime 

If you’re looking for a fantastic deal, then visiting Las Vegas in the summer will be right up your alley. Las Vegas hotel prices are at their lowest between June and August, with many resorts offering discounts and package deals to guests visiting during this time. Unfortunately, this means you will have to deal with consistent 100°+ days. Luckily, many Las Vegas resorts offer some of the country’s most spectacular pools and most, if not all local attractions are air-conditioned. 

Winter Wonderland 

Travelers hoping to avoid the influx of crowds often seen wandering the city may want to consider booking their getaway between late December and February. Experiencing the drop off after the dynamic winter holidays and New Year's, these months are considered Las Vegas’s shoulder season. Temperatures at this time will be at their absolute lowest, with January seeing the thinnest crowds. 

Top Things to Do in Las Vegas 

Sin City is most certainly known for its incredible nightlife and world-class entertainment. Still, there are simply so many things to do in Las Vegas that ensure an amazing vacation for every visitor. There are so many opportunities found here, that sometimes planning out an itinerary can seem nearly impossible. Here are a few Las Vegas destinations to help you lay out the holiday of your dreams. 

Downtown Las Vegas 

Once the heart of the city’s gambling district, Downtown Las Vegas is now considered Las Vegas’s cultural center and an entertainment hub filled with historic theaters, art studios and quirky museums the likes of which you won’t find anywhere else. 

Illumination Las Vegas 

Is it an exhibit? Is it a museum? The answer might just be that the Illuminarium Las Vegas is something else entirely. A life-changing experience, this incredible and immersive opportunity allows guests to embark on a thrilling African safari, journey to the deepest corners of space or even sit in the middle of a professional football field in the middle of a game. With their state-of-the-art technology, guests can be transported through a cinematic adventure like no other. 

Las Vegas Movie Tour 

Are you ready for an up-close and personal look at some of the city’s most iconic movie moments? Then you’ll love the Las Vegas Movie Tour. Transporting guests back in time to their favorite cinematic locations, these guides combine their one-of-a-kind storytelling techniques with exclusive insider knowledge, giving guests the behind-the-scenes look they’ve always hoped for. 

Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas 

If you’re looking to strip yourself away from the casinos and take advantage of the city's incredible natural landscape, then you’re in luck. Several outstanding outdoor activities in and around the city will keep you on your toes and far away from the glitz and glam of The Strip.  

Dunes Tour 

If you’re looking to take off-roading to new levels, you just might want to look at this incredible ATV Dunes Tour. Here, guests will find themselves riding through the breathtaking natural dunes surrounding the city, allowing them to feel as if they’ve wandered into a completely new world. Guests are picked up and returned directly to The Strip, ensuring an easy and stress-free day for every traveler. 

Exploring Valley of Fire 

One of Nevada’s oldest and largest state parks, The Valley of Fire gets its name from the stunning Red Aztec sandstone lining the area. With nearly 35,000 acres of bright red rock, this is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Southwest. 

A Journey Down Black Canyon River 

Reaching down from the middle of the Colorado Rockies to Baja California, the Colorado River is a formidable sight to behold. Travelers looking for their very own water adventure will find it when they visit the River’s Black Canyon. Visitors can raft, kayak, or canoe through these amazing waters, exploring the impressive volcanic rock walls, hidden beaches and picturesque caves. 

Where to Stay in Las Vegas 

Finding the perfect accommodations is the key to planning the dream getaway you’ve always wanted. Luckily, Las Vegas is home to some of the country’s most exclusive luxury hotels and world-class resorts, ensuring a top-of-the-line holiday for every traveler. 

Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World  

• Address: 111 Resorts World Drive, Las Vegas, NV  
• AAA Rating: Four Diamond  
• Rates: $95+  
• Parking: On-Site and Valet  
• Amenities: 34 On-site Restaurants, Full Bar and Nightclub 

A luxurious and upscale hotel curating to the global traveler, this stunning destination is home to a 100,000-square-foot casino, numerous delectable dining destinations, 40 on-site retail outlets and seven unique pools exclusive to guests. With a plethora of exquisite art pieces designed specifically for the hotel as well as some of the most renowned accommodations in the city, this is sure to be a stay you’ll never forget. 

The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort and Spa  

• Address: 101 Montelago Boulevard, Henderson, NV  
• AAA Rating: Four Diamond  
• Rates: $113+ Parking: On-Site and Valet  
• Amenities: 3 On-site Restaurants and Full Bar 

With some of the area’s most stunning views and an elegant ambiance that creates a sense of complete relaxation, these accommodations guarantee a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Guests will be left in awe of the resort’s unbelievable lakefront and mountain views as they wander through its magnificently maintained grounds. 

The Mirage  

• Address: 3400 Las Vegas Boulevard S, Las Vegas, NV  
• AAA Rating: Four Diamond  
• Rates: $219+ Parking: On-site with fee and Valet  
• Amenities: 10 On-site Restaurants and Full Bar 

Striving to bring guests the absolute best in entertainment, dining and luxury, The Mirage is an undeniable staple of Las Vegas. The hotel offers everything guests could need to enrich their stay, including an active volcano, some of the city’s most renowned dining experiences and award-winning spa services that are guaranteed to exceed your every expectation. 

Where to Eat in Las Vegas 

From some of the country’s best street food to world-renowned AAA Five Diamond restaurants, the Las Vegas food scene quite literally has it all. A culinary mecca for the Southwest, Sin City has proven itself to be a gastronomic powerhouse, attracting some of the world’s most well-known and respected chefs. Whether you’re looking for a restaurant for an intimate evening with that special someone or a place to enjoy some of the Southwest’s most mouthwatering dishes. 

Mott 32 

Located in the luxurious Venetian Resort, Mott 32 offers guests an upscale dining experience that blends the East and the West. Combining classic Chinese influences with exciting New York-style innovations, this high-quality restaurant presents rustic flavors with a twist. Their Applewood Roasted Peking Duck is one of their most popular dishes and it is highly recommended that guests pre-order this experience in advance. 

Michael Mina 

The namesake restaurant of world-renowned chef Michael Mina, this exquisite seafood experience is located in the heart of The Bellagio. The epitome of fine dining, Chef Mina has some of the world’s freshest seafood flown in daily, providing guests with a creative and exciting journey of flavors. Menu highlights include Imperial Golden Caviar, Michael Mina’s Lobster Pot Pie and a beautiful Japanese Miyazaki Wagyu Ribeye. 

Libertine Social 

A New Age look at the classic gastro-pub, Libertine Social in Mandalay Bay is a place for guests to dig into innovative dishes, enjoy pioneering handcrafted cocktails and unwind after busy days exploring the town. Consistently recognized as one of the best spots in Las Vegas, this unique and innovative restaurant takes well-known and beloved dishes and flips them on its head. 

Top Photo Spots in Las Vegas 

Whether you’re looking to take advantage of the over-the-top and extravagant urban aura or are looking for a more natural backdrop, there’s no denying that Las Vegas has some of the most breathtaking photo spots around. 

Bellagio 

If you’re looking for a picturesque seasonal setting with a bit of quirk and charm, then look no further than the Bellagio Hotel. This remarkable resort has several showstopping and Instagrammable spots, including the hotel’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and the gigantic Fiori di Como. Placed by artist Dale Chihuly, the piece is made up of more than 2,000 beautiful glass flowers hanging from the ceiling and it is still the largest glass sculpture ever made. 

Plaza 

Known for its unique avant-garde vibes and old Hollywood-style atmosphere, the Plaza is filled with some of the most exciting and over-the-top photo spots in the city. The hotel’s one-of-a-kind Carousel Bar is certainly a place to see and be seen. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, you may want to try a few snaps on the Strip-side staircase known as “Colors that Speak to a United City.” Installed by artist Tanya Watler, these bewitching rainbow stairs make the perfect backdrop to any picture. 

The Welcome Sign 

If you’re looking for a truly iconic and quintessential shot, nothing screams Las Vegas more than the welcome sign. A stunning piece of authentic Americana, this sign has been welcoming travelers to the city since 1959. However, it is one of the city's most popular photo-ops, so lines to get the perfect shot can get quite long. If you’re trying to enjoy more of a private moment, you may want to consider heading out early in the morning. Many tourists prefer to get this shot at night with the sign’s bright lights, so you can enjoy a sunrise photo shoot all to yourself. 

Day Trips 

Las Vegas is filled to the brim with exciting entertainment venues, world-class art installations and a plethora of amazing activities. However, there is also so much to do in the surrounding area that shouldn’t be overlooked. Here are a few of our most recommended day trips to enhance your Las Vegas stay. 

Visit the Grand Canyon 

If you’re anywhere in the area, visiting the renowned Grand Canyon is an absolute must. As one of the country’s most spectacular natural wonders, this unbelievable site offers timeless beauty, breathtaking views and a life-changing sense of vastness that must be experienced firsthand. 

This world-class tour brings Las Vegas travelers through the Grand Canyon, across the glass-bottomed Skywalk and even offers a look at the world-famous Hoover Dam. 

A Day in Emerald Cave 

When you think of Las Vegas, the first thing that comes to mind probably isn’t crisp, clean waters and jaw-dropping rock formations. But that’s exactly what you’ll get when you visit Emerald Cave. Less than an hour's drive outside Las Vegas, this picturesque landscape is the perfect place to leave behind the commotion of the city. The cave itself can only be reached by water. However, there are several paddleboard, boat rentals and kayak tours are available throughout the year. 

Zion National Park 

One of the country’s most magnificent reserves is just over two hours from Las Vegas. Zion National Park allows visitors to wander through nearly 150,000 acres of astonishing Southwestern landscapes complete with massive pink, white and red rock formations. In the middle of Utah’s Canyon Country, this one-of-a-kind park enchants travelers with its stunning cliffs, waterfalls and wildlife. 

Visiting Las Vegas on a Budget 

For many travelers, the very idea of Las Vegas brings to mind ideas of heavy spending. And while it’s certainly true that Sin City offers visitors numerous opportunities to splurge, there are also many ways guests can save during their stay. Here are a few tips to help ensure you can easily stay within your budget. 

AAA Member Discounts 

One of the easiest ways to significantly save on your upcoming travel plans is by making the most of the numerous AAA membership benefits. Members can access many exclusive travel advantages, including lower-price attraction tickets, discounts on rental cars and even massive savings on accommodations with local hotel partners. When you travel with AAA, you know that you’ll be offered the best deals on the market. 

Make the Most of Mass Transit 

One of the most common ways many travelers spend significantly more than they intended is with travel. Once you’ve made it to Las Vegas, make sure you take full advantage of the city’s outstanding mass transit systems. City buses run throughout every district and the monorail can easily have you from one side of the strip to another in a matter of minutes. Both offer significantly lower prices than what you would need for private transportation. 

Consider the Time of Year 

Las Vegas, as with any well-known tourist destination, has slow and busy seasons. Making sure you book your getaway during a less popular time of year is a surefire way to save significantly on accommodations and attractions. 

Free Attractions 

There’s so much to see in Las Vegas and you may be surprised to find out that many attractions are actually free. Several of the local hotels on the Strip offer visitors the opportunity to explore their extravagant grounds. They also host a variety of free shows throughout the day, which can be a fantastic way to enjoy a bit of downtime on a dime. 

Travel Tips for Las Vegas 

Experienced travelers and first-time Las Vegas visitors alike need to make sure they take the time to plan appropriately. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the Las Vegas vacation of your dreams. 

Essential Planning 

Whether you’re visiting a new city or a destination you love, making sure you take the time to do proper research is the only way to guarantee you enjoy that perfect holiday instead of dealing with stressful and unexpected situations that can ruin the entire experience. Read up on local Las Vegas events, attractions and weather patterns to build an itinerary that will exceed your every expectation. 

Take in the Longer Distances 

While you might initially think that Las Vegas has everything conveniently located in one spot, that one spot is quite large. The Strip itself is over 4 miles long and can be quite a distance if you plan on walking everywhere. Make sure you come prepared with comfortable walking shoes and leave yourself more than enough time to reach your destinations to avoid any unnecessary stress. 

Stay Hydrated 

Las Vegas heat is no joke and when you’re taking in the unbelievable sites of the city, it’s easy to forget to drink your water. However, nothing is worse than dealing with dehydration on vacation, so it’s incredibly important that you remember to stay hydrated during your stay. Bringing a water bottle with you is a great way to keep tabs on how much you’re drinking throughout the day. 

What to Pack for Las Vegas 

No matter what time of year you decide to visit Sin City, there are a few travel essentials you’ll want to have with you during your stay. Here are a few of our most recommended packing must-haves that will help ensure you have everything you need before you leave. 

Basic Items to Pack for Your Las Vegas Getaway 

No matter what your Las Vegas itinerary has in store, there are certain items that every visitor will want to have with them during their holiday, including: 

• Comfortable Walking Shoes 
• Backpack 
• Sunscreen 
• Sunglasses 
• Hat 
• Camera 
• Travel Documents/ID/Health Insurance Card 
• Medication 
• Toiletries 
• Entertainment for Travel 
• Phone/Computer/Chargers 
• Daywear and Evening Clothes 
• Light Clothing 
• Light Jacket 
• Swimsuit 

Additional Items to Consider 

Las Vegas is filled with many opportunities that should be taken advantage of during your stay. Here are a few additional items you may want to consider adding to your list: 

• Clothes for a Range of Outdoor Activities 
• Insulated Water Bottle 
• Sleep Mask (for travelers unused to the 24/7 Las Vegas lifestyle) 
• Luggage Scale 
• Quick Dry Travel Towels 

Plan Your Ultimate Las Vegas Vacation with AAA 

Book your Las Vegas trip with a AAA agent today! Our travel agents make planning a trip easy, with access to vacation packages and a la carte planning options for every budget. Use your AAA membership for access to exclusive travel benefits and use Trip Canvas for travel inspiration.