How to Get More Out of a Las Vegas Stay Without Pushing Your Budget

Byline: Kayla Dean

Key Takeaways

Wondering how to save money in Las Vegas? Hotel packages, rewards programs and weeknight stays are an ideal place to start.
Hotels like Horseshoe and Planet Hollywood are budget-friendly but high-end alternatives to pricier hotels on the Strip.
Some of the most affordable Las Vegas activities include visiting the real-life flamingos at The Flamingo, shopping at The LINQ Promenade and taking a spin on the High Roller.
Fast casual options and weekday brunch are delicious ways to save on food without sacrificing quality.
Iconic Las Vegas shows often feature weekday discounted tickets and incredible deals when purchased directly from the venue.

What’s not to love about Las Vegas? The city delivers unrivaled dining, shopping and world-class entertainment. With hundreds, if not thousands, of adventures to explore, the glitz and glamour can feel out of reach. But with the right planning, Las Vegas transforms into a budget-friendly escape.

You really can do Las Vegas on a budget and enjoy affordable luxury without overspending. The secret? A smart strategy for planning your trip. With these little-known tips, you’ll unlock your ultimate vacation to Las Vegas, without sacrificing the experiences you want.

Saving Money in Las Vegas

Before you plan your trip, see what events are happening in town that week. If you’re traveling on a budget, avoid visiting during major conventions like CES or tourist-heavy events like F1. Surge pricing means rideshare, dining and attractions will likely cost more because it’s considered peak season.

Want to pack more into your trip without compromising quality? Book your vacation on weekdays instead of weekends. Friday and Saturday nights are the priciest in Las Vegas for just about everything.

Hotel Stays in Las Vegas That Don't Break the Bank

So how else can you save money in Las Vegas? You can sidestep expensive hotel stays by looking into packages or bundled experiences that give you extra nights or savings when booked for specific dates.

To get the best bang for your buck, seek out hotel rooms with the highest value per dollar. Horseshoe, Harrah's Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood are cost-conscious choices that still deliver high-end style. Plus, they’re each located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, so you’re never more than a few minutes away from a great restaurant or exciting attraction.

Stay at properties that are ideal for walkability, so you'll spend less on Ubers to reach the action. Plus, it’s easy to pop into a lobby bar or restaurant without having to pay a cover charge at the door.

Join your hotel's rewards program when you book your room to receive exclusive deals. For example, the Caesars Rewards program works at properties like The Flamingo, The LINQ and Paris. Just having the card gets you perks like member rates on hotel stays and dining credits so you can save more at your favorite places in Las Vegas. Generally, the longer you stay, the faster you accumulate points.

Best Things to Do in Las Vegas on a Budget

Some of the most popular attractions on the Strip offer fantastic deals year-round. When you plan your trip right, you hit the activities you’re most excited about and save big. Checking out the real-life flamingos in the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is a classic (and free) Las Vegas staple and the definition of a hidden gem. Shopping at the Forum Shops or taking in the sights at The LINQ Promenade are other fun, budget-savvy ways to get out on the town. Of course, you can’t miss snapping a photo at the Welcome to Las Vegas sign or simply walking the Strip to take in the iconic big-city lights and hotel hop.

If you visit High Roller (one of the top ways to see Las Vegas on a budget) in the afternoon instead of evening, you could save as much as $10 off per ticket. Real Bodies is another family-friendly favorite that regularly offers discounted tickets.

Delicious, Affordable Dining on the Strip, Without Compromising Quality

Las Vegas is full of terrific shopping, dining and entertainment at all budget levels, so there’s no reason to miss out. Mokbar, known for its amazing dumplings and bulgogi, is Esther Choi's quick-serve restaurant concept, giving you all the star power of a celebrity chef meal for less and on the go. Pronto by Giada is a great way to have casual yet gourmet Italian food and Beijing Noodle No. 9 has outstanding hand-pulled noodles. If you want a luxe night out, opt for a casual meal earlier in the day, so you can enjoy a high-end meal out at a premium restaurant. Or, consider having lunch at a high-end spot, like Peter Luger Steak House, for great lunch specials at the best steak house in town.

It might sound cliché, but in Las Vegas, buffets are still going strong. A weekday brunch at Bacchanal Buffet (a super-luxe buffet known for its indulgent food) could save you as much as 30% compared to going at dinnertime.

Las Vegas Iconic Shows on a Budget

You don't have to skip your must-see shows just because you're trying to save in Las Vegas. Performances like Criss Angel Mindfreak, Chippendales and RuPaul’s Drag Race regularly offer excellent deals that are anywhere from 20-35% off the usual rate. While occasional last-minute deals pop up, buying tickets directly through the venue tends to yield the greatest savings.

Want another way to see entertainment and save big? Bundle your stay with the show you've been eyeing. Hotel and show packages mean you can book your hotel and a must-see show without paying extra. You can attend some of the top shows this way, from iconic performers like Donny Osmond and Wayne Newton to pop queens like Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Lopez. It pays to monitor who has a new residency in Las Vegas. Hot new shows pop up all the time alongside longtime favorites.

It's Closer than You Think

Doing Las Vegas on a budget is not only possible, but totally within reach. You can have the stay of a lifetime without overspending. It’s not about going to the cheapest places, it’s smart choices that can make all the difference.

FAQs

What is the cheapest time to visit Las Vegas?

The cheapest times to stay in Las Vegas are usually during the summer months, because of the heat. Weeknights are generally cheaper but offer the same Las Vegas experience you'd get on a Friday or Saturday night.

What is the best way to plan a budget-friendly Las Vegas trip?

Search for hotel and show bundles to save on both your stay and entertainment, and sign up for rewards to receive additional perks. Don't forget to cast a wide net by looking at how different properties charge depending on the night.

What are some free Las Vegas attractions and budget-friendly activities?

The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, the Forum Shops, Welcome to Las Vegas sign and The LINQ Promenade are great (and free) Las Vegas attractions. The High Roller and Real Bodies are budget-friendly, memorable highlights to hit with friends and family.

How can I save money on food in Las Vegas without sacrificing quality?

Dining at restaurants with strong lunch menus means you get the best value, and virtually the same experience as dinner. Fast casual options or quick bites are also great way to try what’s hot on the Strip without the added expense.

How can I see top Las Vegas shows on a budget?

Shows and entertainment options are another area to save big during the week. Most shows go dark on Mondays and Tuesdays, but even grabbing a Wednesday or Thursday ticket instead of a peak night could give you significant savings on a show you were already planning to see.