The glitzy city of Las Vegas in the state of Nevada, USA, is famous for excess, indulgence and gambling. This 24-hour party town is notorious for its lack of inhibition when it comes to celebrating all that is regarded by some as being tacky, and by others as being great fun; however, that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. Oh no. There are hotel suites hitting the $40,000 mark and cocktails that whet the whistle for a mere $3,000 in this town – everything in Las Vegas has a price tag, but luckily for those of us with more modest budgets, there is still plenty to get stuck into.

Cheapest time to visit Vegas

Las Vegas doesn’t have an off button so identifying a cheap time to visit can be hard. Generally speaking the months of July and August are quieter as this is when the temperature climbs. The slight lull means there can be some great deals on cheap flights to Las Vegas during the summer and it’s worth keeping a look out for bargains. Other ways to keep the budget down include avoiding weekends, the US Spring Break holiday, convention periods and New Year.

Where to stay

The Strip hotels can be pricey so head Downtown for better deals. Being in competition with the big boys means these hotels have to work harder to win business, making service levels and value for money high. Free transport to and from The Strip is usually included and prices for food and beverages do not carry The Strip premium – so all in all, staying a little away from all the action can pay dividends. That said, it really pays to shop around because some of the big resort hotels offer surprisingly good deals for groups or special offers for mid week stays.

Cheap food and drink

Las Vegas is famous for its all-you-can-eat buffets, and for saving money it’s a good idea to eat a main meal at lunchtime when it is even cheaper. Many of the casinos offer free drinks to entice gamblers in, even those just playing the slot machines – so it needn’t cost a fortune.

Free stuff

Pretend you’re in Venice at the Venetian Hotel

Las Vegas offers spectators and people watchers a fascinating spectacle and looking doesn’t have to cost a penny. Popular free shows include the Sirens of Treasure Island, The Bellagio Fountains, the volcano eruption at The Mirage, and The Fall of Atlantis at Caesars Palace. Those with a sweet tooth may enjoy a visit to M&M’s World, four storeys of chocolaty temptation next to the MGM Grand Hotel Casino. Alternatively, explore eight miles from The Strip to where Ethel Ms Chocolate Factory welcomes visitors for free. Those of a fishy inclination can view the giant Aquarium at The Silverton Hotel – a breathtaking seawater tank on a scale that only Las Vegas can do.

Not free, but for a reasonable price many pool parties in resort hotels are open to non-guests.  For a day by the pool with loud music and lots of fun, pool passes allow access to the luxury facilities of the hotel, without actually staying there.

Remember, not everybody who visits Vegas has a fortune to spend, but that doesn’t put off the 35 million visitors that travel there each year. With smart planning and plenty of research a budget break in party town is totally possible.

This is a contributed post brought to you by Aimee Claire.
Aimee is an enthusiastic, well-educated freelance writer with big ideas for the future,  She is fascinated with exploring new counties and experiencing their culture. 

Like this post?  You might be interested to read my previous post on 36 Hours in Las Vegas on a Budget.