Is the Las Vegas Monorail Worth It? Honest Review

Key Highlights:

The Verdict: It is worth it if you are staying at a connected hotel (like MGM Grand or SAHARA) or attending a convention at the LVCC.
The Catch: Stations are located at the very back of the resorts. You will still walk a significant distance just to reach the platform.
The Cost: At $5.50–$6 per ride, it’s pricey for a single trip but a steal if you buy a multi-day pass for unlimited rides.
Best Use Case: Beating the brutal Strip traffic during peak hours or major 2026 events like WrestleMania 42 or New Year’s Eve.

When you’re standing on the Las Vegas Strip, staring at the neon glow of a resort that looks “right there” only to realize it’s actually a mile away, the Las Vegas Monorail starts to look like a desert mirage. It’s shiny, elevated, and promises to whisk you away from the blistering heat and the sidewalk crowds. But is it actually a time-saver, or just a long walk to a train that takes you to the back of a casino?

We have logged countless miles on the Monorail, from early-morning convention runs to late-night returns from the MGM Grand. We’ve learned that while it can be a lifesaver, it’s also one of the most misunderstood ways to get around. If you’re trying to navigate the city without a car, here is our honest, expert-led Las Vegas Monorail review.

The Route: Where Does It Actually Go?

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The Las Vegas Monorail operates along a 3.9-mile stretch on the east side of the Strip. It does not extend to the airport or Downtown’s Fremont Street. It essentially connects the south end of the Strip to the north end, with a few key stops in between.

The 7 Official Stations

MGM Grand: The southernmost stop, perfect for T-Mobile Arena events.
Horseshoe / Paris: Great for the heart of the Strip.
Flamingo / Caesars Palace: Good for the High Roller and Linq Promenade.
Harrah’s / The LINQ: Very central and usually the busiest stop.
Boingo Station at LVCC: The absolute best way to reach the Convention Center.
Westgate: Drops you right at the legendary SuperBook.
SAHARA Las Vegas: The northernmost stop, near the STRAT.

Direct Answer: The Las Vegas Monorail stops at seven key locations along the east side of the Strip, including the MGM Grand and the Las Vegas Convention Center. Trains arrive every 4 to 8 minutes, providing a reliable alternative to the gridlock on Las Vegas Boulevard.

The Cost: Single Rides vs. Unlimited Passes

If you just want to ride it once for the view, it’s an expensive attraction. But for people who plan on moving around the city all day, the unlimited passes are where the value truly lives.

Ticket Type	Price (In-Person)	Price (Online/eTicket)
Single Ride	$6.00	$5.50
24-Hour Pass	$15.00	$13.45
2-Day Pass	$26.00	$23.75
3-Day Pass	$32.00	$29.95
7-Day Pass	$62.00	$57.50

Pro Tip: Always buy your tickets online. You get a discount, and you can simply scan the QR code on your phone at the gate—no waiting in line at the kiosks!

The Reality Check: The Good, The Bad, and The Walk

We have a love-hate relationship with the Monorail. To help you decide if it’s right for you, here is the unvarnished truth about the experience.

The Good: Why You’ll Love It

No Traffic: While Ubers are stuck on Flamingo Road, you’re flying over them at 50 mph.
The View: You get an incredible, unobstructed view of The Sphere and the back-of-house operations of the big resorts.
Air Conditioning: On a 105-degree July day, that blast of cold air on the platform is worth the ticket price alone.

The Bad: Why You Might Hate It

The Location: The stations are “tucked away.” For example, the walk from the Caesars Palace sidewalk to the Flamingo station is a solid 15-minute hike.
Limited Reach: It only serves the east side. If you want to go to Bellagio or Aria, you’ll have to walk across the Strip from the station.
Not for Groups: If you have four people, a $25 Uber is often cheaper and more convenient than buying four individual tickets.

Summary & Final Helpful Tip

The Las Vegas Monorail is a specialized tool. It’s perfect for solo travelers, conventioneers, and people who want to avoid the “exhaust fumes” of the sidewalk. But if you’re in a big group or want to stay on the west side of the Strip, it might just add extra walking to your day.

Our Best Helpful Tip: If you want the “best of both worlds,” use the Monorail for long distances (like MGM to SAHARA) but use the Free Trams for short hops. For example, you can take the Monorail to the Horseshoe, walk across to the Bellagio, and then take the free tram to the Aria. Your feet will thank you!

❓ FAQ: Is the Las Vegas Monorail Worth It?

Is it free for hotel guests?

No. Even if you are staying at an MGM or Caesars property, you must pay. There are free trams on the west side (Aria-Bellagio), but the main Monorail is a paid service.

Can I take my luggage?

Yes, but navigating long casino hallways with heavy suitcases is a nightmare. If you have more than a carry-on, take an Uber from the airport.

Does it go to the airport?

No. This is a common misconception. The furthest south it goes is the MGM Grand. You will need a taxi or rideshare to cover the last two miles to the airport.

Is it better than the Deuce bus?

The Monorail is faster and cleaner, but the Deuce bus picks you up right on the Strip sidewalk. If you want to see the sights while you ride, take the bus. If you want to get to a convention fast, take the Monorail.

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