When you think of Las Vegas, it's probably the glittering casinosflashy hotels, excessive entertainment, and extravagant meals that come to mind first. However, you don't need to spend a small fortune to have a good time in Sin City, as long as you're savvy. From flights and hotels to activities and transportation, here are our top tips on how to plan a trip to Las Vegas on a budget, including expert advice, tips and recommendations from long-time visitor Allison DePesa and Vegas travel consultant. Wonderful Mouse Journeys.
How to save on food
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It's no secret that Sin City is home to spectacular restaurantsincluding the Michelin-starred restaurant Picassothe landscape Cipriani Las Vegasand the beloved of Wolfgang Puck Spago, to name a few. However, these aren't the only options in town. Those looking to get the most bang for their buck can — and should — take advantage of Vegas' seemingly endless buffets, DePesa says. Plus, she tells T+L, “Buffets are a must in Vegas, and you can usually find a great all-you-can-eat option with unlimited champagne, mimosas, or bloody marys if you opt for brunch.” » For example, you can't go wrong with Bad spoon at the Cosmopolitan, which serves all-day brunch extravaganzas like bone marrow, ribs and even steamed snow crab – in addition to classics like omelets – for $47 per person weekdays and $54 per person weekend ; $25 extra for bottomless mimosas, champagne, bloody marys or Bud Light). For a more affordable option, consider MGM Grand Buffet (from $31.99 Monday-Thursday, $37.99 Friday-Sunday), which offers a range of breakfast and lunch dishes, from fresh pasta to crepes. If buffets aren't your thing, the Strip is also full of fast food and quick service restaurants. El Gordo Tacoswhich dishes out tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, and other wallet-friendly Mexican fare, is one of our favorites, as is the Instagram-worthy one. Cafe Lolawhich offers sweet and savory dishes for breakfast and lunch (think challah crème brûlée French toast).
DePesa recommends budget-conscious travelers take advantage of happy hour specials. “Many Vegas restaurants and bars offer discounted food and drinks during happy hour, usually in the late afternoon or early evening. “Brera Osteria at Venetian Resort is offering 50% off pizza, cocktails and wine by the glass daily between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Don't miss sangria time at Cosmopolitan's either. Jaleowhich offers sangria from $7, beers from $7, wine from $9 and cocktails from $12 – as well as a selection of tapas – daily from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Deals continue off-Strip at local favorite Honey saltwhere guests can enjoy $5 beers and wines, $6 cocktails and apps like fried pickles and chicken sliders for $4 to $8 each, Monday through Friday, between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. .
Pro Tip: Make sure you sign up for restaurant rewards programs. “Many restaurants, especially those located in casinos, offer rewards programs or loyalty cards,” says DePesa. “Sign up for these programs to receive discounts, free meals or other benefits.”
How to save on transportation
Although resorts on the Strip are generally more expensive than those a little further away, their central location makes getting around much easier – and cheaper. Plus, says DePesa, “the Las Vegas Strip is relatively compact and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. »
However, that doesn't mean you can't stay off the Strip and still save on transportation. Although taxis and ride-sharing apps are available – as are rental cars, of course – DePesa recommends using public transportation to get around. “There is a vast bus system in Las Vegas, including the Strip and Downtown. Two on the Strip, which operates 24/7, stops at almost every resort on the Strip, and although single trips cost $4, you can save money by purchasing a multi-day pass; a three-day program, for example, will cost you $20. THE Downtown Loop is a free shuttle service that takes visitors to some of downtown Vegas' top attractions, including the Arts District And Fremont Street Experience. Also keep in mind that some off-Strip hotels offer free shuttle service to the Strip – but more on that below.
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How to Find Affordable Hotels in Las Vegas
A hotel stay in Las Vegas doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. For one, DePesa recommends booking well in advance, which “can often lead to better deals.” She adds: “Hotels tend to offer lower rates for early bookings, especially if you are traveling out of season. » The summer months (June, July and August) coincide with low season because of the scorching heat. So you can find lower hotel rates. Shoulder season (September to November and January to April) also offers reduced nightly rates; according to Kayak, March is the cheapest month to stay in Las Vegas, with an average price drop of five percent. Ultimately, being flexible with your dates is key. “Midweek stays tend to be less expensive than weekends, and rates can fluctuate based on special events or conventions in the city,” says DePesa. Finally, as previously mentioned, consider staying at a hotel off the Strip because, according to professionals, properties “tend to be more affordable.” She says: “Many of these hotels offer free shuttle services to the Strip, making it easier to get to the main attractions. »
DePesa recommends using Westgate Flamingo Bay Resort as a basis. The property is home to 13 on-site restaurants and spacious accommodations measuring over 500 square feet. She also suggests checking Grand Marriott Castle; While it doesn't offer shuttle service to the Strip (although thankfully it's less than a mile away), it does have a rooftop pool, two bars, and best of all , no accommodation fees.
If you choose to stay on the Strip, you can save money by selecting a property with low or no resort fees, which can cost up to $55 per night. Those looking for a more upscale hotel experience may consider a stay at Sahara Las Vegasone of the few hotels on the Strip with a resort fees less than $40 per night.
How to Save on Flights to Las Vegas
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Are you looking to save money on flights? Just like with hotels, DePesa says the key is “to be flexible with dates and book early.” She also recommends using fare comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner and Kayak to help you “easily” find the best deals and set up price alerts for your desired travel dates. Additionally, if you have the time and patience, DePesa recommends opting for a connecting flight to or from Vegas, as they tend to be less expensive. “But be sure to check the total journey time and take into account potential layover times,” she says.
It's also worth noting that Las Vegas' main airport, Harry Reid International Airport, is considered one of the least expensive in America, according to a 2022 analysis by CivMetrics.
Free Activities in Las Vegas
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Unbeknownst to many, especially first-time visitors, Las Vegas offers many Free activitieswhich means you can save your money in hopes of winning big at the casino.
“At the Bellagio you can see the fountain show And Conservatory and botanical gardens” says DePesa.
You can also watch the eruption of the volcano at Mirage or consult the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, “a tranquil oasis home to koi fish, turtles, birds and a flock of Chilean flamingos.” THE Fremont Street Experience offers free live music, Silverton Casino has a free aquarium with thousands of tropical fish, and Circus Circus offers exhilarating acts. Travelers can also visit Ethel M Chocolates for free self-guided factory tours; Next, explore the three-acre botanical garden, home to more than 300 species of flora. Other free attractions include The Arts FactoryTHE Marjorie Barrick Art Museumand the offbeat Pinball Hall of Fame.
