3 day trip to vegas cost

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!

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Jetsetting Fools

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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!

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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?

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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.

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What is the Ultimate Three-Day Las Vegas Itinerary for a First Timer?

Planning your first trip to Las Vegas? It’s an exciting opportunity, even if you’re only coming in for a whirlwind three-day getaway. There may be a lot to do in the shimmering desert city, but you can squeeze in quite a bit during your stay. 

In fact, let’s save you the stress of having to think about it and put together a 3-day Vegas itinerary for you.

Seeing how it’s your first time in Vegas, we’ll cater our choices to ensure you get the best impression of Vegas and are inspired to book a return trip. 

When Should You Book Your 3-Day Trip?

If you already have a time of year in mind, then you can skip this. However, if you’re looking at the calendar and don’t know where to begin, we have you covered.

First and foremost, you might want to skip the middle of the summer unless you plan to park yourself inside or at the awesome Vegas pools all day.

Tip: What is the best month to visit Las Vegas ?

Instead, consider somewhere between March and May or September and November. Yes, the pools are open during some of those months, and you could be swimming as early as late-March and as late as mid-September.

With the rise in sporting events, you need to look at specific weekends. For example, a weekend in November will be reserved for Formula 1. However, you must also look out for significant events like Super Bowl and March Madness Weekends.

Your 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Once you know when you’re coming to Vegas, it’s time to consider what to do while out here.

Day 1 Vegas Itinerary

After You Arrive, Enjoy the Hotel Room and Explore the Resort

After your flight or a long drive in, take some time to enjoy your room and get to know the resort. Start scoping out possible restaurants and on-site shows, look for the pool, and find the best section for slot machines.

Maybe find the spa and reserve a treatment to relax and wash away the jet lag.  

Related: One Day Itinerary in Las Vegas

Explore the Strip and Casinos

Since it is your first time in Vegas, one of my favorite things is to see the sights, people watch, and walk through many of the casinos on the strip.

Tip: There are always new casinos , attractions, and venues, even if you have been to Vegas several times. Keep in mind that the distance between casinos may look short, but it takes time to walk between each casino on the strip.

Evening: A Fine-Dining Welcome and The Deuce or the Eiffel Tower

The first night is perfect for getting a feel for Vegas. The best way to do that is to try one of the many unique restaurants in Las Vegas. There is an endless amount of suggestions and plenty of options at each casino resort.

I would reserve at least a few weeks in advance.

Some suggestions include:

• Gordan Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars Palace
• SW Steakhouse at Wynn, overlooking Wynn Lake of Dreams
• Yardbird at Venetian
• Spago or Picasso overlooking the Fountains at Bellagio
• China Poblano or Holsteins at Cosmopolitan
• Carbone at Aria Resort

Top off your first night in Vegas with a view of all the city offers. You can do this by riding the double-decker bus called The Deuce, which starts south of the Strip near the rental car center and stops at the Fremont Street Experience.

There are also Big Bus Tours on the strip.

There are more than 20 stops along the way, including the iconic Welcome to Las Vegas sign. Our advice? Don’t wait in line for a photo. Grab one while you’re on the bus. Otherwise, you could be waiting quite a while for a rushed shot.

See the Strip by purchasing tickets to the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck. You may be tempted to check out the High Roller, but the Eiffel Tower offers a much better view of the strip, is far less restricting, and has a much lower probability of breaking down mid-ride.

The High Roller also has smudged plexiglass, whereas the Eiffel Tower uses a metal mesh barrier that’s easier to see and take photos through. 

You could always do both, though!

Day 2 Itinerary

Morning: Go for a Walk or Stay In and Swim

Since this is your first day, you should start by seeing the city. If weather permits, start your walk down the Strip early.

At just over 4 miles long, walking the full length can take about 2 hours. However, you should plan to make some stops. You don’t need to see every casino or resort. Some favorites you should consider stepping inside, and their main attraction(s) you should look for include:

The Bellagio Hotel & Casino

• The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
• The Fountains of Bellagio

The Paris Las Vegas

• The Base of the Eiffel Tower

Caesars Palace

• The Forum Shops
• Many sculptures and statues

The Venetian Las Vegas

• The Canal Shoppes

Wynn Las Vegas

• Lake of Dreams

These are just a handful of sights to see. There are many free things to see or do on the Strip .

If you’re not up for a walk, now’s the time to head down to the pools. During busier seasons, available seating gets snatched up very quickly. Morning is great for the pool because the sun isn’t at its strongest.

There are many excellent hotel pools on the Vegas Strip , but if you are looking for a pool party, check out:

• Drai’s atop the Cromwell
• Wet Republic at the MGM Grand
• Encore Beach Club at the Encore
• Marquee Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan

Afternoon: Grab a Casual Bite, Then See an Attraction

If you went for a walk or spent your morning swimming, you’ve probably built up quite the appetite. There are so many places to eat on the Strip, and many are higher-end establishments. There are some tried and true eateries to try for a simple or casual lunch.

You may be drawn to places like Gordon Ramsay’s Fish & Chips for the name power, but for a more well-rounded Las Vegas lunch experience, we recommend:

• Sadelle’s at the Bellagio
• Mon Ami Gabi at the Paris
• Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge
• Yardbird Table & Bar at The Venetian
• The Crack Shack at Park MGM
• Holsteins at The Cosmopolitan

After you’ve eaten, you should do something touristy. There are several attractions worth seeing, and it’s possible you can squeeze in more than one before your evening starts. To fill in the time and have some fun, check out:

• Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
• Madame Tussauds Wax Museum at the Venetian
• Area15 on Rancho Drive just off the Strip
• Gondola Ride at the Venetian
• Fremont Street in Downtown Vegas

Evening: See a Show, Then Hit a Nightclub or Lounge

Luckily, Las Vegas’ nightlife doesn’t end early. So, you have plenty of time to make the most of your night. First, see one of the city’s finest shows. There are a few to choose from, and we recommend:

• The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil at Mirage/Hard Rock Hotel
• Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil at Mandalay Bay
• The Mac King Comedy Magic Show at the Excalibur
• Absinthe at Caesars Palace
• Vegas! The Show at Planet Hollywood
• Penn & Teller at the Rio

After the show, you can find something quick to eat to stay energized as you enter the second leg of the evening. Vegas is home to some of the nation’s finest nightclubs, and now is your chance to experience one of the best.

Regardless of which of the following clubs you choose, be sure to buy tickets in advance or book a bottle service to really get a taste of what it’s like to be a VIP:

• Hakkasan at the MGM Grand
• Omnia at Caesars Palace
• Drai’s at the Cromwell
• Marquee at the Cosmopolitan
• TAO at the Venetian

If clubs are not your thing, there are many casino bars and lounges within each casino.

Day 3 Itinerary:

Morning: A Big Vegas Breakfast

Room service is one of the best parts about staying in a Vegas resort. On the day you leave, don’t even scramble to find a restaurant that does breakfast.

Have it brought to you and relax in the comfort of your hotel room. Ordering room service also gives you time to pack and prepare for the day so you’re not rushing around to get things done before leaving for your flight. 

Tip: You can enjoy many breakfast buffets on the strip as well.

Before You Leave: Hit the Casino One Last Time or Hit the Spa

Living in Vegas, you always hear about the tourists who put their last $20 into a machine right before leaving for the airport and walk away with 20 times that amount. Give it a try. You have to pass the casino to leave anyway, so why not? Maybe you’ll be the next last-minute Las Vegas success.

You could also book one last trip to the spa as a way to relax your body after a very active few days. It’s a great way to prepare for the flight or drive back home, as a massage or other treatment can refresh and relax your body.

At the Airport: Don’t Catch Up on Gambling

We get it. Maybe you didn’t do as much gambling as you wanted during your stay. The machines at the airport, though, aren’t where you should be spending the last of your gambling cash. Research has shown that the airport slot machines actually pay out less frequently than those in the Strip resorts.

Instead, at the airport, reflect on your experience, look through the many photos you took, and start planning your next Vegas getaway.

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The Ultimate Las Vegas Itinerary 2024: 3 days in Vegas local edition

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission (for which I am deeply grateful) at no additional cost to you.

Planning a 3 day trip to Vegas? You have come to an excellent place! A long-time local (over 20 years living in Las Vegas), prepared The Ultimate 3 days in Las Vegas Itinerary including all Las Vegas MUST sees and dos, just for visitors like you. Let’s dive in!

Known as one of the world’s most famous travel destinations , Las Vegas resides on the bucket list of many. And with good reason too, the entertainment capital of the world is a city that quickly built its name since it started in 1905.

From the non-stop parties, gambling, and a city that is known for fun all around, you truly can’t go wrong with planning a trip to Las Vegas AKA Sin City.

Lucky for you, I have been a Las Vegas local for over the last 20 years of my life, so it is safe to say that I know a thing or two about this city.

In this ultimate Las Vegas itinerary, I will give you all the insider tips to have the most amazing 3 days in Las Vegas.

Where to stay in Vegas?

First things first, you will want to get yourself checked into a hotel. With over 100 casinos in the Las Vegas district, finding a nice hotel room to spend your 3 days in Vegas won’t be hard.

I always recommend that people stay in the middle of the strip as it is closer to all the action, and just a nicer area in general.

While hotels a bit further from the main area of the strip and in downtown are cheaper, always remember that you get what you pay for. This saying is especially true in Las Vegas.

My top three favorite hotels are:

Caesar’s Palace

Based on the Roman time, Caesar’s Palace is one of the best and most popular hotels in Las Vegas. With a mall that is home to over 157 stores and an immense choice of restaurants, this hotel is worth every single penny to stay at.

Also, conveniently located right in the heart of Las Vegas Boulevard, this hotel is the perfect pick for any Vegas trip.

Paris Hotel and Casino

What I love about The Paris Hotel , is that not only is the location absolutely perfect but this casino is definitely a more cost-friendly option and won’t break the bank. But don’t let that fool you, it is still one of the nicest hotels in Vegas.

The Paris Casino has everything from an exact (but smaller) replica of the Arc de Triomphe and a replica of the Eiffel Tower as well. It will have you questioning if you are really in Vegas or Paris, France.

Aria is one of the more upscale hotels in Vegas but the perfect place to spend your 3 days in Vegas. It is one of the latest additions to Sin City as it was just recently built in 2009.

With that being said, everything in the casino is brand new and has a very modern feel. Including a high-end mall with all the latest fashions.

You can also search for other available accommodations below:

Best time to visit Vegas?

Although Las Vegas attracts visitors all year round, the best time to visit this small Nevada town is spring and autumn . It’s no secret that summer Vegas temperatures usually reach above 115° and winter temperatures get freezing cold.

Coming during the spring or fall will allow you to enjoy perfect temperatures while visiting the city. 

Las Vegas 3 day Itinerary Local Edition

Las vegas itinerary day 1, start your day by taking a walk on las vegas boulevard.

One thing that I love about taking morning walks along the strip, is that in the early morning hours, you will be greeted by empty streets and it is the perfect time to explore.

Take in all the beauty of each different casino as you get ready for your day.

Hit up a day club

There is nothing wrong with starting the party early. Las Vegas is not only known for its out-of-this-world nightclubs but also for its amazing day clubs as well.

While most day clubs are poolside, don’t forget to bring your swimsuit and some sunscreen. There is nothing better than catching a nice tan while enjoying a few drinks.

Check out this guide on what to pack for your trip to Las Vegas , including how to dress appropriately!

Visit The Bellagio’s Botanical Gardens

The Bellagio constantly goes above and beyond to woo their guests. The Bellagio’s Botanical Gardens are redesigned each season with thousands of different vibrant flowers that make up a unique chosen theme.

It is definitely a sight worth seeing and also makes for the perfect photo opp to add to your Vegas itinerary.

Ride the New York, New York roller coaster

If adrenaline rushes are your cup of tea, the New York, New York has an amazing rollercoaster which I strongly recommend. With all kinds of twists, turns, and loops, this rollercoaster is one of the most popular attractions in Las Vegas.

Located right on Las Vegas Boulevard, you will also catch some great views of the strip.

If you would like to see the real New York, here is a one day itinerary for you !

Visit the Fashion Show Mall

The Fashion Show Mall is a huge indoor shopping mall located in the heart of Las Vegas Boulevard. With close to 300 stores and around 25 restaurants, the Fashion Show is the perfect place to go for a nice day full of shopping .

The stores include none other than all the most famous stores and department stores, including Macy’s, Forever 21, Dillards, Nordstrom , and so much more.

Ride the High Roller

Standing at an impressive height of 550 feet, the High Roller is the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. It takes a total of 30 minutes to go around, and while you can opt in for just a ride around, you can even rent a pod with an open bar included.

Enjoy a nice cocktail while catching some seriously breathtaking views of the city.

Insider Tip: Many times lines can get long, so I suggest that you buy a skip-the-line ticket in advance .

Check out the Bellagio Fountains

Bellagio is known for its world-famous fountain show. During your three days in Las Vegas, make sure to add the Bellagio fountains show to your Vegas itinerary.

I highly recommend watching it at night as it is that much better while surrounded by the glistening city lights. The water dances so perfectly to a song picked out by The Bellagio. Truly a sight that is not to be missed.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE THIS: Unique and Fun Things to do in Las Vegas

Las Vegas Itinerary Day 2

Start your day with a morning hike at Red Rock

Located a short 45-minute drive from Las Vegas, Red Rock is a great off-the-beaten-path activity for when you’re visiting.

There truly is no better way to start your day than with nature. With a variety of fun hikes through the red-tainted mountains, Red Rock is a must-add to your Vegas itinerary.

Note: You can join a small tour from Las Vegas on a half-day trip. They pick you up from your hotel too. You can book in advance online through GetYourGuide .

Visit the shark reef at the Mandalay Bay

With a tank of over 1.3 million gallons, the shark reef at the Mandalay Bay is one of the biggest aquariums in North America.

Featuring 15 different species of sharks and over 2000 animals, visiting the shark reef on your Vegas trip is definitely a great experience to have.

Go see one of Las Vegas’s world-famous shows

It’s no secret that Vegas is known for its over-the-top entertainment shows. From the blue man group, to the different Cirque du Soleil shows, mind-blowing magic shows and so much more.

During your 3 days in Las Vegas, it is an absolute must to go see one of the shows out here.

Vegas is known solely for its entertainment aspect, they always go above and beyond to put on the best performances for its guests. So with that being said, a Vegas show will not disappoint.

Indulge yourself in a Las Vegas buffet

One thing that I will forever vouch for in my home city is the food scene. Just as casinos go over the-top with their nightclubs, day clubs, shows, etc… It is no different with their restaurants.

And what better way to try out all the different, delicious gourmet meals than to visit an all-you-can-eat buffet?

Vegas has an abundance of different buffets, all with amazing cuisine. I would highly suggest visiting one during your trip.

You might also like: Top day trips from Phoenix, Arizona

Walk around downtown Las Vegas

Let’s take it back to before the strip made its debut. Downtown Las Vegas, aka Fremont, was the original Las Vegas. Home to all the oldest hotels, Fremont is the perfect place to have a fun night in Vegas.

With a suspended ceiling with over 12.5 million LED lightbulbs, Fremont offers a free 6-minute light show, every hour.

While the show in itself is a must-do in Vegas, also make sure to check out all the downtown hotels. There is also a great Fremont Street walking tour .

PRO TIP: Downtown Las Vegas is considerably cheaper than the Las Vegas Strip.

Las Vegas Itinerary Day 3

Take a helicopter ride to the grand canyon.

An activity that is definitely not for the weak-hearted but on the other hand is so much fun; Taking a helicopter ride to the Grand Canyon .

We all know that the Grand Canyon is one of the seven wonders of the world, well what better way to get a glimpse of it than from a birds-eye view?

Las Vegas has some killer helicopter tours that will take you over to the Grand Canyon for the experience of a lifetime. You can book it in advance by clicking here .

If you are not a fan of helicopters, you could also take this awesome small-group Grand Canyon South Rim sunset tour.

Tip: There is also available a helicopter flight over Las Vegas during the nighttime.

Take a gondola ride through the Venetian canals

You don’t have to be with your honey to take a gondola ride through the Venetian canals. While it is known to be a romantic activity, I’ve seen everyone do it from parents and children to friends and even strangers.

If flying to Venice, Italy is a little bit out of your price range then no worries. The Venetian is made to represent Venice, Italy.

Check out this post: Tips for visiting Venice, Italy

Take a hot-air balloon tour

Another famous Vegas activity is a hot air balloon tour . See the city from high above with this breathtaking tour and gorgeous views of the city while gliding across the sky.

While I personally never got to do that, it’s been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember.

Party like there is no tomorrow

What better way to end your 3 day Vegas trip than with a bang? Go to one of the many nightclubs Vegas offers for a night full of dancing, good company, and some boozy drinks!

They always have different promotions going on at all the different clubs, so make sure to keep an eye out for a good deal.

Here are some nice nightclubs to check out:

From an outdoor deck, a shapeshifting chandelier, and 4 entire stories, it’s not hard to see why OMNIA is one of the best clubs in Las Vegas.

After investing over $107 million into building this out-of-this-world club, Las Vegas surely has outdone themselves. Located in Ceasar’s Palace, OMNIA is one of my top recommendations for a Las Vegas nightclub.

There are a few reasons as to why Drai’s is one of Las Vegas’ best clubs. Not only is it a nightclub, but during the day it turns into a day club.

So whether you like to party under the moonlight or in your bathing suit, under the sun, Drai’s is the place to be.

Located inside the MGM, Hakassan is one of the biggest and most popular nightclubs in Las Vegas.

You will find only the best DJ’s in the world performing here so get your dancing shoes on, because you are in for a wild night with this club.

Another favorite: Great Bachelorette party spots in North America

Take a free gambling lesson

One thing that many people do not know is that the casinos out in Vegas offer free gambling lessons for newcomers. If you’re not too sure how the table game works, take a lesson and quickly become an expert.

But also, gambling could be highly addictive. Always make sure to gamble responsibly.

Other Cool Day Trips from Las Vegas are:

Hoover Dam Experience with Power Plant Tour

Death Valley Day Tour

Valley of Fire State Park Tour

Zion National Park Day Trip

Bryce and Zion National Parks Combined Tour  

Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour with Pickup

In Conclusion: 3 Days in Las Vegas Itinerary

I hope you enjoyed my guide on how to spend 3 amazing days in Las Vegas. This city is filled with an abundance of things to do and is finally ready for you. Viva Las Vegas!

This is a guest post: by Caresa from the blog This Spontaneous Life

About the author: Hi! I’m Caresa. Minimalist, traveler, blogger, and owner of This Spontaneous Life . I recently sold all my belongings to be able to travel the world without any materialistic limitations. I thrive on helping people follow their travel dreams and motivating them to get out there and see the world. I am a firm believer that we need to make the most of our time while we are on this earth so follow me on my journey and let me help you live your best life. Until next time! xx

You can follow Caresa’s adventure on Facebook and Pinterest .

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• How much do I need for a trip to Las Vegas?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Las Vegas?

You should plan to spend around $310 per day on your vacation in Las Vegas. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $80 on meals
• $53 on local transportation
• $317 on hotels

A one week trip to Las Vegas for two people costs, on average, $4,342 . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 310
• One Week Per person $ 2,171
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 4,342
• One Month Per person $ 9,305
• One Week For a couple $ 4,342
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 8,684
• One Month For a couple $ 18,609

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Las Vegas cost?

A one week trip to Las Vegas usually costs around $2,171 for one person and $4,342 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Las Vegas on average costs around $4,342 for one person and $8,684 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Las Vegas will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Las Vegas on average costs around $9,305 for one person and $18,609 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Las Vegas has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Las Vegas are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Las Vegas is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Las Vegas is generally more expensive than most.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Las Vegas Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Las Vegas?

The average Las Vegas trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Las Vegas travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Las Vegas

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Las Vegas is $158. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Las Vegas is $317. This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 158
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 317

Hotel Prices in Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Las Vegas? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Las Vegas based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $96. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Residence Inn by Marriott Las Vegas Airport Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 163
• Wynn Las Vegas Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 159

Transportation Budget in Las Vegas

The cost of a taxi ride in Las Vegas is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $53 per person, per day, on local transportation in Las Vegas.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 53

Recommended Services

• Las Vegas To Harry Reid Airport Private Transfer Viator $ 60
• Private Airport Transfer Manila to Hotel in Manila or vice versa Viator $ 88

Flights to Las Vegas

Rental cars in las vegas, what did other people spend on transportation in las vegas.

Typical prices for Transportation in Las Vegas are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Las Vegas, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• 24 Hr Bus Pass $ 15
• 24 hrs Deuce Bus $ 7.00
• Taxi from Airport to the Strip $ 36

Food Budget in Las Vegas

While meal prices in Las Vegas can vary, the average cost of food in Las Vegas is $80 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Las Vegas should cost around $32 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Las Vegas is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 80

Recommended

• Makati Street Food tour Experience with Mari Viator $ 73
• Downtown Las Vegas Food Tour Viator $ 89

What did other people spend on Food in Las Vegas?

Typical prices for Food in Las Vegas are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Las Vegas, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Coffee $ 5.00
• Deep Fried Twinkie $ 1.07
• Chocolate Dip Banana $ 1.07
• Gelato $ 5.95

Entertainment Budget in Las Vegas

Entertainment and activities in Las Vegas typically cost an average of $78 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 78

The Go City Las Vegas Pass offers great discounts on attractions in Las Vegas. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

• Red Rock Electric Scooter Tours Viator $ 135
• VIP Small Group Guided Photography and Walking Tour of Zion Viator $ 299

What did other people spend on Entertainment in Las Vegas?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Las Vegas are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Las Vegas, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Wedding Chapel $ 139
• Atomic Testing Museum (two people) $ 12
• Gondola Ride (4 person) $ 64
• Monorail Ride $ 5.00
• NY NY Rollercoaster $ 14
• Circus Circus Adventure Dome Day Pass $ 26

Tips and Handouts Budget in Las Vegas

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Las Vegas is $15 per day. The usual amount for a tip in Las Vegas is 10% - 20% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 15

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Las Vegas

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Las Vegas is $125, as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 125

Alcohol Budget in Las Vegas

The average person spends about $55 on alcoholic beverages in Las Vegas per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 55
• Las Vegas Country Bar Crawl by Party Bus w/ Free Drinks Viator $ 59
• Las Vegas Brewery Tour by Party Bus w/ 3 Flights of Craft… Viator $ 129

Water Budget in Las Vegas

On average, people spend $11 on bottled water in Las Vegas per day. The public water in Las Vegas is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 11

Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Las Vegas.

How can you save money during your time in Las Vegas?

We used to stay off the Strip because the hotels were cheaper, but honestly it was more hassle than it's worth. Pay the extra money and stay on the Strip where you can use the transportation or walk everywhere.

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How Much Does A 3-Day Trip To Vegas Cost

Published: November 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Gracia Nolte

• Budget Travel
• Hotel Reviews

Introduction

Planning a trip to Vegas can be an exhilarating experience filled with anticipation and excitement. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the potential costs involved. From accommodation and transportation to dining, entertainment, and shopping, there are various factors that contribute to the overall expenses. In this article, we will break down the costs associated with a 3-day trip to Vegas, giving you a comprehensive overview and helping you budget accordingly.

Las Vegas, often referred to as the Entertainment Capital of the World, offers a wide range of options for visitors looking to have a memorable experience. From luxurious resorts and world-class entertainment to vibrant nightlife and thrilling casinos, the city has something for everyone. However, indulging in all that Las Vegas has to offer does come at a price.

It’s important to note that the cost of a 3-day trip to Vegas can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of year, the type of accommodation, the level of luxury, and your personal preferences. This article will provide you with a general idea of the expenses you can expect, but it is always advisable to research and customize your budget based on your specific needs.

So, let’s dive into the different aspects of your Vegas expenses and get a clearer picture of what you can expect to spend during your 3-day stay.

Accommodation Costs

When it comes to accommodation in Las Vegas, you will find a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious resorts on the famous Las Vegas Strip to more budget-friendly hotels located off the main tourist areas, there is something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a lavish experience, you can choose from renowned hotels such as The Bellagio, The Venetian, or Caesars Palace. These high-end resorts offer spacious rooms, top-notch amenities, and stunning views of the city. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the prices for these accommodations can be quite steep, especially during peak tourist seasons.

For travelers on a tighter budget, there are several more affordable options available. Many hotels located off the Strip offer comfortable rooms at a fraction of the price of the major resorts. These hotels often provide shuttle services to the Strip, making it convenient for you to explore the main attractions.

On average, the cost of accommodation in Las Vegas can range from $100 to $500 per night, depending on the level of luxury and the time of year. It’s worth noting that prices tend to rise during weekends, holidays, and special events.

Additionally, it’s important to consider resort fees, which are common in Las Vegas. These fees cover amenities such as pool access, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi. The resort fees can range from $20 to $50 per night, so it’s essential to factor this into your accommodation budget.

To find the best deals on accommodation in Las Vegas, it’s recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different sources, including hotel websites, third-party booking sites, and travel agencies. This way, you can often find promotional offers or package deals that can help you save money on your stay.

In summary, the cost of accommodation in Las Vegas for a 3-day trip can vary significantly depending on the level of luxury and the time of year. It’s important to consider your budget and preferences when choosing where to stay, but with careful planning and research, you can find a suitable option that meets your needs.

Transportation Costs

Getting around Las Vegas is relatively easy, thanks to its well-connected transportation system. However, it’s essential to factor in transportation costs when planning your 3-day trip to the city.

If you’re flying into Las Vegas, your first consideration will be transportation from the airport to your accommodation. McCarran International Airport is the main airport in Las Vegas, located conveniently close to the Strip. You have several options for getting to your hotel, including taxi services, ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft, and airport shuttles.

Taxi fares from the airport to the Strip can range from $15 to $30, depending on your destination and the time of day. Ride-sharing services are also popular and offer similar pricing. Airport shuttles are another option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have larger luggage. These shuttles typically charge around $10 to $15 per person.

Once you’ve arrived at your accommodation, you’ll have various options for getting around Las Vegas. The most iconic way to explore the Strip is by foot. The Strip itself is around 4.2 miles long, and walking from one end to the other can take approximately an hour. Walking allows you to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and take in the elaborate architecture of the hotels and casinos.

However, if you prefer not to walk or if you’re venturing off the main tourist areas, there are other transportation options available. The Las Vegas Monorail is a popular choice for traveling along the Strip. It runs from the MGM Grand all the way to the Sahara Hotel and Casino, with stops at major hotels along the way. A single ride ticket costs around $5, while a 3-day unlimited pass, allowing unlimited rides, costs approximately $30.

Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout the city. Keep in mind that taxi fares can add up quickly, especially during peak hours, and some hotels charge a fee for using their taxi services. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are often a more cost-effective option, with prices varying depending on distance and demand.

If you plan to explore outside of the main tourist areas, renting a car may be a convenient option. Rental car prices in Las Vegas can vary, but you can expect to pay an average of $30 to $50 per day, depending on the type of car and any additional insurance or fees. Keep in mind that parking fees at hotels and attractions can add to your expenses.

In summary, transportation costs in Las Vegas will depend on your preferred mode of travel and the distance you plan to cover. Taking into account airport transfers, getting around the Strip, and any off-Strip adventures, you can expect to spend between $50 to $100 on transportation during your 3-day trip to Vegas.

Food and Dining Expenses

Las Vegas is famous for its dining scene, offering a plethora of choices ranging from fine dining establishments to casual eateries and international cuisine. When planning your 3-day trip to Vegas, it’s important to factor in food and dining expenses into your budget.

If you’re looking for a high-end dining experience, Las Vegas is home to numerous celebrity chef restaurants located within the resorts and casinos. These restaurants offer a range of cuisines and are known for their exceptional quality and exquisite menus. Expect to spend around $100 to $300 per person for a fine dining experience at one of these establishments.

For those on a more moderate budget, there are plenty of casual restaurants and food courts in the resorts and along the Strip. These offer a wide variety of options, including fast food chains, international cuisine, and American classics. Prices in these establishments can range from $15 to $30 per person for a meal.

It’s worth noting that Las Vegas also offers a range of buffets that are a popular dining option for visitors. These buffet-style restaurants feature a wide selection of dishes, allowing you to indulge in an all-you-can-eat experience. Buffet prices can vary depending on the time of day and the quality of the establishment, ranging from $20 to $60 per person.

Additionally, Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, and many clubs and bars offer dining options as well. These establishments often have a minimum spend requirement or cover charge, so be sure to factor these costs into your dining budget if you plan to enjoy the nightlife scene.

Outside of the resort areas, you’ll find more local and affordable dining options. These can include diners, cafes, and ethnic restaurants. Prices in these establishments are generally more budget-friendly, with meals ranging from $10 to $20 per person.

Another factor to consider when it comes to dining expenses is beverages. Alcoholic drinks can be quite expensive in Las Vegas, especially at nightclubs and high-end bars. It’s advisable to set aside a separate budget if you plan to enjoy cocktails or drinks during your trip.

Overall, depending on your dining preferences and the type of establishments you choose, you can expect to spend approximately $50 to $150 per day on food and dining during your 3-day trip to Las Vegas.

Entertainment and Activities Costs

Las Vegas is renowned for its entertainment options, with a wide range of shows, concerts, and attractions to choose from. When planning your 3-day trip to Vegas, it’s important to budget for entertainment and activities to make the most of your experience in the city that never sleeps.

One of the most popular forms of entertainment in Las Vegas is the live shows. From world-class resident performers to famous touring acts, there is always something happening in Vegas. The cost of show tickets can vary greatly depending on the artist, venue, and seating location. You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for a show ticket.

From mesmerizing Cirque du Soleil performances to mind-bending magic shows and comedy acts, Vegas offers a variety of options to suit every taste. It’s recommended to book show tickets in advance to secure the best seats and potentially find discounted prices.

In addition to live shows, Las Vegas is home to some iconic attractions and activities. You can take a ride on the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel, offering breathtaking views of the city. Ticket prices for the High Roller start at around $25 per person. Other popular attractions include the Bellagio Fountains, the Volcano at The Mirage, and the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, each with its own admission fee.

If you’re a thrill-seeker, Las Vegas has plenty to offer in terms of adrenaline-pumping activities. You can try indoor skydiving, zip-lining through downtown, or even take a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon. Prices for these activities can vary, but you can expect to spend around $100 to $300 per person, depending on the experience.

It’s also worth mentioning that casinos are a significant part of the entertainment scene in Las Vegas. While gambling is a personal choice, it’s essential to set a budget and gamble responsibly. Whether you prefer slot machines or table games like blackjack or poker, it’s wise to determine how much you’re willing to spend and stick to that limit.

Aside from specific entertainment options, Las Vegas offers a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and lounges where you can dance the night away or enjoy live music performances. Keep in mind that some venues may have cover charges or minimum spend requirements, so it’s important to consider these costs in your entertainment budget.

Overall, depending on the type of entertainment and activities you choose, you can expect to spend approximately $100 to $300 on entertainment per day during your 3-day trip to Las Vegas. It’s advisable to research and plan ahead to find the best deals and make the most of your time in this entertainment hub.

Gambling Expenses

Las Vegas is famous for its vibrant and thrilling casino scene, making gambling one of the main attractions for many visitors. If you’re planning a trip to Vegas, it’s important to consider and budget for your potential gambling expenses.

When it comes to gambling, it’s crucial to remember that it’s a form of entertainment and should be approached responsibly. Set a gambling budget that you are comfortable with and stick to it. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and treat it as an entertainment expense rather than a way to make money.

Las Vegas offers a vast range of gambling options, including slot machines, table games like blackjack, poker, roulette, and craps, as well as sports betting. Each game has its own minimum bet requirements, and the betting limits can vary depending on the casino and the time of day. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules and strategies of the games you’re interested in before you start playing.

Slot machines are a popular choice among many gamblers, and you can find a wide variety of machines throughout the casinos. The minimum bet for slot machines typically starts at $0.01 or $0.25 per spin, but there are also high-limit machines available for those looking to bet more. Remember that slot machines are based on random chance, so set a budget for how much you’re willing to spend and enjoy the experience.

Table games like blackjack, poker, and roulette require a bit more strategy and knowledge of the game rules. The minimum bets for these games can range from $5 to $25 per hand or spin, depending on the table limits. If you’re new to table games, consider learning some basic strategies beforehand to increase your chances of winning.

In addition to traditional casino gambling, sports betting is another popular form of gambling in Las Vegas. Many resorts have their own sportsbooks where you can place bets on a variety of sports events. Whether you’re a fan of football, basketball, baseball, or other sports, sports betting adds another layer of excitement to your Vegas experience. Bets can range from a few dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on the event and the type of bet you choose.

Remember that gambling expenses can vary greatly depending on your level of play and luck. Some individuals may spend a few dollars on slots or place small bets at the tables, while others may have a more substantial gambling budget. It’s all about managing your expectations and enjoying the thrill of the game.

Overall, the amount you spend on gambling during your 3-day trip to Las Vegas is entirely up to you. It’s essential to set a budget, stay within your limits, and remember to gamble responsibly. It’s about having fun and enjoying the experience, win or lose.

Shopping Expenditure

Las Vegas is often hailed as a shopping paradise, offering a wide array of shopping options ranging from high-end designer boutiques to outlet malls and unique shops. If you’re a fan of shopping or looking to bring back souvenirs from your trip, it’s important to budget for your shopping expenditure.

The Las Vegas Strip is home to numerous luxury retail destinations, including The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, The Shops at Crystals, and The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian. These upscale malls feature a vast range of designer brands and high-end retailers. From clothing and accessories to jewelry and electronics, you’ll find a plethora of options to indulge in some luxury shopping.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly shopping options, Las Vegas has you covered as well. There are several outlet malls located within a short drive from the Strip, such as the Las Vegas North Premium Outlets and the Las Vegas South Premium Outlets. These outlets offer discounted prices on popular brands, allowing you to score some great deals on clothing, shoes, accessories, and more.

In addition to malls and outlets, Las Vegas also boasts a variety of unique and specialized shops. The Downtown Container Park, for example, is a vibrant shopping area made up of repurposed shipping containers, offering a mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Fremont Street, the historic heart of downtown Las Vegas, is another hub for shopping, with various independent stores selling everything from vintage clothing to quirky souvenirs.

It’s essential to set a budget for shopping and stick to it. Determine how much you’re willing to spend on souvenirs, clothing, or any other items you might be interested in purchasing. Keep in mind that it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of shopping, so it’s important to be mindful of your budget and prioritize your purchases.

Additionally, consider any sales tax or other additional fees that may apply. In Las Vegas, the sales tax is currently set at 8.375%, so factor that into your budget. Some stores may offer tax-free shopping for international visitors, so be sure to ask about any available tax refunds or exemptions.

In summary, shopping in Las Vegas can range from luxurious splurges to budget-friendly finds. Depending on your shopping preferences and the items you’re interested in, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars on shopping during your 3-day trip to Las Vegas. Don’t forget to allocate some funds for souvenirs, as they are a popular item to bring back from this iconic city.

Miscellaneous Costs

When planning your 3-day trip to Las Vegas, it’s important to consider various miscellaneous costs that may arise during your stay. These expenses can add up, so it’s essential to budget accordingly to avoid any unexpected surprises.

One of the main miscellaneous costs to consider is resort fees. Many hotels in Las Vegas charge a daily resort fee in addition to the room rate. This fee typically covers amenities such as Wi-Fi, pool access, fitness centers, and even local phone calls. The resort fees can range from $20 to $50 per night, so it’s important to factor this into your accommodation budget when comparing hotel prices.

Another cost to consider is parking fees. While some hotels and resorts may offer complimentary or discounted parking, many charge a daily fee for both self-parking and valet service. The parking fees can range from $10 to $30 per day, depending on the hotel and location. If you plan to rent a car or use your own vehicle during your stay, be sure to include these expenses in your budget.

Tipping is an important aspect of Las Vegas culture, and it’s customary to tip service staff throughout your trip. This includes hotel staff, valets, bellhops, housekeeping, waitstaff, bartenders, and other service providers. The recommended tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. It’s important to have cash on hand for tipping, as many establishments prefer cash tips.

If you plan to explore attractions outside of the Strip, additional transportation costs may apply. This includes transportation fees for visiting the Grand Canyon or other nearby destinations. Whether you choose to rent a car, book a tour, or use public transportation, factor in these transportation costs when planning your budget.

Lastly, don’t forget to budget for incidentals and personal expenses. This can include snacks, drinks, souvenirs, spa treatments, and any other miscellaneous purchases or activities that you may want to indulge in during your trip. It’s a good idea to set aside a small amount of money for these personal expenses to enhance your overall experience.

Overall, when considering miscellaneous costs for your 3-day trip to Las Vegas, it’s advisable to allocate between $100 to $200 for resort fees, parking fees, tipping, transportation, and incidentals. Having a cushion for these expenses ensures that you can fully enjoy your time without any financial surprises.

Total Cost Calculation

Now that we have explored the various expenses involved in a 3-day trip to Las Vegas, let’s calculate the total cost to give you a better understanding of what to expect.

Accommodation costs in Las Vegas can range from $100 to $500 per night, depending on the level of luxury and the time of year. Including resort fees, which typically range from $20 to $50 per night, you can estimate to spend approximately $240 to $1,200 on accommodation for three nights.

Transportation costs will depend on your chosen mode of travel. Taxi fares from the airport to the Strip can range from $15 to $30, and if you choose to explore beyond the Strip, additional transportation costs may apply. Budgeting around $50 to $100 for transportation expenses during your stay should be sufficient.

Food and dining expenses will largely depend on your preferences and the type of establishments you choose. If you opt for fine dining experiences, you can expect to spend around $100 to $300 per meal. For more casual dining options, budgeting around $50 to $100 per day should cover your food expenses.

Entertainment and activities costs will also vary depending on the shows, attractions, and activities you choose. Show tickets can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, and additional attraction fees can add to your expenses. Allocating around $100 to $300 per day for entertainment should give you a good range for most options.

Gambling expenses are personal and can vary greatly depending on your level of play. Remember to gamble responsibly and set a budget that you are comfortable with. Depending on your preferences and luck, budgeting around $100 to $300 for gambling activities should be sufficient.

Shopping expenditure will depend on your shopping preferences and the items you intend to purchase. Budgeting around $50 to several hundred dollars for shopping should cover most needs and desires.

Considering miscellaneous costs such as resort fees, parking fees, tipping, transportation, and incidentals, budgeting an additional $100 to $200 for these expenses is advisable.

Based on these estimations, the total cost for a 3-day trip to Las Vegas can range from approximately $800 to $3,500, or even more, depending on your choices and preferences. It’s important to note that these figures are rough estimates and can vary based on your personal preferences, timing, and the specific choices you make during your trip.

Remember to adjust these calculations based on your own budget and spending habits, and always research and compare prices to find the best deals. By planning and budgeting accordingly, you can have a fantastic and memorable trip to the dazzling city of Las Vegas.

Planning a 3-day trip to Las Vegas can be an exciting experience, but it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the potential costs involved. By considering factors such as accommodation, transportation, food, entertainment, gambling, shopping, and miscellaneous expenses, you can create a realistic budget and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

Accommodation costs will vary based on your preference for luxury or budget-friendly options, with prices ranging from $100 to $500 per night. Transportation costs will depend on whether you choose taxis, ride-sharing services, public transportation, or even renting a car. Budgeting around $50 to $100 for transportation during your stay should be reasonable.

Food and dining expenses can range from affordable meals to high-end dining experiences, with a budget of $50 to $150 per day covering most options. Entertainment and activities offer a wide range of choices, so budgeting around $100 to $300 per day ensures access to shows, attractions, and thrilling experiences.

Gambling is a major component of the Vegas experience, but it’s important to gamble responsibly and set a budget that you’re comfortable with. Budgeting around $100 to $300 for gambling activities is a good starting point. Shopping expenses can vary widely based on personal preferences, with a budget of $50 to several hundred dollars covering most shopping needs and desires.

Additionally, accounting for miscellaneous costs such as resort fees, parking fees, tipping, transportation, and incidentals with a budget of around $100 to $200 will prevent any unexpected surprises.

Considering these factors, the total cost for a 3-day trip to Las Vegas can range from approximately $800 to $3,500 or more, depending on your choices and preferences. These figures are rough estimates, and it’s important to adjust them based on your own budget, spending habits, and desired level of luxury.

Remember to plan ahead, research deals and promotions, and prioritize your must-see attractions and experiences. With careful planning and budgeting, you can have an unforgettable trip to Las Vegas without breaking the bank!

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The Ultimate 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

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Whether you’re a gambler or not, you just hit the jackpot by landing on this massive 3-day Las Vegas itinerary. Read on for a detailed look at several fun things to do in Vegas along with a bunch of practical info about visiting the neon oasis in the Nevada desert.

While it’s still known as Sin City, Las Vegas is much more than casinos, bars, and strip clubs. Sure there are still plenty of those, but the more appropo nickname these days is the Entertainment Capital of the World.

There’s basically nothing you can’t do in Vegas. Where else in the world could you battle a zombie apocalypse, play KISS-themed mini-golf, go to a circus, get wild at a pool party, and have Elvis marry you…. all in one weekend?!

Oh yeah, and let’s not forget about the world-class culinary scene and epic nightlife. You can easily plan your entire 3-day Las Vegas itinerary around where you eat and party, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that!

Excited yet? I know I am! I’m honestly planning two trips to Vegas this year at the moment and am pumped to share some tips with you on making the most out of a visit to Sin City. Let’s get this show on the road!

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3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Welcome to las vegas sign, tour of the strip.

• Dinner, drinks, and a show on the Strip

Day Trip to Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam

• Mob Museum/Neon Graveyard
• Fremont Street

Brunch Buffet

Choose your own adventure, day one of your 3-day las vegas itinerary.

Once you’ve checked in and set your bags down, it’s time to get this Vegas party started. For day one, I recommend all the best things to do on the Las Vegas Strip to take in all the sights. 

If you need that pic with the “ Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas ” sign for the ‘gram, go ahead and start your journey off there. While you’re down on the southern part of the Strip, I recommend popping into the Pinball Hall of Fame to play some classic games. 

Heading north, you’ve got so many options it’ll make your head spin like the wheel at the roulette table. There’s the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay ($20), Titanic exhibit at Luxor ($32), Big Apple Coaster at NYNY ($19), High Roller Ferris wheel at the LINQ ($23 day, $34 night), and so much more. 

With just a 3 day Las Vegas itinerary, you won’t be able to see and do it all. I recommend making a list of Las Vegas must see attractions based on your own personal tastes. It’s also a good idea to check out websites like Groupon to see if there are any good deals on entrance tickets.

Even if you don’t gamble, it’s fun to wander through the massive casinos on the Strip. One of my personal favorites is the Bellagio , where you can watch the fountain show outside and head in to explore their conservatory and botanical gardens. 

Dinner, Drinks, and a Show on the Strip

Whenever you feel a bit parched or famished, you’ve got endless choices for food and drink. From fast food joints up to Michelin Star restaurants and dive bars to classy rooftop joints, there’s something for everyone here. For the nicer places, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance.

They call Las Vegas the Entertainment Capital of the World, and for good reason. No matter what night of the week it is, there are dozens of shows going on here. On any given night, there’s live music, sporting events, stand-up comedy, magic shows, and of course the incredible Cirque du Soleil . 

Since there are so many shows going on, there are always deals to be had. Drop by one of the Tix4Tonight booths on the Strip to see what shows are running a promotion while you’re in town. Sometimes you can save up to 50% off tickets. 

Day Two of Your 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Moving right along with this jam-packed Las Vegas itinerary, day two starts off with a whole new adventure. Well, you’ll probably want to grab a coffee and some breakfast first. It’s going to be another big day in Vegas!

While the Strip is fun and all, when you plan a trip to Vegas, you should definitely include at least one jaunt outside the city. The most popular options include the Red Rock Canyon and the Hoover Dam, both of which are easily visited in half a day.

Just half an hour from the neon lights of Vegas is the impressive Red Rock Canyon ($15 per vehicle). It features a scenic 13-mile loop that you can drive, and there are also several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties. Just be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water for the intense desert sun and heat!

It takes a bit longer to reach the Hoover Dam (about an hour from the Strip), but it’s well worth it to take a tour of this engineering marvel ($30 for a tour). You can choose to rent a car and get yourself to either place or just hop on a tour. 

Back in the city, you’ll probably want to swing by the hotel to rest for a bit and get ready for another night on the town. Or perhaps you’d rather hit the casino floor and try your luck. Then again, sitting by the pool with a cocktail sounds pretty awesome. You’re definitely spoiled for choices on a 3-day Las Vegas itinerary!

Mob Museum or Neon Graveyard

Once you’re ready to make moves, head downtown to the old-school part of Vegas. There’s enough to see and do here to keep you busy for the rest of the day and well into the night.

If you’re into museums, there are a few cool options over this way. The Mob Museum ($30 for general admission) is a fascinating place to learn all about the mafia, while the Neon Graveyard ($28 for a guided tour) features dozens of huge signs from Vegas icons of yesteryear. Visit both for a fun way to spend an afternoon outside of the casinos.

Fremont Street Experience

Once the sun goes down, you’ll want to check out the Fremont Street Experience . Here you’ll find a giant LED screen that has a light and sound show every hour from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.

There’s also usually live music going on as well as plenty of street performers. It’s definitely one of the most fun and free things to do in Las Vegas.

Day Three of Your 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

If days one and two weren’t amazing enough, just wait for the last of your 3-day Las Vegas itinerary.

After that epic 2-day Las Vegas itinerary, it’s time to chill and indulge a bit on the third and final day. And nothing says “indulgent” like a brunch buffet with free-flow French champagne!

There are plenty of options for brunch in Vegas. Some choices include the weekend jazz brunch at the Wynn ($68) and the Gospel Brunch at Mandalay Bay ($40) with New Orleans creole cooking.

If you’ve still got some time to kill before your flight out of town, it’s time to choose your own adventure. Walking off that glutinous meal certainly isn’t a bad idea, but doing it in the hot Vegas sun is.

Thankfully you’ve got some awesome options for fun things to do in Vegas that are indoors. My personal recommendation is to check out the psychedelic art installation that is Meow Wolf . It costs $45 and is worth every penny. 

Another one of my favorite semi-active, indoor things to do in Vegas is the neon-lit, KISS-themed mini golf course at the Rio . It’s only $12 for a round and you can jam out to a live radio DJ spinning all the KISS hits while you play.

Las Vegas is also home to several escape rooms if you’re into that. One of the most unique things you can do here is battle an oncoming zombie apocalypse in a simulation at Adventure Combat ops . I told you there was a dizzying array of options in Vegas!

That about does it for this beast of a Las Vegas itinerary. Grab one last beer and pop a few coins in the slot machine if you want – nobody’s gonna judge you here! Chances are you won’t be the only tipsy and sleepy person on your flight. Viva Las Vegas!

Other Popular Things to Do in Las Vegas

If you have extra time to spend in Vegas or want to swap out any of these activities, here are some great ideas:

• Bellagio Fountain Show: This is a great free thing to do in Las Vegas. The fountain outside the Bellagio Resort has a musical and light show every 30 minutes from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and every 15 minutes from 7 p.m. to midnight.
• Mob Museum: This museum has artificats, history exhibits, and stories about organized crime throughout the USA. They also have a speakeasy basement and do moonshine tastings during the weekends.
• Check Out the Hotels: Many of the hotels have fun things to do inside including Chihuly glass collection inside the Bellagio and the Canyon Ranch Spa inside The Venetian . The LINQ Hotel also has a ferris wheel where you can get a great view of the city.
• Explore the Casinos: Even if you don’t want to risk your money gambling, some of the casinos are fun to visit since they are themed. The Flamingo Casino has a tropical themed casino as well has a wildife habitat with rescued flamingos, turtles, and Ringed Teal Ducks. MGM Casino is the largest in the world and worth checking out just to see the massive layout with all the machines and games.
• Bungee Jump at the STRAT: If you want to do something to get your adrenaline pumping, try bungee jumping at The Stratosphere Hotel. You jump from 829 feet and get amazing views of The Strip.

How to Get to Las Vegas

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, chances are you’ll be flying in. McCarran International Airport (LAS) is located just south of the Strip and has tons of options for direct flights. You can fly direct to Vegas from most major cities in the US as well as several in Canada and Mexico.

It’s easy to find some really cheap fares into Vegas, as they just want to get you in the door. They figure you’ll spend plenty of money once you get there! There are even slot machines waiting at the airport as soon as you get off the plane.

Las Vegas is also popular as a stop on the quintessential American road trip. It’s about 4-5 hours from either Los Angeles or Phoenix and just a few hours away from national parks like Joshua Tree and the Grand Canyon.

One thing to keep in mind when planning your Las Vegas itinerary is that weekends and holidays can be crazy busy here. If you can drive or fly in during the week, you’ll find better deals and way less traffic and crowds.

Finally, you can travel to Las Vegas by bus from a few different destinations. Companies with routes serving Vegas include Greyhound , Megabus , and FlixBus . We once caught the Megabus from LA for just $5 each, leaving us with more money for fun things to do in Vegas!

How to Get Around Las Vegas

Las Vegas is not only full of options for restaurants, shows, casinos, and fun things to do but there are also lots of travel options. They start right when you arrive at the airport and continue through your stay.

Travel to and from the Airport

From the airport, you have several options for getting to your accommodation. On the budget end, you can catch a local RTC bus from either terminal. You can grab a pass that’s good on all local routes for 2-hours for $6, 24 hours for $8, or 3 days for $20. 

Personally, I’m a big fan of using the bus to get around Las Vegas . You save a lot of money compared with taking cabs or renting a car, and there are some solid people watching when you ride the Deuce bus up and down the Strip.

If you’d rather just get a cab, there are always plenty available at the airport. The city is split into zones with fares ranging from $19-27. There’s also a $2 charge tacked onto trips to and from the airport. 

Rideshare Apps

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are also popular choices. It can be a little tricky to find the pick-up locations at the airport, so just ask around if you end up wandering in circles. For detailed information about getting to and from the airport, click here to check out their website.

When you’re at one of the big casinos on the Strip, chances are several drivers are already waiting out front. It’s definitely a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.

A fun way to get around on the Strip is by taking a ride on the Las Vegas Monorail . It connects the MGM Grand to the Sahara with several stops in between. It’s not exactly the most convenient way to get around Vegas, but for $5 a ride it’s worth hopping on at least once.

Free Shuttles

There are also several different free shuttles that you can take advantage of. Many of these are run by hotels that are off the Strip to help their guests get to and from the top Las Vegas tourist attractions. 

Car Rentals

As far as renting a car goes, I would say that’s only necessary if you want to head out of town on a day trip. Who wants to deal with traffic and parking in Vegas? Leave the driving to someone else and have yourself an adult beverage or two!

When to Visit Las Vegas

There really is never a bad time to tackle this Las Vegas itinerary. The city is bumping 24/7/365 and there are always special events going on. That being said, some times are definitely more pleasant than others.

It being the middle of the desert, it can get uncomfortably hot in the summer. It’s still tolerable, though, as all the casinos blast the air conditioning and many of them are connected by covered walkways. You will feel like you’re about to melt on the sidewalk when you have to step outside, though.

The winter months can get downright chilly in Vegas, so that’s not the best time to visit if you’re hoping to sunbathe and hit pool parties. For the most pleasant weather, try to plan your 3 day Las Vegas itinerary in spring or fall. 

More important than the weather, if you ask me, is the event schedule. Vegas hosts conventions and other big events throughout the year and prices are always higher at those times. Be sure to check the calendar to see what’s going on and plan accordingly.

If I’m not traveling to Vegas for a specific event, I usually try to go from Sunday to Wednesday. Rooms are typically half the price or less early in the week than they are on the weekend, and you’ll have way smaller crowds to deal with.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

As with most things in Vegas, your options for accommodation run the gamut. There are budget hostels, mid-range chain hotels, and of course the massive luxury casino resorts that Sin City is famous for.

One thing to keep in mind when booking a place to stay in Vegas is the not-so-sneaky resort fee that most places tack on to the bill. This can be up to $50 extra per night, per room, so it’s definitely something you want to keep in mind. 

Here are a few different options for where to stay on this 3-day Las Vegas itinerary for all budgets:

• Budget — Hostel Cat : If you’re looking for more affordable accommodation, Hostel Cat is a great option! They are the closest hostel to the strip so you save in transportation costs. And they foster a great community atmosphere with plentiful space to meet others. Join the group trips to enjoy the nightlife with their hostel discount. Hostel Cat is located at 1236 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104 .
• Mid-Range — The D Casino & Hotel : In a prime location just a three-minutes’ walk from the Fremont Street Experience, The D is in a great area. This hotel offers a fun and energetic atmosphere just a short walk from many Vegas attractions. It’s a solid mid-range hotel at a budget price. It’s located at 301 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101 .
• Luxury — Aria Resort & Casino : Aria is where it’s at! One of the newest resort hotels just minutes from the Strip, this is the place to see and be seen. Rooms are luxuriously decorated and even have blackout curtains for when you go to bed in the wee hours. Aria is located at 3730 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89158

Where to Eat in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is definitely a foodie’s paradise, as you can find basically every type of cuisine and restaurant imaginable here. My best advice is to pick a couple of nice places you really want to try and make reservations for dinner. 

Other than that, you’ll always be able to find something tasty nearby. Every big resort on the Strip has dozens of options for eating and drinking, including the famous buffets.

Here’s a little list of some of the best places to eat in Vegas to get you started:

• Breakfast : Hash House a Go Go , The Egg & I
• Buffets : Sterling at Bally’s , Jazz Brunch at Wynn , Bacchanal at Caesar’s
• Fast Food : In ‘N Out , Tacos el Gordo
• Sushi : Mizumi , Nobu
• Asian : Lotus of Siam , Yunnan Garden
• Mexican : Madero Street Tacos , Border Grill
• Pizza : Pizza Rock , Secret Pizza
• Fine Dining : Joel Robuchon , CUT by Wolfgang Puck , Le Cirque

Las Vegas is Waiting for You!

You know that old saying “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas?” Well, that clearly isn’t true anymore, as the word is out that Vegas is a top travel destination that appeals to far more than guys trying to reenact “The Hangover” at a bachelor party.  It’s a top pick for one of the favorite cities in the United States .

Whether you’re a single traveler, a couple, a group of friends, or a family, there’s something for you in Vegas. It’s such a fun place to visit that chances are you’ll be plotting your return before your Las Vegas itinerary is even finished! 

If you have some recommendations for things to do in Vegas, places to stay, can’t-miss restaurants, or anything else, just leave a comment below!

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This is a post written by contributor, Sasha. He is a teacher, writer, and video producer from Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from Michigan State (Go Green!) and has since lived in China, Indonesia, Mexico, and Colombia. Sasha and his wife Rachel run Grateful Gypsies, where they write about teaching ESL, digital nomad life, long-term travel, live music, and more.

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3 Days in Las Vegas: The Perfect Weekend in Vegas Itinerary

Oh, the glitz and glamour of spending a long weekend in Las Vegas, with its worldwide fame thanks to its neon signs, legendary casinos, luxury hotels, and fabulous entertainment. 

Often referred to as “Sin City,” escaping day-to-day life by running away to spend a few days in Las Vegas has been popular for decades. 

It is no wonder though: there are so many exciting things to do in Las Vegas that it can feel overwhelming!

Thanks to this 3 day Las Vegas itinerary, that stress will be alleviated and you will have a great starting point for your trip to Las Vegas.

A long weekend in Vegas is the perfect amount of time to do some gambling, see a show, and take in the top attractions in Vegas.  

Here’s how to spend a perfect 3 days in Las Vegas, whether it’s your first getaway to Sin City or your 10th!

Note : This Las Vegas travel guide was written for Our Escape Clause by Las Vegas enthusiast Michelle Snell of That Texas Couple . Thanks for joining us, Michelle!

Table of Contents

The Perfect 3 Days in Las Vegas Itinerary

Where to stay for a weekend in las vegas, where to eat in las vegas, nv, getting around during 3 days in vegas, when to visit las vegas, nevada.

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Day 1 in Las Vegas Itinerary:  Welcome to Las Vegas Sign, The Strip + A Night Out

Kick off your weekend in vegas with a selfie at the iconic las vegas sign..

Everyone wants their picture with the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign! 

Luckily, this sign is an easy first stop when trying to explore Las Vegas in 3 days. 

Grab a cab or Uber and ask the driver to head south of the airport to the iconic sign. 

The “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign is in the middle of the road, so be careful when crossing!

Designated as a historic landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this sign is a must-do during your Las Vegas vacation! 

The placement of the sign designates the starting of the Las Vegas strip, so this is the perfect place to kick off your Vegas vacation.

Keep in mind that this is one of the most popular things to do in Las Vegas, so waiting in line to take a photo is common!

The earlier you start your morning (a big ask during a Las Vegas weekend getaway, I know), the better.

Explore the famous Las Vegas Strip.

The Las Vegas Strip has to be one of the most famous streets in the United States. 

Once you arrive, you will immediately see why.

You are engulfed with recreations of iconic structures from around the world. 

You will see a pyramid, the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower, and more as you make your way down The Strip.

After checking into your accommodations, get started exploring the Las Vegas Strip, because there is a lot to see! 

Each lavish casino on The Las Vegas Strip has its own unique attraction to lure in visitors. 

For this Las Vegas itinerary, we are going to start at the south end of The Strip and make our way north, stopping at the most famous attractions along the way. 

Of course, if one of these attractions doesn’t appeal to you, just skip it!

Getting Around The Strip

If your accommodations are not near the south end, you can take the city bus to get there, or you can reverse the order listed here. 

The city bus is a surprisingly cheap and easy way to get around tow n!

Keep in mind that the distances on The Strip are deceiving. 

You can look down the street and notice the sign for the hotel right next door… but the walk could take 15-20 minutes! 

The casino properties are huge and you have to go over an elevated pedestrian bridge every time you cross the street. 

The Best Things to Do on the Strip

Here’s what to keep an eye out for when exploring The Strip during the first day of your Las Vegas getaway.

Fair warning: perusing The Strip can easily take all day (or more), so take your time and soak up the over-the-top glitz!

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at the Luxor

Where else in the United States can you take a picture in front of an Egyptian pyramid?

Only in Las Vegas! 

The pyramid-shaped hotel is the Luxor , and it is here that you will find Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition .  

The Titanic exhibit at the Luxor is a top-notch experience. 

Upon arrival, you are given a card and you become one of the passengers on the ship.

As you explore the exhibits, you are treated to over 250 actual artifacts from the ship. 

There are also several recreation rooms, including a replica of the Grand Staircase. 

At the end of your journey, you get to learn whether your person survived.

Grab your tickets to Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition now!

New York, New York Hotel

Like many of the best hotels in Vegas, The New York, New York Hotel is an attraction in itself! 

From the outside, you can see a replica of the New York skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Once inside, you feel as though you have been transported to the city street of New York.  

One of the attractions in the New York, New York Hotel is the popular Big Apple Coaster. 

The Big Apple Coaster is an adrenaline lover’s dream! 

If you want to intensify your ride even more, be sure to add the VR experience!

The Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas

You can’t miss the Paris Hotel and Casino . Just look for the Eiffel Tower! 

The Eiffel Tower here is a half-size replica of the one that you will find in Paris.  

You can make this a quick stop if all you want to do is take a picture of the tower and the Champs Elysses. 

If you want to spend some more time here, ride the 46-stories of the Eiffel Tower to get an epic view of the Las Vegas Strip.

Taking this ride at night and having dinner atop the tower is one of the most romantic things to do in Las Vegas !  

Book your visit to Las Vegas’ Eiffel Tower today!

Bellagio Fountain Show (+ Beyond)

The Bellagio is one of the best hotels in Vegas for couples and is a must-do stop during your few days in Las Vegas.  

The main attraction at the Bellagio Hotel is the epic fountain show that takes place every 30 minutes right on the Las Vegas Strip! 

The cool thing about this show is that the fountains are synchronized to the music and the songs change throughout the day. 

While here, you need to go inside the Bellagio Hotel also. 

The lobby ceiling is a beautiful display of art by glass artist, Dale Chihuly.  

Just beyond the lobby is the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden. 

The displays at the conservatory are created using natural plant materials and change with the seasons.

If that isn’t enough, the Bellagio is also home to the world’s largest chocolate fountain! 

You can find the 27-foot tall chocolate fountain on display at the Bellagio Patisserie.

The Grand Canal of the Venetian Resort Las Vegas

For a taste of Italy right in Las Vegas, head to the Venetian Hotel and Casino . 

A replica of the beautiful canals that meander throughout Venice greets visitors. 

Hop on one of the gondolas to be swept away to one of the most iconic cities in Italy!

A gondola ride at the Venetian allows visitors to explore the hotel in a unique way. 

Floating through the canals, you will go under bridges and beside cafes as you make your way through the hotel. 

Take note that you have two choices when booking your gondola ride, an indoor ride or an outdoor ride.

Be sure to pick the one that you have your heart set on.

While at the Venetian, be sure you go inside and explore the hotel . 

The lobby is lined with columns and beautiful Italian tile.

As you continue to explore, you will find that the common areas of the hotel are replicas of the gorgeous streets in Venice. 

There is even a reproduction of St. Mark’s Square , the iconic square in Venice. 

Keep your eye out for “street performers” also as they roam the street of Venice entertaining visitors. 

Volcano Eruption at the Mirage

A little further, down the Strip, you will find the Mirage Hotel and Casino . 

One of the most memorable Las Vegas attractions at the Mirage is the volcano–yes, a volcano!

The Mirage volcano erupts daily between 7 and 11 pm.

The eruptions take place on the hour, so this one is easy to fit into your Las Vegas weekend itinerary.

Day 2 Las Vegas Itinerary: Downtown Las Vegas, A Pool Party + Museums

Day 2 of your Vegas itinerary is taking you to the heart and soul of Las Vegas, downtown.

Downtown Las Vegas is the roots of the Vegas that we know today. 

It is here that the iconic casinos originated!

The famous Freemont Street is also located in the downtown area as are some fun museums and quirky hotel attractions.

Vegas Travel Tip : If you are looking for a reasonable hotel deal, check out the downtown area.  Often the hotels here are way cheaper than hotels on The Strip!

Here’s what to do downtown during your second day in Vegas!

Explore the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District .

The Las Vegas Arts District also called the 18b, is an 18 block thriving art community. 

Here you will find an eclectic mix of businesses including boutique clothing stores, art galleries, antique stores, and of course, bars and restaurants. 

The Las Vegas Arts District hosts a First Friday art walk on the first Friday of every month.

If your 3 day weekend in Vegas includes a first Friday, make sure to visit as they often have local artists on-site as well as live performances!

Pay a visit to the Mob Museum.

The Mob Museum , located in Downtown Las Vegas, is a great addition to your 3 days in Las Vegas itinerary. 

This museum immerses visitors in the history and impact of organized crime. 

The Mob Museum’s historic building helps to make the experience even more authentic as many famous mob-related hearings were held here.

A visit to The Mob Museum allows visitors to explore 3 floors and a basement. 

One of the popular exhibits is the “Path to Prohibition” which takes you through the prohibition era and includes a speakeasy bar you can visit. 

There are also exhibits on the history of organized crime, the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre wall and evidence, a firearm simulator, and displays outlining the Kefauver Hearings.  

Plan to spend at least three hours at The Mob Museum if you plan to explore all of the exhibits.

Grab tickets for The Mob Museum today!

Attend one of the iconic Las Vegas pool parties.

A visit to Vegas is not complete with participating in one of its iconic pool parties! 

The pools in Las Vegas turn into daytime clubs as DJs play music, bartenders serve up delicious cocktails, and everyone is dressed to impress in their best swimwear!  

You can find at least one pool party every day in Las Vegas. 

Some to take note of are the party at the Wet Republic at MGM Grand , Rehab Beach Club at the Hard Rock, and Encore Beach Club at Encore at Wynn Las Vegas .

Most pool parties charge an entrance fee and can get rowdy. 

If that is not your scene, then you can just lounge around the hotel pool and relax.

Want to make the most of the party? Book a pool party crawl in order to hit up several spots in one afternoon!

Book your Vegas pool party crawl today!

Check out the Neon Museum.

The Neon Museum is an absolute must-see during your 3 days in Las Vegas, and is best visited at night. 

Full of “retired” neon signs from the hotels and casinos of Las Vegas’ past, the Neon Museum is quite a sight at night when the signs are all lit up.

Visitors will find over 200 signs here.  While some of the signs have been restored, many have not. 

Regardless, they are all cool to see! 

You have the option of taking a self-guided tour or an hour-long guided tour during your visit.

Stop by the Fremont Street Experience.

Another must-do on your Vegas itinerary is the Fremont Street Experience. 

Located in Downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street is an experience like no other. 

The entire street is covered in a canopy that contains 12 million LED lights! 

This alone is unique as it is the largest audio-video light show in the world.

You can witness the 6-minute light show for yourself every hour. 

In addition to the cool show taking place over your head, this area of Las Vegas also boasts a zip line that allows visitors to soar over the crowd below! 

The zip line, known as ZipZilla is 7-stories high and two blocks long!

The Fremont Street Experience is truly like a big street party. There are always free concerts happening in the street, fun bars, and historic casinos.  

Fremont Street is the perfect place to end the second day of your Las Vegas getaway.

Day 3 Las Vegas Itinerary: Discover the Southwest Beyond Vegas

A day trip out of the city is a necessity during your long weekend in Las Vegas!

While it’s easy to forget when surrounded by the neon lights and casinos, Vegas is in a prime location to access some of the most incredible landscapes in the USA, from the Grand Canyon to the Hoover Dam.

Once you get away from the glittering lights of The Strip, you will find that Las Vegas is home to numerous outdoor activities, from hiking to horseback riding .

These day trips can be fun to self-drive, and if you’d like to go independently, we highly recommend renting a car for the day through Discover Cars (they’ll make sure you get the best deal).

If you’d rather not deal with transportation, though, don’t worry–guided tours are also easy to come by, and we’ll link some highly-rated options below.

Here are some of the absolute best day trips from Las Vegas to consider!

Valley of Fire State Park 

If you are a fan of the bright red sandstone that often dots desert terrain, then the Valley of Fire State Park is the perfect day trip for you. 

The Valley of Fire State Park is home to over 40,000 acres of this beautiful stone.

Not only that, but petroglyphs found here date back over 2,000 years!

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) added Park amenities such as campgrounds, roads, and stone cabins in 1931. 

Named The Valley of Fire State Park in 1935, this was the state of Nevada’s first state park.

Today, you can visit the Visitor’s Center to learn more about the history of the park and see exhibits of historical artifacts before heading out on one of the fabulous hikes in the park. 

There are several trails to choose from for all ability levels. 

The Valley of Fire State Park is located about 55 miles outside of Las Vegas.

Getting to the park is easy as there is only one main road through the park, the Valley of Fire Scenic Byway. 

Just driving the Scenic Byway allows for some fabulous views!

Book your day trip to Valley of Fire State Park today!

The Hoover Dam

One of the most popular day trips from Vegas is a visit to the Hoover Dam . 

Built between 1931 and 1936, the Hoover Dam is an architectural marvel and is a National Historic Landmark. 

Located just 30 minutes from Vegas, a trip to the Hoover Dam is an easy day trip. 

During your visit here, you can take a guided tour to learn all about the workings of this historic site.

The dam towers over 700 feet above the Colorado River and houses 17 generators that produce over 4 billion kilowatts of electricity a year. 

If you want a great view of the dam, head to the Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.

This popular day trip is a fabulous way to visit the Hoover Dam!

Grand Canyon-West Rim

Everyone should see the Grand Canyon at least once their life, I mean; it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world! 

Lucky for you, the West Rim of the Grand Canyon is accessible on a day trip from Las Vegas.  

Do take note though, the West Rim of the Grand Canyon is a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, so this does make for a long day. 

If you are up for it, it makes for a very memorable day also.

Some companies even offer a helicopter tour , greatly cutting down on your travel time and creating an incredibly memorable experience (who could forget having lunch on the floor of the Grand Canyon?).

One of the top attractions at the West Rim is the Skywalk. 

The Skywalk will have you walking on glass more than 4,000 feet above the canyon below. 

If that didn’t get your adrenaline going, then soar 500 feet above the canyon on the zip line course!

Book your day trip to the Grand Canyon West Rim today!

Red Rock Canyon

Attracting millions of visitors a year, Red Rock Canyon is a popular outdoor recreation area near Las Vegas.

The canyon is over 195,000 acres and is Nevada’s first Conservation area.  

Hiking, horseback riding, geological features, rock climbing, and enjoying a 13-mile scenic loop drive are among the best things to do in Red Rock Canyon .

The red sandstone mixed with the beautiful gray limestone on the cliff-facing makes the canyon a gorgeous display. 

The geological features found at Red Rock Canyon display the unique quality of the Mojave Desert.  

With more than 25 hiking trails, you are sure to find one that meets your skill level. 

For the more adventurous souls, try your hand at rock climbing while visiting Red Rock Canyon. 

Red Rock Canyon boasts more than 1200 named rock-climbing routes ranging in ability levels.  

Book your day trip to Red Rock Canyon today!

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Another easy day trip from Vegas is Lake Mead.  Lake Mead is located approximately 30 minutes outside of the city. 

While not as well known by tourists, Lake Mead is a fabulous retreat, especially during the warm weather months.  

This incredible recreational area spans over 1.5 million acres, crossing canyons, mountains, valleys, and two lakes. 

Visitors here can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking during their time in the Lake Mead Recreation Area.  

The two lakes found here are Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, both of which are great lakes for recreational activities. 

Lake Mead has over 750 miles of shoreline, making it a great place to spend a day on the water. 

Since you only have 3 days in Las Vegas, I would recommend staying close to all of the action. 

For this to happen, you can choose between staying on The Strip and staying in the historic downtown area. 

Either of these choices makes a memorable base for your long weekend getaway, and each will allow you a fun and unique experience during your visit to Vegas.  

Here are a few popular, well-reviewed options!

The Flamingo Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip will put you right in the center of everything The Strip has to offer. 

This budget hotel has an excellent casino and the famous High Roller Observation Wheel nearby!

Check rates & book your stay at The Flamingo Hotel!

Looking for something outside the Strip?

The Golden Nugget is a popular mid-range hotel in Downtown Las Vegas.

On-site, you will find 10 restaurants, a great spa, and 2 pools. 

For a mid-range hotel on The Strip, consider staying at the MGM Grand . 

Not only does the MGM Grand have a great location, but it is also home to numerous attractions. 

Here you will find shows, concerts, Top Golf, and more!

Check rates & book your stay at The Golden Nugget or the MGM Grand !

Luxury 

Finding a luxury hotel on the Las Vegas Strip is easy as there are plenty to choose from! 

One of the best of these is the famous Bellagio Hotel . 

Imagine having a suite overlooking the fountain show every night! 

Other well-reviewed choices along the iconic Strip include Encore at Wynn Las Vegas , Nobu Hotel at Caesar’s Palace , and The Palazzo at the Venetian .

Check rates & book your stay at the Bellagio!

Finding a great meal in Las Vegas is easy. 

The food here ranges from hot dogs to Michelin Star restaurants, so it is easy to find whatever you are in the mood for. 

If you want a full tour of Las Vegas’ food culture and to enjoy offerings from its many celebrity chefs, this popular food tour is the perfect addition to your weekend and will make sure you sample a wide variety of what Vegas has to offer, while learning about the city’s unique culinary history along the way!

Book your Las Vegas food tour today!

Looking for some more restaurants to enjoy?

Here are a few popular additions to Las Vegas itineraries!

Hash House A Go Go

Hash House A Go Go is known for being one of the best deals on the Las Vegas Strip. 

Here guests are served up huge portions of famous hashes in hot iron skillets. 

These hash skillets include can include eggs, fried potatoes, meatloaf, vegetables, mozzarella, a biscuit, and more.

The gigantic meals here are almost guaranteed to soak up all of those cocktails you’ve had!

Giada at the Cromwell

The famed Food Network star, Giada opened her first restaurant right here on the Las Vegas Strip. 

Giada’s serves up delicious Italian food in a great atmosphere. 

Guests can try dishes such as lemon spaghetti, lobster ravioli, and vegetable Bolognese rigatoni.

Hell’s Kitchen at Caesar’s Palace

Most people are familiar with Hell’s Kitchen thanks to the popular television show featuring Gordon Ramsey. 

Located inside Caesar’s Palace, this restaurant is easily accessible and even offers the option of a prix fixe menu. 

Go for the baked macaroni and cheese during your visit!

It is relatively easy to get around during a Las Vegas weekend getaway. 

Like most big cities, Las Vegas offers taxi cabs, Uber, and Lyft rideshare. 

While The Strip is long, most people do tend to walk this area so that they don’t miss any of the iconic Las Vegas attractions found along it.  

If you don’t want to walk, you can take the monorail which will allow you to navigate the Las Vegas Strip in 15 minutes!

Another option is the Las Vegas Deuce bus.

The Deuce offers two routes that are specifically for the tourist areas of The Strip and downtown.

The Downtown Loop is a free shuttle that also includes an opportunity to stop at the Arts District.

I would not recommend renting a car during your time in Las Vegas unless you are renting it for one of the day trips noted above or you’re road-tripping to Vegas from San Diego , LA, Phoenix, or beyond–Las Vegas makes an excellent stop on a bigger southwest road trip !

Want to self-drive a day trip from Vegas? Check rates and book your rental car today!

While Vegas is undoubtedly a year-round destination, spring and fall are the ideal times to spend a few days in Las Vegas, especially if you want to enjoy Las Vegas without gambling (during the hot summer months, the casinos offer a reprieve from the heat).

The times between March to May and September to November bring moderate weather and some of the best travel deals. 

During this time, the temperatures are mild enough for you to enjoy being outside and can still enjoy the pool parties!

The winter months bring about colder temperatures and increased prices as Las Vegas is a very popular holiday destination. 

Don’t visit in the summer unless you don’t mind putting up with intense heat during your long weekend in Vegas!

Las Vegas is known to be over 100 degrees during the summer months!

3 thoughts on “3 Days in Las Vegas: The Perfect Weekend in Vegas Itinerary”

When booking a room in Las Vegas, beware of the resort fee scam. Not too long ago, I was looking at Vegas off season (winter) room prices, and I found some big print offers at $35 per night. Small print added a mandantory $15-25 per night “resort fee”. While a room at a nice hotel for $50 a night or so, is a remarkable bargain, if you are price shopping, be sure you got the total daily cost of the room (room rate+ resort fee+ any other fees, like parking, + taxes so that you know how much the room really costs after you cut through the scams.

Also keep this in mind. Like an ocean cruise ships, a Las Vegas hotel only exists to extort as much money as possible from your bank account, and they have amazing ways to do that. Example: the Bellagio Gallery Of Fine Art is a very, very small museum that displays the hotel’s owner’s collection of a handful of impressionist paintings– standard admission fee, $18. You get 2 rooms of art for $18 at Bellagio. At the Musée d’Orsay in Paris (the Louvre’s impressionist art collection), you get a whole big museum of impressionist art for 13-17 Euros. The National Gallery of Art & The Philips Gallery in Washington DC have lots of impressionist art with a $0 admission fee.

I want to visit Las Vegas soon. I’m looking for coupons and discounts.

Perfect for a girls trip. Yuk for a boy’s trip no doubt. My buddies and I (6 to 10) go once a year to Vegas. It’s a year long trip because we talk about all year. Are sons are invited but no wife’s or women. Used missed the whole point of a Las Vegas trip for us. It’s about feeling special and cutting up as a group. It’s about the gambling the wins the losses and the stories. Are itinerary is catch a early flight together, offer to buy drinks for everyone on the plane (it doesn’t take much alchohol to get a buzz at a high altitude) . We have people who remember us from flights past, what a blast. It’s not unusual for people from the plane to hang out with us in Vegas. We then catch a lucky shoe shine at the airport, ( this is an absolute). Next a limo ride to a fabulous casinio property where we get the VIP treatment checking into our shared adjoining suites. Talk about comeradere. Next is a early dinner then some gambling. Friday morning we wake up early and take a long walk on the strip before breakfast. We then go to the spa for a message, unbelievable. Friday night we go to a great dinner sparing no expense. Then we gamble again. There’s nothing better then a big gambling win, maybe try to bet a thousand bucks on a hard ten. A big win is Exclerating, it can’t be beat. We didn’t go to Vegas to punt. Saturday we call the ” greatest day of the year”. No doubt. We go to our booked sports bar table and watch college football and bet the games. Did I say it’s the greatest day of the year. Las Vegas is about feeling special and hanging out with your best buddies. What a blast . I feel sorry for those who only see Las Vegas for the junkets, don’t get me wrong I love them the Eiffel tower, volcano, fountains, shops and so on. For us Las Vegas is a feeling to get away from real life for a few day’s and just experience feeling special . Oh yeah, on the flight back reality sets in for some and the party atmosphere has dissipated. We don’t allow whining about losses and our comaradre prevails as we start talking about next years trip.

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Vacations in Las Vegas

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Cheap Las Vegas package deals

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• 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.

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Cost of a Trip to Las Vegas, NV, US & the Cheapest Time to Visit Las Vegas

The average price of a 7-day trip to Las Vegas is $1,504 for a solo traveler, $2,701 for a couple, and $5,064 for a family of 4 . Las Vegas hotels range from $44 to $189 per night with an average of $89, while most vacation rentals will cost $190 to $570 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to McCarran International Airport ( LAS ) are between $672 and $1,050 per person for economy flights and $2,109 to $3,295 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $45 to $69 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Las Vegas, NV, US

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to LAS and stay in a Las Vegas hotel:

• January 15th to March 4th
• May 21st to June 3rd
• August 13th to December 9th (except the week of November 26th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Las Vegas is usually mid to late September .

Average Las Vegas Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Las Vegas for a week is $1,136-$2,354 ($162-$336 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $45 to $69 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $395 to $851 for economy

Lodging : $71 to $72 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $139 to $170 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Las Vegas for a week is $2,400-$4,086 ($343-$584 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $90 to $138 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $790 to $1,702 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Las Vegas for a week is $3,692-$6,968 ($527-$995 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $180 to $276 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,580 to $3,404 for economy

Lodging : $142 to $144 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $195 to $272 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Las Vegas

How cheap can you make a vacation to Las Vegas? The cheapest trip to Las Vegas is about $93 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $21 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $37.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Las Vegas for a week is $654-$1,381 ($93-$197 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $19 to $38 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $37 to $44 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $21 to $41 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Las Vegas for a week is $1,182-$2,498 ($169-$357 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $38 to $76 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Las Vegas for a week is $2,304-$4,996 ($329-$714 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $76 to $152 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $74 to $88 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $32 to $62 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is possible but not easy to travel to Las Vegas cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Las Vegas Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Las Vegas.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Las Vegas for a week is $2,240-$9,925 ($320-$1,418 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $90 to $131 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,130 to $2,510 for first class

Lodging : $80 to $189 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $570 to $1,083 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Las Vegas for a week is $4,000-$13,352 ($571-$1,907 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $180 to $262 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,260 to $5,020 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Las Vegas for a week is $8,000-$22,804 ($1,143-$3,258 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $360 to $524 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,520 to $10,040 for first class

Lodging : $160 to $378 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $912 to $1,516 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Las Vegas Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Las Vegas is about average than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Las Vegas due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Las Vegas Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Las Vegas hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Las Vegas.

Flight Costs to Las Vegas

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,050 average in early January to a low of $672 in mid to late September. Median flight price is $634. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Las Vegas our data includes 948 originating airports, and 172 airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Las Vegas from an airport like Saarbruecken ( SCN ) in Saarbrucken (Germany) for an average $6,217 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Los Angeles International ( LAX ) in Los Angeles, CA (the United States) at an average of just $118.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Las Vegas, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $377, so you can easily save about 56% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Las Vegas can easily cost $290 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $19 per person. Private tours can cost $577 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Las Vegas Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• West of The Strip, NV, US
• East of The Strip, NV, US
• Downtown Las Vegas, NV, US
• South of The Strip, NV, US
• North Las Vegas, NV, US
• East Las Vegas, NV, US
• Green Valley, NV, US
• Sunrise Manor, NV, US
• Summerlin, NV, US
• Henderson, NV, US

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• San Antonio, TX, US
• Catania, Italy
• Taitung, Taiwan

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel
• Destinations
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Maximizing Your Fun on a Budget: Las Vegas Trip Cost Breakdown

by Trip.com

April 25, 2024

Welcome to Las Vegas / Source: Trip.com

Calculating Your Las Vegas Trip Cost: What to Budget for Flights

High Roller / Source: Trip.com

Las Vegas Trip Cost Comparisons: How Much to Budget for Hotels

The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas / Source: Trip.com

The cost of a hotel room can vary greatly depending on the time of year, location, and amenities 👍 . If you're looking to keep your Las Vegas trip costs down, it's a good idea to research and compare prices before making a reservation. In general, look for hotels located off the Strip for more affordable options, or consider booking a hotel that is connected to a casino for added entertainment value.

You can save money on your hotel stay by booking in advance or choosing a hotel that offers free amenities like breakfast, parking, or Wi-Fi. If you're flexible with your travel dates, you can often find lower rates during the week or the offseason. Furthermore, if you're traveling with a group or family, consider booking a suite or vacation rental for more space and amenities. This can be a great way to save money on dining expenses, as you can prepare meals in your room and avoid eating out for every meal.

Here is a table of accommodations at different price ranges. Click on links to specific hotel examples to access our exclusive member-only discounts on your Las Vegas trip costs.

** Please note that these prices are subject to change depending on the time of year and availability, so it's always best to check with the hotel directly to get the most up-to-date pricing. **

Remember to also consider resort fees and taxes, which can add a significant amount to your hotel bill. These charges often cover amenities and extra perks like pool access, car parking, and fitness center admission. To avoid any surprises, it's essential to read the fine print and ask about any hidden fees before booking.

Overall, with a little bit of research and planning, you can find a comfortable and affordable hotel in Las Vegas without compromising the quality of your stay. By choosing a hotel that fits your budget, you can maximize your fun and make the most of your Las Vegas trip.

Best Hotels in Las Vegas 🏨

The cosmopolitan of las vegas, the venetian® resort las vegas, bellagio hotel & casino, caesars palace, las vegas hilton at resorts world, family friendly, the strat hotel, casino & tower, paris las vegas hotel & casino, golden nugget las vegas, treasure island – ti las vegas hotel & casino, a radisson hotel, mgm grand hotel and casino, swimming pool, circus circus hotel, casino & theme park, rio hotel and casino, the orleans hotel & casino, luxor hotel & casino, flamingo las vegas hotel & casino, las vegas trip costs: dining at different price ranges.

• Budget Dining : For those on a tight budget, Las Vegas has plenty of fast-food chains and food courts in hotels and casinos. Some popular options include In-N-Out Burger, Shake Shack, Earl of Sandwich , and the food court at the Fashion Show Mall. Visitors can expect to spend around $10-15 per meal.
• Buffets: All-you-can-eat dining is a top attraction in Las Vegas, offering a wide selection of international cuisine at a cost-effective price. Some recommended options include The Buffet at Bellagio , The Buffet at Aria , and The Wynn Buffet. Visitors can expect to spend around $30-60 per person.
• Mid-Range Dining : Las Vegas has plenty of reasonably-priced dining options. Some popular options include The Cheesecake Factory, The Buffet at Wynn, and Gordon Ramsay Burger . Visitors can expect to spend around $25-40 per meal.
• Fine Dining : Las Vegas is home to some of the most exclusive fine dining restaurants in the world, including many Michelin-starred options. Some popular options include L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon , Restaurant Guy Savoy , and Le Cirque . Visitors can expect to spend $100 or more per person for a meal.

Las Vegas Trip Cost: Keeping Souvenir Expenses in Check 🎁

Enjoy high-speed connectivity with usa esim.

Las Vegas popular souvenirs / Source: Jametlene Reskp @ unsplash

Some popular souvenirs from Las Vegas include:

• Playing cards: Many casinos have their own unique decks of cards, which can make for a fun and practical souvenir.
• Shot glasses: Las Vegas is famous for its nightlife and party scene, and many people like to collect shot glasses as a way to remember their time in Sin City.
• T-shirts: There are plenty of T-shirt shops in Las Vegas selling a wide variety of designs, from humorous to outrageous.
• Keychains: Keychains are a great way to remember your trip and can be an inexpensive and functional accessory for your keys.
• Casino chips: Many people like to collect casino chips as a souvenir, especially if they have won big on the tables.
• Show memorabilia: Las Vegas is home to a wide variety of shows, from  Cirque du Soleil  to big-name headliners. Many people like to purchase show merchandise as a way to remember their experience.
• Food and drink: From specialty hot sauces to sweet treats like fudge and candy, Las Vegas has a variety of unique food and drink options that make great souvenirs.

Getting Around Las Vegas: Budgeting for Transportation on Your Trip

Here is a table of transportation options in Las Vegas at varied price ranges:

If you're staying on the Strip, walking is a convenient option to get around and explore the various attractions, restaurants, and shows. Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also readily available, and can be a good option for those traveling in groups or with luggage. It's also worth noting that many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to popular attractions and the airport, so be sure to inquire about these options when making your reservations.

Las Vegas trip cost / Source: Trip.com

Public transportation is another affordable option, with the RTC (Regional Transportation Commission) bus system offering extensive routes throughout the city, including the Strip and downtown area. The Deuce is a popular bus that runs 24/7 along the Strip, stopping at major resorts and attractions. There are also the monorail and trams, which offer a faster and more comfortable way to get around the Strip and downtown.

For those looking for a more unique experience, the Las Vegas Strip offers a range of transportation options, from limos and party buses to helicopters and hot air balloons. However, these options can be more expensive and may not fit within your Las Vegas trip costs.

Sightseeing on a Budget: Planning Your Las Vegas Trip Cost for Attractions

Here is a table of popular attractions in Las Vegas that cater to different interests and budgets:

Las Vegas Explorer Pass

Planning your las vegas trip cost: how much for 2 nights & 3 days.

Death Valley National Park / Source: Trip.com

• For flights, a roundtrip ticket for two people from Los Angeles to Las Vegas can cost around $200 per person.
• Accommodation can range from a budget hotel like  Circus Circus , where you can find rooms for as low as $50 per night, to a luxury hotel like   The Bellagio , where you could pay upwards of $200 per night. For this example, we'll assume a mid-range hotel like   The Mirage , where a room can be booked for around $150 per night.
• Transportation costs can vary depending on how you choose to get around. For this trip, let's assume you'll be using a mix of ride-sharing services and public transportation. Budgeting around $30 per day for transportation should be sufficient.
• For food, it's possible to find a variety of mouth-watering dining options in Las Vegas to suit any taste and price range. On a budget-friendly trip, you could expect to spend around $20-30 per person per meal, or around $180 per day for two people.
• Entertainment is a major attraction in Sin City and can make up a significant portion of your Las Vegas trip costs. For this trip, let's budget around $400 for entertainment, which could include a few shows, a visit to a museum or attraction, and some gambling. No trip is complete without souvenirs, so let's set aside $100 to spend on gifts and sundries.

Here's a final breakdown of the Las Vegas trip costs for our 2-night, 3-day adventure:

In summary, a reasonably priced Las Vegas trip cost for two adults, would be just under $1,000 per person . This includes flights, accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate and the cost can vary depending on the options you include.

Las Vegas Trip Cost for Every Type of Traveler: Families, Couples, Solo

Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck / Source: Trip.com

• For families, Las Vegas offers plenty of family-friendly attractions that will keep everyone entertained. A must-visit is the  Adventuredome Theme Park , where you can ride roller coasters, play carnival games, and go mini-golfing. Another great option is the  Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay , where you can get up close and personal with a variety of aquatic animals. To keep costs low, consider staying at an off-strip hotel like the   Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino , which offers affordable family packages that include dining and activities.
• Couples looking for a romantic escape can enjoy a night out at the   Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck , where they can take in the stunning city views and enjoy a gourmet dinner. They can also take a stroll through the romantic   Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens   or take a gondola ride at   The Venetian . For accommodation, couples can consider staying at   The Cosmopolitan , which offers luxurious rooms and world-class amenities.
• Solo travelers can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and exciting entertainment that Las Vegas has to offer. The city has an array of solo-friendly activities like a day trip to the Hoover Dam or a tour of   The Neon Museum . Another great option is to take a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon for a breathtaking view of one of the world's most magnificent wonders. Solo travelers can also stay at hostels or budget hotels like the   Las Vegas Hostel   or   The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Skypod , where they can meet other travelers and save on accommodation within their Las Vegas trip costs.

Below is a table outlining the estimated Las Vegas trip costs for a two-night, three-day trip for each type of traveler, based on average prices for accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment.

Cutting Costs on Your Las Vegas Trip: Money-saving Strategies

Ethel M Chocolates Factory & Cactus Garden / Source: Trip.com

• First and foremost, timing is everything. Visiting Las Vegas during peak season means skyrocketing prices, while traveling during off-peak times can lead to major savings. The winter months, particularly November and December, can be a great time to visit as hotels offer lower rates and the weather is still mild. Plus, with the holiday season in full swing, you'll be able to enjoy festive attractions and events without emptying your wallet on Las Vegas trip costs.
• Another way to save on your Las Vegas trip cost is to take advantage of the many discounts and promotions offered by hotels, restaurants, and attractions . Many hotels offer reduced rates and package deals during slow periods, so be sure to check their websites or sign up for email newsletters to stay in the know. Additionally, sites like Groupon and LivingSocial frequently offer discounts on activities, restaurants, and shows, so it's worth checking them out before you book.
• Speaking of shows, don't miss the opportunity to see world-renowned performances at a discount. Many shows offer discounted tickets for same-day or last-minute purchases, and some even offer standing-room tickets for a fraction of the price. Don't be afraid to ask the ticket desk if they have any specials or discounts available and save big on your Las Vegas trip costs.
• And when it comes to dining out, Las Vegas has plenty of affordable options. Take advantage of happy hour specials, which often include discounted drinks and appetizers. And if you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, consider making lunch reservations instead of dinner as prices are often lower during the day.
• Finally, don't forget to use your player's club card when gambling as it can lead to discounted or even free hotel rooms, meals, and other perks . The more you play, the more you earn, so make sure to sign up at your hotel's player's club desk.

Expert Tips for Reducing Your Las Vegas Trip Cost and Maximizing Your Fun

Here are some other tips to help you maximize your fun while minimizing your expenses:

• Stay off the Strip: Accommodations on the Strip can be pricey, so consider staying in a hotel or vacation rental off the beaten path. You'll still be able to enjoy all the attractions and entertainment Las Vegas has to offer, without spending a fortune on Las Vegas trip costs.
• Use public transportation: Instead of renting a car or taking cabs, save money by using Las Vegas' public transportation system. The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada offers an extensive bus system, with single rides starting at just $2. Or, try the Las Vegas Monorail, which can take you from one end of the Strip to the other for as little as $5 per ride.
• Take advantage of free attractions: Believe it or not, Las Vegas has plenty of free attractions. Check out the   Bellagio Fountain , the  Volcano at the Mirage , or the   Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo , just to name a few. There's no need to spend a fortune on entertainment when there are so many great free options available that don't add to your Las Vegas trip costs.
• Eat smart: Las Vegas has no shortage of high-end dining options, but if you're on a budget, there are plenty of great places to eat that won't break the bank. Look for happy hour specials, discounted buffets, or affordable fast-food options.
• Know your limits: If you're a gambler, it's important to set a budget and stick to it. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and overspend, but staying disciplined and setting limits for yourself will save you money in the long run.

Valley of Fire State Park / Source: Trip.com

Travel with Trip.com and save money on Las Vegas trip costs!

Congratulations, you've made it to the end of our guide on maximizing your fun on a budget during your Las Vegas trip! By now, you should have a better understanding of what to expect in terms of Las Vegas trip costs and how to plan a budget-friendly trip to Sin City without sacrificing the fun.

Remember, the key to keeping your trip affordable is to plan ahead and be smart about your spending. From budgeting for flights, hotels, and transportation, to dining, entertainment, and souvenirs, there are plenty of ways to save money on Las Vegas trip costs without compromising on quality.

Be sure to sign up for our Trip . com Rewards loyalty program to access all our latest deals on travel, hotels and flights and save more on your Las Vegas trip costs.

Save more on your Las Vegas trip cost / Source: Trip.com

Las Vegas Trip Cost - FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit las vegas.

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) have comfortable temperatures, smaller crowds, and cheaper rates.

What should I pack for a trip to Las Vegas?

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, light clothing, and a jacket (air-conditioned areas can get chilly). Dress code varies by venue.

Do I need a rental car in Las Vegas?

No, but it's recommended if planning to explore outside the Strip. Public transport and ride-sharing are also available.

Is it safe to walk around Las Vegas at night?

Las Vegas is generally a safe city, but it's always wise to take precautions when walking around at night. Avoid flashing valuable items, and be aware of your surroundings.

What is the minimum age to gamble in Las Vegas?

The legal age for gambling, drinking, and smoking is 21. You will need to provide identification to enter casinos.

Las Vegas Trip Cost

• 1. Calculating Your Las Vegas Trip Cost: What to Budget for Flights
• 2. Las Vegas Trip Cost Comparisons: How Much to Budget for Hotels
• 3. Las Vegas Trip Costs: Dining at Different Price Ranges
• 4. Las Vegas Trip Cost: Keeping Souvenir Expenses in Check🎁
• 5. Getting Around Las Vegas: Budgeting for Transportation on Your Trip
• 6. Sightseeing on a Budget: Planning Your Las Vegas Trip Cost for Attractions
• 7. Planning Your Las Vegas Trip Cost: How Much for 2 Nights & 3 Days
• 8. Las Vegas Trip Cost for Every Type of Traveler: Families, Couples, Solo
• 9. Cutting Costs on Your Las Vegas Trip: Money-saving Strategies
• 10. Expert Tips for Reducing Your Las Vegas Trip Cost and Maximizing Your Fun
• 11. Travel with Trip.com and save money on Las Vegas trip costs!
• 12. Las Vegas Trip Cost - FAQs

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How Much Should I Budget For 3 Days In Vegas?

Vegas is one of the most exciting cities in the world. From its famous casinos to its top-notch restaurants and entertainment, it’s no wonder that Vegas is a popular vacation destination. But how much should you budget for a three-day stay in Vegas?

The first thing you’ll need to consider is your accommodation. Depending on where you stay, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 per night for a budget hotel to several hundred dollars per night for a luxury hotel. To get the most bang for your buck, look for hotel deals or consider staying in an Airbnb.

Food and drinks can also add up quickly in Vegas. Eating out at restaurants can cost anywhere from $10 to $75 per person depending on where you go. If you plan to try out some of the city’s famous buffets, you’ll likely want to budget around $30 to $50 per person. Many of the hotels and casinos also offer happy hour specials, so if you’re looking to save some money, you may want to take advantage of these deals.

When it comes to entertainment, there are plenty of options in Vegas. You can find free shows and attractions, like the Fremont Street Experience, or you can pay for access to shows like Cirque du Soleil and magic shows. You can also purchase tickets for concerts, sporting events, and other attractions. Depending on what you choose to do, you’ll want to budget at least $50 per day for entertainment.

Finally, you’ll need to factor in transportation costs. If you plan to stay on the Strip, you can usually get around using the city’s free shuttle buses. However, if you plan to venture outside of the main tourist areas, you’ll want to budget for a cab or ridesharing service.

While a three-day stay in Vegas can be expensive, it can also be extremely affordable if you plan ahead. To get the most out of your trip, plan to spend around $125 to $200 per day (depending on where you stay and what you do), and you’ll have plenty of cash left over for souvenirs and other expenses.

Creating A Budget For A 3-Day Trip To Las Vegas

Las Vegas is one of the most popular destinations in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. With its vibrant nightlife, 24/7 entertainment, and endless dining options, it’s the perfect place to spend a few days of fun and relaxation. But before you head to Vegas, you’ll need to plan and budget for your trip. Here’s a guide to help you plan a 3-day trip to Las Vegas on a budget.

First, it’s important to decide how you’ll get to Vegas. You can fly, take the bus, or drive. Flying will be the most expensive option, but will often be the quickest way to get there. Taking the bus or driving will be cheaper, but the trip will take longer. Once you’ve decided on your mode of transportation, you’ll need to factor in the cost of airfare or gas, as well as lodging and meals.

The cost of lodging can vary greatly depending on where you stay. For budget-minded travelers, there are plenty of options like hostels, RV parks, and Airbnbs. You can also find good deals on hotels if you book in advance. It’s important to factor in the cost of meals as well. If you plan to dine out, you’ll need to budget for that. It’s also a good idea to bring some snacks with you so you don’t have to buy food every time you get hungry.

When it comes to entertainment, there’s no shortage of things to do in Vegas. From shows to casinos to nightclubs, there’s something for everyone. However, many of these activities can be expensive. If you plan to visit a few casinos, make sure to set aside money for gambling. You can also check the local newspapers and websites for deals on shows and attractions.

As for shopping, you can find plenty of opportunities in Las Vegas. From designer boutiques to souvenir shops, the city has it all. If you plan on doing some shopping, make sure to budget for it. There’s no need to overspend, but you’ll want to make sure you have enough money to buy what you need.

To help you plan your budget for a 3-day trip to Las Vegas, here’s a breakdown of estimated costs:

In total, you should plan to budget at least $500 – $1,000 for a 3-day trip to Las Vegas. Of course, this number can vary depending on your lodging, activities, and other factors. Be sure to budget and plan accordingly to ensure you have an enjoyable and affordable trip.

Budgeting Tips For A Weekend Getaway In Sin City

Vegas, also known as Sin City, is a great option for a weekend getaway, but it can be hard to budget for such an expensive city. To help you get the most out of your trip, here are some tips for budgeting for a weekend getaway in Sin City.

First and foremost, you’ll need to decide what type of trip you want to have. Vegas is home to a wide range of activities, from gambling and shows, to luxury hotels and fine dining. You’ll need to decide on your budget before you start planning, so you can make sure you get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank.

Once you’ve decided on a budget, you’ll need to consider transportation costs. Flying into Vegas will be the most expensive option, but there are other options available such as bus or train. If you’re driving, you will need to factor in the cost of gas and parking.

Your accommodation is another major factor to consider for your budget. Las Vegas offers a wide range of hotels and resorts that cater to all budgets. If you’re looking to save money, you can opt for budget hotels or Airbnb options. If you’re looking for luxury, there are plenty of high-end hotels and casinos available.

Food is another major cost to consider when planning your trip. Las Vegas is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from upscale fine dining to more affordable fast food options. If you’re looking to save, opt for street food or buffets instead of more expensive restaurants.

Finally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of entertainment. Vegas is home to plenty of shows and attractions, from comedy clubs to live music. You can also take part in some of the famous casinos or join in on the nightlife. Again, there are options to suit all budgets.

With the above tips, you should have a good idea of what to expect when budgeting for a weekend getaway in Sin City. Remember, Vegas is an expensive city, but you can still have a great time without breaking the bank. With careful planning and budgeting, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip and have an unforgettable experience.

[toggles][toggle title=”What are the basic travel costs for 3 days in Vegas?”] The basic travel costs for 3 days in Vegas typically include lodging, transportation, food, and entertainment, among other things. [/toggle][toggle title=”What type of lodging should I consider for my trip to Vegas?”] Hotel options can vary depending on your budget and preferences. Consider a variety of accommodation options such as hotels, hostels, short-term rentals, and more. [/toggle][toggle title=”How can I save money on food and entertainment in Vegas?”] Research ahead of time to find discounts and special offers on food and entertainment. You could also look for all-inclusive packages that include meals and entertainment. [/toggle][toggle title=”What activities should I plan for my Vegas trip?”] Las Vegas offers a variety of activities, such as gambling, shows, nightlife, outdoor activities, museums, attractions, and much more. [/toggle][toggle title=”Are there any costs associated with gambling in Vegas?”] Gambling can be expensive depending on the type of games you choose to play. Consider other entertainment options if you want to keep your budget low. [/toggle][toggle title=”Are there any free activities I can do in Vegas?”] Yes, there are many free activities in Vegas such as exploring the Strip, visiting parks, and walking around different neighborhoods. [/toggle][toggle title=”What is the best mode of transportation to get around Vegas?”] The most convenient way to get around Vegas is by car, however, you can also choose to take the bus, ride-sharing services, or taxis. [/toggle][toggle title=”What is the best time of year to visit Vegas?”] The best time to visit Vegas depends on what type of activities you plan to do. Consider the different weather seasons when planning your trip. [/toggle][toggle title=”What is the currency used in Las Vegas?”] The US dollar is the accepted currency in Las Vegas. [/toggle][toggle title=”Are there any additional fees I should be aware of in Vegas?”] Yes, there may be additional fees such as resort fees, taxes, and gratuity for services. Be sure to read the fine print when making reservations or purchases. [/toggle][/toggles]

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How to Spend Three Days in Las Vegas: A 2024 Itinerary

Las Vegas is a spectacular city that belies the barren desert that surrounds it. Any night of the week comes with an unbeatable array of opportunities, from mouthwatering restaurants, magical live shows, epic replicas and a splash of gambling. 

Home of the ultimate urban playground, the iconic Strip is full of wacky characters, bright lights and promises behind every door. Each location providing travelers with endless casino floors, pumping nightclubs and dozens of dining options.

From the Eiffel Tower to the Venice Canals, you can travel all over the world thanks to the replicas that line the 4 mile (6.7km) Strip. Aside from the wonderful Fremont Street, it all goes down in Las Vegas along that crazy stretch of tar. 

Where to Stay in Las Vegas: The Best Neighborhoods and Hotels

I don’t know about you, but when I came to planning my first trip to Vegas, I was immediately overwhelmed. Mostly, I was wondering: should I stay on the Strip or would I hate my life if I did so? Personally, I’m not a huge partier, so I was concerned that choosing a hotel on the Strip would result in me spending my entire trip engulfed in noise and chaos.

But there’s a reason why the vast majority of visitors to Vegas opt to stay on the Strip: it’s central, within walking distance to all the most popular spots, and offers up that iconic Las Vegas experience. I loved my time there!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Las Vegas, then, I recommend choosing a hotel that’s located in the central -Strip region. If you’re flash with cash and looking to splurge, you can’t go wrong with the famous Bellagio . The one. The only . And if you nab yourself a fountain view room? You’ll have the best seat in the entire city.

Beyond the Bellagio, the best accommodation options in this area are ARIA , the Venetian / Palazzo , the Wynn / Encore , and the Cosmopolitan . Flamingo is a more affordable option that’s loved by many, along with Planet Hollywood , Paris , and Bally’s . Park MGM is one of the few hotels that’s entirely smoke-free, if that’s a priority for you.

I won’t lie to you, though: Vegas hotels are expensive ! If you’re on a tighter budget, then, I recommend basing yourself in the even-more-eclectic Downtown area. Hotels are many, many times cheaper in this part of town, but you’re not too far from the Strip. If you won’t have access to a rental car, you can grab an all-day SDX bus pass for $8, which runs every half an hour from Downtown along the length of the Strip. When it comes to hotels, I have just one recommendation: the Golden Nugget . It’s easily the best hotel in the area, with one of the best pools in the city.

Although there is no ‘low season’ in Vegas, there’s no doubt that things really heat up in the summer months. I’m not just talking about the influx of crowds, the town can see temperatures of over 100f (40c). For this reason, avoid the intense heat and save on peak season prices by going to Vegas in the spring or fall. 

With that out of the way, let’s get down to the fun part and dive into the best restaurants, activities and experiences that Las Vegas has to offer in our ultimate 3-day itinerary.

Day 1: The Las Vegas Experience

Welcome to Las Vegas! For any first timer to Sin City, a stop at the Welcome to Las Vegas sign is a rite of passage. Ever since 1959, the iconic sign has been the first port of call for excited vacationers and has since been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

You can find it south of the Strip, next to McAllen International Airport. In fact, if you flew, why not stop on your way into town? In a trip packed with casinos and live shows, a picture at the sign won’t cost a single penny.

Pose With All the Famous Landmarks

Once you have checked in to your hotel and freshened up, it is time to explore Las Vegas! Start strongly by exploring some of the iconic hotels and casinos on the Strip. Aside from gambling, nothing screams Las Vegas like copying major landmarks. You can travel around the world is just a couple of miles.

Outside of the New York, New York Hotel you can pose in front of the Brooklyn Bridge and witness the Statue of Liberty without having to take a step out of Nevada. If you’re ready for some action-packed adrenalin, jump on the Big Apple Coaster, which features a 144ft (44m) drop and speeds of up to 67mph (108kmph).

After the ride, walk north along the Strip passing the MGM Grand, the M&M’s World, and the Bellagio Fountain. As you stroll by street performers and endless characters, you will see the Eiffel Tower appear in the distance. Just like in Paris, you can make your way up to the viewing deck for a romantic view down the Las Vegas Strip. Tickets cost $14, but it’s common to see discount tickets around town for as low as $10.

Hit Up the Bellagio

Across the Strip from the Paris Hotel is the Bellagio, an iconic and stunning Las Vegas hotel home to one of the top free attractions in town. The Bellagio Fountains put on a show every half hour during the afternoon and increases in regularity between 8pm and midnight. 

If you’re lucky, you will see them from your spot atop the Eiffel Tower. Crowds gather around the water’s edge in anticipation, so if you want a front-row seat, arrive ten minutes before the captivating show begins.

What Happens in Vegas…

Las Vegas’ reputation precedes itself, it is known around the world as a mecca for gambling. In every direction you turn you will have a slew of casinos to choose from. Since you are already next to the Paris Hotel, why not dip inside and enter its colorful, indoor wonderland? The bright blue skies painted on the wall could have you believing it’s a brisk 10am when it’s actually on the verge on midnight. 

Casinos don’t have clocks for a reason. But if you’re a first time casino visitor, it is easy to get swept up in the excitement and lose your holiday budget. Ease yourself into the experience with the penny slot machines before you jump into blackjack and roulette.

One ‘budget friendly’ part of the experience is the free drinks on offer for anyone playing the slots or high rolling on the poker tables. Just remember to have some cash handy for the tip.

Alternatively…

Dance the night away! If trying your hand at baccarat doesn’t sound like your perfect Las Vegas evening, then put on your dancing shoes and head to the club. 

By now you should know that Vegas does nothing half-hearted. Nightclubs here aren’t just clubs, they’re mega-clubs. Sin City attracts some of the best DJs in the world. Some of the more prominent clubs include Jewel, Hakkasan and Omnia. 

Almost every major hotel in Las Vegas has their own nightclub and with such a number to choose from it’s best to see which has a special event that night. When you are roaming the Strip keep an eye out for promoters for the chance to grab a VIP pass and free drinks.

Where to Eat

When it comes to eating out in Las Vegas, you can easily blow a hole in your wallet dining at some of the 50 plus celebrity restaurants in town. Luckily there are some great budget options that won’t take you far from the Strip, if at all. 

For lunch on day one, stop by Tacos El Gordo serving quintessential Tijuana-style tacos. With handmade corn tortillas, mouthwatering meats and fresh veggies, this is one delicious lunch option that will keep money in your pocket. As it is open until midnight, you can even stop by for a late-night snack.

For dinner, you can spoil yourself with amazing French cuisine at Mon Ami Gabi or Italian at Lago, both of which have magnificent views of the Bellagio Fountain. But if you’re in search of something a little more laid-back, dress casual and head to Beer Park. This elevated bar comes with a view of the fountain alongside Bavarian sausages and brisket burgers. Down it all with craft beer and cocktails on tap.

Day 2: Food & Live Shows

After trying in earnest to cure the hangover and calm the head, it’s time to get back on the horse. Begin your second day in Sin City with a trip to the LINQ Promenade. Here you will find shopping, dining and of course, plenty of entertainment. But the chief attraction is the aptly named High Roller, the tallest observation wheel on earth. Grab yourself an epic view of Las Vegas and beyond. To save on time, you can book this skip-the-line ticket .

To grab a 1000ft view of the city and get your heart racing, trade the High Roller for the Promenade Zipline.

Get Your Food On

As Las Vegas grew into a world-renowned entertainment city, it quietly became a culinary giant. For first-timers or return visitors, a great way to not only explore the city but also its diverse food scene is to take a sightseeing food tour . Don’t limit yourself to one lunch, combine multiple restaurants for one epic meal. 

On the tour you also will see flamingos, the largest chocolate fountain on the planet and skip the line in each of the five restaurants you visit.

Fremont Street Time!

Once the tour is over, jump in an Uber or taxi and make your way to the Strip’s little brother. Fremont Street is no less quiet than what you have experienced so far, but it is certainly less over-the-top. On Fremont Street you will trade the in-your-face atmosphere of the Strip for a laid-back vibe, with classic casinos, art murals and coyote ugly-esque bars. 

For a fun late afternoon experience make your way to Goldspike, where you can try your hand at oversized yard games such as jenga, twister, beer pong and corn hole. As the sun goes down, walk over to the rooftop bar at Commonwealth for a superb view of the evening sky aflame with amber colors.

After the previous night of gambling and dancing into the early hours, night two is a chance to catch one of the dozens of live shows occurring every night in the Sin City. From famous musicians to circus acts, and standup comedy, you are genuinely spoiled for choice. Before you head down to Las Vegas, check out Vegas.com for up-to-date shows. Who knows, your favorite performer may be in town. 

To save money, you can purchase an explorer pass that can provide discounted shows, tours, museum visits and activities such as the High Roller observation wheel.

Las Vegas may be not be famous for its natural surrounds, there are a lot of day trips you can take that will help balance out your Vegas experience. Red Rock Canyon is one such example, and being only 20 minutes away by car, the canyon is the perfect place to escape the wonderful chaos of Sin City. 

Red Rock Canyon comes with incredible geological features such as towering sandstone peaks. With plenty of water in hand, jump on one of the hiking trails and explore this beautiful area. Or join a half-day tour that includes a pick up and drop off from your hotel lobby. 

With the first night being such a big one, you may feel like the only way to relax and feel better is with splash of day drinking at one of Las Vegas’ many day clubs. Wet Republic at the MGM Grand is the place to go for a hair of the dog afternoon. Lounge by the pool, take a dip to cool off and sip on your cocktail as international DJs create the perfect afternoon vibe. Grab yourself a ticket ahead of time, while an early arrival will help you land the best lounges in the house. 

We don’t blame you if you have a late start to the day. In fact, we have planned for it. Gather yourself together and make your way back to the Paris Hotel where you will find the best brunch in town at Hexx Kitchen and Bar. 

Slowly wake up with wonderful views of Vegas and the Bellagio Fountain from the expansive patio. Tuck into the huevos rancheros or the buttermilk pancakes, washing them down with two hours’ worth of bottomless mimosas. 

For dinner, just like the night before, you will face endless options. A steak dinner is common anywhere on the Strip. But for tonight, let’s head to the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, home to Ping Pang Pong. 

Ping Pang Pong has been voted one of the best 10 Chinese restaurants in America by Travel + Leisure. But don’t arrive expecting crazy high prices, as this restaurant perfectly balances quality and budget friendly meals. Ping Pang Pong offers all the classic Chinese dishes but the lamb tenderloin takes the cake. 

Day 3: A Relaxing End

After breakfast, it is time to do a little bit of shopping. Your Sin City escapades may stay in Vegas, but it doesn’t mean you can’t bring some things home with you!

Like anything in Vegas, you will have an abundance of flagship stores, malls and outlets to choose from. The Forum Shops in Caesars Palace is one of the most popular malls in the US. This massive center features a variety of high-end designer stores such as Versace, Fendi and Louis Vuitton. But for us regulars, you will find all the usual suspects, including one of the largest H&M stores in the country. 

If you haven’t shopped ‘til you dropped, then wander over to the Miracle Mile Shops that combines everything great about Vegas. With dozens of restaurants, bars and live entertainment, you will be able to break up each store with some light-hearted shenanigans. The best nachos in town are also within the Miracle Mile Shops. Stop by Nacho Daddy for gourmet nachos and award-winning margaritas.  

The last stop on your Las Vegas adventure will take you to The Venetian. Now that you’ve ticked off a trip to Paris and New York, it’s only fitting that you get to enjoy a gondola ride around Venice.

While obviously not the real thing it is no less, a fun, relaxing way to reflect on 3 days in Vegas. You will have two options for the gondola ride, inside or out. Both cost the same ($29 Mon-Thur & $36 Fri-Sun) but many choose to enjoy the inside experience.

The inside ride takes you by the upscale Grand Canal Shoppes, restaurants and St Mark’s Square, with romantic lighting and a painted blue sky above. If you get a good one, your gondolier will show off their beautiful singing voices, tell fun facts about Venice and let you know to kiss your partner as you cross under the bridge.

When in Vegas you may be surprised at how close you are to one of the most iconic national parks on earth. The west rim of the Grand Canyon is around a 2.5 hour drive from the Strip (the popular south rim is a 4.5 hours’ drive). If you have a car, you can do it all yourself, exploring all the highlights of the west rim at your leisure.

But there are a variety of excellent tours that will do all the hard work for you, leaving you to do nothing but enjoy the views. One of the most popular bus tours offers an upgrade so that you can check out the stunning Grand Canyon Skywalk. 

If you are short on time, you can see the Grand Canyon from above along with epic views of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead thanks to this airplane tour . With hotel pickup and drop-off included, sit back, relax and see all the amazing sights around Las Vegas.

We wouldn’t blame you for wanting to return to Hexx for another morning of bottomless mimosas. But if you want to switch it up, make your way to the crudely named Eggslut. This breakfast restaurant serves up delicious comfort food with egg, of course, being the key ingredient. Anything here is sure to make you happy, but if you are a fan of breakfast sandwiches, then do yourself a favor and order the Fairfax.

If you aren’t out on a tour of the Grand Canyon or downing the delectable dishes at Nacho Daddy, then grab pizza for lunch at Pizzeria Francescos. Found in Treasure Island, the New York-style pizza lives up to the billing. A meal here won’t cost much either, with the usual check coming in at around $10 per person.  

Final Thoughts

Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Las Vegas. It is enough opportunity to dive into the famed nightlife of Sin City without the bright lights of the world’s entertainment capital burning a hole in your head. 

Depending on your goals you could easily spend three days in Vegas hitting up as many live shows as possible, or jumping between blackjack tables at each casino. 

However you choose to enjoy your three days in Sin City, you’re bound to create a lot of unforgettable memories. But remember to leave them in Vegas.

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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How Much Money to Bring to Vegas (2024 Budget)

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Your plane tickets are booked, and your hotel reservations are made…you’re going to Las Vegas! But wait – is your wallet ready for the trip? Figuring out how much money to bring to Vegas can be confusing and requires a thoughtful approach.

Buckle up for a journey through your Las Vegas vacation budget. This guide will ensure you bring the right amount of money for a great time, no matter your budget!

Key Takeaways:

• Plan to spend $100-$500 per person daily in Las Vegas, with the average cost being approximately $340 per person per day.
• Your daily budget will vary significantly based on your planned activities.
• If you’re gambling heavily, expect to spend a lot more.

ALSO SEE: How to Bring and Carry Money in Las Vegas (Explained)

Inside this article:

Determining Your Initial Las Vegas Budget

According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), Las Vegas saw nearly 40 million visitors in 2022. On average, each one of these tourists spent $1,156 while in town. This is just the money they spent during their stay in Vegas, not including travel costs and hotel.

How much money you need to take to Vegas depends on how you plan on spending your time. With the average time spent in Las Vegas being a 3-night 4-day stay, visitors can fit in a lot of entertainment and activities.

So, planning what you intend to do while you’re in Las Vegas will allow you to budget your daily expenses appropriately.

RELATED: Want to know how long to stay in Las Vegas ? We’ve written an article that will help.

How Much Spending Money to Take to Las Vegas (Cash)

So, let’s get to the heart of the matter. After you’ve booked or budgeted for travel and hotel rooms, it’s time to see how much spending money you’ll want to bring to Las Vegas.

The amount you’ll need is based on two numbers provided by Statista.com . Here are the facts:

• The average length of stay in Las Vegas is 3.4 nights.
• The average amount a visitor to Las Vegas spends during a visit (not including travel costs or hotels) is $1,156.

If you divide $1,156 by 3.4 nights, you’ll arrive at the magic number. You’ll want to bring $340 in spending money per person per day to Las Vegas.

Here is an approximate breakdown of the average amount of money each person will spend each day:

Your priorities may be different, however. For instance, you may want to spend less on food and drink and more on entertainment. Also, keep in mind that gambling isn’t included in the list above and can rapidly increase how much money you’ll need to bring.

Remember, $340 is an average. Your actual amount may go up or down depending on your taste for fancy living.

Spending Depending on the Number of Days in Vegas

Depending on the length of their stay, visitors to Las Vegas often inquire about the recommended amount of money to bring along.

I’ve put together the table below based on a range of spending depending on the days you stay in Vegas.

A couple of things to note about the table:

• Spending less than the minimum amounts shown is possible. You may discover, however, that you’re missing out on some of the best Vegas experiences.
• A maximum spending amount is also listed, providing a healthy budget for getting the most out of your trip. Please note, however, that spending far more than the maximum amounts listed is easily possible if you’re so inclined.

Vegas Spending Money Calculator

You can use this budgeting calculator we developed to determine your Vegas spending money needs based on your length of stay and your own personal spending habits.

Simply enter your estimated daily expenses by category, and the number of days your staying to calculate the amount of spending money you’ll need to bring with you on your trip to Vegas.

You don’t want to risk overspending or ending up with too little to enjoy all Las Vegas offers. This spending calculator will help create a realistic budget tailored to your preferences and ensure your trip to Vegas is both thrilling and financially sound.

Keep reading to learn more about each line item in the calculator and what you should expect to spend in each category.

Average Cost of Food and Drink in Las Vegas

Let’s break down what you can expect to spend on dining and drinks in Vegas.

Average meal costs in Las Vegas can vary from $25 buffets to an all-out splurge at a celebrity-owned restaurant. For instance, at Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant Hell’s Kitchen, you can spend as little as $40 for lunch or up to $155 a person for a three-course meal with wine.

Of course, fast food options are always available if you’d rather spend your money on other delights that Vegas has to offer.

So how much you spend on food is entirely up to you. The options here vary quite a bit. You could spend less than $250 for a three-night stay or more than $450 on food and beverages if you so choose. On the high end, a complete Las Vegas culinary experience could easily cost $1,500 to over $2,000 in just a few days.

So if you are a foodie and fine dining is your thing, you can expect to spend more than the $340 a day average. If, on the other hand, upscale dining isn’t a priority for you, there are plenty of opportunities to get good food, eat relatively inexpensively, and dial back your daily expenses.

Drink Costs

Drink prices in Las Vegas can vary widely depending on the venue and the type of drink you order. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $7 to $15 for a standard beer, while mixed drinks can cost anywhere from $15 to $30 or more.

Here are some example Vegas drink prices:

High-end nightclubs and bars may charge even more for premium drinks and bottle service. It’s a good idea to budget accordingly and be prepared to spend more than you would at your local bar or nightclub.

ALSO SEE: How Much to Budget for Food in Las Vegas (Average Cost to Eat!)

Entertainment Costs

Entertainment costs in Las Vegas can vary significantly based on the type of activity, show, or venue you choose.

Here are some general cost ranges for various forms of entertainment in Las Vegas, keeping in mind that prices can fluctuate based on demand, special events, and other factors:

Alternatively, if your budget is tight, you could instead focus on the many free things to do in Las Vegas .

Budgeting for Gambling

The amount of money to bring to Las Vegas for gambling greatly depends on your personal financial situation and preferences. The general guideline is to only to bring what you can afford to lose.

For a modest budget, you might allocate $25-$50 per day for gambling, while a moderate budget might involve a daily allocation of $100-$200, and a more lavish gambling experience might necessitate a budget of $500-$1,000 per day or more.

Remember to set strict daily spending limits , stick to them, and consider setting aside any winnings to prevent spending them. Always prioritize responsible gambling and view losses as the cost of entertainment, not as actual financial losses.

If you’re staying multiple days, divide your total gambling budget by the number of days to ensure you have funds to gamble with each day. Regardless of the budget, ensuring that your gambling funds are separate from your essential spending money is crucial to enjoying your time without facing financial strains.

RELATED: Find out how much you must play to get comped in Vegas .

Figuring Your Shopping Budget in Las Vegas

Shopping expenditures in Las Vegas will depend on your interests and budget. The city has many great shopping venues, from high-end boutiques to affordable shops and outlet malls.

Here are some general ideas of what you might expect to spend on shopping per day, categorized by budget:

Additional Notes:

• Designer Boutiques : Purchases can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per item.
• Outlet Malls : Expect to spend anywhere from $20 for smaller items to a few hundred for larger purchases.
• Souvenir Shops : Items like t-shirts, mugs, and trinkets typically sell under $30 each.
• Sales Tax : An additional cost will be added to your purchases at checkout.

Remember that these are general estimates, and spending can vary considerably based on individual preferences and shopping habits.

RECOMMENDED: Discover the 12 most amazing malls in Las Vegas .

Costs of Transportation in Las Vegas

Now, let’s figure out what getting around in Las Vegas will cost. Several options are available, including a convenient and inexpensive public transportation system.

• Many taxis and Ubers are available, ensuring wait times are short.
• There is an extensive monorail system that regularly travels up and down the east side of the Strip.
• Then there are the famous double-decker buses (Las Vegas public bus system) called the Deuce.
• There are even a few free trams that you can use to get around parts of the Strip.

Taxis are numerous in Las Vegas, with most hotels having access to a taxi stand. Just getting in the taxi and starting the meter is $3.50, and the rate for every 1/12 th of a mile is $.023, so you will be looking at $2.76 for a mile.

If you are flying into Las Vegas , there is an additional pick-up charge of $2 when you are being picked up at the airport in a taxi.

The monorail system makes getting up and down the Las Vegas strip a breeze. The monorail is quick and easy, making waits fairly short. A single ride costs $5, an Unlimited Day Pass is $13, and the Unlimited 3-Day pass is $29.

(For more info about the monorail and how to get discount tickets , check out our article here).

The Deuce double-decker buses are iconic on the Strip and in Las Vegas’s downtown area and run a route between various popular locations. The passes for using the Deuce run from a $6 fee for a two-hour pass, $8 for a twenty-four-hour pass, and $20 for a three-day pass.

For more info, please read our complete article: How to Get Around Las Vegas without a Car .

So, the costs for getting around Las Vegas are directly proportional to the speed and convenience of the transport method. Riding the bus is the cheapest (but slowest) option, and taxis are the quickest and most expensive option.

It is a time versus money situation if you only have a few days here. Riding the bus is the cheapest, but you’ll spend an hour or more trying to get from one end of the Strip to the other.

My advice is to use a ride-sharing service such as Uber. It’s quick and convenient without breaking the bank. A few things about Uber and Lyft are unique to Las Vegas, so be sure to read the article I referenced above about getting around in Las Vegas for more information.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Every vacation racks up a few miscellaneous expenses you might not have thought of, and Las Vegas is no exception. Everything from forgetting to bring a hat or your favorite lip balm to having a few spare dollars available for tipping .

Also, you’ll want to keep in mind Las Vegas ATM fees . This is especially true if you plan to use the ATMs inside the casino.

You’ll want to remember to pad your Vegas budget with a few extra dollars a day for these miscellaneous items.

Budgeting for Your Las Vegas Adventure: Final Thoughts

Ensuring a well-budgeted and enjoyable trip to Las Vegas involves thoughtful planning across various expenditure categories, including dining, entertainment, gambling, shopping, and transportation.

Our general spending guideline suggests allocating approximately $340 per person per day, yet this figure can flex depending on personal preferences and the activities chosen.

UP NEXT – Find out which things you’ll need cash for in Las Vegas.

Bryan is a Las Vegas local who has spent years exploring the city's vibrant culture and entertainment scene. With his extensive knowledge of the best attractions and hidden gems, he has become an expert on all things Las Vegas. He regularly shares his insider tips with people looking to visit Las Vegas and make the most of their trip. More about Bryan.

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The Costs of a Las Vegas Vacation

Las Vegas used to be the place to go for a bargain vacation. While the days of the $2 buffets are long gone, there are still plenty of good deals out there.

How Much Does A Las Vegas Hotel Cost?

This is a tricky question simply because Las Vegas operates on a different schedule than most vacation destinations. Just because the weather is cold does not mean that people stop visiting the Las Vegas strip. When it is miserably hot people still stay for 5 nights. Who can predict these things?

A simple rule of thumb is to avoid weekends because they will be more expensive than weekdays. If possible arrive on a Monday and leave on a Thursday. However, that formula falls apart if there are large conventions in town or it is March Madness. Summer months are typically better for getting great room rates and the Christmas holidays are ridiculously expensive. Labor day and Memorial day weekend are grossly expensive.

Check Out  TripAdvisor’s Best Deals in Las Vegas   

Dining Costs

Meals in Las Vegas vary from the dirt cheap to the ridiculously expensive, so be aware of your food budget. Comps are not as easy to come by these days but your best bet to getting free stuff at any casino is to get a players card at the place you intend on playing at. Often times a few hours worth of gaming action at the tables or at the slots will get you a free meal or at least some reduced prices.

On average, two people could go to Las Vegas and eat good meals three times a day and have a good amount of alcohol and spend about $200 a day. This number is so fluid because of the amount of gambling you do and your choices in food. Drinks are normally included in your gaming income because they are free as long as you're a player. However, if you decide to eat at a nice restaurant or order drinks with your food that number goes up very quickly. 

• Places To Eat Cheap In Las Vegas
• The Best Affordable Restaurants In Las Vegas

Things You Might Pay For

• Taxi - $3.30 for the first mile and $1.50 each additional. If you use a rideshare like Uber in Las Vegas you'll save a lot of money.
• Cover charge at a Nightclub - $10 - $30 for males slightly less for females at some clubs.​ Learn more about ​ Vegas nightclubs .
• Tipping - Figure an extra five percent of your total budget. Waitresses, Valet, Taxi Valet, $2 per occurrence, Bell hop $2 per bag, server at restaurant 15% of check. Here are some tipping guidelines .
• Parking is no longer free at most resorts so if you plan on driving factor in another $10-$40 for parking over the duration of your stay.
• Resort fees are another secret cost that gets added to your vacation budget so even though you may have already paid for your hotel the front desk will surprise you with another fee. Expect anywhere from $10-$30 per night. Complain a little and you might get some of the fees waived.

TripSavvy / Elliot Jonch Garcia

Free Entertainment

Las Vegas can get expensive but there are plenty of cheap and free attractions available to help you keep your budget intact.

• 23 Free Things To Do In Las Vegas
• Free And Cheap in Vegas Hotel By Hotel

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More related articles.

How much does a 3 day trip to vegas cost?

How Much Does a 3 Day Trip to Vegas Cost?

If you’re planning a quick getaway to Sin City, you’re likely wondering how much to budget for your 3-day trip to Vegas. The answer? It’s quite reasonable, considering all the world-class entertainment, dining, and experiences Las Vegas has to offer. In this article, we’ll break down the estimated costs to help you plan your next adventure in the City of Lights.

Accommodation:

Accommodation options range from luxurious hotels to affordable motels. Here are some estimated costs:

Other Accommodation Tips:

• Look for deals on rooms with extended stay packages. • Consider off-strip or downtown Vegas hotels, which tend to be cheaper. • Websites like Expedia, Booking.com, and Hotels.com often have discounts and packages. • Book well in advance , especially during peak travel seasons.

Unless you’re coming from the West Coast or a direct neighbor, flying to McCarran International Airport (LAS) might be your most convenient option.

Airfare Estimate:

From: • New York: $200-$400 per person • Los Angeles: $150-$250 per person • Chicago: $200-$350 per person

Tips for Flight Booking:

• Use fare comparison websites like Kayak or Skyscanner to find the best deals. • Book 2-3 months in advance for competitive pricing. • Be flexible with travel dates, and consider off-peak days (Mondays-Thursdays).

Transportation:

If you’re planning to stay on the Strip, getting around won’t break the bank:

• Taxi Rides : $10-$20 per trip • Uber/Ride-Share : $8-$12 per ride • Walking : FREE! • Free Trams : Many hotels offer complimentary transportation within their complex

Food and Beverage:

Las Vegas offers a wide range of dining options, from high-end eateries to affordable quick bites:

Additional Food and Beverage Tips:

• Try happy hour specials or early-bird breakfast for discounts. • Order from room service or have it delivered via FoodDelivery.com for a convenient breakfast. • Grab affordable options from quick-serve spots or food carts along the Strip.

Attractions and Shows:

You’ll have endless options for entertainment and activities, but here’s an estimate for a few attractions and shows:

Other Attractions and Shows Tips:

• Book advance ticket packages for hotel shows or buffets. • Explore free activities like the Fountains of Bellagio or Street Performances on Fremont Street. • Set aside budget-friendly options , such as visiting the High Roller or catching a comedy club act.

Additional Expenses:

Don’t forget to factor in miscellaneous expenses, including:

• Gratuities : 15%-$20% tip at restaurants, bars, and shows. • Souvenirs : $10-$50 per item • Incidental expenses : $50-$100 for incidentals and tips.

3-Day Total Cost Estimate:

Total Estimated 3-Day Cost : $1,500-$2,950

Of course, actual costs will vary depending on your travel choices, spending habits, and time of year. By considering these estimated costs and taking advantage of deals, packages, and travel tips, you can create an unforgettable 3-day adventure in Las Vegas without breaking the bank.

Conclusion:

Las Vegas, despite its flashy reputation, doesn’t have to be a budget-breaking experience. With this breakdown, you’re now equipped to budget and plan for a memorable 3-day trip. Be flexible, take advantage of deals, and don’t be afraid to splurge – you can still experience the magic of Vegas while staying within your means.

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