Planning a Las Vegas trip goes more smoothly in the right order. This page walks through the main decisions and links to our fact-checked guides.
1. Pick your dates
Check events first. Big weekends, like the November Formula 1 race weekend and New Year’s Eve, change show schedules and push hotel prices up. If you want pool parties, aim for the dayclub season, which TAO Group says typically runs March through late October.
2. Choose where to stay
The Center Strip suits first-timers who want to walk to the free sights. The North Strip is close to many clubs and to Sphere. Downtown is walkable and value-focused, and the South Strip is closest to the airport. Compare total prices, resort fees included.
3. Book shows around dark days
Each Cirque du Soleil show has its own dark days. “O” is dark Mondays and Tuesdays and KÀ is dark Thursdays and Fridays, per the official pages. Match your nights first.
4. Add a day trip
Grand Canyon West, with the Skywalk, is about two hours away by car. The South Rim is 278 miles away, per the NPS. The South Rim doesn’t accept cash at its entrance stations, and non-US residents pay an extra $100 per person fee there.
5. Fill the gaps with free sights
The Bellagio fountains, the Conservatory and Fremont Street’s Viva Vision shows are all free.
Quick FAQ
What ID do I need for clubs?
Wynn’s nightlife FAQ asks for a valid government-issued photo ID: a passport or Global Entry card for non-US residents. Copies aren’t accepted.
Guides
- Where to Stay in Las Vegas
- Best Shows in Las Vegas
- Grand Canyon Tours from Las Vegas
- Top Las Vegas Attractions
- Las Vegas Pool Parties 2027
Sources
Last checked: November 4, 2026