When you think of Las Vegas, the glitz, glamour, and iconic strip often come to mind. But did you know that navigating this vibrant city without a car is not only possible but can also be a fun and economical experience? Join me as I recount my adventure riding every public transportation option available on the Las Vegas Strip in a single day!
Arriving in Las Vegas
As soon as we landed at Las Vegas International Airport, we were eager to save money while exploring the city. The taxi fare to our hotel downtown was about $29, and an Uber would set us back around $31. However, we were determined to take advantage of the free rides and public transportation options available to us.
Getting Started with Public Transportation
After landing in Terminal 3, we made our way to Terminal 1 to catch the bus to the Strip. Following the public transportation signs, we found the bus stop easily. For convenience, I downloaded the RTC app to purchase a three-day pass, which would save us money during our stay.
However, I made a mistake in identifying the correct bus. The southbound bus arrived first, and I hadn’t finished downloading the app. Thankfully, the driver was understanding and let us hop on while I completed the process.
First Stops: Tropicana and MGM Grand
As we rode the bus, I learned that to reach the MGM Grand, we would need to switch buses. The driver gave us helpful advice, and we finally made it to the Strip. Our first goal was to take a picture with the Sphinx statue at the Luxor Hotel.
To reach the Luxor, we decided to ride the free tram from Excalibur to Mandalay Bay. The tram came quickly, and we were thrilled to discover that it operates every five minutes and is completely free!
Admiring the Sights: The Free Tram Experience
The tram ride was not only efficient but also offered stunning views of the Strip. We passed by the Luxor and arrived at Mandalay Bay, where we took a moment to snap some pictures. It’s a great way to see the attractions without the hassle of walking in the heat.
Next Stop: The Bellagio Fountains
After enjoying Mandalay Bay, we headed back to Excalibur to catch another tram to the iconic Bellagio. This time, we took the Aria Express tram, which also operates for free. The Aria was a beautiful resort, and the scent of the casino was delightful!
Once we arrived at the Bellagio, we couldn’t miss the stunning conservatory, which was adorned for the holiday season. We took plenty of photos, making sure to catch the famous Bellagio fountains in the background.
Riding the Monorail
With so much to see, we decided to hop on the Las Vegas Monorail next. To access the monorail, we had to cross through the bustling Paris Las Vegas casino. The monorail runs every eight minutes, making it a convenient option to travel along the Strip.
Riding the monorail was exhilarating! We passed iconic landmarks like the Sphere convention center and the Strat. The views were incredible, and we were able to relax while traveling quickly to our next destination.
Exploring the Vegas Loop
After enjoying the monorail, we decided to check out the Vegas Loop, a unique transportation option that utilizes Tesla vehicles. This underground system is designed to transport visitors quickly between key locations, including major hotels and the convention center.
Riding in the Tesla felt futuristic, and it was fascinating to see how this system works. The $5 day pass made it an affordable option to traverse the city while avoiding traffic.
Taking the Deuce to Downtown
After a full day of transportation exploration, we hopped on the Deuce bus to head downtown. The Deuce is a popular public transportation option that runs along the Strip and to downtown Las Vegas. It was a bit crowded, but we managed to find a seat by the window.
As we rode, we noticed interesting sights, including cannabis dispensaries and unique shops. The atmosphere on the bus was lively, with fellow passengers sharing their stories and experiences.
Conclusion: A Day Well Spent
By the end of the day, we had successfully ridden every form of public transportation available on the Las Vegas Strip! From the free trams to the monorail and the Vegas Loop, we explored the city while saving money and having a blast.
For anyone looking to visit Las Vegas and wanting to avoid the hassle of driving, I highly recommend utilizing the Las Vegas Strip public transportation options. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a fantastic way to experience the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic city.
So, the next time you’re in Las Vegas, consider taking the plunge into public transportation. You might just find that it adds another layer of excitement to your adventure!