Plan Your Trip
Las Vegas on a Budget: Resort Fees, Free Things & Cheap Eats
How to do Las Vegas on a budget: understand resort fees and parking, find free attractions and cheap shows, and time your trip for lower rates.
Vegas can be done cheaply if you plan around the hidden costs.
Budget for the hidden costs first
- Resort fees — typically $40–60/night on the Strip (plus tax); lower Downtown and off-Strip. They're mandatory and added to the room rate.
- Parking — many Strip resorts charge for self- and valet parking; Downtown is often cheaper or free.
These two line items surprise more first-timers than anything else — see Where to Stay.
Free things to do
- The Bellagio fountains and seasonal Conservatory.
- The Fremont Street Experience downtown.
- Walking the themed resorts and people-watching — browse more attractions.
Cheap shows & eats
- Filter for shows under $50 — plenty of strong magic and comedy options.
- Hit happy hours at bars & lounges and look for value menus among the restaurants.
Time it right
Base rates are generally lowest in summer and January — but avoid big event weeks (CES, F1, major conventions), which push prices up. Details in Best Time to Visit.
Frequently asked questions
How much are resort fees in Las Vegas?
Typically $40–60 per night on the Strip (plus tax); Downtown and off-Strip hotels are usually lower. They are charged on top of the room rate.
What is free to do in Las Vegas?
The Bellagio fountains and Conservatory, the Fremont Street Experience, casino people-watching and window-shopping the themed resorts are all free.
When is Las Vegas cheapest?
Base hotel rates are usually lowest in summer and January, but big events spike prices — check your exact dates.