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Getting Around Greater Las Vegas

Getting Around Greater Las Vegas

Greater Las Vegas Nevada, USA Travel Guide

Public Transportation

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

The Sin City Monorail elevated train operates independently from the bus system. It runs along the east side of the Main street, 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 via RideRTC app.
  • Monorail tickets at station automated retail 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 AM-2/3 AM (4-8 min frequency).

Accessibility

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

Efficiency Tips

Walking vs. Bus
  • Walking sometimes quicker than Deuce due to traffic.
  • For short distances on the Strip, walk.
Maximizing Transit
  • Monorail good for east side Strip travel.
  • Download RideRTC application for real-time-time management.
  • Consider multiple-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 (extra charges 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 skilled riders exploring scenic routes.
  • Bicycle: Limited exclusive 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 expenditures.
  • Off-Strip casinos often offer free or validated parking.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly

The Main street 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 navigation apps.

Cycling Safety

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

Specialized Transportation

Sin City 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

  • Sin City generally very accessible (ADA compliant).
  • Most resorts, public transportation, major attractions accessible.
  • Monorail nearest to special urban transport system.
  • Check with venues for particular mobility requirements.

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 get packed, 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.
  • Costs for parking, 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-populated-lit, populated areas, particularly at night.
  • Cycling not recommended on the Strip owing to important traffic.
  • No drinking and driving for rental cars.
  • Taxis and rideshares offer convenience but at a charge.

Local Transport Advice

Navigating Vegas has options. Choose based on your budget, schedule, and desired 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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