Tips for Using the Monorail in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for its bright lights, world-class entertainment, and bustling Strip, making it one of the most visited cities in the world. But with all the glitz and glamour comes a challenge—getting around efficiently. One of the best ways to navigate the Strip without dealing with traffic or the scorching desert heat is the Las Vegas Monorail. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, understanding how to use the system effectively can make your trip much smoother. Here are some essential tips for using the Monorail in Las Vegas, from ticketing options to station locations and insider hacks that can save you time and money.

Understanding the Las Vegas Monorail

The Las Vegas Monorail is a quick and convenient way to travel along the east side of the Strip, avoiding the congestion of Las Vegas Boulevard. It operates on a single track and connects several major casinos, making it a popular choice for visitors who want to explore multiple properties without excessive walking.

How the Monorail Works

The monorail runs on an elevated track, separate from street traffic, ensuring a smooth ride.
It stops at seven stations along the Strip, with easy access to major resorts and attractions.
Trains arrive every 4–8 minutes, making it a reliable mode of transport.
The system is fully automated, so there are no drivers, but security personnel are present.
Each train is climate-controlled, offering a cool escape from the Las Vegas heat.

Monorail Operating Hours

Monday: 7:00 AM – Midnight
Tuesday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Friday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 AM
Hours may extend during large events such as CES, EDC, or major conventions.

Monorail Ticket Options

Single Ride: Best for those who only need one quick trip.
24-Hour Pass: Unlimited rides for a full day; ideal for tourists.
Multi-Day Passes (2-7 days): Perfect for longer stays or frequent travel along the Strip.
Locals Discount: Nevada residents get a reduced rate with valid ID.
Convention Specials: Some trade shows and events offer discounts on monorail passes.

Where to Find the Monorail Stations

Knowing the exact locations of the Las Vegas Monorail stations can save you time and effort, especially in a city where walking long distances is common. Each station is strategically placed near major hotels, casinos, and attractions, making it easy to hop on and off. Whether you’re heading to a show, a restaurant, or a convention, understanding where to board will help streamline your trip. Below is a guide to each station and what’s nearby.

MGM Grand Station

Located on the east side of MGM Grand, near the parking garage.
Provides easy access to T-Mobile Arena and Excalibur via pedestrian bridges.
Closest station for New York-New York and Tropicana.
Great for guests attending concerts and sports events nearby.
Often busy due to its location near a major casino entrance.

Bally’s & Paris Las Vegas Station

Accessible through Bally’s casino, near the shopping area.
Ideal for visitors staying at Paris Las Vegas or Horseshoe (formerly Bally’s).
Close to Eiffel Tower Experience and Grand Bazaar Shops.
One of the less crowded stations, making it a good starting point.
Offers a quick route to the Bellagio fountains via a short walk.

Flamingo & Caesars Palace Station

Entrance inside the Flamingo casino, near the Habitat area.
Serves guests at Flamingo, Caesars Palace, and The Cromwell.
Convenient for accessing The LINQ Promenade and High Roller observation wheel.
Located near several budget-friendly dining options.
Can be busy in the evenings due to nightlife in the area.

Harrah’s & The LINQ Station

Found at the back of Harrah’s, near the meeting rooms.
Best for those staying at The LINQ, Harrah’s, or The Venetian.
Direct access to LINQ Promenade attractions.
Less walking required compared to some other stations.
Often used by conventioneers attending events at The Venetian Expo.

Westgate Station

Located within Westgate Resort, near the casino floor.
A primary stop for guests attending conventions at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Offers a quick route to the Strip for those staying off-Strip.
Good station for accessing old-school Vegas vibes at Westgate’s retro-style casino.
Less crowded than Strip stations, making for an easier boarding experience.

Las Vegas Convention Center Station

Positioned right at the Convention Center, with a direct entrance.
Primarily used by business travelers attending trade shows.
Close to The Sphere and Resorts World with a short walk.
Busy during major conventions but quiet otherwise.
Offers fast access to the Strip without needing a taxi or Uber.

Sahara Las Vegas Station

Found at the north end of the Strip, inside Sahara Las Vegas.
Ideal for those wanting to explore the Strat or Downtown Las Vegas.
The least crowded station, making it a good starting point.
Provides easy connections to buses heading to Fremont Street.
Best station for guests staying at Sahara or nearby budget hotels.

Best Ways to Use the Monorail for Different Needs

The monorail isn’t just for tourists—it’s a practical transportation option for convention attendees, locals, and visitors with different itineraries. Whether you’re planning a day of sightseeing, attending an event, or just looking to avoid traffic, there are smart ways to make the most of it. By choosing the right ticket and planning your stops efficiently, you can save time and energy. Here’s how to tailor your monorail use to fit your specific needs.

For Tourists Exploring the Strip

Use a multi-day pass to avoid buying tickets repeatedly.
Plan your itinerary around monorail stations to minimize walking.
Start at MGM Grand or Sahara to avoid mid-Strip crowds.
Travel midday to avoid peak evening rush near nightlife hotspots.
Take advantage of discounts on longer passes for maximum savings.

For Convention Attendees

Stay at a hotel near the Convention Center or Westgate for quick access.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid event-related crowds.
Consider a multi-day pass if your conference spans several days.
Use the monorail to reach restaurants or entertainment venues after events.
Check for special event promotions on monorail tickets.

For Locals Visiting the Strip

Take advantage of Nevada resident discounts.
Use the monorail to avoid Strip parking fees and traffic.
Park at Westgate or Sahara for easier station access.
Use the Flamingo or Bally’s stations for dining and entertainment.
Consider the monorail for special event weekends when traffic is heavy.

Tips for Saving Money and Time

While the monorail is already an affordable alternative to taxis and rideshares, there are ways to make it even more cost-effective and convenient. From purchasing discounted tickets to avoiding peak travel times, a few simple strategies can enhance your experience. Knowing these insider tips can help you ride smarter and get the most value out of your journey. Below are the best ways to cut costs and minimize travel hassles.

Best Ways to Save on Tickets

Buy multi-day passes online for the best rates.
Look for promo codes and discounts on the monorail website.
Check hotel package deals that include monorail passes.
Attend conventions or trade shows that offer discounted tickets.
If you’re a local, bring your Nevada ID for special pricing.

Avoiding Crowds and Long Waits

Travel in the morning or midday to avoid evening rushes.
Avoid peak times around concerts or sports events.
Use Sahara or Westgate stations to start with fewer crowds.
Board at the first or last train car to find more seating.
Check the monorail schedule during special events to plan ahead.

Comparing the Monorail to Other Transportation Options

Las Vegas offers multiple ways to get around, but each has its pros and cons. The monorail is great for skipping traffic, but it’s not the only option. Here’s how it stacks up against other transportation choices.

Monorail vs. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft)

Monorail is more predictable—no waiting for a driver or dealing with surge pricing.
Uber and Lyft can be faster for getting to locations off the Strip.
Rideshare pickup areas are sometimes hard to find in large casinos.
Monorail has a set price, while rideshare fares fluctuate based on demand.
Uber/Lyft are better for groups traveling to areas outside the monorail route.

Monorail vs. Taxis

Taxis cost significantly more, especially for short Strip rides.
No fear of “long-hauling” (when cab drivers take longer routes to increase fares).
Monorail avoids traffic delays, whereas taxis can get stuck on busy Strip roads.
Taxis are available 24/7, while the monorail has specific operating hours.
Taxis work better for off-Strip locations like Fremont Street or the airport.

Monorail vs. Deuce Bus

Monorail is much faster—no stops at every major casino.
Deuce runs 24/7, making it an option when the monorail is closed.
The bus is cheaper per ride, but slower due to Strip traffic.
Deuce has more stops along the Strip, making it better for those with mobility issues.
Monorail is cleaner and more comfortable, with fewer crowds and no standing.

Monorail vs. Walking

Monorail is ideal in extreme heat, as Las Vegas temperatures can reach 110°F+ in summer.
Walking can be quicker for short distances, depending on casino layouts.
Some monorail stations require long walks inside hotels to reach the platform.
Walking lets you explore the Strip more freely, with street performers and attractions.
Monorail saves energy if you’re visiting multiple hotels in one day.

Monorail vs. Rental Cars

Monorail avoids Strip parking fees, which can be $15–$30 per day at some hotels.
Traffic on the Strip is unpredictable, making a car less convenient.
Rental cars are better for exploring outside Vegas, like Red Rock Canyon or Hoover Dam.
Monorail is cheaper for Strip-only travel, especially with multi-day passes.
Hotels charge resort parking fees, making rentals more expensive overall.

Hidden Gems and Attractions Near Monorail Stops

While most people use the monorail to hop between casinos, there are several unique attractions near each station that are worth checking out.

MGM Grand Station – KA Theater & Secret Pizza

KA by Cirque du Soleil—a stunning acrobatic show exclusive to MGM Grand.
Secret Pizza (at The Cosmopolitan)—a hidden, unmarked pizzeria known for late-night slices.
CBS Television City Research Center—get paid to watch and review TV pilots.
Rainforest Café—a jungle-themed dining experience with animatronic animals.
Level Up Lounge—a modern gaming bar with interactive casino experiences.

Bally’s & Paris Las Vegas Station – Grand Bazaar Shops & Hexx Chocolate

Grand Bazaar Shops—an open-air shopping area with unique souvenirs.
Hexx Chocolate & Confexxions—Vegas’ only bean-to-bar chocolate shop.
Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck—stunning views from a half-scale Eiffel Tower replica.
REAL BODIES Exhibit—a fascinating anatomy display inside Horseshoe Las Vegas.
Bathtub Gin Speakeasy—a hidden bar with 1920s-style cocktails.

Flamingo & Caesars Palace Station – Flamingo Wildlife Habitat & LINQ Promenade

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat—a free garden with real flamingos and exotic birds.
LINQ Promenade—an outdoor shopping and dining district with a lively atmosphere.
High Roller Observation Wheel—the world’s tallest observation wheel.
Brooklyn Bowl—a bowling alley and live music venue with a hip vibe.
The Ice Bar—a sub-zero cocktail bar with ice sculptures and frozen drinks.

Harrah’s & The LINQ Station – The Piano Bar & Carnaval Court

The Piano Bar—a hidden gem featuring dueling pianos and audience sing-alongs.
Carnaval Court—an outdoor bar with flair bartenders and live music.
Hash House A Go Go—famous for giant portions of twisted farm food.
The Auto Collection at The LINQ—a rotating display of rare and vintage cars.
Minus5 Ice Experience—another frozen bar with themed ice rooms.

Westgate Station – Elvis Memorabilia & SuperBook Sportsbook

Elvis Memorabilia at Westgate—Westgate was Elvis Presley’s Vegas home, with exhibits honoring him.
SuperBook Sportsbook—the world’s largest sportsbook, featuring massive HD screens.
Edge Steakhouse—a highly rated steakhouse with premium cuts of beef.
The International Theater—classic Vegas showroom with live entertainment.
Barry Manilow Residency—Westgate hosts regular performances from music legend Barry Manilow.

Las Vegas Convention Center Station – The Sphere & Tech Exhibits

The Sphere—a new immersive entertainment venue with mind-blowing LED displays.
LVCC Tech Exhibits—during conventions, major tech brands showcase futuristic gadgets.
Peppermill Lounge—a retro diner with neon vibes and a famous fire pit cocktail lounge.
Tacos El Gordo—a legendary taco spot just a short walk away.
Resorts World—a new luxury resort with high-end shopping and gaming.

Sahara Las Vegas Station – The Strat & Arts District

The Strat Tower—home to thrill rides, sky-high dining, and panoramic city views.
Top of the World Restaurant—a rotating fine-dining experience inside The Strat.
Neon Museum—a collection of vintage neon signs from old Vegas.
Las Vegas Arts District—a hub for murals, galleries, and quirky bars.
The Golden Tiki—a hidden tiki bar with exotic drinks and wild décor.

What to Expect During Peak and Off-Peak Hours

The monorail operates frequently, but depending on the time of day, your experience can vary. Knowing when to ride can make your trip more enjoyable.

Peak Hours (When the Monorail is Busiest)

Weekends (Friday-Sunday)—tourists and partiers make the trains more crowded.
Evenings (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)—pre-dinner and showtime rush hours.
Major conventions—when large events are happening at the Convention Center, expect full trains.
Sporting events & concerts—T-Mobile Arena and MGM Grand events bring large crowds.
New Year’s Eve & holidays—extremely packed, with long wait times.

Off-Peak Hours (Best Times to Ride for Less Crowds)

Midday (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM)—after the morning rush but before evening crowds.
Late nights (after 10:00 PM, except weekends)—quieter rides for nightlife explorers.
Monday – Thursday—less traffic compared to weekend tourists.
Early mornings (before 9:00 AM)—good for commuters and business travelers.
After big events—waiting 30-60 minutes post-concert/sports game can help avoid crowds.

By planning your rides around these peak and off-peak hours, you can enjoy a more comfortable and efficient monorail experience.

Final Thoughts: Is the Las Vegas Monorail Worth It?

The Las Vegas Monorail is one of the most efficient ways to travel along the Strip, offering a fast, affordable, and traffic-free alternative to taxis, rideshares, and buses. Whether you’re a tourist looking to explore multiple resorts, a convention attendee needing quick access to the Las Vegas Convention Center, or a local wanting to avoid parking fees, the monorail provides a convenient solution.

By knowing where the stations are located, how to maximize your ticket options, and when to ride to avoid crowds, you can make the most of your time in Vegas. Plus, with hidden attractions near each stop and ways to save money on passes, the monorail isn’t just a mode of transport—it’s part of the Vegas experience.

While it has some limitations, such as limited coverage to the east side of the Strip and long walks inside some casinos, its benefits often outweigh the drawbacks for those staying in monorail-accessible hotels. If your Vegas itinerary includes stops near monorail stations, purchasing a pass can save you time, energy, and money, allowing you to focus on enjoying everything Sin City has to offer.

Article Tags:

Getting Around Las Vegas · Las Vegas Monorail

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Las Vegas Travel and Transportation