Introduction

Welcome to Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps! Whether you’re here to try your luck at the casinos, catch a show, or simply soak up the glitz and glamour of the Strip, getting around this vibrant city is a breeze. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the various transportation options available to you, from public transportation to taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. So let’s buckle up and get ready to explore the exciting streets of Las Vegas!

Getting Around Las Vegas: A Guide to Your Transportation Options

When it comes to getting around Las Vegas, you have plenty of options at your disposal. From the efficient public transportation system to the convenience of taxis, Uber, Lyft, and rental cars, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the details of each option so you can choose the best one for your needs.

Las Vegas Public Transportation

If you’re on a budget or simply prefer to leave the driving to someone else, the public transportation system is a fantastic choice. Here are a few options you can explore:

The Bus System

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) operates an extensive bus network that covers the entire the Valley. The buses are clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned, making them a great way to navigate the city. Plus, the fares are affordable, so you won’t have to break the bank to get around.

Las Vegas Monorail

The monorails are an efficient and convenient mode of transportation for both tourists and locals. They are a popular choice for getting around the city, especially along the Strip.

The Monorail system currently consists of seven stations, stretching approximately 4 miles from the MGM Grand to the Sahara Las Vegas. The stations are strategically located near major resorts, hotels, and attractions, making it easy for visitors to access various destinations along the Strip.

Operating hours typically start early in the morning and extend late into the night, ensuring that people can utilize the monorails during their entire stay in Las Vegas. Trains run at regular intervals, allowing for quick and hassle-free transportation between different stops.

One of the key advantages of using the monorails is avoiding the heavy traffic that often plagues the Strip. Instead of spending time in congested roads, passengers can travel swiftly above the traffic, enjoying panoramic views of the cityscape along the way.

The monorails are also known for their cleanliness and comfort. The trains are well-maintained and air-conditioned, providing a pleasant experience for riders. Additionally, the monorails are wheelchair accessible, making them accessible to all individuals.

To use the monorail system, passengers can purchase single-ride tickets or opt for unlimited ride passes, which are available for different durations, such as 24 hours or multiple days. These passes offer great value for those planning to use the monorails frequently during their stay.

Overall, the monorails offer a convenient, efficient, and enjoyable way to navigate the city. Whether you’re a tourist looking to explore popular attractions or a local needing to get around, the monorails are a reliable transportation option in Las Vegas.

The Monorail system has two lines that run on opposite sides of the Las Vegas Strip. The east side monorail line runs along the east side of the Strip, while the west side monorail line runs along the west side of the Strip.

It allows visitors to easily access the various hotels, resorts, casinos, and entertainment venues that line the iconic Las Vegas Strip. The east side monorail line, with its stations at the MGM Grand, Bally’s/Paris Las Vegas, Flamingo/Caesars Palace, and Harrah’s/The LINQ, offers easy access to some of the most popular destinations on the eastern side of the Strip. There are also stations at the Sahara Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Convention Center. Whether one is looking to explore the vibrant nightlife, enjoy world-class dining, or indulge in a bit of retail therapy, the Las Vegas Monorail system offers a hassle-free way to navigate the bustling streets of the Las Vegas Strip.

West side of Strip Monorail Las Vegas

The West Side of the Las Vegas Strip Monorail includes the following stations:

1. Sahara: Located at the northern end of the Strip, near the Sahara Las Vegas hotel and casino.
2. Westgate Las Vegas: Located next to the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.
3. LVCC (Las Vegas Convention Center): Located near the Las Vegas Convention Center.
4. Harrah’s/The LINQ: Located near Harrah’s Las Vegas and The LINQ Hotel & Casino.
5. Flamingo/Caesars Palace: Located near the Flamingo Las Vegas and Caesars Palace.
6. Bally’s/Paris Las Vegas: Located near Bally’s Las Vegas and Paris Las Vegas.
7. MGM Grand: Located near the MGM Grand Las Vegas.
8. Tropicana/Las Vegas Boulevard: Located near the Tropicana Las Vegas and across the street from the Luxor Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Trams

Mandalay Bay to Luxor to Excalibur Tram

Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and Excalibur are three MGM Resorts properties situated at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, conveniently located near MGM Hotel and Casino and New York New York. The tram service operates in this area, starting from Mandalay Bay, stopping at Luxor, and ending at Excalibur. However, there is no stop at Luxor on the return journey. For the return trip, visitors can board the express tram at Excalibur, which takes them directly back to Mandalay Bay.

The monorail cars are well-maintained, air-conditioned, and operate at a frequency of approximately every five minutes. Guests staying at Mandalay Bay can utilize the tram to quickly reach the southern part of the strip. From there, they can access Excalibur and use the pedestrian bridge to cross the street to New York New York. Additionally, they can head east towards Tropicana and Hooters hotel, which are slightly off the strip.

Park MGM to Aria to Bellagio Tram

Attention Vegas vacationers looking for a shopping extravaganza on the strip, the Park MGM-Aria-Bellagio free monorail is here to cater to your needs. This convenient tram service starts at Park MGM near the Aria Entrance and makes stops at the Crystals Shopping Mall near the Cosmopolitan, before finally ending at the South Tower of the Bellagio where you can indulge in a spa experience.

If you hop off the tram at Bellagio, you can easily access the elevators to descend to the Bellagio Convention Hall and explore the luxurious Bellagio Hotel. Additionally, the Vdara Hotel can be conveniently reached from this tram, with all the same stops on the way back to Park MGM.

The Aria Express Tram, operating from Park MGM to Aria to Bellagio, promises a comfortable eight-minute ride from start to finish. The spacious cars allow for easy maneuvering even with arms full of shopping bags. Trains arrive at each stop every seven to ten minutes, ensuring minimal waiting time.

Please note that the operating hours of the tram may vary, so it’s advisable to check with MGM resorts to confirm the hours and availability for 2021. As for the current hours in 2022/2023 (subject to change), the tram operates daily from 8 am to 9 pm, with extended hours until 11 pm during T-Mobile events.

Make the most of the Park MGM-Aria-Bellagio tram and explore the Crystals Shopping Mall, catch an exciting event at the T-Mobile Arena, enjoy one of Cher’s incredible shows, or immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bellagio Conservatory.

Mirage to Treasure Island Tram

During Steve Wynn’s ownership of both the Mirage and Treasure Island properties, the Mirage-Treasure Island Tram was constructed. This convenient tram system connects the two hotels without any stops in between, allowing guests to travel between them in less than five minutes. One of the major advantages of the Mirage-Treasure Island Tram is its proximity to the casino entrances at both hotels, minimizing the need for extensive walking.

It is important to note that the operating hours of the Mirage-Treasure Island Tram may vary, so it is recommended to verify the schedule and availability for 2021 with MGM Resorts. However, as of 2022, the current operating hours are as follows:

• Sunday to Thursday: 12 pm to 9 pm
• Friday to Saturday: 12 pm to 12 am
• Closed on Mondays and Wednesdays

Utilizing the Mirage-Treasure Island Tram provides an opportunity to witness the captivating volcanic eruption at the Mirage, explore the fascinating Secret Garden & Dolphin Habitat, enjoy entertaining stand-up shows, experience the incredible card magic of Shin Lim (the winner of America’s Got Talent), or immerse oneself in the mesmerizing world of Cirque du Soleil’s The Beatles LOVE.

Please consult MGM Resorts for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the Mirage-Treasure Island Tram.

The Deuce

Want to explore the famous Las Vegas Strip at a leisurely pace? Look no further than The Deuce, a double-decker bus that shuttles passengers up and down the Boulevard. With frequent stops at all the major attractions, it’s a fun and affordable way to see the sights and soak up the lively atmosphere.

The Deuce, operated by the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC), is a popular mode of transportation for tourists and locals alike to explore the vibrant Strip. This double-decker bus offers a unique and enjoyable experience, allowing passengers to take in the sights and sounds of one of the most iconic streets in the world.

The Deuce begins its journey at the South Strip Transfer Terminal, located at the southern end of Las Vegas Boulevard. From there, it travels northbound, making numerous stops along the way before reaching its final destination at the Downtown Transportation Center.

As the bus makes its way up the Strip, it stops at several major attractions and landmarks, providing convenient access for passengers to hop off and explore at their leisure. Some of the notable stops include:

The Deuce provides a convenient way to explore the Las Vegas Strip, offering both day and night services. With frequent departures, passengers can easily hop on and off the bus to visit their desired destinations. Whether you want to try your luck at the casinos, enjoy world-class entertainment, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere, The Deuce is an affordable and enjoyable way to experience all that the Strip has to offer.

The Strip Trolley

For a nostalgic experience, hop aboard the Strip Trolley. This charming trolley service runs between the downtown area and the Strip, offering a unique way to travel in style. With its vintage vibe and friendly drivers, it’s sure to add a touch of old-school glamour to your Las Vegas adventure.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

When it comes to getting around quickly and conveniently, taxis, Uber, and Lyft are your best friends. Here’s what you need to know about each option:

Taxis

Taxis are readily available throughout Las Vegas, and you can easily flag one down or find them at designated taxi stands. Just keep in mind that fares can add up quickly, especially during peak hours or when traffic is heavy. So if you’re planning to explore the city extensively, it might be worth considering other options.

Uber

When it comes to ride-sharing services, Uber is a popular choice in Las Vegas. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can summon a ride to whisk you away to your next destination. It’s convenient, reliable, and often more affordable than traditional taxis, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Lyft

Like Uber, Lyft is another excellent ride-sharing option in Las Vegas. With its friendly drivers and competitive prices, it’s no wonder that many visitors choose Lyft to get around. Plus, you can even share rides with other passengers heading in the same direction, which can help you save even more money.

In addition to its cost-effectiveness, Lyft also offers a convenient and user-friendly app that allows you to easily request and track your ride. Whether you’re staying on the Las Vegas Strip or exploring the city’s various attractions, Lyft provides a reliable and efficient means of transportation. The drivers are known for their professionalism and knowledge of the city, often offering recommendations and local insights to enhance your experience. With Lyft, you can feel confident that you’ll reach your destination safely and efficiently, making it the ideal choice for getting around Las Vegas.

Rental Cars

If you prefer the freedom of having your own wheels, renting a car is a convenient option in Las Vegas. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Where to Rent a Car in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is home to numerous car rental companies, both at the airport and throughout the city. You can choose from well-known brands like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise, or opt for smaller, local companies for a more personalized experience. Just make sure to book in advance to secure the best deals.

Tips for Renting a Car in Las Vegas

Before you hit the road, here are a few tips to make your car rental experience smooth and hassle-free:

• Familiarize yourself with the traffic laws and regulations in Las Vegas.
• Consider the parking situation at your hotel or accommodation.
• Take note of any additional fees, such as airport surcharges or insurance costs.
• Fill up the gas tank before returning the car to avoid extra charges.
• Keep your rental agreement and contact information handy in case of emergencies.

How to Choose the Best Transportation Option for You

Now that you know all the transportation options available in Las Vegas, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Here are a few factors to consider:

• Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, public transportation or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft might be your best bet.
• Convenience: If you value convenience and flexibility, taxis or rental cars can offer you more freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Time: If you’re short on time and want to avoid traffic, the monorail or trolley services can help you navigate the city quickly and efficiently.
• Accessibility: If you have special needs or require wheelchair accessibility, make sure to choose transportation options that cater to those requirements.

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to getting around Las Vegas. Whether you prefer the excitement of public transportation, the convenience of taxis and ride-sharing services, or the freedom of your own rental car, Las Vegas has something for everyone. So go ahead, embark on your Las Vegas adventure, and make memories that will last a lifetime!

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