Las Vegas is a city of dazzling extremes—a glittering oasis in the Mojave Desert. It’s famous for a reason. The electric nightlife, world-class entertainment, and iconic casinos draw millions of visitors every year. It's also a hub of unparalleled luxury, boasting more AAA Five Diamond hotels than any other city on earth. Whether you're coming for a wild weekend, a business convention, or a gourmet getaway, planning is key. This guide will give you the insider tips you need to travel Las Vegas and experience the very best the city has to offer.
If you’re embarking on a private flight into the Mojave desert, get ready with these quick travel tips:
Private Airports Near Las Vegas
You have several great options for private airports near Las Vegas. For a desert, Clark County has a surprising number of airports.
- McCarran International Airport (LAS): Soon to be renamed Harry Reid International Airport, McCarran is the largest option for the metropolitan area of Las Vegas, situated only five miles from the Las Vegas downtown.
- Boulder City Municipal Airport (BLD): This domestic airport is 26 miles from Las Vegas, but might be a good option if it’s closer to your accommodations or local destination.
- North Las Vegas Airport (VGT): This airport is known as Northtown to locals and is only 3 miles northwest of downtown Vegas.
- Henderson Executive Airport (HSH): Originally called “Sky Harbor Airport,” Henderson was renamed in ‘96 when the Clark County Commision bought it as a reliever airport for McCarran. It’s 13 miles south of Vegas.
Getting Around Las Vegas
Once your private jet touches down, moving around Las Vegas can be just as seamless and comfortable as your flight. The city is designed for visitors, offering a wide array of transportation choices to suit your itinerary, whether you’re staying on the Strip or venturing out into the stunning desert landscape. From private cars to efficient public transit, you can choose the option that best fits your schedule and style, ensuring your time on the ground is effortless and focused on enjoying your destination.
Navigating The Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is a vibrant, four-mile stretch of resorts and attractions that invites exploration. While it appears walkable, distances between properties can be deceiving, especially in the desert heat. For a more comfortable and efficient way to travel, ride-sharing services are abundant, offering premium options for a more refined experience. For ultimate convenience, arranging a private car service allows you to move between dinner, shows, and casinos in style. Another excellent option is the Las Vegas Monorail. It runs along the east side of the Strip, providing a quick and climate-controlled way to bypass traffic, with stops at several major hotels and the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Transportation for Day Trips and Tours
Exploring beyond the city’s glow is a must, with natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and the Valley of Fire within reach. To maintain your privacy and flexibility, consider renting a luxury vehicle to explore the scenic desert highways at your own pace. For a completely curated experience, hiring a private guide can provide insider access and a personalized itinerary to destinations like the Hoover Dam. If you want a truly spectacular view, a private helicopter tour is the premier choice. It’s an unforgettable way to witness the vastness of the Grand Canyon, turning a day trip into a breathtaking aerial adventure without the lengthy drive.
The Best Things To Do in Las Vegas
Anyone traveling to Las Vegas should take some time to plan excursions and evening events, prioritizing where you would like to go. Although there are so many options available, things do get booked up. Here are a few of the most quintessential things to do during your trip to Las Vegas.
- Walk the Strip: This is the one “can’t miss” attraction in Vegas. The Strip runs from Mandalay Bay (south side) to the Stratosphere casino (north end), and features some of the most iconic casinos and hotels in the world (MGM Grand, Venetian, Luxor). Walk it at night and enjoy the famous neon lights. Don’t forget to check out the High Roller Observation Wheel, the tallest in the world (yes, bigger than the London Eye).
- Cool Off at Mandalay Bay: The 1.6 million gallon wave pool, lazy rivers, and pristine man-made beach will whisk you to a coastal getaway right in the Mojave desert—a welcome reprieve from the heat.
- Tour Paris, Vegas-Style: The ever-popular whirlwind tour of Las Vegas’ own take on the City of Lights is a sight to behold. You’ll see French capital decor in the style of the Louvre and Paris Opera, a replica of the Arc de Triomphe, and a half-size replica of the Eiffel Tower itself (with a 360-degree observation deck!).
Entertainment and Shows
Las Vegas is synonymous with world-class entertainment, and for good reason. The city hosts a dazzling array of performances, from spectacular Cirque du Soleil productions to exclusive residencies by music legends. You can find everything from magic shows that will leave you speechless to stand-up comedy that will have you crying with laughter. Beyond the headliners, Vegas has a growing arts scene with unique galleries and theaters that offer a different kind of cultural experience. Securing tickets in advance is always a smart move, especially for popular shows. A quick look at the official Las Vegas entertainment calendar can help you plan your evenings around the must-see events happening during your stay.
Attractions Beyond the Strip
When you need a break from the neon glow, the surrounding desert landscape offers some incredible sights. Just a short drive away, you can explore the stunning red sandstone peaks of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It’s a perfect spot for a scenic drive, a challenging hike, or even some world-class rock climbing. For a unique piece of history, consider a visit to the Atomic Museum, which offers a fascinating look into the region's past as a nuclear testing site. These off-Strip attractions provide a welcome change of pace and a chance to see a different side of what the Las Vegas area has to offer, blending natural beauty with intriguing history.
Popular Day Trips from Las Vegas
The convenience of your travel schedule makes planning an unforgettable day trip incredibly simple. One of the most popular excursions is a visit to the Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel of the modern world that stands as a testament to human ingenuity. For a truly breathtaking experience, nothing compares to a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon. Seeing the West Rim from the air provides a perspective that is simply unmatched from the ground. Many tour operators offer packages that pick you up directly from your hotel, making it a seamless and luxurious adventure. These trips are a fantastic way to add another dimension to your Las Vegas getaway.
Top Restaurants in Las Vegas
There are plenty of places to eat in Las Vegas, both inexpensively and expensively. Explore where locals dine. Family owned, and off the strip locations tend to be less expensive. If you’re a foodie ready to indulge, below are a few of the best restaurants in Vegas:
- Osteria Fiorella: This fine Italian restaurant is a recent addition that serves up rustic fare at Red Rock Resort (in the space formerly used by Terra Rossa). The menu is highlighted by rich, classic masterpieces like rigatoni with Fiorella sausage ragu and Locatelli cheese, ricotta gnocchi with brown butter and crispy leeks, and even a veal chop Milanese and fried squid with agrodolce.
- Bazaar Meat by José Andrés: You can’t get a more quintessential carnivorous venue than a fire stage with wood grills, rotisseries, and a whole-roasted sucking pig. This steakhouse goes above and beyond your basic steak, with dishes including real Kobe beef, a raw bar with ceviche and carpaccio, and à la carte desserts.
- Tacos El Gordo: The lines speak to the incredible popularity of the three Las Vegas locations of Tacos El Gordo, where you queue up your order based on the kind of meat in the taco. We highly recommend the Tijuana tacos with handmade corn tortillas. Order online to avoid the lines!
If your trip to Las Vegas is centered around a major conference or trade show, here’s a pro tip: always check if the event has an official hotel booking service. Organizers often secure blocks of rooms at partner hotels, which translates into better rates and more flexible booking terms for attendees. More importantly, booking through these official channels protects you from the risk of overbooking, which can happen during the city's peak seasons. It’s a simple step that guarantees your accommodation is secured, allowing you to focus on your business priorities without any last-minute stress. This little bit of planning ensures a smooth and seamless experience from the moment you land.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Your choice of hotel in Las Vegas does more than just provide a place to sleep—it sets the entire tone for your trip. The city is home to a spectacular range of accommodations, from iconic resorts that are worlds unto themselves to chic, boutique hotels tucked away from the main thoroughfare. Finding the right fit is essential to creating the experience you want, whether that’s a high-energy weekend of entertainment or a tranquil and luxurious retreat. Think of your hotel as your home base, the anchor for your entire Las Vegas itinerary. To help you decide, we’ve curated a list of top hotels suited for every kind of traveler and trip.
Hotel Recommendations by Travel Style
Las Vegas has perfected the art of catering to every visitor’s unique desires. To make your decision easier, we’ve broken down some of the best hotel options by the type of trip you’re planning. Whether you’re traveling with family and need space for everyone to spread out, seeking a romantic hideaway with your partner, indulging in five-star luxury, or looking for a practical and convenient stay, there’s a perfect match waiting for you. Consider what matters most for your visit, and let these recommendations guide you to the ideal accommodation for your personal travel style.
For Families
Traveling to Vegas with family can be a fantastic experience, especially when you choose the right hotel. For a comfortable and stress-free stay, consider Marriott’s Grand Chateau. As a non-gaming and non-smoking property, it offers a refreshing, family-focused atmosphere with spacious rooms and dedicated kids' activity areas. Another superb option is the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas. It provides a serene, luxurious environment with cozy family rooms and thoughtful services like babysitting, giving parents the freedom to enjoy a sophisticated dinner or show while knowing their children are in good hands.
For a Romantic Getaway
Las Vegas offers countless opportunities for romance, from intimate dinners to spectacular shows. For couples who prefer a more private and tranquil setting, the Desert Rose Resort is an excellent choice. Located just off the Strip, it offers a quiet escape with private patios and a relaxed ambiance, free from the constant casino noise. On the other hand, if you and your partner want to be at the center of it all, the MGM Grand is the perfect destination. With its incredible lineup of entertainment, vibrant pools, and elegant suites, it offers an immersive and exciting experience for any special occasion.
For Luxury Seekers
For those who seek unparalleled luxury, Las Vegas delivers in spectacular fashion. The Wynn Las Vegas is a masterpiece of design and service, offering an exquisite experience with its high-end casino, collection of designer boutiques, and meticulously maintained grounds. It’s a true destination resort for the discerning traveler. Another top-tier choice is the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas. This non-gaming hotel provides a tranquil sanctuary with direct access to the energy of Mandalay Bay. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views from stylish suites, dine at world-class restaurants, and rejuvenate at the five-star spa for a truly elevated stay.
For Budget-Conscious Visitors
A trip to Las Vegas can be both memorable and practical with the right accommodations. For travelers who appreciate great value and convenience, the Mardi Gras Hotel and Casino is a smart option. Its proximity to the Monorail and complimentary shuttle services to the Strip and airport make getting around the city effortless. Another excellent choice, especially for those attending events at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the Circus Circus Hotel. It offers free nightly entertainment and a prime location, providing a fun and functional home base without a hefty price tag.
Best Time For Traveling to Las Vegas
Las Vegas is popular year-round, so there isn’t a traditional “off-season” where travel is cheaper and crowds are small. It’s important to plan your trip in advance for the best rates and fly on days with lower demand for flights (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays). Holidays—especially New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, and Super Bowl Sunday—attract large crowds traveling to Las Vegas.
If weather is your concern, the stretches of March to May and September to November are more moderate than the sweltering summers that regularly top 100 degrees. It’s dry heat though and traveling to Las Vegas is always packed with excitement.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Las Vegas is in the middle of a desert, so you can expect the weather to be dry and sunny most of the year. While that sunshine is a major draw, the summer heat is intense. If you're not a fan of temperatures that consistently climb over 100 degrees, you might want to plan your trip for a different season. The most pleasant and moderate weather occurs during the spring, from March to May, and in the fall, from September to November. These periods offer warm, comfortable days perfect for exploring the Strip or enjoying a resort pool without the scorching summer sun. This makes it an ideal time to plan a getaway.
The Cheapest Times to Visit
While Las Vegas doesn’t have a true "off-season," you can find better rates on hotels and shows if you time your visit right. Generally, the period between the major holidays, from mid-January to early February, tends to be less crowded and more affordable. Weekday travel is also consistently less expensive than arriving on a Friday for the weekend rush. Planning your trip during these quieter times can give you a more relaxed experience and more flexibility with your itinerary. It’s the perfect window for a spontaneous trip when you want to escape for a few days of fun and luxury without the peak-season crowds.
Major Events and Crowd Levels
Las Vegas is a city that loves a big event, and the crowds follow suit. Major holidays like New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, and Super Bowl weekend draw massive numbers of visitors, filling hotels and restaurants to capacity. Large conventions, such as the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, also bring a significant influx of people. If you thrive on high energy and excitement, visiting during one of these events can be an incredible experience. However, if you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, it’s wise to check the city’s event calendar and plan your travel for a quieter week. This is when the convenience of a private charter truly shines, allowing you to bypass the airport chaos that accompanies these peak times.
Budgeting for Your Las Vegas Trip
Creating a budget for Las Vegas can feel tricky because the city offers everything from budget-friendly fun to the highest forms of luxury. Your total spending will ultimately depend on your personal travel style. Are you planning to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants and see A-list performers every night, or are you more interested in exploring the sights and enjoying a few casual meals? A common guideline suggests budgeting around $1,000 to $1,500 for a comfortable mid-range trip, but for a truly luxurious experience, the sky's the limit. Thinking about your priorities beforehand will help you plan a trip that perfectly matches your expectations.
Typical Costs and Sample Budgets
To give you a starting point, many travelers find that a daily budget of a few hundred dollars per person for food, drinks, and entertainment is comfortable, not including your accommodations and travel. Of course, this can vary greatly. A tasting menu at a celebrity chef's restaurant can cost as much as a full day of more casual activities. It’s helpful to decide on a few "splurge" items you don’t want to miss, whether it’s a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon or front-row seats to a show, and then build the rest of your budget around those key experiences. This approach ensures you can indulge where it matters most to you.
Tips for Saving Money
Even on a luxury vacation, everyone appreciates smart spending. One of the best ways to manage your budget in Las Vegas is to book your show tickets and dinner reservations well in advance, as last-minute bookings often come with premium pricing. Many high-end restaurants also offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks and appetizers, which is a great way to experience the ambiance without committing to a full dinner. For gaming, it’s always a good idea to set a firm budget before you hit the casino floor. This allows you to enjoy the excitement without any stress, knowing you're staying within your planned limits.
Finding Deals and Free Activities
Beyond the casinos and ticketed shows, Las Vegas offers a surprising number of free attractions. The Fountains of Bellagio is an iconic and beautiful show, and the nearby Conservatory & Botanical Gardens are a stunning, ever-changing display of natural art. You can also find great value by looking for unique travel opportunities. For instance, booking an empty leg flight is a fantastic way to experience the luxury and convenience of private jet travel at a more accessible price point. It’s a savvy traveler’s secret for adding an extra layer of comfort and style to your Las Vegas getaway without compromising on quality.
Traveling to Las Vegas? Fly With Hangar 7 Aviation!
Our agents are always prepared to offer you advice and flexible travel arrangements as you prepare and book your private charter flight to Las Vegas. Contact Hangar 7 Aviation today to start arranging the details of your trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
With several private airports available, how do I choose the right one for my trip? Your best choice really depends on your itinerary. McCarran (LAS) puts you closest to the heart of the Strip, making it incredibly convenient for most major resorts. If you prefer a slightly less busy airport, Henderson (HSH) is an excellent alternative, especially for destinations on the south end of the Strip. North Las Vegas (VGT) is perfect if your business or plans are centered around the downtown area. Your flight coordinator can always help you select the most logical and efficient option based on where you're staying.
How far in advance should I really book dinner reservations and show tickets? For the most sought-after restaurants and A-list shows, I recommend securing your spots at least a month in advance, particularly if your trip falls over a weekend or holiday. For other popular, but not world-famous, experiences, two to three weeks ahead of time is usually a safe window. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring you get to see and do everything on your list without any last-minute stress.
Is it difficult to get around Las Vegas if I want to avoid ride-sharing apps and public transit? Not at all. Arranging for a private car service is the most seamless way to travel around the city. Your hotel concierge can handle all the details for you, or you can book a service for the duration of your stay. This gives you complete freedom to move between resorts, restaurants, and attractions on your own schedule and in total comfort, which is a welcome luxury after a late night out.
I have to travel during the summer. What are your best tips for handling the extreme heat? The key to enjoying a summer trip is to plan your days with the sun in mind. Save outdoor activities like walking the Strip for the early morning or after sunset when the temperatures are more pleasant. Spend the peak heat of the afternoon enjoying the incredible indoor offerings, whether that's relaxing by a resort pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or exploring the city's world-class shopping and museums.
Beyond the big shows and casinos, what's one experience you'd recommend for a more unique trip? For a truly memorable experience, I always suggest a trip to Red Rock Canyon. It's just a short drive from the city but feels like a different world, offering a stunning and peaceful contrast to the energy of the Strip. If you want to take it a step further, a private helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon is an absolutely breathtaking adventure that provides a perspective you simply can't get any other way.
Key Takeaways
- Book Key Experiences in Advance: Las Vegas's most sought-after restaurants and shows fill up fast. Secure your reservations before you travel to ensure your itinerary is seamless and you don't miss out on top-tier entertainment and dining.
- Explore Beyond the Neon Glow: The areas surrounding Las Vegas offer incredible sights like the Grand Canyon and Red Rock Canyon. Planning a day trip with a private tour or luxury vehicle provides a memorable contrast to the city's energy.
- Choose Accommodations That Match Your Agenda: Your hotel sets the tone for your entire visit. Select a property based on your trip's purpose, whether it's a quiet, non-gaming resort for family time or a five-star hotel at the center of the action.
