WTF Las Vegas

Las Vegas travel story

The Las Vegas Monorail: When It's Worth It and When It Isn't

The Las Vegas Monorail has a complicated reputation. Here's the honest breakdown of when it makes sense to use it — and the situations where Uber is clearly better.

Read the full guide

The Las Vegas Monorail is a legitimate transportation option in specific circumstances and a time-wasting tourist trap in others. Here's the breakdown.

The System

7 stations running along the east side of the Strip from MGM Grand to the STRAT. Each station is behind the casino, not on Las Vegas Blvd — requiring a 5–10 minute walk through the hotel to reach the station. Single rides: $5. Daily pass: $13.

When It Makes Sense

  • Convention center commute — The Las Vegas Convention Center station makes it the fastest way to reach the LVCC from mid-Strip hotels
  • During extreme Uber surge (holidays/late nights) — $5 is always better than $80
  • MGM Grand to Harrah's/LINQ area when walking in summer heat is inadvisable

When It Doesn't Make Sense

  • Going to the south Strip or Downtown — no stations there
  • Going anywhere on the west side of the Strip — the walk from station to casino entrance can be longer than just Ubering
  • When you're in a hurry — the intervals between trains can be 10+ minutes

Confirm current hours, prices, access, age rules, and availability with the official venue before you go.