Best Time to Visit Las Vegas: A Month by Month Guide

Trying to plan a trip to Vegas but don’t know the best time to visit Las Vegas? Keep reading to find out.

Las Vegas is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. With its adrenaline-pumping nightlife, luxurious casinos, and thrilling entertainment options, it’s no surprise that travelers flock to this unique desert oasis. 

Las Vegas almost never sees any downtime and you’ll find travelers gathering during all times of the year to enjoy its parties, casinos, spas and luxury resorts. The city is all about having a good time. 

Situated in the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas is one of the driest places in North America. It’s desert climate means temperatures here can be pretty extreme and there are certain times of the year when it just gets too crowded to enjoy. 

So when is the best time to visit Las Vegas? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about when to visit Las Vegas and a month-by-month breakdown. Find out the perfect time to visit Las Vegas for you and your trip style. 

READ MORE: Visiting Valley of Fire from Las Vegas: Top Things to Do

*This ‘ best time to visit Vegas ’ guide contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

What Does the ‘Best Time’ Really Mean?

There often isn’t a one-size-fits-all ‘best time to visit’ a certain destination. The best time to visit a place normally depends on your interests, weather preferences and your plan for activities to do there. 

Some may look for the best weather at a destination, others are looking for the best deals and discounts and others might be looking for the quietest time to visit. We all have different preferences and priorities. 

My typical considerations are related to crowds, weather and costs as well as many other photography and content creation considerations that come with the job, that you might not need to think about. 

Crowds– I will rarely visit a place in high season or at a time when there will be crowds, I much prefer the quiet and space so I travel during low or shoulder season. When to travel to Vegas for you might also be when it’s least busy. 

Best time to visit Las Vegas for Weather – I need good weather for photography so I feel like my trip planning is always about trying to balance the best weather with fewer crowds. I don’t mind hot weather but I’m not one for the extreme cold or rain. 

Costs– Everyone loves a good deal, am I right and I’m also partial to travelling at times when it’s a little cheaper. That said this depends on the destination.

When is the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas?

So when are the different seasons in Las Vegas?

For most, the best time to visit Las Vegas is during the high and shoulder seasons, so between the months of September and May. During this time, temperatures are at their best but during this time you might also see more crowds and higher prices. 

When you visit Vegas really does depend on what you want to do. 

If you plan to sit indoors most of the time and enjoy the city’s casinos, entertainment and dining scenes, summer might be perfectly doable, and you’ll be able to take advantage of low season deals. 

If you’re planning to take day trips and do some hikes in Red Rock Canyon National Park, Death Valley National Park and Valley of Fire State Park, November to March are the best times to visit Las Vegas. 

The Best Time to Visit Las Vegas, Month by Month and Season

Annual Weather in Las Vegas

Las Vegas sits in the middle of the desert and experiences a desert climate. This means extreme heat in the summertime and cool evenings and nights in the winter months. 

Given it’s desert climate it barely ever rains in Las Vegas. The city receives less than 4 inches of rain per year. 

The hottest months in Las Vegas are June, July, August and September when daytime average highs are between 90-100° Fahrenheit (32-38°C).

The winter months are the coolest time to be in Las Vegas. During December, January and February, the average daily highs are around 60°F (15°C). However, during the winter, the night temperatures dip really low.

Early in the morning and at night expect temperatures as low as 30°F (-2°C). 

Is Spring the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas?

Spring is one of the busiest seasons in Las Vegas. With warm yet not extreme temperatures, many people visit Sin City and it’s the best time to visit Las Vegas weather wise. It’s also one of the most expensive times to visit. 

Spring break also brings an influx of visitors to Las Vegas, so this week in particular is best avoided if you don’t like crowds. 

March in Las Vegas Weather

March is the best month to go to Las Vegas as temperatures become more pleasant. Make sure to bring a jacket however as evenings are pretty cold still.  This is the ideal time for visitors to explore the city in comfort and take advantage of the longer days with more than twelve hours of sunshine. 

Spring is also a great time to go hiking in Red Rock Canyon National Park and Valley of Fire State Park. With average temperatures at 70°F, it’s a perfect time for day hikes in the stunning desert scenery. 

To get the most out of your visit, consider doing a Big Bus Las Vegas Open Top Night tour that will ensure you take in all the highlights of the Strip and Las Vegas.

April 

April is another best month to go to Vegas, as the average temperature starts in the low 80s (mid-20s°C), and there are up to twelve hours of sunshine every day. This is a fantastic time for outdoor activities and nature attractions. 

April is a great time for outdoor activities. Red Rock Canyon is a popular destination on the outskirts of Las Vegas, or you can head further afield and explore the mesmerizing Death Valley National Park in Eastern California. 

With its unique desert landscape, this is North America’s driest place and offers visitors an otherworldly experience with stunning views. There’s no better way to appreciate the beauty of nature than this. 

May

Things start to warm up in Las Vegas starting in May. May is still a great time to visit Las Vegas and it’s a popular month. It’s also the perfect month for an adventure – take your pick from exploring the Grand Canyon National Park or any of its nearby trails and witness a beautiful sunset.

The canyons in spring are especially spectacular, with lush vegetation and blooming wildflowers. You can also visit the Grand Canyon West Rim on a scenic bus tour to get the best views of its layers of rock and colored hills in the distance. The tour also includes a stop at Hoover Dam. 

Moreover, you can explore the area during evenings – there are usually fewer people around so it’s easier to find a quiet spot for star-gazing or capturing some beautiful photographs.

For those who want to stay in Vegas, you can pick from the city’s many swanky resorts and spend time lounging by the pool.

If you’re looking for some great food, try one of the popular restaurants located on The Strip to get a taste of Las Vegas’ thriving dining scene.

Is Summer the Best Time of Year to Go to Vegas?

Summer marks off season in Las Vegas due to the extreme heat. During summer months (June-September), temperatures can get as high as 115 degrees Fahrenheit, so if visiting Las Vegas during this time, it’s best to plan for indoor activities. 

If you’re visiting for the casinos, dining and entertainment shows then this is a very doable time to visit as all indoor venues have air-conditioning. 

June Weather

June is one of the quietest months in Las Vegas as the city’s temperature begins to really increase. Although the city is known for its nightlife, there are plenty of indoor activities that you can do during the daytime too, especially in the summer. 

You can visit some of the city’s great museums, and if you’re looking for a place to cool off, try some of the city’s many spas and pools where you can lounge until evening.

The evening is the best time to explore the city as temperatures begin to drop. During this time you can explore downtown or walk the Strip.

July

July is one of the hottest months in Las Vegas, with temperatures soaring up to 41°C. The best way to beat the heat is to spend time lounging by the pool at one of the luxurious resorts on The Strip. 

Mandalay Bay and Caesars Palace offer some unique pool experiences along with VIP cocktail and drink offers.

You can also take a tour of the Neon Museum and explore its stunning collection of vintage neon signs. And for a more relaxing activity, you can book a show at one of the many theaters located in Las Vegas for an unparalleled entertainment experience. 

August

August is the hottest month in Las Vegas with average temperatures reaching up to 102°F. In spite of the heat, it’s still a good time for some outdoor activities such as a thrilling helicopter tour above the Grand Canyon for breathtaking views. 

The Grand Canyon offers visitors an exceptional experience when explored from the air; the deep canyons and stunning rock formations make it a memorable experience for all ages.

August is also a great time to explore the city’s casino scene, where you can find something that suits your taste; from classic slots to modern games such as Poker or Blackjack. 

Alternatively, take a break during the day with a movie at one of the many theaters, and take a stroll down the iconic Las Vegas Strip to take in all the sights in the evening.

Is Fall the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas?

As temperatures begin to decrease after the summer months, fall sees visitor numbers increase in Las Vegas. 

You won’t be able to find so many offers and deals during these months but temperatures become more comfortable again for outdoor sightseeing and exploring the desert. 

September

As temperatures start to drop slightly in September, it’s the best time to visit Vegas as it’s an ideal time to enjoy thrilling rides and spend time by the pool.

With average temperatures in the mid 90s, it’s also a good time for some outdoor activities such as ziplining or a giant observation wheel ride.

In the evenings you can also explore the city’s picturesque neighborhoods, like Chinatown which features many specialty stores and restaurants offering a wide array of authentic Asian cuisines. 

October

In October, temperatures in Las Vegas mellow to an average of 28°C, making it an excellent time to explore the nearby Valley of Fire State Park with its captivating red-colored rock formations.

The park is a perfect spot for hiking and camping, with panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Read more: Best Valley of Fire State Park Hikes You Can’t Miss

October is also the month of Halloween; expect to find plenty of events and parties in Las Vegas where you can dress up and get into the spirit of things.

The Strip then turns into an electric scene of costumes, dancing, food stalls, and more. It’s a great opportunity to people-watch and experience the city in a different light.

November

November is much cooler with an average temperature of 55°F, making it the perfect time for indoor activities such as exploring the city’s fascinating museums.

Visit the Neon Museum, and Hollywood Cars Museum, or learn about Liberace’s extravagant life and career at the Liberace Museum. It’s the best month to visit Vegas. 

November is also a great time for foodies; there are plenty of eateries in Las Vegas serving up all kinds of cuisines from across the globe. Whether it’s fine dining restaurants or hole-in-the-wall dives, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste.

Is winter the best time to visit Las Vegas?

It does get cold in Las Vegas, with temperatures dropping into the 30s and 40s between December and February. That said, the daytime temperatures are pleasant for enjoying the outdoors during the day.

It’s also the perfect time for hiking in the surrounding National and State Parks. 

For those travelling on a budget the winter months are a great time to visit (except the holidays). 

Christmas and New Year bring a new wave of visitors to Las Vegas as people check into the city’s top resorts to bring in the New Year in style. 

December

December is the coldest month in Las Vegas with an average high of 57°F, but it’s a popular time to visit as the festive season approaches.

Enjoy stage shows at 5-star hotels like the Four Seasons Las Vegas or indulge in the city’s restaurants and spas for a mix of luxury and entertainment.

Christmas time is especially magical in Las Vegas; there are plenty of seasonal decorations, lights, and activities to enjoy.

Take a stroll down the Strip to appreciate all the festive cheer, or take a ride on one of the city’s many attractions for a truly unforgettable experience.

January

Las Vegas in January is an ideal time to kick off the year with a bang. As one of the colder months in Las Vegas, it’s advisable to pack colder items such as coats or sweaters due to its much cooler average temperature of 50°F and some possibility of rain. 

Nevertheless, January in Las Vegas is still lively and vibrant, especially on New Year’s Eve where you can witness spectacular fireworks displays at various famous Strip hotels.

If the weather gets too chilly for comfort, take refuge in one of the city’s many world-renowned hotels which boast fabulous restaurants, spas and captivating stage shows.

These include renowned performances by Cirque du Soleil at The Mirage and New York, New York hotels which is a visual treat that shouldn’t be missed.

February

February in Las Vegas sees a slight increase in temperature with highs of around 61°F. The city remains alive and you should not be deterred from exploring its many attractions.

February is one of the best months to visit Las Vegas in my opinion. It’s a quiet month with not too many visitors, there are many deals on hotels and shows to snap up and temperatures are ideal for exploring the surrounding area. 

The Best Time of Year to Go to Las Vegas to Avoid the Crowds

Las Vegas is a popular destination all year round, however, there are times when it is quieter. To avoid the crowds in Las Vegas it’s best to visit during the low season of June to August. 

As you can imagine, the extreme heat deters visitors as exploring the outdoors during the day becomes almost impossible. 

The shoulder season in Las Vegas runs from December to February. This is a better time to visit as pretty much all the activities that Vegas offers are accessible.

From hiking to casinos, it’s all very much doable with the cooler temperatures. If you are planning on sunbathing at the hotel pool though, this may not be the best time. 

Crowds increase a little during the winter months compared with the summer, however, it isn’t crowded. I personally visited in January and it was far from crowded.

The Best Time to Travel to Las Vegas for Outdoor Activities

The best time to visit Las Vegas for outdoor activities is during the cooler months. 

December- February gives the coolest conditions for hiking with little to no risk of heatstroke or sunstroke. You’ll also be able to benefit from fewer crowds in Las Vegas and better deals. 

However, do note that with nightly temperatures potentially dipping down into the 30s, it’s not the best time for camping. If you’re planning to car camp or stay in an RV you’ll need to consider supplementary heating. 

For day hikes, however, the winter months are a great time. 

March and April and October and November are also great times for outdoor activities, just be aware that as these months coincide with high season, it does get a little more crowded and more expensive. 

The Best Time to Visit Las Vegas for Entertainment

As a city that never sleeps, entertainment in Las Vegas lives on throughout the year. With air-conditioned venues, you can also easily enjoy entertainment during the scorching summer months. 

To get the best deals on Las Vegas shows and entertainment, the best time to visit Las Vegas is during the low season.

The Best Time to Visit Las Vegas on a Budget

Peak season in Las Vegas and Grand Canyon runs from March to May and September to November. The prices for flights, hotels, and attractions tend to be higher during these months so it’s best to avoid these when travelling on a budget.

June to August and December to February (excluding the holidays) are considered the off-season in Las Vegas. During this time, you can get great deals on flights, hotels and attractions due to the lower demand.

This is the best time to go to Las Vegas for cheap.

It’s also worth noting the day of the week you visit Las Vegas. Hotel prices significantly increase on Fridays and Saturdays so if you are planning a budget trip, the best time to go to Vegas will be from Monday-Thursday. It’s best to schedule your trip during these weekdays. 

Make sure to also look out for major conventions and sporting events that really increase the prices of hotel rooms. Before deciding on your trip dates check the Visit Las Vegas website to make sure your dates don’t coincide with any huge events. 

To track cheap flights to Las Vegas you can use Skyscanner and turn on the notifications to get alerted when deals for the cheapest time to visit Vegas. 

I also love checking booking.com sporadically to check the latest accommodation discounts on the top luxury resorts. 

Best Time to Visit Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon

Combining a trip to Las Vegas with a trip to the Grand Canyon is a really great way to get the most out of the area. 

Grand Canyon West Rim is located just a few hours away, so visiting the two is a great idea. 

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is early spring or late fall if you’re looking for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. 

Winter is also an acceptable time to visit the Grand Canyon, just pack very warm clothes and prepare for some snow and ice. Read our guide to Visiting Grand Canyon South Rim in Winter here to find out if it’s really worth it. 

While summer is tolerable in Las Vegas due to the air-conditioned hotels, casinos and venues, it’s not the best time for the Grand Canyon. 

When to Avoid Visiting Las Vegas

Visiting Las Vegas around large holidays like Christmas, New Year, Labor Day weekend and Memorial Day weekend is best avoided as you’ll be visiting when the whole country is visiting too. It’s also best to avoid major conventions and events. 

It’s the worst time to go to Vegas because not only will you experience larger crowds, but prices will also be significantly higher. 

I’d personally avoid visiting Vegas in the summer months. As someone who enjoys spending less time in casinos and more time in National Parks it would just be too hot. 

For me, the best time to visit Vegas would be in winter or at the beginning or the end of high season for a good balance between crowds, temperature and cost. 

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Find the best Las Vegas activities below, whatever time you visit

Decided on the best time to visit Vegas for you? Have any questions or comments about your trip? Let me know in the box below.

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Booking.com for great deals on hotels

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