 Las Vegas At a Glance
Best Time to Go
Anytime is a good time to hit Las Vegas. You'll find it running full speed ahead most of
the year, with the exception of early December and weekdays during July. Expect to find
the place jam-packed on weekends, especially during holidays (Memorial Day, President's
Day, Easter, Cinco de Mayo and Labor Day). If you want to stay away from the crowds, don't
plan your trip the week between Christmas and New Year's.
Vegas is also a big spot for conventions. With nearly 50 conventions each year, the
city sees roughly 500,000 business travelers per year - and that only includes those
coming up for a convention. Sporting events attract a number of visitors as well,
including golf tournaments, boxing matches and the NASCAR Winston Cup Las Vegas 400.
Average Weather
The most conducive times to visit Vegas are during the spring and fall. In April and May,
daytime temperatures are pleasant, clocking in around 70 or 80 degrees. In September and
October, the summer heat has abated, and the pools remain open.
Winter is pretty cold in Las Vegas, with snowcapped mountains in the distance. If
you're visiting during this time of year, it may be a good idea to wrap up, or spend most
of your time in the casino.
The desert sun is relentless during the summer months. Make sure you drink water at all
times. Remember to keep a constant supply of sunscreen with you and don't stay outside if
you don't have to.
Transportation
Taxis are the most convenient way to get around in Vegas. You'll be able to easily find
one, as they are always in front of hotels. The Strip bus (Citizens Area Transit, or CAT)
costs $1.50 and links the Strip and the downtown with stops near major hotels.
In-Season Costs
During a "normal" week, one that has no conventions, holidays, title fights or
local events on the calendar, you can count on Sunday through Thursday being less crowded,
less expensive, and less stressful than the weekend. If you're spending money on games,
you'll more than likely find cheap digs at the casino hotels. Most hoteliers want you to
spend your money gambling. Therefore, the rooms are much cheaper. Keep in mind that even
though your digs might be cheap and the food is next to nothing in cost, you'll probably
dump most of your funds into a slot machine or two or three.
Vegas is pretty much deserted during the two weeks before Christmas. If it's a real
bargain you're looking for, this is when you'll find it.
Day Trips
If you want to get off The Strip for a while, wake up early and head out to
Red Rock Canyon. Here you can hike the desert or climb up the sandstone.
Boulder City is a short distance away from Vegas. Here you'll see Hoover Dam. Tour the
visitor center and dam, and take a ride on the paddle wheeler around Lake Mead.
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