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 strategic, time-saving lifeline for visitors navigating the bustling Strip. With over 40 million tourists visiting Las Vegas annually, traffic congestion, parking challenges, and long walks between resorts can quickly drain energy and budget. The Monorail offers a clean, reliable, and elevated alternative that bypasses street-level chaos, connecting seven major hotels and entertainment hubs in under 15 minutes. Used correctly, it can transform a chaotic day into a seamless experience, allowing travelers to maximize sightseeing, dining, and nightlife without the stress of navigating crowded sidewalks or expensive rideshares. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to using the Las Vegas Monorail efficiently—whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking to optimize your time. From ticketing nuances and platform etiquette to strategic routing and peak-hour avoidance, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge to move smarter across the Strip.

Step-by-Step Guide

Using the Las Vegas Monorail efficiently begins with understanding its structure, operations, and access points. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth, uninterrupted experience from arrival to departure.

1. Identify Your Starting and Ending Points

The Monorail operates along the east side of the Las Vegas Strip, serving seven stations: SAHARA Las Vegas, Las Vegas Convention Center, Westgate Las Vegas, Las Vegas Hilton, MGM Grand, Harrah’s/The LINQ, and the Las Vegas Convention Center (West). Before boarding, confirm which station is closest to your hotel or destination. For example, if you’re staying at the MGM Grand, the MGM Grand station is directly connected via indoor walkways. If you’re at the Venetian or Palazzo, you’ll need to walk approximately 10–12 minutes to the Harrah’s/The LINQ station. Use Google Maps or the official Monorail app to verify walking distances and routes.

2. Purchase Your Ticket Before Arrival

Tickets can be bought at automated kiosks located at each station, but lines often form during peak hours (4 PM–10 PM). To save time, purchase tickets in advance via the official Las Vegas Monorail mobile app (available on iOS and Android). The app supports single rides, day passes, and multi-day passes. Alternatively, buy tickets online through the Monorail’s official website and receive a QR code via email to scan at turnstiles. Avoid cash transactions at kiosks—credit and debit cards are preferred, and cash machines are not available on-site.

3. Understand Fare Options and Value

The Monorail offers tiered pricing based on duration of use:

• Single Ride: $5 per person (valid for one trip, any station to any station)
• 24-Hour Pass: $13 (unlimited rides within 24 hours of first use)
• 3-Day Pass: $25 (unlimited rides over three consecutive days)
• 7-Day Pass: $45 (ideal for extended stays)

For most visitors staying more than one night and planning to visit multiple resorts, the 3-day pass offers the best value. If you plan to ride more than three times in a day, the 24-hour pass is more economical than buying individual tickets. Always check for bundled deals—some hotel packages or travel platforms include free or discounted Monorail passes as part of a resort package.

4. Locate the Correct Station Entrance

Monorail stations are elevated and accessed via escalators or elevators from ground level. Each station has clear signage pointing to “Monorail” and “Elevated Train.” For example, at MGM Grand, follow signs from the main casino floor toward the “Monorail Entrance” near the convention center wing. At Harrah’s/The LINQ, enter through the LINQ Promenade and follow the glass-enclosed walkway to the station. Avoid confusion by noting that the Monorail does not stop at Caesars Palace, Planet Hollywood, or Wynn/Encore—these require a shuttle, rideshare, or walk to the nearest station.

5. Boarding Protocol and Platform Etiquette

Monorail trains arrive every 4–8 minutes during peak hours and every 8–12 minutes during off-peak times. Always stand behind the yellow safety line on the platform. Trains stop briefly—typically 30–45 seconds—so be ready to board. Do not block the doors; allow exiting passengers to clear before entering. Priority seating is available near the front and back of each car for seniors, pregnant travelers, and those with mobility aids. Avoid standing in the center aisle, especially during rush hour, to maintain smooth flow. Keep bags close and avoid large luggage unless necessary—space is limited.

6. Use Real-Time Tracking to Time Your Ride

Each station has digital displays showing the next train’s arrival time and final destination. Use the official Monorail app to receive push notifications for train arrivals at your station. The app also shows live train locations on a map, helping you decide whether to walk to the station or wait. For example, if you’re at the Westgate and your train is two stops away (e.g., MGM Grand), you can time your walk to arrive just as the train pulls in, minimizing wait time.

7. Navigate Between Stations Strategically

The Monorail runs north to south, with SAHARA Las Vegas as the northern terminus and Las Vegas Convention Center (West) as the southern end. To travel from MGM Grand to the LINQ, you only need one stop. To reach SAHARA from the Convention Center, you’ll pass through four stations. Plan your route to avoid unnecessary backtracking. For example, if you’re staying at the Cosmopolitan and want to go to the Venetian, walk to Harrah’s/The LINQ station, ride one stop north to MGM Grand, then transfer to the shuttle or walk to the Cosmopolitan. Never assume direct access—always verify station proximity.

8. Transfer to Other Transportation if Needed

The Monorail connects to several key transit points:

• At the Las Vegas Convention Center station, you can access the RTC Deuce bus route for travel to downtown Las Vegas or the Fremont Street Experience.
• At SAHARA Las Vegas, you can connect to the RTC 108 bus for access to the airport or North Las Vegas.
• At the Westgate station, you can access the free Westgate shuttle to the airport.

Use the RTC website or app to plan connections. The Monorail does not serve the airport directly, so plan for a rideshare or shuttle from SAHARA or Westgate if your flight departs from McCarran International Airport.

9. Exit and Re-Enter with the Same Ticket

Single-ride tickets allow one continuous journey from origin to destination. If you exit at one station and wish to board again later, you must purchase a new ticket. However, 24-hour, 3-day, and 7-day passes allow unlimited re-entries within their validity period. Always keep your ticket or QR code accessible—scanners are located at each station’s exit turnstile. If you lose your physical ticket, you cannot retrieve it; digital tickets are linked to your account and can be reloaded via the app.

10. Monitor Operating Hours

The Monorail runs daily from 7:00 AM to midnight Sunday–Thursday and 7:00 AM to 2:00 AM Friday–Saturday. On major holidays like New Year’s Eve or the Super Bowl, hours may be extended. Always verify current hours on the official website before planning late-night travel. If you’re leaving a late-night show at the Colosseum or a club at the LINQ after 2:00 AM, the Monorail will not be running. Arrange a rideshare or use the 24-hour RTC bus route instead.

Best Practices

Efficiency on the Las Vegas Monorail isn’t just about knowing where to go—it’s about how you move through the system. Adopt these best practices to avoid common pitfalls and maximize your experience.

Travel During Off-Peak Hours

The busiest times are between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM, especially on weekends and holidays. During these hours, trains are packed, platform lines are long, and boarding can take up to 10 minutes. If your schedule allows, travel between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM or after 10:00 PM. You’ll board faster, enjoy more seating, and experience less crowding. Many visitors overlook this window, assuming the Monorail is only useful for evening entertainment—but midday rides are often the most comfortable.

Use the Monorail for Strategic Transfers

Instead of walking 20 minutes from the MGM Grand to Caesars Palace, take the Monorail from MGM Grand to Harrah’s/The LINQ (one stop), then walk 8 minutes north to Caesars. This saves time and energy. Similarly, if you’re staying at the Aria and want to visit the Bellagio fountains, take the Monorail from the Convention Center station (a 10-minute walk from Aria) to Harrah’s, then walk 5 minutes to Bellagio. The Monorail is not a point-to-point solution for every resort—but it’s a powerful connector between major hubs.

Combine with Walking and Shuttles

The Monorail complements walking and resort shuttles. For example, if you’re staying at the Wynn, walk 15 minutes to the Caesars Palace station (via the pedestrian bridge over Las Vegas Boulevard), then ride one stop to the LINQ for dinner. Use the Monorail for longer distances and walking for short hops. Many resorts offer complimentary shuttles to the nearest Monorail station—ask at the front desk.

Carry a Portable Charger

Most travelers rely on their smartphones for the Monorail app, real-time tracking, and maps. A low battery can disrupt your entire transit plan. Carry a compact power bank—especially if you plan to ride multiple times a day. Many stations have limited charging stations, and waiting in line for one wastes valuable time.

Avoid Peak Event Times

Major events at the Las Vegas Convention Center (e.g., Comic-Con, CES, or E3) cause massive surges in ridership. During these times, trains may be overcrowded, and boarding can be restricted for safety. If you’re attending such an event, arrive early or use alternative transportation. The Monorail is not designed to handle event-level crowds, and delays can be unpredictable.

Stay Aware of Station Closures

Occasionally, stations close for maintenance or special events. For example, the Las Vegas Convention Center station may be temporarily closed during major conventions. Always check the official website or app for service alerts before heading out. If your station is closed, the app will suggest alternate boarding points and detour routes.

Use the Monorail for Early Morning or Late-Night Activities

Many visitors don’t realize the Monorail can be used for sunrise yoga at the Bellagio or midnight dessert at the Cosmopolitan. If you’re an early riser or night owl, the Monorail offers a quiet, safe, and climate-controlled way to move between resorts. It’s often less crowded than the Strip sidewalks, and you avoid the risk of walking alone in dimly lit areas after dark.

Teach Your Travel Companions the System

If you’re traveling with family or friends, ensure everyone understands how to purchase tickets, read station signs, and board correctly. Confusion leads to delays and frustration. Designate one person to manage tickets and tracking, and assign roles—e.g., one person watches the train arrival display while another gathers bags.

Tools and Resources

Maximizing your Monorail experience requires leveraging the right tools and digital resources. These official and third-party platforms simplify navigation, reduce wait times, and enhance planning.

Official Las Vegas Monorail App

The official app (available on iOS and Android) is the most essential tool. It provides:

• Live train tracking with real-time arrival estimates
• Interactive station map with walking directions from nearby hotels
• Digital ticket purchase and storage
• Service alerts for closures or delays
• Operating hours and holiday schedule updates

Download the app before arriving in Las Vegas to avoid cellular data issues. It works offline for ticket scanning and station maps.

Las Vegas Monorail Official Website

Visit lasvegasmonorail.com for:

• Fare details and pass comparisons
• Station maps and accessibility information
• Historical ridership data and service updates
• Downloadable PDF maps for offline use

The website also features a “Plan Your Trip” tool that lets you input your origin and destination to generate a step-by-step transit plan including walking times and Monorail stops.

Google Maps and Apple Maps

Both mapping apps integrate Monorail routes into their transit directions. Search for directions from “MGM Grand” to “Harrah’s/The LINQ,” and Google Maps will show you the Monorail as a primary option with estimated times. It also displays real-time wait times if you’re using live transit data. Always cross-check with the official app, as third-party apps may not reflect temporary service changes.

RTC Transit App

For travelers connecting from the Monorail to other parts of Las Vegas, the RTC (Regional Transportation Commission) app provides bus schedules, routes, and real-time tracking. Use it if you plan to travel beyond the Strip—e.g., from the Convention Center station to downtown or the airport.

Station Signage and Interactive Kiosks

Each Monorail station features digital kiosks with touch-screen maps, fare calculators, and emergency contact buttons. These kiosks are especially helpful for travelers without smartphones. Look for the blue-and-white “Monorail Information” signs with QR codes that link directly to the official website and app.

Printed Maps and Brochures

Free printed maps are available at hotel concierge desks, especially at MGM Grand, Harrah’s, and the Las Vegas Convention Center. These maps show station locations, walking distances, and nearby attractions. While less dynamic than digital tools, they’re invaluable during power outages or connectivity issues.

Travel Blogs and YouTube Channels

Reputable travel creators like “The Vegas Show,” “Traveling with the Fords,” and “Las Vegas Insider” offer short video guides on Monorail usage. These often include real-time footage of boarding, platform navigation, and tips from locals. Search “Las Vegas Monorail 2024 guide” on YouTube for the most recent walkthroughs.

Real Examples

Understanding theory is valuable—but seeing how others use the Monorail effectively makes the difference. Here are three real-world scenarios demonstrating efficient Monorail use.

Example 1: The Family Trip (3-Day Stay)

A family of four arrives at the MGM Grand on a Friday. They plan to visit the LINQ for the High Roller observation wheel on Saturday, the Venetian for dinner on Sunday, and the Convention Center for a daytime exhibit on Monday.

• Friday evening: They buy a 3-day pass at the MGM Grand kiosk ($25 total). They ride one stop south to Harrah’s/The LINQ to see the lights and eat at a casual restaurant.
• Saturday: They ride one stop north from Harrah’s to MGM Grand, then walk 10 minutes to the Cosmopolitan for brunch. Afterward, they ride two stops south to the Convention Center station, walk 5 minutes to the exhibit, and return to Harrah’s for dinner.
• Sunday: They walk 12 minutes from MGM Grand to Harrah’s, ride one stop north to MGM Grand, then walk 15 minutes to the Venetian. They return via Monorail to MGM Grand after dinner.
• Monday: They walk to the Convention Center station, ride one stop north to Harrah’s, then walk to the airport shuttle.

Total rides: 7. Cost without pass: $35. With pass: $25. Time saved: 2+ hours of walking and waiting for rideshares.

Example 2: The Solo Traveler (1-Day Visit)

A solo traveler arrives at the airport at 11:00 AM and checks into the Westgate at 1:00 PM. They want to see the Bellagio fountains, visit the Venetian, and have dinner at the Cosmopolitan before returning to Westgate for a late flight.

• 1:30 PM: Takes the Westgate airport shuttle to the Westgate Monorail station.
• 2:00 PM: Buys a 24-hour pass ($13) via app. Rides two stops to MGM Grand.
• 2:30 PM: Walks 10 minutes to the Bellagio to see the fountains.
• 4:00 PM: Walks 8 minutes to Harrah’s/The LINQ station, rides one stop north to MGM Grand, then walks 5 minutes to the Venetian.
• 7:00 PM: Walks 10 minutes to the Cosmopolitan for dinner.
• 9:30 PM: Walks to Harrah’s station, rides one stop north to MGM Grand, then one stop north to Westgate.
• 10:30 PM: Arrives back at Westgate.

Total rides: 3. Time saved: 90 minutes compared to rideshare trips. Cost: $13 vs. $60+ in rideshares.

Example 3: The Business Traveler (Convention Attendee)

A business traveler is attending a conference at the Las Vegas Convention Center and staying at the Aria. They need to attend sessions, meet clients at the Cosmopolitan, and have dinner at the Wynn.

• Each morning: Walks 10 minutes from Aria to the Convention Center station. Rides one stop north to Harrah’s, then walks 5 minutes to Cosmopolitan for 9:00 AM meeting.
• Afternoon: Walks back to Harrah’s, rides one stop south to Convention Center for session.
• Evening: Walks to Harrah’s, rides one stop north to MGM Grand, then walks 15 minutes to Wynn for dinner.
• Return: Walks back to MGM Grand, rides one stop south to Convention Center, then walks to Aria.

By using the Monorail, they avoid $40+ in daily rideshare costs and reduce transit time by 40%. They also avoid the stress of navigating heavy traffic on the Strip during business hours.

FAQs

Can I bring luggage on the Las Vegas Monorail?

Yes, you can bring luggage, but space is limited. Large suitcases should be kept near your feet or in designated areas near the doors. Avoid blocking aisles or doors. If you have oversized luggage (e.g., golf clubs or musical instruments), consider using a rideshare or hotel shuttle instead.

Is the Monorail wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all stations and trains are ADA-compliant. Elevators and ramps provide access to platforms, and trains have designated wheelchair areas with securement straps. Staff are trained to assist, but advance notice is not required.

Can I use the Monorail to get to the airport?

No, the Monorail does not serve McCarran International Airport. The closest stations are SAHARA Las Vegas and Westgate. From either, you can take a free shuttle (Westgate) or a rideshare to the airport (approximately 10–15 minutes).

Do children ride for free?

Children under 5 ride free with a paying adult. Children aged 5–12 receive a discounted fare of $2.50 per ride or $6 for a 24-hour pass. Proof of age may be requested.

Are pets allowed on the Monorail?

Service animals are permitted. Pets must be in an enclosed carrier and cannot occupy seats. Only service animals assisting with disabilities are allowed on board without a carrier.

Can I use a debit card to buy tickets at the kiosk?

Yes, all kiosks accept major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover). Cash is accepted but not recommended due to longer transaction times and limited change availability.

What happens if I miss my stop?

Trains make all stops in sequence. If you miss your stop, simply ride to the next station and board the next train heading back. With a multi-day pass, you can re-board without additional cost.

Is the Monorail faster than walking between resorts?

For distances greater than 15 minutes on foot, yes. For example, walking from MGM Grand to Harrah’s takes 20–25 minutes; the Monorail takes 4 minutes. For short distances like MGM Grand to the Cosmopolitan (10-minute walk), walking is faster than waiting for a train.

Do I need to tap out when exiting?

No. The system uses entry-only scanning. Your ticket or QR code is validated when you enter the station. You may exit through any turnstile without scanning again.

Is the Monorail safe at night?

Yes. Stations are well-lit, monitored by security cameras, and staffed by personnel during operating hours. The trains are regularly patrolled. As with any public transit, remain aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure.

Conclusion

The Las Vegas Monorail is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for anyone who wants to experience the Strip without exhaustion, expense, or frustration. By mastering its operations, leveraging digital tools, and adopting smart travel habits, you can transform your visit from a chaotic whirlwind into a streamlined, enjoyable journey. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the Monorail offers a reliable, cost-effective, and climate-controlled way to move between the city’s most iconic destinations. Remember: plan your route in advance, purchase multi-day passes when possible, avoid peak crowds, and always verify station accessibility. With these strategies, you’ll not only save time and money—you’ll reclaim the energy to enjoy everything Las Vegas has to offer. The Strip moves fast. The Monorail lets you move with it.