MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Las Vegas Strip

Getting Around Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas Strip Nevada, USA Travel Guide

RTC Bus & Monorail

Deuce on the Central boulevard: This double-decker bus runs 24/7 along the entire Strip. It stops at most major resorts, making it popular for tourists. The Deuce offers a budget-friendly way to see the Strip, although it can run slow due to frequent stops and heavy traffic. Fares are paid onboard (exact change or card) or via the rideRTC app. Strip & Downtown Express (SDX): The SDX stands as a limited-stop rapid bus that connects the Strip to downtown Las Vegas, the Convention Center, and exclusive outlet malls. It offers a faster choice to the Deuce for these routes.

Local Routes: Beyond the Central boulevard, the RTC maintains an extensive network of the routes of local buses covering the wider Sin City Valley. These routes prove useful for exploring areas off the Main drag, like local neighborhoods, shopping centers, or attractions like the Springs Preserve. Sin City Monorail: This elevated train system runs along the east side of the Main drag, offering a quick method of travel between seven stations. These stations sit at MGM Grand, Horseshoe/Paris Las Vegas, Flamingo/Caesars Palace, Harrah's/The LINQ, Las Vegas Convention Center, Westgate, and SAHARA Las Vegas. The Monorail runs behind the resorts, so access means walking through properties from the Main drag.

Route Maps & Hubs

  • RTC (Bus): Route maps for the Deuce, SDX, and local routes are on the RTC website and at bus stops.
  • Important transfer points: South Strip Transit Terminal (near Mandalay Bay) and Bonneville Transit Center (downtown).
  • Monorail: Its route is linear, connecting seven stations. Maps exist at stations and online.
  • Hours: Deuce 24/7 (15-30 min freq); SDX 9 AM-Midnight (15-20 min freq); Monorail Mon 07:00-Midnight, Tue-Thu 7 IN the morning-2 AM, Fri-Sun 7 AM-3 AM (4-8 min freq).

RTC Bus Fares

2-hour pass: $6. 24-hour pass: $8. 3-day pass: $20. Purchase onboard with cash, at vending machines, or via the RideRTC app.

Monorail Fares

Single ride: $5. 24-hour pass: $15. 2-day pass: $26. 3-day pass: $32. 4-day pass: $39. 5-day pass: $47. 7-day pass: $62. Buy at depots or on the Monorail website.

Accessibility

All RTC buses feature wheelchair access with ramps or lifts. Monorail stations have elevators and meet ADA compliance, ensuring accessibility for all mobility needs.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Passes & Apps
  • If you plan extensive using public transportation, buy a multi-day pass for RTC or the Monorail to economize.
  • Download the rideRTC application for real-time-time bus tracking, lessening waiting periods.
  • Remember the Monorail runs behind east-side resorts; factor in walking time.
Free Tram Use
  • Utilize the free tram systems connecting specific resorts on the west side of the Primary thoroughfare.
  • These encompass the Aria Express (Park MGM, Aria, Bellagio).
  • Also, the Mandalay Bay Tram (Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur) and the Mirage-Treasure Island Tram.

Public Transport Decision Matrix

Budget Travel

RTC buses provide the most economical option.

Time Saving

Monorail for quick east-side Strip travel.

Convenience

RideRTC app for bus tracking and ticket purchase.

Resort Hopping

Utilize free resort trams.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-ride-sharing services are convenient, direct transportation choices in The Vegas, specifically when you prefer not to walk or use public transit.

Taxis: Hailing & Fares

  • Licensed taxis appear white or yellow with a "Taxi" sign.
  • It's not possible to hail a taxi directly from the street on the Strip; it is not permitted.
  • Use designated taxi can be found at hotels, attractions, and the airport.
  • Metered pricing for rides, including flag drop and per-mile charges. Airport fees may apply.

Ride-Sharing: Apps & Safety

  • Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular.
  • They possess designated pick-up and drop-off points at hotels and attractions.
  • Verify the driver's name, car make, model, color, and license plate compared to the app before entering.
  • Share your trip details with a trusted contact.

Fare Estimates & Payment

  • Airport to The central area Strip: ~$25-$35 for taxis.
  • Strip to The central business district: ~$20-$30 for taxis.
  • Taxis receive cash and all major credit cards.
  • Ride-share fares vary; check the estimate in the app before confirming.
  • During peak times, surge pricing may apply for a ride-sharing.
  • Airport taxi queues and ride-share zones are clearly marked.

General Safety for Taxis & Ride-Shares

Licensed Taxis

Always use licensed taxis from designated stands. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.

Ride-Share Verification

Verify driver and vehicle details compared to the app before entering any ride-share vehicle.

Personal Information

Avoid sharing personal details with drivers. If uncomfortable, you hold the right to end the ride.

Public Transit Systems

The Area's Transportation Commission of The south of Nevada (RTC) operates the public bus system. This system is an affordable and accessible transport method. The Las Vegas Monorail offers another choice for traversing the Strip. These two systems form the backbone of public transit for visitors.

RTC Bus Service Overview

  • The "Deuce on the Strip" double-decker bus runs 24/7 along the entire Strip.
  • It stops at most major resorts, a popular choice for tourists.
  • A budget-friendly way to see the Strip, while it can run slow due to frequent stops and heavy traffic.
  • The "Strip & Downtown Express (SDX)" offers a limited-stop express service for more rapid travel between points.

Las Vegas Monorail Overview

  • This elevated train system runs along the east side of the Main drag.
  • It joins seven stations: MGM Grand, Horseshoe/Paris Las Vegas, Flamingo/Caesarthe Royal residence of, Harrah's/The LINQ, Las Vegas Convention Center, Westgate, and SAHARA Las Vegas.
  • The Monorail runs behind resorts, so access requires walking through properties from the Strip.
  • Trains typically arrive every 4-8 minutes, offering quick transit.

Ticketing & Fares

RTC Bus Fares

2-hour pass: $6. 24-hour pass: $8. 3-day pass: $20. Purchase onboard (cash), at Ticket Automated Retail machines (TVMs), or via the rideRTC app.

Use multi-day passes for savings.

Monorail Fares

Single ride: $5. 24-hour pass: $15. Multi-day passes available (up to 7 days for $62). Acquire at terminals or online.

Multi-day passes offer prominent money saved for frequent use.

Accessibility Features

All RTC buses have wheelchair access with ramps or lifts. Monorail stations feature elevators and are ADA compliant.

Ensures travel ease for all mobility needs.

Hours of Operation & Frequency

Deuce on the Strip
  • Operates 24/7, providing continuous service.
  • Buses run every 15-20 minutes during peak hours.
  • Frequency decreases to each 20-30 minutes during off-peak times.
SDX & Monorail
  • SDX generally functions from 9 AM to Midnight, with buses every 15-20 minutes.
  • Monorail hours vary: Mon 07:00-Midnight; Tue-Thu 07:00-2 AM; Fri-Sun 7 IN the morning-3 AM.
  • Monorail trains typically arrive every 4-8 minutes.

Travel Tips & Considerations

  • Consider a Monorail pass if your hotel is situated on the east side of the Strip and you plan to explore connected resorts.
  • Download the rideRTC app for real-tracking buses in real time.
  • Keep in mind that the Monorail runs behind east-side resorts, meaning you walk through properties from the Central boulevard.
  • For quickest airport transfer, use a taxi or ride-share. For budget travel, use RTC bus or shared shuttle.
  • Utilize the free tram systems connecting specific resorts on the west side of the Central boulevard.
  • These trams offer convenient, complimentary connections between specific properties.
  • Multi-day passes for Monorail or RTC provide more for the money for frequent users.
  • RTC Local Routes prove useful for exploring areas off the Primary thoroughfare beyond the main tourist path.

Specialized Transportation Options

Vegas has several specialized transportation alternatives that enhance the visitor journey. These methods connect resorts or supply distinct city views.

Tour Buses & Hop-on-Hop-off

  • Big Bus Tours Las Vegas offers hop-on-hop-off routes.
  • These routes cover the Sin City Strip and The city center area.
  • They grant a solid approach to see many sights at your own pace, with commentary.
  • Numerous operators also run bus tours to the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam.

Accessible Services

  • Las Vegas aims for complete accessibility for all travelers.
  • Most resorts, attractions, and public transport meet ADA compliance.
  • Third-party vendors rent wheelchairs, electric scooters, and other mobility aids.
  • Accessible taxis and ride-share options (e.g., Uber WAV, Lyft Access) are available.

Free Tram Systems

The Main street features various free tram systems connecting specific resorts. These present a quick way to move between properties without requiring a taxi.

Gondola Rides

The Venetian Resort provides iconic gondola rides on its simulated canals, a romantic and distinct experience. These do not serve as public transport.

Cost Efficiency

Using these free and particular alternatives aids in managing transportation expenses while maximizing sightseeing opportunities.

Quick Insights for Specialized Transit

Maximize Efficiency
  • Use free resort trams to save steps and energy between properties.
  • Familiarize yourself with tram routes and station locations beforehand.
  • Consider tour buses for stress-free excursions to distant attractions.
Plan for Convenience
  • For mobility needs, arrange for hiring and confirm accessible transport options.
  • Factor in that some specialized rides, like gondolas, carry separate costs.
  • While not public transit, these special options add distinct layers to your Las Vegas visit.

Final Transportation Advice

Mix and match transportation methods based on your destination and budget.

For ultimate flexibility outside the Strip, a hired car is the top choice, but expect parking charges.