Las Vegas, the City of Lights, is the sixth most-visited city in the US, a haven for casino lovers worldwide.
It is situated in the Nevada desert, and as such, it benefits from great weather almost all year round. Many of the attractions, such as the world-famous casinos, are good in any season. They benefit from some great air conditioning, which can be a saving grace during the hot summer months. That doesn’t mean there are no good times to visit; you’ll find certain months offer more benefits than others. The weather does vary, and certain pinch points also see prices rise significantly. With that in mind, here is a comprehensive guide to visiting Vegas and making sure you’re left feeling flush, not busted when you get there.
December–February
Whilst the weather is the coolest at any other time, this is a popular period to visit Sin City. New Year is a major attraction, and many people travel there for the festive season, driving prices up. If you plan on going in the winter period, make sure you book well in advance. The casinos will be dealing hands and spinning roulette wheels all year round, but some events are winter-specific, such as Las Vegas Bowl and Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas.
March-May
Spring is a great time to catch a flight into Harry Reid International Airport for multiple reasons. Firstly, daytime temperatures are warm, around the 70s and 80s, but not excruciating. That means you can hit the streets in relative comfort, as well as get around the poker tables in cool, air-conditioned buildings. It cools down in the evenings, which can be a bonus, and as fewer people visit, prices are reasonable. As long as you avoid spring break, spring is the best time for a visit to get a rounded experience during which you can comfortably visit indoor and outdoor attractions.
June-August
People do have their summer vacation in Vegas, but they’re prepared for incredibly warm weather. Only the foolhardy or true sunseeker heads out of their complex in the desert sun, and you’ll be thankful if you’ve booked a hotel or suite with indoor facilities, as it is the only way you’ll stay cool. After dark, or early in the morning, the streets are usually quite busy as people look to get fresh air without being burned. Do be aware, the uncomfortable temperatures do not mean fewer visitors, and the pool can get very busy.
September-November
Fall is, without a doubt, the best time to visit Las Vegas. The weather is similar to spring, so you can be out and about during the day in relative comfort. There are many events to enjoy, including the World Series of Poker, which should have you brushing up on your poker terms. The casinos and poker rooms are still open, so you can be comfortable inside enjoying a game practicing what you’ve learned. If you don’t care much for the difference between a big blind and a flop, there are other things to do in the fall. The Electric Daisy Carnival is a big draw for dance fans later in October, but with such events do be aware this isn’t the cheapest time to visit.
Conclusion
There are some constants in Vegas that you must be aware of; the shows and casinos are on all the time, so any time of the year can be enjoyable. Also, even in the quiet, cooler periods, Vegas is a hub of conventions and exhibitions that lift prices. However, if you’re going all-in on a Vegas trip, it is good practice to aim for the quieter times but research well ahead of the visit. Those who prepare best are likely to reap the rewards when they finally touch down in Sin City.
If you enjoyed this article and want to know the best time to visit another popular tourist destination, check out our article on the best time to visit Disneyland.
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