Key Highlights:
- Budget Traveler: $150–$220. Covers a value hotel (Excalibur/The STRAT), food court meals, and free Strip attractions.
- Mid-Range Traveler: $350–$550. Gets you a center-Strip room (Paris/Flamingo), one “celebrity chef” dinner, a mid-tier show, and rideshare credits.
- Luxury Traveler: $1,200–$2,000+. Think Fountain-view suites at Bellagio, fine dining at Guy Savoy, VIP club tables, and the Sphere’s premium seating.
- Mandatory “Hidden” Cost: Set aside $45–$65 per day specifically for resort fees and lodging taxes—they are almost never included in the advertised price.
Planning your first trip to the neon-soaked streets of Sin City can feel like a high-stakes game of poker, especially when you’re trying to calculate a realistic budget. One minute you’re seeing base rooms for $40, and the next, you’re hit with a $50 “resort fee” and a $25 cocktail. So, how much does a Vegas trip cost?
The honest answer: as much as you want it to, but usually about 30% more than you originally planned. I’ve done Vegas every way possible—from the “ramen-noodle” solo trips to the “just-won-big” luxury suites. After navigating 2026 price hikes, hidden surcharges, and the city’s shifting tipping culture, I’ve broken down exactly what your wallet should expect.
Breaking Down the Major Expenses
To understand how much a Vegas trip costs, you have to look at the “Big Four”: Hotels, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation.
1. How Much Are Hotels in Las Vegas?
Vegas hotel prices are like a roller coaster. A room that costs $60 on a Tuesday can skyrocket to $600 on a Saturday or during a massive convention like CES.
- Budget (Excalibur, Luxor, Horseshoe): $40–$90 midweek; $180–$300 weekends.
- Mid-Range (Paris, MGM Grand, Park MGM): $120–$220 midweek; $350–$500 weekends.
- Luxury (Bellagio, Wynn, Aria, Venetian): $280–$550 midweek; $700–$1,200+ weekends.
Expert Insight: In 2026, resort fees at top-tier properties like Aria and Wynn have hit $55–$62 per night (plus tax). Always add this to your “cheap” room rate before booking.
2. The Real Cost of Food and Drinks
Strip dining has become notoriously expensive. A “casual” burger that was $18 a few years ago is often $26+ today once you factor in surcharges.
- The Food Court Strategy: If you stick to spots like the Miracle Mile Shops or the Fashion Show Mall food court, you can eat for $60–$80 per day.
- The Standard Experience: A cafe breakfast, a quick lunch, and a sit-down dinner with two drinks will run about $130–$200 per day.
- The Splurge: Fine dining tasting menus at Joël Robuchon or Guy Savoy now range from $150 to $600 per person before wine or tip.
3. Entertainment: Shows, Clubs, and The Sphere
Vegas is the entertainment capital, but seats are no longer a bargain.
- Cirque du Soleil: Flagship shows like “O” or “KÀ” range from $90 to $280.
- The Sphere: To see an immersive experience like “Postcard from Earth,” expect to pay $110 to $250. Concert tickets can easily double that.
- Gambling: A safe “entertainment” budget for a casual player is $100–$200 per day. Be warned: $25 minimums are now the standard for most Strip table games on weekends.
A Trusted Friend’s Final Tip
The secret to “beating” the high cost of Vegas is the midweek stay. If you visit from Tuesday to Thursday, you can often stay at a 5-star resort for the price of a 3-star weekend room. Also, always check the convention calendar. If a major trade show is in town, your “cheap” trip will evaporate instantly.
❓ FAQ: How Much Does a Vegas Trip Cost?
Is Las Vegas expensive for food?
On the Strip, yes. Even McDonald’s prices are inflated, with some meals costing nearly $18. To save, walk to the CVS or Walgreens on the Strip for water, snacks, and even cheap beer to stock your room’s fridge.
How much cash should I bring for tipping?
Cash is king for service. I recommend bringing $50–$100 per day in small bills ($1s and $5s) for cocktail servers, valets, bellhops, and dealers. Tipping keeps the drinks coming faster and the service friendlier.
What is the “cheapest” month to visit?
August (due to 110°F heat) and January (post-New Year’s, excluding CES dates) offer the lowest hotel rates. You can often find luxury rooms for 50% off during these windows.
Disclaimer: Gambling involves risk. Please gamble responsibly.
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