Las Vegas Braces for Record Memorial Day Weekend Travel

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningHolidaysNews

Las Vegas bustling with activity as travelers flock to celebrate Memorial Day weekend.

News Summary

Las Vegas is preparing for an influx of travelers this Memorial Day weekend, with an estimated 45.1 million Americans expected to travel. Road trips remain popular, with nearly 39.4 million anticipated to drive. Air travel is also on the rise, with 3.61 million flying. As Las Vegas attracts visitors, hotel rates are climbing, with limited budget options available. With average gas prices falling, more people may opt for driving. Authorities advise travelers to start early to avoid expected traffic congestion.

Las Vegas is gearing up for a record-breaking Memorial Day weekend, with travel estimates indicating that approximately 45.1 million Americans will venture at least 50 miles away from home. This figure marks the highest level of travel for the holiday weekend since 2005.

The anticipated surge includes about 39.4 million travelers expected to travel by car, which represents an increase of one million compared to last year. Notably, 87% of those traveling this year are opting for road trips, showcasing a continued preference for vehicle travel among vacationers.

For those flying, the AAA forecasts an increase of 3.61 million air passengers, or a 2% uptick from 2022. Additionally, around 2.08 million individuals will utilize trains, buses, and cruise services over the holiday weekend, showing an 8.5% increase compared to last year’s figures.

Las Vegas has been identified as one of the top five U.S. destinations for Memorial Day weekend, which traditionally attracts numerous visitors eager to enjoy the city’s attractions and events. In light of the anticipated increase in visitors, Las Vegas resorts are adjusting room rates, making accommodations more costly. The average nightly rate for a three-night stay is currently at $248.41.

Rooms priced at under $100 are becoming increasingly rare, with few options available, such as Circus Circus at $96 and Oyo at $88. Conversely, for those seeking luxury, rooms at the Aria Sky Suites can go for as much as $2,027 per night.

Gas Prices and Traffic Tips

The average price for gasoline in Las Vegas is currently $3.91 per gallon. Nationally, the average stands at around $3.14 per gallon, down from $3.59 during the same time last year. This decrease may encourage more travelers to hit the road.

To help mitigate anticipated traffic congestion, AAA advises travelers to start their journeys early, especially during peak travel times which are expected to occur from noon to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Monday. Heavy traffic is forecasted on Interstate 15, with particular caution urged for traveling on Memorial Day Monday, especially between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m..

The Regional Transportation Commission reinforces this advice, suggesting that travelers consider alternate routes to avoid potential gridlock. Also, for those flying into Las Vegas, Harry Reid International Airport offers an early baggage check-in system and additional suggestions to help reduce wait times during peak travel periods.

Visitor Insights

As the weekend approaches, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority is expected to release its visitation estimates later this week, providing more insight into the expected influx of visitors to the city.

This Memorial Day weekend is shaping up to be one for the records, indicating continued strong recovery in travel and tourism as Americans seize the opportunity for leisure travel after recent years marked by interruptions due to the pandemic.