How to Use the Las Vegas Monorail Efficiently in Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Monorail is more than just a novelty transit system—it’s a vital artery connecting key destinations along the Las Vegas Strip, offering a fast, reliable, and traffic-free alternative to taxis, rideshares, and walking under the desert sun. For tourists and locals alike, mastering its use can save hours of time, reduce transportation costs, and enhance the overall experience of exploring one of the world’s most iconic destinations. Unlike traditional transit systems that require transfers or navigate congested streets, the Monorail runs elevated above the Strip, bypassing traffic entirely and providing direct access to major hotels, casinos, convention centers, and entertainment venues. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of how to use the Las Vegas Monorail efficiently, from purchasing tickets to navigating peak hours and maximizing route coverage. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, understanding the Monorail’s capabilities and limitations will transform how you move through Las Vegas.

Step-by-Step Guide

Using the Las Vegas Monorail efficiently begins with understanding its structure, operation, and access points. Follow this detailed sequence to navigate the system with confidence and minimal friction.

1. Identify the Monorail Stations Along the Strip

The Las Vegas Monorail operates along a 3.9-mile elevated track parallel to the west side of the Las Vegas Strip. It serves seven stations, each located directly adjacent to major resorts and attractions:

• SAHARA Las Vegas – The northernmost station, ideal for guests staying at or visiting the SAHARA, or connecting to the Las Vegas Convention Center via shuttle.
• Las Vegas Convention Center – Essential for attendees of major trade shows and conferences, including CES and NAB Show.
• Westgate Las Vegas – Serves the Westgate Resort and nearby properties like the Las Vegas Premium Outlets North.
• Harrah’s / The LINQ – A major hub connecting to the High Roller observation wheel, The LINQ Promenade, and numerous dining and nightlife options.
• Horseshoe / Bally’s – Provides access to Bally’s, Horseshoe, and the historic Flamingo area.
• Caesars Palace – One of the busiest stops, linking to Caesars Palace, The Forum Shops, and the Fashion Show Mall.
• MGM Grand – The southern terminus, serving the massive MGM Grand complex, its convention center, and the nearby T-Mobile Arena.

Before boarding, confirm your destination station using the official Monorail map available on the Las Vegas Monorail website or at station kiosks. Note that the Monorail does not serve the northern end of the Strip (e.g., Wynn, Encore, or The Cosmopolitan) or the southern end beyond MGM Grand (e.g., Planet Hollywood, Resorts World). For those areas, you’ll need to supplement your journey with shuttles, rideshares, or walking.

2. Purchase Your Ticket or Pass

Ticketing is entirely cashless and self-service. There are three primary fare options:

• Single Ride Ticket – $5 per person, valid for one ride between any two stations. No transfers or round trips included.
• 24-Hour Pass – $13 per person, unlimited rides within 24 hours of first use.
• 3-Day Pass – $28 per person, unlimited rides for 72 hours.

Passes are significantly more cost-effective if you plan to make multiple trips. For example, three single rides cost $15—more than the 24-hour pass. If you’re staying three or more days and plan to use the Monorail at least twice daily, the 3-day pass offers the best value.

Payment is accepted via credit/debit cards and Apple Pay/Google Pay at automated kiosks located at every station. Cash is not accepted. Kiosks are intuitive and available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, and French. Avoid purchasing tickets from third-party vendors or hotels unless they offer a verified discount—most do not.

3. Navigate to the Station Entrance

Each station has clearly marked entrances, often integrated into the resort’s main lobby or adjacent walkways. For example:

• At Caesars Palace, follow signs for “Monorail” near the Forum Shops entrance.
• At MGM Grand, the entrance is located just outside the main casino floor near the T-Mobile Arena side.
• At Harrah’s / The LINQ, the station is directly connected to the Promenade via a covered walkway.

Most stations have escalators and elevators for accessibility. If you have mobility concerns, look for the ADA-compliant access points marked with the international symbol. The Monorail is fully wheelchair-accessible, with level boarding and designated spaces on each train.

4. Board the Train and Confirm Your Destination

Trains arrive every 4 to 8 minutes during peak hours (10 a.m.–midnight) and every 10 to 15 minutes during off-peak hours (early morning and late night). There is no reserved seating or assigned cars—boarding is first-come, first-served.

Before boarding, check the digital display above the platform, which shows the next train’s destination (e.g., “MGM Grand” or “SAHARA Las Vegas”). The Monorail runs in both directions—northbound and southbound—so ensure you board the train heading toward your desired station. If you’re unsure, ask a station attendant or consult the real-time tracker on the official app.

Once onboard, remain near the doors if you’re exiting soon. Announcements are made in English and Spanish, and station names are displayed on overhead screens. There is no need to tap out or validate your ticket upon exit—your pass or single ride is valid for the entire journey.

5. Transfer Between Stations and Connect to Other Transit

The Monorail is designed for point-to-point travel along the Strip. However, you can connect to other services at select stations:

• At Las Vegas Convention Center, take the free Convention Center shuttle (Route 108) to the West Hall or North Hall, or catch a shuttle to the Las Vegas Airport (LAS) via the RTC Transit system.
• At Westgate, use the free shuttle to the Las Vegas Premium Outlets North, located about 1.5 miles away.
• At SAHARA, walk 5 minutes to the RTC Deuce bus route, which runs the entire length of the Strip and connects to downtown Las Vegas.

For guests staying at resorts not directly on the Monorail route (e.g., Wynn, Bellagio, Venetian), use the free resort shuttles to reach the nearest Monorail station. For example, Bellagio offers a complimentary shuttle to Caesars Palace every 15–20 minutes.

6. Exit and Navigate to Your Destination

When approaching your station, prepare to exit as the train slows. The doors open automatically on both sides. Exit the platform via escalators, stairs, or elevators, then follow signs to the resort or attraction. Most stations have clear directional signage to major hotels, shopping areas, and dining venues.

At busy stations like Caesars Palace and MGM Grand, crowds can be heavy during evening hours. Allow extra time to exit and navigate through crowds. If you’re heading to a specific restaurant or show, use the resort’s mobile app or ask a concierge for the fastest route from the Monorail exit.

Best Practices

Efficiency on the Las Vegas Monorail isn’t just about knowing the schedule—it’s about anticipating crowds, timing your trips, and leveraging the system’s strengths. These best practices will help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize your time.

1. Avoid Peak Hours When Possible

While the Monorail runs frequently, the busiest times are:

• 11 a.m.–3 p.m. – Midday crowds from tourists heading to shows, pools, or shopping.
• 7 p.m.–11 p.m. – Evening rush as guests travel between dinner, shows, and nightclubs.

If your schedule allows, plan key trips during off-peak hours (e.g., 9 a.m., 4 p.m., or after midnight). Trains are less crowded, boarding is faster, and you’re more likely to secure a seat.

2. Use the 24-Hour or 3-Day Pass for Maximum Value

Many visitors buy single tickets out of convenience, not realizing how quickly the cost adds up. If you plan to use the Monorail more than twice in a day, the 24-hour pass pays for itself. For multi-day stays, the 3-day pass is a no-brainer. Even if you only ride three times a day for three days, you’ll save over $20 compared to single tickets.

Tip: Purchase your pass at the first station you visit—don’t wait until you’ve already taken a few single rides. You can activate your pass at any kiosk, and the timer starts the moment you first scan it.

3. Plan Your Route in Advance

Don’t rely on guesswork. Use the official Las Vegas Monorail app or website to map your journey. The app includes real-time train tracking, station maps, and estimated travel times between stops. For example:

• From MGM Grand to Caesars Palace: 3 stops, approximately 12 minutes.
• From Harrah’s to Westgate: 3 stops, approximately 15 minutes.

Walking between these same locations can take 25–40 minutes, depending on crowds and weather. The Monorail cuts that time by more than half.

4. Bring a Portable Charger and Mobile Data

While stations have Wi-Fi, it’s often unreliable. Ensure your phone is charged and your data plan is active so you can access the Monorail app, check real-time arrivals, or use Google Maps for walking directions from the station to your final destination.

5. Use the Monorail for Show Transfers

Many shows at Caesars Palace, MGM Grand, and The LINQ end between 10 p.m. and midnight. Instead of waiting in long taxi lines, use the Monorail to return to your hotel. Trains continue running until 2 a.m. on weekends and midnight on weekdays. You’ll avoid $15–$30 rideshare fees and arrive faster than walking through crowded sidewalks.

6. Avoid the “Tourist Trap” of Overusing the Monorail

While convenient, the Monorail isn’t always the fastest option. For example:

• Walking from Caesars Palace to Horseshoe takes 5 minutes—faster than waiting for a train.
• From Harrah’s to The LINQ, it’s a 2-minute walk through the Promenade.

Use the Monorail for longer distances (3+ stops) or when you’re tired, carrying bags, or dealing with extreme heat. For short hops, walking is often more efficient.

7. Stay Aware of Seasonal Changes

During major events like CES (January), Super Bowl weekend, or New Year’s Eve, the Monorail operates on extended hours and increased frequency. Check the official website before your trip. Conversely, during slower months (e.g., September–October), service may be reduced after midnight.

Tools and Resources

Several digital and physical tools can enhance your Monorail experience. Leveraging these resources ensures you’re never left guessing or waiting unnecessarily.

1. Official Las Vegas Monorail App

Available on iOS and Android, the official app is your most reliable companion. Features include:

• Real-time train locations and arrival times
• Interactive station map with exit directions
• Fare calculator to compare ticket options
• Service alerts and schedule changes
• Integration with Google Maps for multi-modal routing

Download the app before you arrive. It requires no account creation and works offline for maps.

2. Las Vegas Monorail Website

The official website (lasvegasmonorail.com) offers:

• Full route map and station details
• Operating hours and holiday schedules
• Accessibility information
• Group and corporate ticket options

It’s especially useful for planning ahead if you’re attending a convention or have a fixed itinerary.

3. Google Maps and Apple Maps

Both apps now include Monorail as a transit option. When planning a route from “Wynn Las Vegas” to “MGM Grand,” Google Maps will suggest taking a shuttle to Caesars Palace, then the Monorail to MGM Grand. This is invaluable for travelers unfamiliar with the layout.

Tip: Enable “Transit” mode and check for real-time updates. Sometimes, Google Maps will suggest a faster walking route than the Monorail—always compare options.

4. Station Kiosks and Printed Maps

Each station has kiosks with printed maps, fare charts, and emergency contact information. While digital tools are preferred, having a physical map is helpful if your phone dies or you’re in an area with poor signal.

5. Resort Concierge Services

Many hotels have concierge desks with Monorail guides and pre-printed itineraries. Ask for a “Monorail Route Guide” when checking in. They often include tips like “Best way to get from MGM Grand to Caesars during a show” or “Where to catch the free shuttle to the Convention Center.”

6. Social Media and Travel Forums

Follow the official @LVMonorail account on Instagram and Twitter for service updates, promotional offers, and crowd alerts. Reddit threads on r/vegas and travel blogs like The Points Guy often feature user-submitted tips on avoiding delays or finding the quietest platform.

Real Examples

Understanding how others use the Monorail efficiently brings theory to life. Here are three real-world scenarios based on actual traveler experiences.

Example 1: The First-Time Visitor with a 3-Day Itinerary

Jessica, a tourist from Chicago, stays at the MGM Grand for three nights. She plans to attend a concert at T-Mobile Arena, shop at The Forum Shops, and visit the High Roller.

• Day 1: Arrives at 3 p.m. She buys a 3-day pass at the MGM Grand kiosk. Takes the Monorail to Caesars Palace to shop and have dinner at Giada. Returns to MGM Grand via Monorail at 10:30 p.m.
• Day 2: Attends CES at the Convention Center. Takes the Monorail to the Las Vegas Convention Center station. Uses the free shuttle to reach the West Hall. Returns via Monorail to Harrah’s for dinner, then walks to her hotel.
• Day 3: Visits the High Roller at The LINQ. Walks from MGM Grand to Harrah’s (10 minutes), takes the Monorail one stop to The LINQ. Returns to MGM Grand after sunset.

Result: Jessica took 8 Monorail trips over three days. Without the 3-day pass, she would have spent $40 on single tickets. She saved $12 and avoided 4 hours of walking and 3 rideshare trips.

Example 2: The Business Traveler with a Tight Schedule

David, a tech executive, has a 12-hour layover between meetings at the Las Vegas Convention Center and a flight departing at 11 p.m.

• Arrives at 8 a.m. at the Convention Center station. Uses the Monorail to Caesars Palace to grab coffee and a quick breakfast.
• At 10 a.m., returns to the Convention Center for his first meeting.
• After lunch, takes the Monorail to Harrah’s for a 30-minute nap in the lounge.
• At 5 p.m., rides to MGM Grand to use the gym.
• At 8 p.m., returns to the Convention Center station to catch a shuttle to the airport.

Result: David completed 5 Monorail trips in 12 hours, avoiding traffic and saving over $75 in rideshare fees. He stayed refreshed, on time, and stress-free.

Example 3: The Family with Young Children

The Martinez family (parents + two kids under 10) stays at Westgate and wants to see the Bellagio Fountains without walking in 100°F heat.

• They purchase a 24-hour pass at Westgate station.
• Take the Monorail to Caesars Palace, then walk 8 minutes to the Bellagio Fountains.
• After the show, ride the Monorail back to Harrah’s for ice cream at the Baskin-Robbins inside The LINQ.
• Return to Westgate via Monorail.

Result: The family saved over 2 miles of walking per trip. The kids enjoyed the elevated view and air-conditioned train. They used the pass for 4 round trips—saving $30 compared to single tickets and avoiding the cost of a rental car or shuttle.

FAQs

Can I use the Las Vegas Monorail to get to the airport?

No, the Monorail does not connect directly to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). However, you can take the Monorail to the Las Vegas Convention Center station and transfer to the RTC Route 108 shuttle, which runs to the airport every 15–20 minutes. The full journey takes about 25–35 minutes.

Is the Monorail wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All stations and trains are fully ADA-compliant with elevators, level boarding, and designated wheelchair spaces. Service animals are permitted.

Do children need tickets?

Children under 5 ride free with a paying adult. Children aged 5–17 receive a discounted fare of $3 per ride or $7 for a 24-hour pass. Proof of age may be requested.

Can I bring food or drinks on the Monorail?

Yes, but consumption is discouraged. Spills and litter can create hazards and attract pests. Avoid strong-smelling or messy foods. Water bottles are permitted.

What happens if I miss my stop?

Trains run frequently, so you can simply ride to the next station and take a train back. There are no penalties for missing your stop. Use the digital displays to confirm your location.

Is the Monorail safe at night?

Yes. The Monorail operates in well-lit, secure areas with security personnel at stations and on trains. It’s one of the safest ways to travel the Strip after dark. Always stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secured.

Can I use a credit card directly on the train?

No. All tickets must be purchased in advance at kiosks or via the app. You cannot pay onboard. Ensure you have your ticket or pass ready before boarding.

Are there restrooms on the Monorail trains?

No. Restrooms are available at each station. Plan accordingly, especially during long waits or if traveling with children.

Does the Monorail run on holidays?

Yes, but hours may be adjusted. On major holidays like New Year’s Eve, service often runs until 3 a.m. Check the official website for holiday schedules before your visit.

Can I use the Monorail to get to downtown Las Vegas?

No. The Monorail runs only along the Strip. To reach downtown (Fremont Street), take the RTC Deuce bus from the SAHARA station or use a rideshare service.

Conclusion

The Las Vegas Monorail is not a tourist gimmick—it’s a smart, efficient, and economical transit solution that can dramatically improve your experience on the Strip. By understanding its route, purchasing the right ticket, timing your rides, and using the available tools, you can bypass traffic, save money, and spend more time enjoying what Las Vegas has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, mastering the Monorail means less stress, fewer delays, and more time at the shows, pools, and restaurants you came to see.

Remember: the key to efficiency isn’t just knowing where the stations are—it’s knowing when to ride, how to connect, and how to avoid the traps that waste time and money. With this guide, you’re no longer a passive rider—you’re an informed traveler navigating Las Vegas like a local. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and let the Monorail carry you effortlessly from one unforgettable experience to the next.