Las Vegas holidays

Best time to go to Las Vegas

Las Vegas has been built right in the middle of a desert, so it enjoys very sunny weather year-round but also experiences extremes of heat at times. Booking a Las Vegas hotel with a pool is always a good idea, so you can cool off. Spring is one of the best times to visit to get great sunshine – averaging 11 hours per day in April – without experiencing the seriously hot peaks. Temperatures are around 17°C in March, climbing upwards to highs of 34°C by late-May. July is the hottest month here, although the heat doesn’t dissipate much in August; summer visitors can expect highs up to 40°C and next-to-no chance of rain. Peak summer is when you’ll find the most budget prices, if you can take the heat.

The other great season to visit is autumn, which still promises long, sunny days but a slightly cooler atmosphere. It’s also a popular time of year with hikers and photographers looking to capture the rust-red landscape around the city in its best light. September starts to cool, with average highs of 37°C and lows of 19°C, while evening lows in November can be just 5°C. December to February is the coldest period, with temperatures not increasing above the low teens. However, it’s still not a rainy destination, so visitors who don’t enjoy the heat can enjoy more budget-friendly prices at this time of year. Of course, if you’re here for the casinos and the shows, the Christmas period is truly fabulous, and you can be sure the temperature indoors is always perfect.

How to get to Las Vegas

You can fly to Las Vegas direct from London in between 10 and 12 hours. Of course, direct flights are more expensive than one-stop routes, which run from many UK airports including Southampton, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Belfast and Bristol. Flights from Manchester to Vegas take between 13 and 19 hours on average, while stopping flights from London Heathrow take around 12 to 14 hours.

Once you arrive, the Harry Reid International Airport is surprisingly close to the centre of Vegas and all the hotels and attractions. Most people simply opt for a taxi or private shuttle, which you can pre-book online for convenience. You can also take a shared hotel shuttle from the airport, but these are not much cheaper and will stop at multiple hotels. There’s also a public bus, which is by far the cheapest option (unless your hotel provides a free transfer) but will take the longest due to stops.

Getting around Las Vegas

Once you’ve arrived, you can get to most attractions in Las Vegas without needing to hire a car. For example, the city monorail zooms up and down the Strip in less than fifteen minutes, allowing you to skip traffic jams and the headache of parking. Of course, if you’re planning a day of attractions close to your hotel, you can also walk between places, as the strip is very pedestrian-friendly. You can also navigate the city via the local bus system, rideshare apps and taxis. For day trips to the desert or national parks, hiring a car is thoroughly recommended, as public transport won’t take you far out of the city. It also gives you the freedom to stop, explore and move on at your own pace. Alternatively, you can book organised day trips to big tourist spots like the Hoover Dam, Zion or Grand Canyon, and get your transport organised for you.

Best hotels on the Strip in Las Vegas:

• Bellagio

• The Cosmopolitan

• MGM Grand Hotel

• The Venetian

• Luxor Hotel

• Caesar's Palace

• Planet Hollywood

• New York - New York

• Mirage hotel and casino

• Wynn Las Vegas

Things to do in Las Vegas

• Visit a casino: Vegas’ main reason for fame – it would be remiss not to experience one.

• **Watch a show (or three): **Many people come to Vegas to see their favourite artists in residency or to watch Strip staples like the Cirque du Soleil. There’s something for every taste here, and you can either turn up and see what takes your fancy (and has space) or book in advance for any shows you definitely want to see.

• **Get out into nature: **More on this below. Although you feel like you’re in a pocket of manmade entertainment, nature has some equally entertaining spectacles right on your doorstep.

• **The High Roller Observation Wheel: **Vegas’ answer to the London Eye is a whopping 550-foot high, promising a fantastic view of the Strip and the desert beyond.

• **AREA15: **An all-ages immersive entertainment district with mind-bending art installations, interactive spaces and bars.

• Catch a game of ice hockey: The Vegas Golden Knights play at the T-Mobile Arena.

• The Neon Museum: A fabulously photogenic collection of neon signs from the city’s old and forgotten events, displays and shows.

• Cool off at a pool party: You can choose from adults’ only and family friendly pool parties, often with live music, DJs or special guests. The perfect way to beat the desert heat.

Activities for families in Las Vegas

• Adventuredome: A five-acre indoor theme park.

• **M&Ms World: **Create personalised candy, shop for goodies, watch 3D movies and explore a NASCAR display.

• Discovery Children's Museum: With exhibits on art, science and culture.

• Gondola rides at the Venetian: A faux-Italian experience that’s rather magical.

• **Shark Reef Aquarium: **A large shark aquarium at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino.

• **Pinball hall of fame: **More than 150 operational pinball machines to play, ranging from vintage to state-of-the-art.

• Big Apple Coaster: One for older kids, the Big Apple Coaster whizzes past a replica of the NYC skyline inside the New York-New York hotel.

• Go and see a child-friendly show: Some top tips include the Tournament of Kings at Excalibur hotel and Mystère by Cirque du Soleil.

• **Fun Dungeon: **Also at Excalibur hotel, the Fun Dungeon is an arcade packed with vintage and new video games to enjoy. It even claims to have the world’s biggest Pacman.

Free things to do in Las Vegas

• **Grand Canal Shoppes: **Wandering around the Grand Canal Shoppes is completely free and a very sensory experience. We can’t promise you won’t be tempted to spend any money while inside though.

• Bellagio Conservatory & Gardens: This hotel knows how to make a statement. It’s home to the world-famous fountain show as well as an awe-inspiring garden centrepiece that changes with the seasons. The gardens are open 24-7 and are one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

• Fremont Street: The Fremont East neighbourhood gets hipper, and more family oriented, by the year. The Fremont Street experience is a huge indoor mall that’s almost sensory overload – you can even zipline over the heads of shoppers. Nearby Downtown Container Park boasts yet more shops, in shipping containers, plus an interactive playground with a 33-foot slide.

• ** Seven Magic Mountains:** Those looking to escape Vegas’ bright lights for an afternoon can head south to the outdoor art installation Seven Magic Mountains to snap some cool photos.

• The Aquarium at Silverton Casino: This small, indoor aquarium is home to real-life (sort of) mermaids, sure to enchant kids of all ages.

• **The Arts Factory: **Part of the Las Vegas Arts District, The Arts Factory is a labyrinth of studios and performing arts spaces, open on Preview Thursday or First Friday. Here you can interact with dozens of artists, photographers, architects and galleries, and take home a unique souvenir from a Gallery to Go vending machine.

• **Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art: **A fun, modern art museum on the university campus, with a cool, native plant garden attached.

• **Lake of Dreams Light Show: **A free light, music and water-based spectacle that’s 100% worth watching.

• The Volcano at The Mirage: From 8–10 p.m., catch an explosive display as the volcano in the front garden of the Mirage erupts to music.

• **See the Sphere: **This is one of the newest and most-iconic buildings on the Strip. The enormous, LED-illuminated orb is 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide and takes on various guises depending on the theme and season.

Nature & Outdoors in Las Vegas

• **Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: **This breathtaking rust-red landscape looks like it fell from mars, but is in fact, only a 25-minute drive from the thronging centre of Las Vegas. The park has dozens of trails and hikes to explore, as well as sweeping, scenic drives so those who don’t fancy working up a sweat or have mobility issues can still witness the splendour.

• **Valley of Fire State Park: **Those looking for an easy-to-reach day trip into nature can’t go wrong at the Valley of Fire State Park, less than an hour from Vegas’ central strip. It’s another habitat dominated by the state’s iconic red sandstone and eerie petrified trees, standing like desert sculptures. Locals love the park for a weekend’s camping and hiking but you can see plenty by car and on foot in a day.

• **Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area: **Is a rocky desert nature preserve just outside Vegas city centre, with Native American petroglyphs, hiking trails and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.

• **Hoover Dam: Just outside of Vegas, the Hoover Dam is a world-famous feat of engineering from America’s depression era. It now offers tours and promises views over the Colorado River and Lake Mead. You’re also straddling the border with Arizona here. **

• **Zion National Park: **A two-hour drive away, across the border in Utah, you’ll find Zion National Park. While it may be a bit of a trek from the sparkling city, it’s worth it to experience the glorious scenery; alienesque red rocks carved by the wind, contrasting with the vibrant green plant life that rolls through the valleys. Many people opt for multi-day trips here on the end of a Vegas trip, but you can easily get a sense of the park in a day trip.

• **Death Valley: Many tourists make a beeline from Vegas to Death Valley, **just over two hours’ away in eastern California. This barren-looking desert landscape is one of the hottest places on earth, but it holds its own unique beauty; colourful geology, wind-carved landscapes, specialist plant and animal species and enchanting watering holes. Its vast scale is enough to make your jaw drop.

• **Grand Canyon: **Although it’s between 2.5 and 4.5 hours from Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon remains one of the most popular day excursions from the city, especially for international visitors. This vast, geological marvel has enough to keep you mesmerised for days, but booking a tour helps you see the key viewpoints and sights in a short time.

Las Vegas best attractions

Las Vegas landmarks are, of course, its casinos and the most iconic of these is Caesar's Palace on the Strip. Other landmarks to look out for on Las Vegas holidays are:

• The Cosmopolitan casino and hotel is chic and contemporary with some of the coolest design in town. It's a place where celebrities and their entourage go to mingle and be seen.

• Long established in Las Vegas, the Bellagio has over 2,000 slot machines to play so the odds may be against you but the Botanical Gardens are definitely a winner. Look out as well for the Fountains of Bellagio and the hand-blown glass flowers decorating the lobby.

• Neon is a renowned characteristic of Las Vegas and the Strip. Older examples have been collected together in the outdoor Neon Museum on Las Vegas Boulevard.

• Shows are as much a part of Las Vegas culture as the casinos. Catch everything from world-famous headliners such as Celine Dion and Elton John to awe-inspiring Cirque du Soleil shows and magic spectacles.

• Take a day trip or two during your Las Vegas package holidays. The charming resort of Mesquite is just an hour's drive away or join a guided tour to Death Valley. View Nevada's only glacier at the Great Basin National Park.

Nightlife in Las Vegas

Las Vegas never sleeps and party time focuses on the Strip where you'll find the trendiest clubs and bars. The ultra-lounge culture is a big part of the Las Vegas nightlife scene. Discs spinning, attentive staff, sofas grouped around tiny dance floors and mouth-watering cocktails make these the perfect venues for kickstarting an evening out. Of course, the best way to enjoy free drink and food during the evening is to play the tables.

Food and gastronomy in Las Vegas

Buffets piled high with burgers and steak have long been the staple fare of Las Vegas menus but Las Vegas gastronomy is becoming more sophisticated as celebrity chefs weave their magic with dishes from Paris, London, Shanghai and New York City. These menus come at a price though so stretch your budget further on cheap holidays to Las Vegas by venturing off the Strip and into the districts of Summerlin and Henderson. Here you'll find Thai street food, Italian pizzas and Mexican food trucks selling tacos.

Party with the stars

Las Vegas has become the perfect place for celebrities to unwind. The city caters for every genre of music and has a large number of spectacular bars and nightclubs. Choose between partying with an English Prince at the famous XS Nightclub, experiencing DJs sampling ground-breaking new collaborations and mixes at the Marquee, or relax with a spot of Jazz and Blues at the Mandarin Bar.

Viva Las Vegas

If you’re looking for entertainment on your cheap holiday to Las Vegas, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the theatre. Be prepared to gasp in awe as circus acts perform death defying feats, magicians break the laws of physics, comedians have you chuckling for a week, and cabarets whisk you away on an adventure.

The best beaches in Las Vegas

Las Vegas might be famed for its glittering lights and entertainment, but it also offers unexpected beach experiences that are sure to enhance your holiday. From luxurious resort beaches to serene lakeside shores, there's something for everyone looking to dip their toes in the sand or dive into clear waters.

• Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort: Just 18 miles from the Strip, this resort boasts a private white sand beach, offering a luxurious and serene retreat. It's perfect for relaxation and water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.

• Mandalay Bay Beach: An 11-acre aquatic playground right in the heart of Las Vegas, featuring artificial waves and over 2,500 tons of imported sand to mimic the ocean experience in the Mojave Desert.

• VooDoo Beach at Rio: Known for its fun pool parties, this adults-only beach offers a white sand experience alongside four swimming pool areas and two bars.

Hidden gems

While Las Vegas has its share of well-known beaches, there are several hidden gems worth exploring for those in search of quieter, more secluded spots.

• Cottonwood Cove Beach: Located on Lake Mohave's shores, about an hour's drive from the Strip, it's a family-friendly spot with safe, shallow waters and a variety of recreational activities including paddleboarding and water skiing.

• Willow Beach: Nestled on the Colorado River, it's ideal for kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. A peaceful retreat with paddleboat rentals available.

Beaches for water sports

The areas surrounding Las Vegas offer a plethora of water sports opportunities for adventure seekers.

• Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at both Lake Las Vegas and Lake Mead, with rentals available to explore these vast waterways.

• Water skiing and fishing can be enjoyed at Cottonwood Cove Beach for those looking for a bit more thrill.

Nearest beaches to major cities

For those staying in Las Vegas but willing to venture a bit further, there are several beaches within a reasonable driving distance that offer a complete change of scenery and pace.

• Lake Havasu: Approximately 2.5 hours away, it's renowned for its beautiful beaches such as London Bridge Beach, Rotary Park Beach, and Windsor Beach, offering sandy shores, clear waters, and a range of water activities.

• Big Bear Lake: A little over 3 hours' drive, it provides a picturesque lakeside beach experience with water sports, fishing, and hiking trails around the lake.

Las Vegas and its surroundings might be surprising with the variety of beach and water activities available. Whether you're looking for a luxurious day at a resort beach, an adventurous water sports experience, or a serene escape to nature, the region has something to offer. Enjoy exploring these aquatic gems on your Las Vegas holiday, blending the best of both worlds between the desert and the water.

Local dishes in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, a city that sparkles with lights and excitement, offers a culinary journey as dazzling as its skyline. While known for its opulent buffets and celebrity chef restaurants, Las Vegas boasts local dishes that are a must-try for any food enthusiast. Dive into the world of Shrimp Cocktail, a classic Vegas appetiser that has been a staple since the city's Rat Pack days. For a true taste of Americana, the Prime Rib dinner, served in many historic steakhouses, is an indulgence in tender, slow-roasted beef that's both juicy and flavourful.

Some typical dishes

Exploring further, Las Vegas's culinary scene shines with its unique takes on global cuisines. Sushi Burritos are a fusion favourite, combining the best of Japanese sushi and Mexican burritos into one mouth-watering package. Italian cuisine gets a Vegas twist with Truffle Pizza, a gourmet option topped with the finest ingredients and a generous amount of truffle, making for a decadent meal.

Street food

The street food scene in Las Vegas is as vibrant and varied as the city itself. From food trucks to pop-up stalls, you can enjoy everything from gourmet Tacos and BBQ Ribs to more experimental dishes like Lobster Grilled Cheese. Walking down the Strip or exploring the Downtown area, you'll find an array of options that cater to every taste and craving, making it easy to grab a delicious bite on the go.

Typical drinks

Las Vegas is synonymous with extravagant cocktails and an unparalleled nightlife scene. The iconic Margarita, served frozen or on the rocks, is a refreshing choice to combat the desert heat. For something uniquely Vegas, the Atomic Cocktail, a nod to the city's atomic testing history, offers a potent mix of brandy, champagne, and other spirits. Craft beer enthusiasts will delight in the local brews available, with many bars and pubs specialising in offering an extensive selection of Nevada-brewed beers.

Food markets

While Las Vegas may be famous for its restaurants and buffets, the city's food markets offer a glimpse into the local and artisanal food scene. Downtown 3rd Farmers Market is a haven for foodies, offering fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and gourmet foods from around the region. For those seeking organic and sustainable options, the Las Vegas Farmers Market provides a wide range of local produce, baked goods, and crafts, perfect for a leisurely morning of exploration and tasting.

Local sports events

Las Vegas is a hotspot for major sporting events, offering a vibrant atmosphere for fans. Experience the thrill of an NHL game by catching the Vegas Golden Knights at the iconic T-Mobile Arena, where the energy is electric, and the action is non-stop. The city also welcomes the NFL with the Las Vegas Raiders playing at the state-of-the-art Allegiant Stadium, a must-visit for football aficionados. To live it like a local, join in the pre-game festivities with tailgate parties or visit a nearby sports bar to soak up the camaraderie of local fans.

Sports facilities for travellers in Las Vegas

For those looking to stay active, Las Vegas provides a plethora of sports facilities tailored to every preference. Dive into one of the many resort swimming pools, offering both relaxation and lap swimming. Yoga enthusiasts will find a variety of studios offering classes from hot yoga to vinyasa, catering to all levels. For a more dynamic workout, check out the fitness centres, dance studios, or tennis courts available in many hotels and community centres. Las Vegas also boasts top-notch golf courses, such as the Shadow Creek, offering lush greens and stunning desert landscapes.

Cycling

Exploring Las Vegas by bike is a fantastic way to see the sights. Bike rental shops are plentiful, offering everything from leisurely cruisers to high-performance road bikes. For a scenic ride, head to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, where the Loop Road provides a challenging but rewarding route with breathtaking views. The Las Vegas Strip itself can be enjoyed by bike during the quieter morning hours, offering a unique perspective of the city's famous landmarks.

Hiking

Las Vegas is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a prime location for hiking enthusiasts. The Red Rock Canyon offers trails of varying difficulty, such as the Calico Tanks Trail, which rewards hikers with stunning views of the canyon and Las Vegas Valley. Another popular destination is the Valley of Fire State Park, where ancient petroglyphs and unique rock formations create an otherworldly hiking experience.

Water sports

Despite its desert location, Las Vegas offers water sports activities at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Here, you can indulge in kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even jet skiing on the vast expanse of water. The Hoover Dam provides a dramatic backdrop for a day of aquatic adventure, offering a cool respite from the city's hustle and bustle.

Golf courses

Golfers will find Las Vegas to be a paradise with its wide selection of courses catering to all skill levels. From the luxurious Wynn Golf Club, located right on the Strip, to the challenging Desert Pines Golf Club, there's a course for every golfer. These beautifully designed courses provide a tranquil escape with impeccable greens, stunning water features, and the scenic beauty of the Nevada landscape.

Exploring Las Vegas during the holidays offers a dazzling array of seasonal events and festivals that transform the desert city into a vibrant hub of celebration. From glittering lights to cultural gatherings, there's something in Las Vegas for everyone, no matter the season. Let's dive into the rich tapestry of events that make Las Vegas holidays unforgettable.

Seasonal celebrations in Las Vegas

Las Vegas shines brightest during the holiday season, with events and festivities that cater to every taste and interest.

• New Year: Celebrate in style with fireworks and parties along the Strip, where the energy and excitement reach their peak as the clock strikes midnight.

• Christmas Shopping: Find everything from luxury brands to unique gifts at the city's many shopping centres, including The Forum Shops at Caesars and the Fashion Show Mall.

• Christmas Markets: Experience the festive spirit at holiday markets, offering crafts, seasonal foods, and holiday decorations.

• Easter: Enjoy special brunches and Easter egg hunts in various resorts and parks across the city.

• Gay Events: Las Vegas is host to a variety of LGBTQ+ celebrations, including Pride and other community events throughout the year.

• Carnival: Although not as traditional as other locations, Las Vegas incorporates the festive spirit of carnival in its unique way, with themed parties and special events.

Festivals in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its dynamic festival scene, showcasing everything from music and food to art and cultural heritage. Here are some of the major annual events that draw crowds from around the world.

• Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC): One of the largest electronic dance music festivals in the world, held annually at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

• Life is Beautiful Festival: A celebration of music, art, and food that transforms downtown Las Vegas into a colourful canvas of creativity.

• National Finals Rodeo (NFR): The premier championship rodeo event in the United States, held every December at the Thomas & Mack Center.

• Las Vegas Film Festival: A platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their work, featuring screenings, panels, and networking events.

• The Great American Foodie Fest: A gathering of some of the best food trucks and food vendors from around the nation, offering a taste of gourmet food and specialty dishes.

• Pride Festival: Celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, Las Vegas Pride features a parade, festival, and a variety of events throughout the city.

Las Vegas holidays offer a mesmerising mix of celebrations that cater to every visitor's interests. Whether you're drawn by the allure of high-energy music festivals, cultural celebrations, or seasonal festivities, Las Vegas promises an unforgettable experience with its unique blend of entertainment and excitement.