Las Vegas Travel Guide
How to Make the Most of Your Trip to Las Vegas with American Express Travel®
November 24, 2025
The desert oasis of Las Vegas goes all out to stimulate the senses. It dazzles with neon signage and dancing fountains, restaurants run by celebrity chefs, live music and acrobatics shows, pool parties, and events including the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix and the World Poker Series. Gambling is what first put Sin City on the map, and the Strip is packed with casinos to try your luck. Much more than a one-trick destination, Vegas also beckons with family-friendly attractions, art installations and museums, and nearby desert wonders.
When it comes to your stay, remember that now Platinum Card Members get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection3 bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®.*
Plus, there’s good news for fliers: The Centurion® Lounge network is expanding with a new, small-format airport lounge concept, designed with the busy traveler in mind: Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge†. Expected to debut at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in 2026, the lounge will be accessible within 90 minutes of your flight’s departure and will offer gourmet small plates and signature cocktails curated by The Culinary Collective by The Centurion Lounge.
Explore our recommended Las Vegas hotels and activities below, plus tips from our expert tips Travel Consultants and more benefits you can enjoy when booking through American Express Travel®.
3The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
Best Time to Visit
Visit in the Spring and Fall for the best weather, and March through September for outdoor pools. August is the quietest but there’s always something happening in Vegas.
Getting There
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
2.5 miles
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Wynn and Encore Las Vegas
Enter an over-the-top wonderland at Wynn and Encore Las Vegas, where moving floral sculptures, including a carousel, fill the lobby. Rooms and suites appeal with 507-thread count sheets and ample space (starting around 650 square feet). Throughout the massive complex, you’ll encounter exquisitely landscaped gardens, waterfalls, and the Lake of Dreams, a multimedia water extravaganza. Wynn and Encore Las Vegas captures the magic of Las Vegas right within its grounds, from the acrobatic performances, comedians, and concerts hosted at Encore Theater to pools, a beach club, designer shops, and a spa where you can use your $150 credit. The hotel is also the place to be for the annual Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.
TRAVEL CONSULTANT TIP
“Play a round of golf at the Wynn Golf Club on the Las Vegas Strip, an 18-hole championship course, or book a Master Class with experts like the Wynn’s pastry chefs, florists, or master barber.”
Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas
Non-gaming hotel Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas is located in the heart of the Strip. Guest room designs are contemporary and sleek, with floor-to-ceiling windows that make the most of city views. Relax in a private cabana at the pool deck or pamper yourself at the Waldorf Astoria Spa, from facials and massages to wellness therapies including a Karmic Happiness Ritual. Enjoy complimentary daily breakfast for two at the seasonal American restaurant Zen Kitchen and pair a craft cocktail with a light bite at SkyBar, which has fantastic views of the Strip.
Must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly.
TRAVEL CONSULTANT TIP
“Consider using your $100 credit at the Tea Lounge. Expect a traditional high tea with tiered trays of sandwiches, scones, and sweets, plus there are lots of rare teas to choose from.”
Bellagio
Bellagio is famous for its fountains, which put on a colorful choreographed show set to music, and for the lobby ceiling’s installation of Dale Chihuly blown-glass flowers. Poker fans also know this resort on the Strip for the sprawling casino, which attracts world famous poker professionals. Elegant accommodations suit the varied needs of travelers, with options including two-bedroom luxury villas and dog-friendly perks; they all deliver views of the Vegas valley or the fountains. Without even leaving the resort, you can explore the Gallery of Fine Arts and the 14,000-square foot Botanical Gardens. There are also five Mediterranean-inspired pools and two premium spas. When it’s mealtime, use your $100 credit toward satisfying your palate at over 20 restaurants, when you bill it to your room.
TRAVEL CONSULTANT TIP
“Dine at Picasso by Spanish Chef Julian Serrano, in company of Pablo Picasso paintings and charming ceramics. Try to snag a lakeside table where you’ll have an up-front view of the Bellagio fountain show.”
Crockfords Las Vegas, LXR Hotels & Resort
Crockfords Las Vegas, LXR Hotels & Resorts, is a super-luxurious space just off the Strip within Resorts World, an integrated complex of Hilton brands that also includes Conrad Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Hilton. Soak up the scene and city views from your daybed at the adults-only infinity pool, where you can linger on your last day, thanks to guaranteed 4pm check-out. Satisfy your craving with more than 40 food and beverage options, including the Japanese bistro Kusa Nori and Caviar Bar Las Vegas, and indulge in retail therapy at 70,000-square-foot retail space The District. Wander through the casino to the Entertainment Zone for concerts by stars in residence.
TRAVEL CONSULTANT TIP
“Awana Spa offers treatments drawn from European and Eastern rituals and Fountain of Youth facilities with relaxing spaces: four vitality pools ranging in temperature, a crystal laconium with salt therapy, steam rooms, and a rain walk.”
NoMad Las Vegas
Tucked within Park MGM, NoMad Las Vegas offers an intimate escape inspired by classic European design and NoMad New York’s heritage. This boutique hotel blends rich textures, vintage artwork, and residential-style comfort; select suites include freestanding pedestal bathtubs and separate water closets. You can visit Park MGM to exercise in the fitness center or relax in the spa with a hot stone massage. A smoke-free sanctuary with an unmistakably artful spirit, NoMad Las Vegas brings quiet elegance to the flashy Las Vegas Strip.
TRAVEL CONSULTANT TIP
“For a truly hidden Vegas moment, request a seat at NoMad Library Restaurant under the soaring shelves — it feels like dining inside a private study. Afterward, head to the NoMad Pool for a quiet nightcap beneath the lanterns, a rare pocket of calm just steps from the Strip.”
Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World
Perched above Las Vegas Boulevard, Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World is one of three hotels integrated within Resorts World that offer up easy access to the Strip. The style is midcentury modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a sitting area in the 1,496 spacious accommodations. Some feature pullout couches, and you can request a rollaway bed for a fee or a complimentary crib. Make a splash at one of the five on-site pools, including one dedicated to families; bliss out at the Awana Spa; or try your hand at the in-house casino. Plus, take advantage of your $100 credit at Fuhu (Asian fusion) or restaurants and bars that may be billed to your room.
TRAVEL CONSULTANT TIP
“Eclectic art appears across Resorts World. Look for a spray paint original by local artist Spencer Couture on the way from the Conrad lobby to the casino and for Red Hong Yi’s portrait made with 20,000 dyed tea bags at Famous Foods.”
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton
One mile off the Strip, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton celebrates the desert location, with cacti and furnishings in shades of fiery orange and earth tones. Three towers of rooms and suites overlook the twinkling skyline or two pools: one where you can lounge in a private cabana or daybed and another known as Elia Beach Club, with a stage and adults-only scene. You can use your $100 credit at the resort pool or at restaurants and bars that may be billed to your room. At The Theater, dance like no one’s watching to live music by well-known and up-and-coming artists alike.
TRAVEL CONSULTANT TIP
“Virgin counts 14 restaurants and lounges that range from Thai (Night + Market) to Mexican (Casa Calavera). The grooviest spot is the Shag Room, which hosts Sunday afternoon parties with boozy teas, savory bites, and live music.”
What to Do in Las Vegas
Admire the Arts
Visit the Neon Museum to learn about the city's iconic signage and take in contemporary works at the Aria Fine Art Collection.
Stroll and Sip
Explore the Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, and then head to Lily Bar & Lounge for a craft cocktail.
Soar Above Vegas
Experience the High Roller, the highest observation wheel in the world, and zipline down the Strip with Fly LINQ.
Hit the Desert
The towering neon totem poles of Seven Magic mountains are a popular photo-op, while Red Rock Canyon offers a 13-mile scenic drive and kid-friendly trails.
Experience the F1® Action
The FORMULA 1® HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX takes over Sin City from November 20 to 22, 2025, and it’s primed to be one of the most thrilling stateside races in the F1A Formula One World Championship™. There are a range of ticket types available across the weekend including general admission, grandstand, and hospitality passes which are on sale now, while supplies last. American Express® Card Members can also get access to exclusive at-race perks to elevate their fan experience. Between March – September, you can also visit the world’s largest immersive Formula 1 attraction, the Grand Prix Plaza. Terms apply. Learn More.
See a Show at the Sphere
The Sphere has redefined live entertainment in Las Vegas with its 16K wraparound LED screen, immersive sound system, and cutting-edge visual effects. You’re in for a sensory spectacle, whether you score tickets to see a chart-topping artist or a cinematic experience transporting you across time and space.
Get more out of your Las Vegas getaway with American Express Travel
With the American Express Global Lounge Collection® get access to 1,550+ airport lounges in over 500 airports around the world, including The Centurion® Lounge. Enjoy exclusive Centurion Member perks like priority check-in, complimentary premium drinks, and dedicated seating at select Centurion Lounges. Terms apply.
Get more out of your Las Vegas getaway with American Express Travel
Recommended Flights* offers Platinum Card® Members access to lower fares on select routes with Delta Air Lines. Plus, Platinum Card Members earn 5X Membership Rewards® points* on up to $500,000 per calendar year on flights booked through American Express Travel® or flights purchased directly from airlines.
Get more out of your Las Vegas getaway with American Express Travel
Global Dining Access by Resy gives you special access to sought-after restaurants across the globe when you add your eligible Card to your Resy profile. Access to exclusive reservations, premium dining experiences, Priority Notify, and more, all from the Resy app. Terms apply.
Get more out of your Las Vegas getaway with American Express Travel
Make your trip unforgettable through unique tours and activities booked at gyg.me/amex. Terms apply.
Get more out of your Las Vegas getaway with American Express Travel
When you Shop Small®, you’re not just supporting neighborhood favorites – you’re investing in the community. Whether you’re a local or visiting, explore our map to find small businesses near you.
†U.S. Platinum Card Members have unlimited complimentary access to the location of Sidecar by The Centurion® Lounge in the Harry Reid International Airport, expected to open in 2026, and any future locations of Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge. Please visit thecenturionlounge.com for more information on Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge availability. Companion Platinum Cards on Consumer Platinum Accounts and Additional Gold and Additional Business Expense Cards on Business Platinum Accounts are not eligible for access to Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge. All access to Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge is subject to space availability. To access Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge, Platinum Card Members must arrive within 90 minutes of their departing flight (including layovers) and present the Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge agent with the following upon each visit: their valid Card, a boarding pass showing a confirmed reservation for a departing flight on the same day on any carrier and a government-issued I.D. Name on boarding pass must match name on the Card. Failure to present this documentation may result in access being denied. Card Members must be at least 18 years of age to enter without a parent or legal guardian. All Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge visitors must be of legal drinking age in the jurisdiction where Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge is located to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly. American Express reserves the right to remove any person from Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge for inappropriate behavior or failure to adhere to rules, including, but not limited to, conduct that is disruptive, abusive or violent. Soliciting other Card Members for access into Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge is not permissible. Hours may vary by location and are subject to change. Amenities vary among Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge locations and are subject to change. Card Members will not be compensated for changes in locations, rates or policies. In addition to the complimentary services and amenities in Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge, certain services, products or amenities may be offered for sale and you are responsible for any purchases of such services, products or amenities. Services available at the Member Services Desk are based on the type of American Express Card used to enter Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge. American Express will not be liable for any articles lost or stolen or damages suffered by visitors to The Centurion Lounge. If we in our sole discretion determine that you have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge access in any way or that you intend to do so, we may remove access to The Centurion Lounge and to Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge from the Platinum Account. Use of Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge is subject to all rules and conditions set by American Express. American Express reserves the right to revise the rules at any time without notice.
U.S. Platinum Card Members, U.S. Business Platinum Card Members and Additional U.S. Platinum Card Members on the Account will be charged a $50 USD fee for each guest (or $30 for children aged 2 through 17, with proof of age) per location unless they have qualified for Complimentary Guest Access. If you choose to visit multiple locations of The Centurion Lounge and/or Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge in the same day, guest fees will apply at each location. U.S. Platinum Card and U.S. Business Platinum Card Members may qualify for Complimentary Guest Access for up to two (2) guests per visit to locations of Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge in the U.S. (“Complimentary Guest Access”), after spending $75,000 or more on eligible purchases on the Platinum Account in a calendar year. Once effective, Complimentary Guest Access will be available for the remainder of the calendar year in which it became effective, the following calendar year, and until January 31 of the next calendar year (for example, if Complimentary Guest Access became effective on May 1, 2025, it would remain effective until January 31, 2027). Eligible purchases made by any Additional Card Members on the Platinum Account will contribute to the purchase requirement. Complimentary Guest Access is limited to two (2) guests per Card Member per visit, regardless of whether you are eligible for complimentary guest access through multiple Platinum Accounts or through other Amex Cards. Guest access policies may vary internationally by location and are subject to change.
Eligibility for Complimentary Guest Access will typically be processed within a week of the Platinum Account’s meeting the purchase requirement, but may take up to 12 weeks to become effective. Complimentary Guest Access status will be reflected in the Benefits tab of your online Account and in the American Express App. Eligible purchases to meet the purchase requirement are for goods and services minus returns and other credits. Eligible purchases do NOT include fees or interest charges, cash advances, purchases of travelers checks, purchases or reloading of prepaid cards, purchases of gift cards, person-to-person payments, or other cash equivalents. If a Card Member upgrades or downgrades from a different American Express Card to a Platinum Account, eligible purchases made on that Card Account will count toward meeting the purchase requirement to achieve Complimentary Guest Access on the new Platinum Account.