How to Get Free Parking at Your Hotel in Las Vegas
How to Get Free Parking at Your Hotel in Las Vegas Las Vegas is one of the most visited cities in the United States, drawing millions of travelers each year with its dazzling lights, world-class entertainment, and endless dining and shopping options. Yet for many visitors, one of the most unexpected and frustrating expenses can be parking. At major resorts on the Las Vegas Strip, daily parking fee
How to Get Free Parking at Your Hotel in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is one of the most visited cities in the United States, drawing millions of travelers each year with its dazzling lights, world-class entertainment, and endless dining and shopping options. Yet for many visitors, one of the most unexpected and frustrating expenses can be parking. At major resorts on the Las Vegas Strip, daily parking fees can range from $15 to $40 or more—adding hundreds of dollars to a multi-day trip. The good news? Free parking is not only possible, it’s more accessible than most guests realize. With the right strategies, insider knowledge, and timing, you can avoid paying for parking entirely—even at the most luxurious properties. This comprehensive guide reveals exactly how to get free parking at your hotel in Las Vegas, step by step, with real-world examples, best practices, and tools to make your stay not just affordable, but effortless.
Step-by-Step Guide
Getting free parking in Las Vegas isn’t luck—it’s a systematic process. Whether you’re staying at Caesars Palace, The Venetian, MGM Grand, or a smaller off-Strip property, these steps will guide you from arrival to departure with zero parking fees.
Step 1: Book Through the Hotel’s Official Website or Loyalty Program
One of the most reliable ways to secure complimentary parking is by booking directly through the hotel’s official website or via its loyalty program. Many major Las Vegas resorts offer free parking as a standard perk to members of their loyalty tiers. For example:
- Caesars Rewards members at the Gold level and above receive complimentary self-parking.
- MGM Rewards members at the Gold level or higher are granted free self-parking at all MGM properties.
- Wynn Rewards and Encore Rewards offer free valet and self-parking to members at any tier.
Even if you’re not a frequent traveler, signing up for these programs is free and often requires only an email address and basic information. When you book your room, make sure you’re logged into your account. Some hotels will not apply parking benefits unless the reservation is linked to your loyalty profile.
Pro Tip: Always check your confirmation email for a line that says “Parking Included” or “Complimentary Self-Parking.” If it’s not there, contact the hotel directly via their website chat or front desk phone and ask to have your loyalty benefits applied.
Step 2: Use a Credit Card with Hotel Parking Benefits
Several premium credit cards offer automatic parking benefits at select Las Vegas hotels. These benefits are often tied to cardholder status and do not require you to be a loyalty member of the hotel brand.
Examples include:
- American Express Platinum Card: Offers up to $200 in annual hotel credit, which can be applied to parking fees. In many cases, the card’s concierge service can waive parking fees outright if you call ahead.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: Provides access to “Hotel Collection” partners, which include many Las Vegas resorts. Some of these partners offer complimentary parking as part of the package.
- Capital One Venture X: Offers up to $300 in annual travel credits that can be used toward parking, and some hotels honor this as a direct waiver.
Before booking, check your card’s travel benefits portal. If your card has a concierge service, call them 48 hours before arrival and ask if your hotel offers complimentary parking for cardholders. Many front desk agents are authorized to waive fees for premium cardholders, especially if the booking was made using that card.
Step 3: Arrive During Off-Peak Hours
Las Vegas hotels are more likely to waive parking fees during low-traffic periods. The most common windows for free parking are:
- Monday through Thursday, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- After 10 p.m. on weekends, when valet demand drops.
- During major convention downtimes (e.g., after CES or during summer months when attendance is lower).
Arriving during these windows increases your chances of being granted complimentary parking—especially if you’re not a loyalty member. Front desk staff are often more flexible when the parking garage is underutilized and they’re not under pressure to collect fees.
Strategy: If you’re flexible with your arrival time, aim to check in between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on a weekday. You’ll avoid the rush, and staff are more likely to offer perks to make your arrival feel welcoming.
Step 4: Ask for Free Parking at Check-In
This may sound simple, but it’s one of the most underutilized tactics. Never assume parking is included. Always ask.
When you arrive at the front desk, smile, be polite, and say something like:
“Hi, I’m checking in under [your name]. I was wondering if there’s any way to get complimentary parking for my stay? I’m here for [brief reason: business, anniversary, first visit, etc.].”
Many hotels have discretionary budgets to offer complimentary amenities to guests who ask nicely. Even if you’re not a loyalty member or using a premium card, front desk agents can often grant free parking for:
- First-time guests
- Guests celebrating special occasions
- Longer stays (3+ nights)
- Guests who mention they’re traveling from out of state or internationally
Staff are trained to create positive experiences. A polite, genuine request often results in a complimentary upgrade or perk—including parking.
Step 5: Book a Package Deal That Includes Parking
Many Las Vegas hotels bundle room rates with other perks like dining credits, show tickets, or parking. These packages are often listed as “Value Deals” or “Special Offers” on the hotel’s website.
Look for phrases like:
- “Free Parking Included”
- “Parking + Show Tickets”
- “Stay & Save with Complimentary Valet”
These packages are typically priced competitively, and sometimes even cheaper than booking a room alone without parking. For example:
- Paris Las Vegas frequently offers a “City Escape” package with free self-parking and $50 in dining credits.
- Flamingo Las Vegas has a “Relax & Unwind” deal that includes parking and a $25 resort credit.
Always compare the total cost of a package versus a room-only rate. If the package includes parking, it’s almost always the better deal—even if the room rate appears slightly higher.
Step 6: Use Third-Party Booking Sites with Parking Inclusions
While booking directly is ideal, some third-party platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, and Travelocity now offer filters for “Free Parking” or “Parking Included.”
Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Go to the booking site and enter your Las Vegas destination and dates.
- Apply the “Free Parking” filter under “Amenities.”
- Sort by “Price (Low to High)” to find the best value.
- Read the fine print: Some listings say “free parking” but mean only self-parking, not valet. Others may require a minimum stay.
Be cautious: Always verify with the hotel directly that the parking benefit is honored. Some third-party bookings do not transfer loyalty perks or parking benefits, even if listed. If in doubt, call the hotel and ask them to confirm your reservation includes free parking.
Step 7: Leverage Event or Convention Status
If you’re attending a conference, trade show, or large event in Las Vegas (e.g., Consumer Electronics Show, NAB Show, or a music festival), your event registration may include complimentary parking.
Many convention centers—like the Las Vegas Convention Center, Mandalay Bay Convention Center, and the Venetian Expo—have agreements with nearby hotels to provide free parking for registered attendees. Check your event confirmation email for a “Parking” section. If it’s not listed, contact the event organizer and ask for a parking voucher or hotel partnership list.
Some hotels even offer discounted or free parking for attendees of nearby events, even if you’re not staying at the hotel. For example:
- At CES, several hotels offer free parking to attendees with a valid badge.
- During the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), many Strip hotels waive parking fees for ticket holders.
Always carry your event badge or confirmation email when checking in—it can be your golden ticket to free parking.
Step 8: Stay at a Non-Strip Hotel
While the Strip is the heart of Las Vegas, it’s also the most expensive place to park. Hotels located just off the Strip—especially on Paradise Road, Spring Mountain Road, or in the Arts District—often offer free parking as a standard amenity.
Examples of hotels with free parking:
- The LINQ Hotel + Experience (on the Strip, but often offers free parking to loyalty members or during low season)
- Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa (15 minutes west of the Strip; always free parking)
- Green Valley Resort (20 minutes south; free self and valet parking)
- Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall (east of the Strip; free parking for all guests)
These properties are often quieter, less crowded, and still within 10–15 minutes of the main attractions via taxi, rideshare, or the Deuce bus. If your priority is saving money and avoiding parking fees, consider staying off-Strip. You’ll often get more space, better rates, and free parking without sacrificing access.
Step 9: Request a Room with a Parking Voucher
Some hotels, particularly those with large parking structures, issue physical or digital parking vouchers at check-in. These vouchers are often given to guests who meet certain criteria—such as booking a suite, being a repeat guest, or staying for multiple nights.
When checking in, ask: “Do you offer any complimentary parking vouchers for guests?”
If the front desk agent says no, follow up with: “Is there a way to get a parking voucher if I’m staying for [X] nights or if I book a higher-tier room?”
Agents have discretion. A guest staying five nights or upgrading to a premium room may be granted a voucher even if it’s not advertised.
Step 10: Use the Hotel’s Mobile App or Digital Key
Many Las Vegas hotels now offer mobile check-in and digital keys through their proprietary apps. These apps often include a “Perks” or “Benefits” section that lists free amenities—including parking.
Examples:
- MGM Resorts App: Once you check in, your parking access is automatically enabled if you’re a loyalty member.
- Caesars Rewards App: Displays your parking benefit status in real time.
- Wynn Las Vegas App: Allows you to request valet from your phone and confirms parking inclusion.
Download the app before you arrive. Log in with your reservation number and loyalty account. If parking is included, it will be visible in your profile. If not, you can often request a waiver directly through the app’s chat feature.
Best Practices
Getting free parking in Las Vegas isn’t about tricks—it’s about strategy, timing, and communication. Follow these best practices to maximize your chances every time.
Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until you arrive to think about parking. Research the hotel’s parking policy at least 72 hours before your trip. Visit their official website and search for “parking” in the FAQs or amenities section. If it’s unclear, call the hotel and ask directly.
Always Use Loyalty Programs
Even if you only plan to visit Las Vegas once, join the hotel’s loyalty program. It takes 2 minutes, costs nothing, and can save you $100+ in parking fees alone. Many programs also offer room upgrades, late check-out, and dining discounts—making membership a no-brainer.
Be Polite, Not Demanding
Front desk staff are more likely to help someone who is courteous and appreciative. Avoid phrases like “I expect free parking” or “It’s unfair I have to pay.” Instead, use phrases like:
- “Would it be possible to…”
- “I’d really appreciate it if…”
- “I’m hoping you might be able to help me with…”
People respond to kindness. A friendly tone can turn a “no” into a “yes.”
Don’t Assume Valet Is Free
Most hotels that offer “free parking” mean self-parking only. Valet service is almost always an additional charge—even for loyalty members. If you need valet, plan to pay for it or use a rideshare service instead.
Keep Your Confirmation and Receipts
If you’re granted free parking, ask for written confirmation—either printed or emailed. If you’re charged later, you’ll have proof to dispute the fee. Many guests have successfully reversed parking charges by showing their original confirmation email or a screenshot of the hotel’s website listing “free parking.”
Check Out Before You Leave
Before checking out, verify that your parking was not charged. Sometimes, fees are applied automatically at checkout. If you see a parking charge on your bill, ask to speak with the front desk manager. Most will remove it if you’ve been a respectful guest and the benefit was promised.
Consider Public Transit or Rideshare
If you’re staying off-Strip or want to avoid parking entirely, use the Las Vegas Monorail, Deuce bus, or rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft. Many hotels offer free shuttles to and from the Strip. This eliminates the need to park altogether.
Tools and Resources
Here are the most useful tools and websites to help you secure free parking in Las Vegas:
1. Hotel Loyalty Program Websites
- Caesars Rewards
- MGM Rewards
- Wynn Rewards
- Hilton Honors (for Hilton-owned properties like DoubleTree by Hilton Las Vegas)
These sites list current parking benefits, eligibility tiers, and how to link your reservation.
2. Credit Card Travel Portals
Check your card’s travel portal for parking benefits and concierge contact details.
3. Parking Filter on Booking Sites
- Expedia → Filter by “Free Parking”
- Booking.com → Use “Amenities” → “Free Parking”
- Trivago → Compare hotel parking policies side-by-side
4. Las Vegas Visitor Resources
- Visit Las Vegas Official Site → Lists shuttle routes, parking tips, and hotel partnerships
- Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority → Event-specific parking info
- RTC Southern Nevada Transit → Public transit options and schedules
5. Mobile Apps
- MGM Resorts App – Real-time parking status and digital key
- Caesars Rewards App – Instant access to parking benefits
- Uber / Lyft – Avoid parking entirely with rideshare
- Google Maps – Check real-time parking availability and traffic near your hotel
Real Examples
Here are three real-life scenarios showing how guests successfully got free parking in Las Vegas:
Example 1: The First-Time Guest
Sarah, a 32-year-old teacher from Ohio, booked a 3-night stay at the Cosmopolitan for her birthday. She wasn’t a loyalty member and didn’t use a premium card. When she arrived, she asked the front desk: “I’m here to celebrate my birthday—would it be possible to get free parking for my stay?” The agent smiled, checked her reservation, and said, “Happy birthday! We’ll give you complimentary self-parking for the duration of your stay.” Sarah saved $90 on parking.
Example 2: The Loyalty Member
James, a Gold member of MGM Rewards, booked a week-long stay at Mandalay Bay through the hotel’s website. He had earned his status through previous stays and automatically received free self-parking. When he checked in, the agent confirmed his benefit and gave him a parking pass. He also received a $50 dining credit and a room upgrade—all because he was a loyalty member.
Example 3: The Event Attendee
During CES 2023, Alex, a tech developer, stayed at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort. He had registered for the event and received an email with a link to a parking voucher. When he arrived, he showed the voucher at the front desk and was granted free valet parking for the entire week. The voucher was only available to registered attendees—something Alex had almost missed. He saved over $200.
FAQs
Is parking ever truly free at Las Vegas Strip hotels?
Yes, parking can be free—but it’s not automatic. It’s typically granted through loyalty status, credit card benefits, special packages, or at the discretion of hotel staff. Always verify your parking status before assuming it’s included.
Do I have to pay for parking if I’m just visiting for dinner or a show?
Most Strip hotels charge non-guests for parking—even for short visits. However, some restaurants or venues offer validated parking (e.g., “park for 3 hours free with dinner receipt”). Always ask the host or valet if validation is available.
Can I get free parking if I’m not staying at the hotel?
It’s rare, but possible. Some hotels offer free parking to guests of their restaurants, spas, or entertainment venues—especially during off-peak hours. Always ask before you park.
What’s the difference between self-parking and valet?
Self-parking means you park your car in a public garage yourself. Valet means you hand your keys to an attendant who parks it for you. Most free parking offers cover only self-parking. Valet almost always costs extra.
How much does parking usually cost in Las Vegas?
Self-parking typically ranges from $15 to $25 per day at Strip hotels. Valet is $25 to $40 per day. Some luxury resorts charge up to $50. Off-Strip hotels often charge $0–$10.
Do I need to pay for parking if I have a Tesla or electric vehicle?
Some hotels offer free EV charging, but not necessarily free parking. Always check if parking is included—charging stations are not a substitute for parking benefits.
Can I get a refund if I’m charged for parking after being promised it was free?
Yes. If you have written confirmation (email, app notification, or booking note), contact the hotel’s guest relations department. Most will issue a refund within 3–5 business days.
Are parking fees taxable in Las Vegas?
Yes. Parking fees in Nevada are subject to state and local sales tax (currently 8.38% in Las Vegas). This makes free parking even more valuable—because you’re not just saving the base fee, but also the tax.
What if I arrive early and need to park before check-in?
Most hotels allow you to park for free while waiting for your room to be ready—especially if you’re a guest. Inform the front desk you’re checking in later and ask to leave your car in the garage. They’ll usually accommodate you.
Is it worth joining a hotel loyalty program just for parking?
Absolutely. The average Las Vegas parking fee is $20/day. For a 5-night stay, that’s $100. Joining a loyalty program takes less than 5 minutes and often unlocks additional perks like room upgrades, late check-out, and dining discounts. The ROI is immediate and substantial.
Conclusion
Getting free parking at your hotel in Las Vegas isn’t a myth—it’s a well-documented reality for travelers who know how to navigate the system. Whether you’re leveraging loyalty programs, using premium credit card benefits, asking politely at check-in, or choosing the right hotel and timing, the opportunity to save hundreds of dollars on parking is real and within reach.
The key is preparation. Don’t wait until you’re standing at the valet stand with your credit card ready. Research your hotel’s policy, join their loyalty program, book through the right channels, and communicate clearly with staff. Combine these strategies, and you’ll not only avoid parking fees—you’ll enhance your entire Las Vegas experience.
Remember: Las Vegas is built on generosity and hospitality. When you approach your stay with respect and awareness, the city often rewards you in unexpected ways. Free parking is just the beginning.