Las Vegas, Nevada, renowned for its vibrant entertainment, casinos, and nightlife, attracts millions of visitors annually. Determining the best time to visit Las Vegas depends on factors such as weather, major events, and accommodation prices, all of which fluctuate significantly throughout the year. This guide provides a detailed month-by-month overview of Las Vegas’s desert climate, key events, and price trends to help travelers plan their trips optimally.

The city experiences a typical arid desert climate characterized by extremely hot summers, mild winters, and abundant sunshine year-round. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are generally considered the most comfortable seasons for visitors, offering moderate temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In contrast, summer months can see temperatures soaring above 97°F (36°C), often deterring daytime outdoor plans, while winter remains mild but cooler with occasional rare snowfall.

Las Vegas’s hotel prices and demand are heavily influenced by major conventions, festivals, and sporting events. During high-profile occasions such as the Consumer Electronics Show or the Electric Daisy Carnival, hotel rates and occupancy surge dramatically, often requiring early bookings and leading to significant price spikes. Conversely, periods with fewer events, especially mid-summer and parts of winter, offer some of the lowest accommodation and travel costs. Weekday stays typically provide better deals than weekends due to fluctuating demand patterns.

Visitors aiming to maximize their experience should consider balancing weather comfort, event schedules, and budget. While spring and fall deliver the most pleasant climate, summer and winter months may offer attractive pricing opportunities for flexible travelers. Awareness of the event calendar and booking strategies can help avoid inflated costs associated with peak demand, ensuring a more enjoyable and cost-effective Las Vegas visit.

Climate Overview

Las Vegas is located in a broad desert valley in southern Nevada, surrounded by mountain ranges such as the Spring Mountains to the west, the Sheep Mountain Range to the north, and the Bird Spring and McCullough Mountain ranges to the south. These geographic features significantly influence the climate by acting as barriers that limit moisture inflow, making Las Vegas one of the driest major metropolitan areas in the continental United States.

The city experiences a typical desert climate characterized by abundant sunshine and hot summer temperatures that often reach into the triple digits (°F). The warmest month is July, with average high temperatures around 97.3°F (36.3°C), while the coldest month is December, with average highs near 50°F (10°C) and lows dipping to about 37.9°F (3.3°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, especially in spring and fall, with May lows around 60°F (16°C) and occasional dips below 50°F (10°C) being rare.

Precipitation in Las Vegas is minimal, averaging only about 0.87 inches (22 mm) annually, with rain falling on approximately 8 days per year. May is among the driest months, often receiving no measurable rainfall, and only about one in four years sees about 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain during that month. During the cooler months, occasional Pacific storm systems bring some precipitation and gusty winds, while in the summer, monsoon moisture from the south can cause scattered thunderstorms primarily in July and August. These storms may produce heavy rain that leads to flash flooding in normally dry washes and low-lying areas.

Sunshine is abundant year-round, with May averaging about 88% of possible sunshine and approximately 14 hours of daylight daily. The sunniest month is August, with around 12.2 hours of sunshine per day, while December experiences the least sunshine, averaging about 7.1 hours per day. Humidity remains low throughout the year, with May averaging just 21%, contributing to the dry and arid environment typical of the Mojave Desert region.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January is the coldest month in Las Vegas, with average low temperatures around 38.5°F (3.6°C) and highs near 51.8°F (11°C). The days are relatively short, averaging 10 hours of daylight, and sunshine hours are limited to about 7.2 per day. Rainfall is moderate, with 0.67” (17mm) on average, and snowfall is minimal but possible, occurring about 0.2 days with a total of 0.04” (1mm). January also experiences the highest relative humidity at 48%, making the air feel slightly damp. Outdoor activities are less popular due to the cooler temperatures, but the city remains lively with fewer tourists than in warmer months.

February

February sees a slight warming trend, with temperatures rising marginally above January’s levels. Average snowfall is at its peak for the year, with 0.16” (4mm) accumulating over approximately 0.3 days, though snow remains a rare event. Daylight increases to 10.9 hours, and sunshine remains steady at 7.2 hours per day. Rainfall decreases slightly compared to January, maintaining dry conditions favorable for visitors who prefer cooler but less cold weather.

March

March marks the beginning of spring in Las Vegas. Temperatures rise from the low 60s°F (around 17.8°C), reaching into the 70s°F (about 21-25°C) by month’s end. Days lengthen to 12 hours with 8.8 hours of sunshine, and precipitation diminishes, with no recorded snowfall. This pleasant weather encourages a resurgence of outdoor activities such as hiking and golfing, as the intense summer heat has not yet arrived.

April

April offers mild temperatures and clear skies, with average highs climbing into the upper 70s°F (around 25°C). Sunshine increases significantly to about 11.4 hours per day, making it an ideal month for outdoor exploration. Rainfall remains low, and humidity decreases. The growing daylight and warmth create a comfortable environment for tourists and locals alike.

May

By May, Las Vegas experiences the transition to summer heat. Average temperatures reach around 80.6°F (27°C), with nighttime lows rising to about 61.7°F (16.5°C). Sunshine averages 11.9 hours daily, and rainfall remains minimal. The UV index peaks at 7, indicating the need for sun protection during extended outdoor activities. May is a popular month for visitors who want warm but not yet extreme temperatures.

June

June marks the onset of the dry summer season, with average highs reaching 93.4°F (34.1°C). Sunshine remains strong at 12.1 hours per day, and rainfall is scarce, resulting in dry and hot conditions. Outdoor activities may become less comfortable during midday, but early mornings and evenings remain suitable for exploration.

July

July is one of the hottest months in Las Vegas, with average temperatures peaking around 97.3°F (36.3°C). Sunshine hours remain high at approximately 12 hours per day, and rainfall is virtually nonexistent. The extreme heat often deters daytime outdoor activities, making indoor venues and nighttime excursions more popular during this time.

August

August holds the record for the most sunshine, averaging 12.2 hours per day. Temperatures remain very high, similar to July, with intense heat dominating the landscape. Rainfall is minimal, and the city experiences some of its longest and brightest days. While the heat may be challenging, August is still a vibrant month for visitors who can handle the temperature extremes.

September

September sees a gradual cooling, with daytime temperatures dropping to around the mid-80s°F (29°C). Sunshine decreases to about 10.3 hours per day, and nights begin to cool down, making outdoor activities more comfortable. Rainfall remains scarce, and the weather is ideal for those seeking to avoid the peak summer heat.

October

October marks the start of fall, with temperatures further declining to an average high of the low 70s°F (22°C). Daylight hours reduce to 11.3, and sunshine averages 9.5 hours daily. The weather is pleasant, with cool nights and mild days, encouraging outdoor events and tourism. Rainfall is low, and visibility remains excellent at 6 miles on average.

November

In November, temperatures continue their downward trend, with highs around the mid-50s to high 50s°F (13-15°C). Sunshine decreases to about 7.4 hours per day, and days shorten to around 10.3 hours of daylight. Rainfall remains limited, and the festive season atmosphere begins to develop, making this a quieter but charming time to visit Las Vegas.

December

December is the coldest month in terms of average low temperatures, dropping to 37.9°F (3.3°C). It also has the shortest days of the year, averaging 9 hours and 42 minutes of daylight, and the least sunshine at around 7.1 hours daily. Snowfall is rare but possible, occurring about 0.2 days with a total of 0.04” (1mm). The UV index is at its lowest, averaging a maximum of 2. Despite cooler temperatures, the city’s holiday spirit and festive events make December an appealing time for visitors who enjoy mild winter conditions.

Events: Prices and Demand

Las Vegas hotel performance jumps whenever a marquee convention, festival or championship game hits the calendar. During CES in January, Super Bowl LVIII in February, Electric Daisy Carnival in May, the Formula 1 Grand Prix in November and holiday weekends such as New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July, citywide occupancy climbs into the high 80 percent to 90 percent range and average daily rates (ADR) set national records. Outside those peaks, typical monthly occupancy falls back toward the low 80 percent level, giving flexible travelers far lower prices, especially mid-week.

Conventions and Trade Shows

• CES brings roughly 557,200 attendees each January. Despite 4,300 additional rooms in 2024, overall January occupancy still hit 78.9 percent and CES week posted a nation-leading 79.8 percent.
• LVCVA tracking shows weekend occupancy in 2023 averaged nearly 91 percent and mid-week occupancy rose 560 basis points year on year, largely because of recurring shows like World of Concrete, NAB and SEMA.
• When MINExpo coincided with Workday Rising in September 2024, citywide occupancy climbed to 83.9 percent with weekend occupancy at 90.4 percent, even though ADR softened slightly.
• Convention rates start high months in advance; the official CES housing portal warns that prices escalate as January approaches and many blocks sell out quickly.

Mega Festivals and Sports

• Super Bowl LVIII (Feb 2024) produced three of MGM Resorts’ five best revenue days ever, with weekend occupancy of 83.7 percent and a projected market-wide occupancy of 87.9. Monthly occupancy still averaged 83.9 percent.
• Electric Daisy Carnival packs more than 525,000 fans into the city each May; historical data show occupancy peaking at 97.6 percent during the festival, and in 2024 weekend occupancy still reached 93.4 percent.
• Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix (Nov 2023) drove weekend occupancy to 88.7 percent.
• Holiday weekends compress rooms in a similar way: New Year’s Eve tops 95 percent occupancy with about 343,000 visitors expected, while the Fourth of July weekend reaches roughly 93 percent on its peak night.

Price Curve and Booking Strategy

• During ordinary weeks, Las Vegas hotels discount months out and raise rates sharply in the last two weeks before arrival.
• Mega-events invert this curve: operators post premium prices as soon as dates are announced, then trim rates late if pickup is softer than expected, as seen when some resorts cut Super Bowl prices in late January.

With room inventory now around 151,000 after closures like the Tropicana, even modest visitor gains push occupancy higher, so early booking or mid-week travel remains the best way to dodge event-driven surcharges.

Price Trends Throughout the Year

Hotel prices in Las Vegas fluctuate considerably throughout the year, influenced by seasonal demand, special events, and day-of-week variations. Understanding these patterns can help travelers find the best deals on accommodations.

Seasonal and Event-Driven Price Fluctuations

Hotel rates in Las Vegas tend to be lower during certain months when there are fewer conventions and major events, despite tourism generally peaking in summer. For example, June through August often sees relatively affordable hotel prices due to a lull in large-scale events, except for the Fourth of July holiday. Similarly, December and January (outside of New Year’s festivities) offer some of the lowest rates of the year, as fewer tourists visit after the holiday season. However, some exceptions exist, such as the Consumer Electronics Show in January, which drives prices up temporarily due to increased demand.

Throughout the year, several major conventions and trade shows significantly impact hotel prices. Events like the Consumer Electronics Show, the SHOT Show, the World of Concrete trade show, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention, and spring break festivities lead to short-term price spikes and reduced availability. February and March, for instance, see moderate price increases related to events like the Super Bowl weekend and March Madness, as well as industry expos that attract large crowds.

Weekday vs. Weekend Pricing

A notable and consistent trend in Las Vegas hotel pricing is the difference between weekday and weekend rates. Hotels commonly offer rates that are about 50% cheaper on weekdays compared to weekends, regardless of the hotel’s luxury tier. Travelers who plan to stay during the week or extend weekend stays to include weekdays can often secure substantially better deals.

Impact of Booking Timing on Prices

Hotel prices generally rise as the stay date approaches, especially in popular destinations. However, in Las Vegas, prices shown more than 90 days in advance tend to be unusually high and not representative of actual rates due to hotels releasing more realistic prices closer to the booking window. As the date nears, prices can fluctuate dynamically, with steep increases often occurring in the two weeks before arrival during high-demand periods. Conversely, during some major events or slower periods, prices may drop closer to the stay date to fill rooms.

Best Time to Visit Based on Weather

Las Vegas experiences a desert climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, which significantly influences the best time to visit based on weather conditions. Spring, particularly from March to May, is widely regarded as the ideal period for a Las Vegas vacation due to its moderate temperatures and pleasant weather. During these months, visitors can enjoy warm days without the extreme heat of summer, making outdoor activities and events more comfortable.

Fall, spanning from September to November, is another favorable season to visit. Similar to spring, the weather is moderate with cooler temperatures compared to the scorching summer months, providing an enjoyable climate for sightseeing and outdoor entertainment. December is typically the cloudiest and coolest month in Las Vegas, offering a different but milder experience for travelers who prefer lower temperatures. In contrast, summer months—June, July, and August—are notably hot, often reaching temperatures that may be uncomfortable for some visitors. However, these months can also offer more affordable travel deals due to decreased convention activity and fewer major events. Overall, those prioritizing weather comfort tend to prefer spring and fall for visiting Las Vegas, while those seeking budget-friendly options might consider summer or the winter holiday season.

Best Time to Visit Based on Events

Las Vegas hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, making certain months particularly attractive for visitors seeking entertainment and unique experiences. Planning a trip around these events can enhance a visit, but it also requires early booking due to high demand for accommodations and tickets.

One of the most notable events is the Rise Lantern Festival, held annually in October. This deeply personal and visually stunning festival features thousands of biodegradable lanterns released into the night sky over the Jean Dry Lake Bed. Attendees are encouraged to write meaningful messages on their lanterns, and a cleanup crew ensures the desert landscape is preserved afterward. This event offers a magical experience that outshines even the famous Las Vegas Strip lights.

Another major highlight is the IHeartRadio Music Festival, typically scheduled in the fall at the T-Mobile Arena. Known for its star-studded lineups, this multi-genre festival has featured artists such as Billie Eilish, Coldplay, Dua Lipa, and Weezer. It is considered one of the largest music festivals globally and attracts music fans eager to see both established and emerging talent. Helldorado Days, also known as Las Vegas Days, celebrates the city’s western heritage each fall in Downtown Las Vegas. The festival includes rodeos, a parade with a unique reverse format, wild west gunfight reenactments, and fashion shows. The rodeo and parade are particularly popular among visitors looking to experience a taste of the Old West.

In the spring and early summer, events like Memorial Day Weekend, Cinco de Mayo, and the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) draw massive crowds, impacting prices and availability. These occasions kick off the summer season with lively pool parties, concerts, and nightlife attractions, making this period highly appealing to those seeking vibrant social scenes.

For a more laid-back experience, free nightly live music and the iconic Fremont Street Concerts provide entertainment year-round, with special highlights during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Visitors aiming to attend these popular events should plan and book well in advance, as hotels fill up quickly and prices tend to surge. Mid-week arrivals might offer better accommodation deals compared to weekend stays, and securing tickets early is essential due to frequent sellouts.

Best Time to Visit Based on Prices

The cheapest months to visit Las Vegas are generally December, January, July, and August. Prices tend to drop significantly in mid-December, just before the holiday season, and again in January after New Year’s. These periods offer some of the most affordable travel options for both flights and accommodations.

While tourism usually peaks during the summer months, June, July, and August also present great deals. This is primarily because fewer conventions and major events are scheduled during these months, except for the Fourth of July holiday. The scarcity of large-scale events helps keep hotel and flight prices lower compared to other times of the year.

The timing of special events such as festivals, conventions, and major sporting occasions heavily influences price fluctuations. These events can significantly increase demand, causing hotel rates to rise by hundreds of dollars across the city. To secure the best prices, travelers are advised to avoid booking trips that coincide with major conventions or popular events. Checking event calendars or using hotel rate calculators can help identify high-cost dates to avoid.

Additionally, flights and hotel stays are typically cheaper during weekdays (Sunday through Thursday) compared to weekends (Friday and Saturday), further optimizing cost savings for visitors. The distance between the traveler’s departure point and Las Vegas also affects airfare, with longer routes generally costing more—for instance, flights from San Francisco may be around $100, whereas flights from New York can cost approximately $400.

Traveler Tips

When planning a trip to Las Vegas, several practical considerations can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, understanding the location of your events and accommodations is crucial. Traffic congestion, especially along Las Vegas Boulevard, can be significant, so staying at a hotel on or near the Strip is advisable if your activities are centered there. This also facilitates easy access to the tram system that runs the length of the Strip, making transportation more convenient. For events downtown, staying in the nearby area can similarly reduce travel time and hassle.

Booking accommodations early is highly recommended, as hotels and resorts tend to fill up quickly during major events and festivals. Prices often surge during these periods, so securing your reservations well in advance can not only guarantee availability but may also result in better deals. Similarly, purchasing event tickets as soon as they become available is important because many popular Las Vegas shows and festivals sell out fast.

Attending outdoor events requires additional preparation. Since Las Vegas is known for its desert climate, sun protection is essential. Applying sunscreen, wearing appropriate clothing, and staying hydrated are key to a comfortable experience. Checking event policies regarding bringing your own sunscreen and water is also helpful, as some venues may have restrictions or provide these amenities for sale on site.

Travelers looking to stretch their budget can benefit from subscribing to travel newsletters that offer sales, discounts, and insider tips from experienced budget travelers.

Finally, keeping abreast of shifting airline routes, regional economic changes, and evolving traveler preferences can provide insight into the best times to visit and how to navigate the dynamic tourism landscape of Las Vegas. This awareness is especially important as the city continues to adapt post-pandemic and works toward a full recovery in international travel by 2026.