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Getting Around Greater Las Vegas

Getting Around Greater Las Vegas

Nevada USA Travel Guide

Public Transportation

The RTC bus system serves the entire Las Vegas Valley. The Deuce on the Strip double-decker bus service operates 24/7. It results in calls at most major resorts. Strip & Downtown Express (SDX) a faster service with fewer stops.

The Las Vegas Monorail elevated train operates independently from the bus system. It runs along the east side of the Strip, connecting several main holiday resorts from MGM Grand to SAHARA Las Vegas. It offers a quick way to bypass Strip traffic.

Routes & Fares

  • RTC Bus: $8 for 24-hour pass, $20 for 3-day pass.
  • Monorail: $5 single ride, $15 for 24-hour pass.
  • Purchase RTC passes on board or through RideRTC app.
  • Monorail tickets at station vending machines or online.

Route Maps & Hubs

RTC website, bus stops, RideRTC app. South Strip Transit Terminal (SSTT) plus The central area Transportation Center (DTC).

Operating Hours

Deuce: 24/7 (15-20 min frequency). SDX: 9 AM-midnight (15-20 min frequency). Monorail: 7 IN the morning-2/3 AM (4-8 min frequency).

Accessibility

All RTC buses and Monorail depots are wheelchair accessible, with elevators.

Efficiency Tips

Walking vs. Bus
  • Walking sometimes quicker than Deuce due to traffic.
  • For short distances on the Main drag, walk.
Maximizing Transit
  • Monorail efficient for east side Strip travel.
  • Download RideRTC app for real-keeping track of time.
  • Think about multi-day-day passes for extensive use.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Hailing

Designated taxi stands only on Strip.

Fares & Payment

Metered fares, flat rates from airport. Cash or credit.

Ride-Share Apps

Uber and Lyft widely used, often competitive pricing.

Safety Tips

Verify driver/vehicle details on app. Avoid unsolicited rides.

Rental Options

All major rental car companies operate at Harry Reid International Airport Rental Car Center. Shuttle buses transport travelers from terminals.

Car Rental

  • Companies: Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, National, Thrifty, Alamo.
  • Requirements: Valid driver's license, major credit card.
  • Minimum age typically 21 (additional fees for 21-24).
  • Book in advance for whether it's available and better rates.

Motorcycle & Bicycle Rentals

  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Specialized rental companies off-Strip.
  • For experienced riders exploring scenic routes.
  • Bicycle: Limited dedicated lanes on Strip.
  • More suitable for recreational use in Red Rock formations Canyon trails.

Driving & Parking

  • Drivers operate on the right-hand side.
  • Major roads and highways well-maintained.
  • Traffic heavy on I-15 during peak times.
  • Most Strip resorts charge daily parking fees.
  • Fees significantly travel costs.
  • Off-Strip casinos often offer free or validated parking.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly

The Central boulevard designed for walking, but distances long. Fremont Street Experience pedestrian-only.

Walking Tours

Guided walking trips emphasize Strip history or Downtown Arts And culture area. Self-guided tours with mapping apps.

Cycling Safety

Limited bicycle infrastructure on the Strip. Cycling not recommended on Strip due to traffic.

Specialized Transportation

Las Vegas possesses distinct and convenient specialized transportation options.

Tour Buses & Trams

  • Big Bus Tours: Hop-on-hop-off services.
  • Tours commentary on major attractions.
  • Free Trams: Mandalay Bay-Luxor-Excalibur, ARIA Express.
  • Mirage-Treasure Island tram.

Accessibility & Local Transport

  • Vegas generally very accessible (ADA compliant).
  • Most resorts, public transportation, major attractions accessible.
  • Monorail nearest to unique urban transport system.
  • Inquire directly with venues for specific mobility needs.

Local Transportation Comparison

Walking

Free, flexible, see details. Distances are long, extreme heat in summer.

Best For: Exploring specific resort complexes, short distances, photo ops.

RTC Bus Deuce/SDX

Economical, 24/7 (Deuce). Slow, can be crowded, limited stops.

Best For: Budget travelers, getting up/down Strip & Downtown.

Monorail

Fast, avoids Strip traffic. Limited stops (east side only), not 24/7.

Best For: Quick hops between specific east-side resorts.

More Transportation Comparison

Taxi/Rideshare
  • Door-to-door, convenient.
  • Expensive, traffic causes delays, fixed airport rates.
  • Best For: Quick trips, airport transfers, groups who split fare.
Rental Car
  • Freedom for day trips & off-Strip exploration.
  • Parking fees, traffic, navigating city, no drinking and motoring.
  • Best For: Day trips to the national parks, exploring off-Strip.

Safety Considerations for Different Options

  • Licensed Services: Use only licensed taxis or official Uber/Lyft apps.
  • Verification: Confirm vehicle details match app before entering.
  • Unauthorized Drivers: Do not accept rides from unmarked cars or unsolicited drivers.
  • Do not walk alone in unfamiliar or dimly lit areas away from the main tourist paths.
  • Always stay in well-lit-lit, populated areas, especially after dark.
  • Cycling not recommended on the Strip owing to significant traffic.
  • No drinking and driving for rental cars.
  • Taxis and rideshares offer convenience but at a charge.

Local Transport Advice

Navigating Las Vegas has options. Choose based on your budget, schedule, plus preferred degree of convenience.

For most Strip experiences, a combination of walking, free trams, and occasionally the Monorail or ride-shares works well.

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