Getting Around Vegas: An Insider’s Look at the Las Vegas Monorail – Route, Fares & Tips

The Las Vegas Monorail offers a unique and efficient way to travel along a significant portion of the famed Las Vegas Strip, gliding above the bustling traffic below. This automated public transit system connects major resorts, convention spaces, and entertainment venues, providing a convenient alternative to taxis or walking, especially over longer distances on the east side of Las Vegas Boulevard. The official website for the most current information, schedules, and ticket purchases is www.lvmonorail.com.

Route & Stations

The Las Vegas Monorail operates on a 3.9-mile (6.3 km) elevated track, primarily running parallel to the eastern side of the Las Vegas Strip. It features seven key stations:

  1. SAHARA Las Vegas Station: Serves the northern end of the Strip.
  2. Westgate Las Vegas Station: Connects to the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino and is near some parts of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
  3. Boingo Station at Las Vegas Convention Center: Provides direct access to the Las Vegas Convention Center, a major hub for trade shows and events.
  4. Harrah’s/The LINQ Station: Offers access to Harrah’s, The LINQ Hotel + Experience, The LINQ Promenade (including the High Roller Observation Wheel), and nearby attractions.
  5. Flamingo/Caesars Palace Station: Serves the Flamingo Las Vegas, and provides access via pedestrian bridges or walkways to Caesars Palace and surrounding venues.
  6. Horseshoe/Paris Las Vegas Station: Connects to Horseshoe Las Vegas (formerly Bally’s) and Paris Las Vegas.
  7. MGM Grand Station: Located at the southern end of the route, serving the MGM Grand, as well as nearby properties like New York-New York and Excalibur (via walkways).

Note: Stations are typically located at the rear of the casino resorts, so accessing the Strip itself or hotels on the west side often involves a walk through the casino property.

Operating Hours & Frequency (as of May 2025)

The Monorail operates with extended hours, especially on weekends, to accommodate Las Vegas’s vibrant nightlife. However, always check the official website for the most current schedule before your trip as hours can be subject to change.

  • Monday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
  • Tuesday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  • Friday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 AM

Trains typically arrive at each station every 4 to 8 minutes. The entire end-to-end journey takes less than 15 minutes.

Fares & Ticket Information (as of May 2025)

The Las Vegas Monorail offers several ticket options to suit different travel needs. Prices are subject to change, so verify on the official website or at ticket vending machines.

  • Single Ride Ticket: Approximately $5.50 – $6.00
  • Unlimited Day Passes:
    • 24-Hour Pass: Approximately $13.45 – $15.00
    • 2-Day Pass: Approximately $23.75 – $26.00
    • 3-Day Pass: Approximately $29.95 – $32.00
    • 4-Day Pass: Approximately $37.00 – $39.00
    • 5-Day Pass: Approximately $44.50 – $47.00
    • 7-Day Pass: Approximately $57.50 – $62.00
  • Purchasing Tickets:
    • Online: Through the official website (www.lvmonorail.com), often with options for mobile tickets that can be scanned directly from your phone.
    • Ticket Vending Machines: Located at each Monorail station.
    • Customer Service Desks: Available at select stations.
  • Discounts:
    • Nevada residents can often purchase single-ride tickets for $1.00 upon presentation of a valid Nevada government-issued ID at Monorail customer service ticketing offices.
    • Children aged five and under ride free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Accessibility

The Las Vegas Monorail system is designed to be fully accessible and ADA compliant:

  • All stations are equipped with elevators for easy access to the platforms.
  • Trains provide level boarding from the platform.
  • Designated spaces are available on each train car for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and other mobility devices.
  • Service animals accompanying persons with disabilities are welcome.
  • Strollers are also permitted on the Monorail.

Does the Monorail Go to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)?

No, the Las Vegas Monorail does NOT provide a direct connection to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). To travel between the airport and a Monorail station (the closest being the MGM Grand Station), passengers will need to use other forms of transportation such as a taxi, ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft), airport shuttle, or public bus.

Benefits & Limitations

Benefits:

  • Avoids Traffic: Offers a quick way to travel between its seven stations without getting stuck in Las Vegas Strip traffic.
  • Convention Center Access: Provides a direct and convenient link to the Las Vegas Convention Center.
  • Climate Controlled: A comfortable, air-conditioned way to travel, especially during hot Las Vegas weather.
  • Environmentally Friendly: The Monorail is an all-electric, zero-emission transportation system.
  • Cost-Effective for Multiple Rides: Unlimited day passes can be economical for those planning to use the Monorail frequently within its service area.

Limitations:

  • No Airport Connection: Does not serve Harry Reid International Airport directly.
  • East-Side Focus: Primarily serves hotels and casinos on the east side of the Strip. Accessing west-side properties requires walking, often through casinos and over pedestrian bridges.
  • Station Locations: Stations are generally set back from Las Vegas Boulevard, requiring a walk to reach the actual Strip.
  • Limited Coverage: The route does not extend to Downtown Las Vegas (Fremont Street Experience) or areas off the main Strip corridor.
  • Not Point-to-Point: Unlike taxis or ride-sharing, it operates on a fixed route with fixed stations.

The Las Vegas Monorail can be a valuable part of your transportation strategy when visiting the Strip, especially for efficient travel between its key stops and for accessing the Convention Center. However, be sure to consider its route and airport connectivity limitations when planning your journeys.

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