Getting Around Las Vegas in 2025 (Without Overpaying) - The Smart Traveler’s Guide
- Sergio Barbasso
- Aug 10
- 10 min read
From airport to Strip to day trips: here’s how to move around Vegas without wasting time or money.
Introduction:
What We Got Wrong About Getting Around Vegas—So You Don’t Have To
Let’s put it this way: until Anna and I decided to move to Las Vegas—now six years ago—this city was always our “stopover” spot. We’d spend a few days having fun before heading down to Los Angeles or exploring the national parks and natural wonders of the American Southwest.
Even in the 15 years I kept coming here from Italy, the country where I was born and raised, my transportation options were always the same: a rental car… and walking.
One year, during one of my crazy solo coast-to-coasts from New York to Los Angeles, I realized I had walked more steps in Las Vegas than in New York, which I was visiting for the very first time that same summer (2013).
Over the years, with friends or family, we made every possible rookie mistake because we underestimated Vegas (“I’m only here for a few days, how hard can it be?”) and didn’t plan smart:
We blew $42 on an airport taxi that should’ve cost half.
We walked three miles in the summer heat because everything looked close on the map.
We paid $20 to park at a hotel we weren’t even staying at.
I spent a whole day in bed with dehydration, and another with fever and a sore throat from over-air-conditioning.
I missed a Cirque du Soleil show because I was just way too tired.
It took a few frustrating trips—and later, full-time Vegas life—to finally learn how to move around like a local. Now we plan custom itineraries for visitors from Europe, Asia, Australia, North America, and Latin America, and the first question we always get is:
“Should we rent a car?”
But here’s the better question:
What’s the smartest way to get around Vegas for your trip?
Whether you’re sticking to the Strip, heading Downtown, or planning a day trip to Red Rock Canyon or the Grand Canyon, this local guide will help you avoid rookie mistakes, save money, and spend more hours enjoying Vegas than stuck in traffic.
The Airport:
Getting From Harry Reid (LAS) to the Strip or Downtown
Know Before You Land
Las Vegas’ main airport—Harry Reid International (LAS)—is just a 10–15 minute drive from the Strip. Sounds easy, right? Here’s where first-timers get it wrong:
There’s no subway into the city center, but it’s also not just Uber or Lyft. In addition to rideshares, taxis, and rental cars, there are also airport shuttles and public buses, and the bus service is surprisingly decent.
Look for the RTC buses by following signs for Public Transportation or Ground Transportation from baggage claim at Terminal 1.
Airport Do’s and Don’ts
🚫 Don’t:
Take an unlicensed shuttle or accept “private car offers” from inside the terminal.
Grab a cab without confirming the fare—Vegas taxi “long-hauling” (taking the longer route) still happens.
✅ Do:
Use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. Pick-up is in a dedicated garage zone with clear signage.
Book a prepaid GetYourGuide airport transfer for flat rates and no surge pricing.
If you’re staying off-Strip or near Fremont Street, check if your hotel offers a free shuttle—some still do!
💡 Smart Tip: Traveling with a group or lots of luggage? Compare UberXL vs. private shuttle rates—you might be surprised which is cheaper.
Walking in Vegas:
When It Works—and When It Doesn’t
Yes, You Can Walk. But Should You?
Most first-time visitors think they’ll walk everywhere. For a few blocks, absolutely. But here’s the truth: Las Vegas looks smaller than it is.
If your trip is just a few days and you’re focusing on the Strip, combining walking with Uber/Lyft or public transit is a good strategy. Many people choose to walk most of the Strip, but they underestimate the huge distances between casinos.
Even the casinos themselves are mega-structures. Walking through one can take 15–20 minutes, and between the scorching outdoor heat and the icy indoor AC, many travelers get sick within the first couple of days (you can avoid this—download our FREE Las Vegas Packing Essentials Guide at the bottom of this page).
In summer, dehydration risk is high: the Strip is about 4 miles (6.5 km) long, and the desert sun is unforgiving.
Great for Walking:
Center Strip: Bellagio, Paris, Caesars Palace, The LINQ, The Venetian
Fremont Street: Compact, walkable, and best enjoyed on foot
Hotel interiors: Themed resorts like The Venetian and Paris Las Vegas are attractions themselves
Miserable Walking Situations:
Summer afternoons (temps often exceed 110°F / 43°C)
Long treks between far-apart properties (e.g., Mandalay Bay to Wynn = over 40 minutes)
Nighttime in heels (Anna’s destroyed feet can confirm this)
💡 Smart Tip: Always carry a reusable water bottle like THIS ONE and take frequent breaks inside casinos for AC and rest. Just don’t get lost in the slot-machine maze on your way out.
The Monorail:
Las Vegas’ Best-Kept Budget Secret
You’ve probably seen it gliding above the Strip—and maybe even sung the MONORAAAAILLL! song from The Simpsons (I do every time, just to embarrass Anna)—but few tourists actually use the Las Vegas Monorail. That’s a mistake.
Why Use It:
Fast: Skips traffic and runs every 4–8 minutes
Cool: Air-conditioned, secure, and rarely crowded
Affordable: $5 for a single ride, $13 for a 24-hour pass
Limitations:
Only runs on the east side of the Strip (MGM Grand to SAHARA)
Doesn’t connect to Downtown Vegas or the airport
Some stations are located deep inside hotels (Bally’s/Paris is especially hidden)
Ideal If:
You’re staying at Bally’s, Flamingo, Harrah’s, or MGM Grand
You want to skip hot sidewalks and reach the Convention Center fast
Pro Tip: Buy digital passes online or from station vending machines. Save your legs for Fremont Street—not for crossing Tropicana Avenue in August.
For full schedules and station maps, check the official site at lvmonorail.com
Uber vs Lyft vs Taxis:
Know the Differences
Rideshare: The Vegas Favorite
Uber and Lyft dominate the scene—you’ll usually find a driver within 5–10 minutes, day or night.
Strip to Fremont Street: $18–$25
Airport to Strip: $20–$35, depending on time of day
🚨 Surge Pricing Alert: Weekends, big events, or even rain can double the rate. Always check the fare estimate before confirming.
Good to know: Every hotel has a designated pick-up/drop-off zone for rideshares, making it super convenient to move quickly between stops. Both Uber and Lyft offer multiple vehicle options—from economy to luxury, shared to private—and show the price upfront along with driver and vehicle details (model and license plate).
This service is especially useful at night, when you want to avoid long walks or less safe areas.
💡 Smart Tip: Many drivers are locals who love sharing insider tips—sometimes this is your best chance (other than our blog, of course) to discover hidden gems only locals know.
If you can’t find the pick-up spot, ask hotel staff—they’re used to directing confused tourists.
Pros: Generally safe, based on reviews; flexible options for every budget.
Cons: Prices can spike heavily during events or high demand.
Taxis: Still Here, Still Useful
Still common at hotels and the airport.
Flat airport-to-Strip fees: $19–$27 based on zone.
Watch out: some drivers still take the freeway to inflate the meter (“long-hauling”).
Important: Unlike in New York, you can’t just wave down a cab on the street. You’ll need to go to a designated taxi stand or ask hotel/restaurant staff to call one for you.
Tipping 15–18% is standard for good service.
💡 Local Smart Tip: Always ask your driver to “take Paradise Road”—it’s faster and cheaper than the freeway. Plus, it tells them you know your way around, which means no scenic detours at your expense.
Pros: Fast service in designated zones; sometimes cheaper than rideshares during big events.
Cons: Service quality varies; not always competitive on price compared to Uber/Lyft.
Buses & Public Transit:
Underrated but Efficient
Las Vegas has no subway system—everything is above ground (except for the Vegas Loop, which we’ll get to).
The public bus service is surprisingly efficient and one of the cheapest ways to get around the Strip and key tourist areas.
The Deuce:
A double-decker bus running 24/7 along the Strip, stopping every 15–20 minutes at 27 locations from Mandalay Bay to Fremont Street Experience.
Great for carrying bags, strollers, and backpacks. If you’re sticking to central Vegas and don’t want the hassle of parking, The Deuce is a stress-free way to see the Strip without worrying about traffic or fees.
More info: rtcsnv.com
Free Trams:
On the west side of the Strip, free trams connect major resorts like Mandalay Bay, Excalibur, Aria, Bellagio, and Treasure Island.
They run every 10 minutes and are perfect for hopping between resorts without walking long distances.
Routes are limited, but if you’re in their coverage area, they’re a fast, air-conditioned, and free option.
Full route info: vegas.com
Alternative Transport Options
Zoox & Other Autonomous Vehicles
Amazon’s Zoox has been offering fully driverless rides on public roads since 2023. Other services like Waymo and Motional are testing in Vegas, too.
Vegas Loop
Created by Elon Musk’s The Boring Company, the Vegas Loop is a futuristic underground system using Tesla vehicles to move passengers between points like the Convention Center, select hotels, and eventually the airport. It’s open during conventions and select events.
Tickets: lvloop.com/tickets
Limousine Services
Perfect for weddings or making an entrance. Companies like Vegas VIP Limo and AWG Ambassador offer everything from airport pickups to luxury tours. Many wedding chapels include limo service in their packages.
“Only in Vegas” Tour Options
Helicopter Tours
A must if you’ve never seen Vegas from above. The city’s skyline against the surrounding desert mountains is unforgettable.
Hummer Tours
A late-2024 addition—Anna has personally worked with this company and can confirm it’s an authentic, spectacular way to explore Vegas while turning heads everywhere you go.
Cartzilla (Yes, a Giant Motorized Shopping Cart)
Vegas is weird in the best ways. Cartzilla is an oversized, 400-horsepower motorized shopping cart that seats up to eight people, complete with lights and music for the ultimate joyride.
Sightseeing Bus
Classic hop-on, hop-off bus service—touristy, but efficient for seeing the main attractions without worrying about navigation.
Parking in Las Vegas:
Free, Paid, and Where to Skip It
Vegas used to be a free-parking paradise. Off the Strip, locals still park for free almost anywhere. But on the Strip and Downtown—where most tourists go—not anymore.
Most resorts now charge for parking unless you’re a loyalty member or park for under an hour.
Many travelers are shocked to find that after paying for their room AND resort fees ($35–$55/night), they ALSO have to pay for parking.
It’s frustrating for locals too, and we expect changes in the future. For now, here’s how to avoid it:
Paid Parking ($10–$25/day)
Caesars properties (Caesars Palace, Paris, Flamingo)
MGM Resorts (Bellagio, Aria, Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand)
Free Parking
Treasure Island-TI (at the entrance, you have to say you’re visiting TI, of course)
The STRAT
Resorts World
Shops at Crystals (with purchase)
Most off-Strip hotels and local casinos like Red Rock and Durango
💡 Smart Tip: If you’re renting a car, plan your day around free parking zones. Walking an extra 10 minutes can save $50+ over your trip.
Guided Tours: A Smarter Way to Explore the City
For years, Anna and I insisted on doing everything ourselves. Like most Getawaykers™, we love planning our own itineraries.
But when Anna started working as a guide for several tour companies, we saw how much you can gain from joining a well-run city tour. You get insider stories, skip navigation headaches, and often save money on parking and entry fees.
Recommended if you have a few spare hours and want to see a side of Vegas you wouldn’t find on your own—whether that’s casino history tours or foodie adventures.
💡 Bonus: Many guided tours include hotel pickup, so you avoid traffic, parking fees, and getting lost.
Book a day trip via GetYourGuide with hotel pickup and a local guide:
Rent a Car or Skip It?
The 2025 Local Truth
We love having a car—but not every Vegas trip needs one. After years of trial and error (and price hikes across the Strip), here’s when to skip it and when to go for it.
🚫 Don’t Rent If:
You’re staying only on the Strip or Downtown.
Your hotel charges for parking (most do).
You’ll be drinking or clubbing every night.
You’re here for just 2–3 days and are not leaving the city.
✅ Do Rent If:
You’re visiting Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire, or the Grand Canyon.
You want flexibility over group tour schedules.
You’re traveling as a family or group (cheaper than multiple Ubers).
💡 Book Smart: Use RentalCars.com to compare rates and filter by hotel location for easy pick-up/drop-off.
If you’d rather skip driving but still see the best of the Southwest, book a guided day trip on GetYourGuide—hotel pickup included, no parking fees, no stress.
We’ve even written a locals’ guide to the best day trips from Las Vegas, with itineraries we personally use for visiting friends and family.
Smart Traveler Tools
(For Easy Vegas Planning)
Here are the apps and websites we personally use—and recommend to every visitor:
Tool | What It’s For |
Hotels near Monorail, with parking filters | |
Day trips with hotel pickup | |
Shows + event transport bundles | |
Currency exchange without bank fees | |
Google Maps | Public transit and walking distance estimator |
Transit App | Real-time Monorail & bus updates |
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas might be in the middle of the desert, but driving here can feel like navigating an obstacle course—especially during peak events or summer heatwaves.
The truth? Most tourists who skip smart transportation planning end up realizing after their trip how much simply getting around the city ate into their budget.
Too many first-time visitors never return—not because they didn’t enjoy Vegas, but because they only saw the surface version of the city. The real Las Vegas reveals itself on your second, third, or even fourth trip—when you start moving like a local and avoiding the tourist traps.
We hope these locally tested tips (and mistakes we’ve made so you don’t have to) help you explore Vegas in a way that saves time, money, and energy.
If you want the full playbook—260 pages of insider routes, hidden gems, and money-saving hacks—grab our Complete Digital Guide to Las Vegas (now in pre-order in English at a special price until release).
It costs less than a single mile in an Uber… and could be the difference between a standard Vegas trip and one you’ll never stop talking about.
FAQs – Getting Around Las Vegas (2025 Edition)
1. Is it safe to walk the Strip at night?
Yes. The Strip is well-lit, heavily patrolled, and full of people. Stick to main streets, avoid alleyways, and enter/exit casinos through main doors.
2. Which is better—Uber or Monorail?
The Monorail is cheaper and faster for moving along the east side of the Strip. Uber/Lyft are better for point-to-point hotel trips, especially if your hotels aren’t Monorail-connected.
3. Should I rent a car for a 3-day Vegas trip?
Only if you’re planning a day trip outside the city (e.g., Red Rock or Hoover Dam). For a short, Strip-focused stay, walking and rideshares are more cost-effective.
4. Is public transit in Las Vegas worth it?
Yes, for the Strip and Fremont Street. The Deuce bus and Monorail cover most tourist areas efficiently. Public transit is limited in neighborhoods—locals rely on cars.
5. Will my rideshare app from another country work in Vegas?
Yes. Uber and Lyft work seamlessly for international travelers. Payment apps like Wise also work well for avoiding bank fees.
6. What’s the cheapest way to get from the airport to the Strip?
For solo travelers, the RTC public bus or a shared shuttle is cheapest. For groups, compare UberXL vs. prepaid airport transfers
