When is the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas?

Wondering when the best time to visit Las Vegas is?

I visit Las Vegas every year, and somehow (despite my best intentions) I always end up going during the hottest months, usually June or July. Let me tell you, summer in Vegas is no joke. The sun doesn’t play around, with temperatures often hitting 110°F (43°C) or even higher. The heat can feel like stepping into an oven the moment you leave your hotel. Still, despite the sizzling temperatures, a lot of people actually love Vegas in the summer. Why? Epic pool parties, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive celebrity residencies that only show up during peak season.

But Vegas isn’t just a summer destination, it’s a year-round playground. Depending on your travel goals: sightseeing, partying, catching a show, or finding great deals, there’s a perfect time for everyone. In this article, I’m breaking down the best times to visit Las Vegas and what each season in Las Vegas looks like, including the weather, crowds, events, and overall vibe. If you’re planning a trip and wondering when’s the ideal time to go, this guide’s for you.

When are the Popular Times to Visit Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is buzzing all year long, but some months definitely attract more visitors than others. Spring and fall are especially popular because the weather is ideal and the event calendar is extremely full. For example, in May, the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) draws in tens of thousands of people from all over the world for one of the biggest music festivals in North America. Then in September, the Life is Beautiful Festival transforms downtown Vegas into a giant art, food, and music party.

Major holidays also bring big crowds. New Year’s Eve, Fourth of July, Halloween, and even Valentine’s Day weekend can get crazy busy. Expect a packed Strip, higher hotel rates, and restaurants that book up weeks in advance. Vegas knows how to throw a party, so these high-traffic dates come with incredible energy, massive firework shows, themed events, and over-the-top nightlife experiences.

There are also major conventions that affect crowd levels, like CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in January or SEMA in November. These events might not be on the radar for leisure travelers, but they still pack the hotels and fill the Strip with tourists and people on business. 

If you want to avoid the chaos, always check the events calendar before booking. Even if you’re not attending a big festival or convention, it could still impact hotel prices and crowd sizes.

When is the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas for the Best Weather?

Based on feedback from locals and fellow frequent visitors, the best weather in Las Vegas happens during the spring (March through May) and fall (late September through November). Temperatures usually range from the mid-70s to high 80s°F (24 – 31°C), which is perfect for exploring the Strip, eating outdoors, or heading out to nearby attractions.

During these seasons, you get all the perks of Vegas. You can enjoy great shows, lively casinos, fantastic restaurants without having to deal with the suffocating summer heat or the occasional chill of winter. It’s also a great time for photography, with clear skies that make the city shine.

If you’re planning to walk a lot, bring good shoes and sunscreen. Even in mild weather, the sun is intense in Vegas. Vegas is deceptively walkable, and distances on the Strip can be much longer than they look on a map (or on the street).

Weather in Las Vegas

Let’s talk about the climate a bit more. Las Vegas is smack in the middle of the Mojave Desert, so its climate is exactly what you’d expect: hot, dry summers and mild winters. Spring and fall are the sweet spots, offering sunny days and comfortable temps that enhance the whole experience.

As a general breakdown: 

• Summers (June – August): Extremely hot, with daytime highs often well above 100°F. It’s dry heat, which helps a little, but it’s still intense. Outdoor activities during the day are limited unless you’re by a pool.
• Fall (September – November): Warm but comfortable. September can still be hot, but by October, the temperatures start to drop and evenings are really pleasant.
• Winter (December – February): Mild days with cool evenings. It can drop into the 30s and 40s°F at night, especially in January. Snow is rare but not impossible on the outskirts of town.
• Spring (March – May): Ideal weather with warm days, cooler nights, and low humidity. This is one of the best times to explore outdoors or enjoy rooftop bars without freezing or overheating.

Regardless of when you visit, be prepared for the dry air. It almost never rains in Vegas, so hydration is key. Bring a reusable water bottle and consider carrying a small spray bottle to help stay cool and moisturized. If you’re prone to dryness, pack some nasal spray or a good lotion (trust me, your skin and sinuses will thank you later). 

When is the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas for Less Crowds?

If you’re someone who prefers a more laid-back Vegas experience, quieter casinos, and no line at the buffet, January and February are your golden months. After the New Year’s rush dies down, things get noticeably calmer. Room rates drop, restaurants become more accessible, and it’s easier to grab show tickets last minute.

Late November to mid-December is also a quieter period. People are saving for the holidays or waiting to travel for New Year’s Eve, so the city slips into a temporary lull. It’s actually a lovely time to visit if you’re not into wild crowds but still want that vibrant Vegas energy.

When is the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas for the Cheapest Deals?

The most budget-friendly time to visit Las Vegas is definitely January, right after the New Years. Airfare and hotel prices usually drop significantly, especially if you plan and book ahead of time.

If January doesn’t work for you, consider late summer! Mid-August to early September can be great times to visit the city. Rates drop again because fewer people are traveling due to school starting or the lingering summer heat. Sure, it’s still hot, but if you’re planning to stay inside the casinos or hit the pool, it’s totally manageable. 

A few budget-friendly tips for visiting Vegas:

• Book your hotel midweek, as rates can be significantly lower than on weekends.
• Sign up for hotel loyalty programs (especially MGM and Caesars Rewards) as they often include perks like free parking or discounted resort fees. (this is our secret to staying in Vegas for weeks at a time)
• Check travel sites for package deals that include shows or dining credits.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas for Pool Parties?

If pool parties are on your Vegas checklist, plan to go between May and September. This is peak pool party season, and venues throwing epic day events hosted by top DJs and performers. You’ll find acts like Steve Aoki and Skrillex at day clubs like Wet Republic and Encore Beach Club, which are packed during these months. 

Be sure to reserve spots ahead of time as these parties fill up fast! You’ll see plenty of people walking around in swimsuits and cover-ups, heading from the pool to the Strip.

For slightly smaller crowds, early May is a good option. But if you’re looking for the full Vegas pool party experience, aim for mid-summer, especially around Fourth of July. Just remember that reservations are a must. These events fill up quickly, especially on weekends or holiday weekends like Memorial Day and Labor Day.

When is the Best Time to Visit Vegas for Sightseeing?

Vegas is a great jumping-off point for visiting nearby attractions like:

• Red Rock Canyon
• Hoover Dam
• Grand Canyon (West Rim)
• Valley of Fire State Park

If you’re interested in exploring iconic spots near Vegas like these, spring and fall are your best bet. The mild weather makes outdoor excursions way more enjoyable (and safe, as it’s not recommended to visit these spots or drive in the desert in intense heat).

Summer isn’t an ideal time to visit Vegas for sightseeing. The heat in the desert can be dangerous, especially if you’re hiking or spending hours outside without enough water or shade. I wouldn’t recommend venturing too far during July or August unless you’re sticking to air-conditioned tours. The heat can be intense, especially if you’re driving or hiking.

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When is the Best Time to Go to Las Vegas for the Best Events & Entertainment?

Vegas has world-class entertainment all year, but some seasons are more event-heavy than others. Spring and fall tend to be packed with concerts, comedy shows, and special residencies. Summer is also a good time to visit for celebrity residencies. You’ll see names like Adele, Usher, Lady Gaga, or Garth Brooks headlining at big venues like Caesars Palace or the MGM Grand, and celebrity DJs like Steve Aoki and Tiesto usually visit in the summertime. 

Big conventions also bring themed entertainment to the city. For example, CES in January doesn’t just fill the convention center, it also means exclusive afterparties, pop-ups, and product launches across the Strip.

That said, there’s never really a bad time to catch a show in Vegas. Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group, and other long-running productions are available all year. But if you’re looking for something special like a specific celebrity residence, I recommend checking online and booking ahead, especially if you’re visiting during a holiday weekend or major event.

Is it Good to Visit Las Vegas During the Holidays?

Holidays in Vegas can be a blast! The city goes all out with celebrations, fireworks, and themed events. New Year’s Eve, Halloween, Christmas, and Fourth of July are especially exciting if you don’t mind the crowds and higher prices. But if you’re not big on crowds, I’d plan your visit for a different time of year.

Personally, I found Fourth of July to be busy but manageable. But when we visited in September during Mexican Independence Day, the streets were packed! It was one of the most crowded weekends I’ve experienced in Vegas. So it really depends on when you visit, but I can imagine New Year’s Eve being even more intense. 

Overall, it really depends on your crowd tolerance.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Las Vegas Strip?

The Strip is the heartbeat of Las Vegas and depending on when you go, the experience can change completely. For the best balance of pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and lots to do, March to May and September to October are ideal. You’ll be able to walk around comfortably, take in the lights and attractions, and still get into your favorite restaurants without a huge wait.

Avoid the Strip in the peak of summer if walking long distances in 100+ degree heat isn’t your thing. Even simple things like walking from Bellagio to Caesars can be exhausting when it’s scorching outside (but it is doable, if you’re an expert on visiting Vegas in the summertime). 

When are the Worst Times to Visit Las Vegas?

“Worst” is relative, as it really depends on what you want from your trip. But here are a few times that might be more challenging: 

• Late June through August: Scorching heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.
• Major conventions or events (if you’re not attending): Things get crowded and expensive.
• New Year’s Eve (if you hate crowds): It’s wild and magical, but not for the faint of heart.

Based on my experiences, the summer months, especially July and August, can be challenging to visit due to extreme heat, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. But if you don’t mind the heat and your trip priorities include pool parties, concerts, or just want to experience the electric summer vibe, you can still have a great time! Just be sure to plan around the heat and stay hydrated.

In general, though, I would say late June through August are the most challenging months for sightseeing, as outdoor activities become less enjoyable and some might find the heat overwhelming. ​But again, it depends on what you want from your trip. 

Best Time to Visit Las Vegas: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to go to Vegas?

I personally recommend visiting Las Vegas in April or October. These months offer pleasant weather, nice events, and you can have a well-rounded Vegas experience without worrying about large crowds or crazy desert weather. 

What is the cheapest month to go to Vegas?

January is hands down the cheapest month to visit Vegas, with fewer tourists during the post-holiday season. You can usually snag great deals on flights and hotels during this month!

What month is Las Vegas less crowded?

Late November and early December tend to be quieter in Vegas. There’s a lull between Thanksgiving and Christmas that’s a perfect time to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience. 

What are the hottest months in Las Vegas?

The hottest months in Las Vegas are June, July, and August, with July being the hottest month.

Conclusion

No matter when you visit, Las Vegas always has something exciting to offer. Every season brings a unique vibe, from wild summer pool parties, the perfect springtime weather, or the calm post-holiday chill.

For the most balanced experience, I’d suggest visiting in spring or fall. But if your goals are saving money, partying hard, or catching a specific event, then other times of the year might suit you better. No matter when you go, as long as you plan with intention, you’re guaranteed to have fun. Whatever your reason for visiting, Vegas will have plenty of fun things for you to do, 24/7, no matter the season. Happy travels!