Big Bus Las Vegas: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

Las Vegas is a city that buzzes with excitement, lights, and endless attractions — and what better way to get your bearings than on a hop-on hop-off bus tour? For around $57, you can explore the city at your own pace, jumping off at iconic landmarks like the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, Resorts World, or the High Roller.

This 2-hour tour, with options for 1- or 3-day passes, takes you through Downtown Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Strip, offering panoramic views from the open-top upper deck. It’s perfect for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike, especially if you prefer a flexible, guided experience that lets you choose where to linger and what to skip.

We love the digital audio guides available in multiple languages, adding a layer of storytelling to your sightseeing. Plus, if you opt for the night tour, you’ll see Vegas’ dazzling lights in a new glow — a truly memorable experience.

One consideration to keep in mind is that waiting times and the weather can sometimes be challenges, as noted by some travelers who found the stops lacking benches or air conditioning in the heat. Still, for value-conscious travelers eager to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of navigating public transportation or taxis, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re someone who appreciates having control over your sightseeing and loves the idea of glimpsing diverse neighborhoods from a comfortable bus, this tour is likely to suit you well.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Hop on and off at stops that interest you most, with 1- or 3-day options.
• Panoramic views: Open-top upper deck provides great photo opportunities.
• Expert narration: Digital audio guides in multiple languages add context and local insights.
• Convenient stops: Multiple iconic landmarks like the High Roller, Mob Museum, and Welcome Sign.
• Additional options: Night tour and tickets to the High Roller can be added for extra fun.
• Limitations: Waiting times, lack of air conditioning, and minimal seating at stops can be minor annoyances.

Exploring the Route and Stops

The Red Route Day Tour covers a broad swath of Las Vegas, giving you a good overview of its most famous attractions. Let’s take a closer look at what each stop offers and what you can expect.

MGM Grand

Starting at the MGM Grand, you’re smack in the heart of the Strip’s entertainment scene. This hotel is a hub for shows, gaming, and nightlife, making it an ideal first stop. The tour lobby is convenient, and the bus stops here regularly, so you won’t miss your chance to hop on or off.

The High Roller

Next, we come to the High Roller, one of the tallest observation wheels in the world. From the bus loading zone at Linq Lane, you can catch sweeping views of Vegas and the surrounding desert. If you want to get a bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s twinkling skyline, this is a must-stop.

Arts District

The Arts & Antique District at the southeast corner of Main and Colorado offers a different flavor of Vegas — more artistic, eclectic, and less glitzy. Here, you can explore galleries, vintage shops, and small cafes, giving you a break from the glitz and a peek into the city’s creative side.

The Mob Museum

For those interested in Vegas’s notorious past, the Mob Museum provides an engaging look at the city’s history with organized crime. It’s an educational stop, packed with exhibits that tell stories of the city’s underbelly, making it a popular choice for history buffs.

The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower

The Strat stands tall with its iconic tower, offering entertainment and thrill rides at the top. The bus stops at the corner of Las Vegas Blvd and Bob Stupak, making it easy to access if you want to see the city from above or catch a show.

Resorts World Las Vegas

The newest addition to the Strip, Resorts World, is a sprawling complex that offers luxury accommodations, shopping, and dining. Located on Resort World Drive, it’s a good stop for those wanting a taste of Vegas’s modern, upscale side.

Treasure Island and Excalibur

Stops at Treasure Island and Excalibur let you explore some of the classic themed hotels. Treasure Island, with its pirate-themed shows, and Excalibur’s medieval castle vibe, give a fun, family-friendly flavor of Vegas.

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

No trip is complete without a visit to the famous Welcome Sign. Located at the Harley Davidson parking lot, this photo-op spot is a highlight for many travelers, and the bus makes it easy to get that classic Vegas shot.

Experience and Comfort

Most reviews note that the digital audio guides are a real plus, offering narration in various languages that enriches the sightseeing experience. Though some travelers mentioned wait times and lack of seating at stops, the open-air upper deck provides excellent visibility and a fun way to take in the sights.

The price of $57 per person may seem steep for a 2-hour tour, but considering the unlimited hop-on hop-off flexibility and the ability to see numerous landmarks without paying extra for taxis or rideshares, it’s often a good value, especially if you extend your ticket over several days.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

What travelers love:
– Knowledgeable guides and narration make the history and stories of Vegas come alive.
– Good value for covering many attractions in a short period.
– Flexibility to hop on and off, exploring what interests you most.
– Additional options like the night tour and High Roller tickets add to the experience.

Potential drawbacks:
– Waiting times can be long, especially if buses are delayed or traffic is heavy.
– Some stops lack seating or shade, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather.
– Air conditioning is not available on the bus, so prepare for the heat.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to get an overview of Las Vegas, or those who prefer independent exploration but want the convenience of guided narration. If you’re traveling with families, seniors, or groups who value flexibility and a central meeting point, it’s a solid choice. But if you’re after luxury or personalized guided tours, you might find this a bit too generic.

For $57, the Big Bus Las Vegas tour offers a affordable and flexible way to see many of the city’s highlights. The open-top ride, with panoramic views and engaging audio guides, makes it a fun introduction to Vegas. Its biggest strength lies in the freedom to hop off at landmarks like the Mob Museum or the Welcome Sign, then return when ready.

However, it’s not without its hiccups — waiting times, limited stops, and the absence of air conditioning mean you’ll want to be prepared. If you’re a traveler who enjoys self-guided sightseeing with the comfort of guided narration, and values the ability to customize your day, this tour is likely to serve you well.

For anyone pressed for time or looking for a cost-effective way to get an overview of Vegas, this bus tour can be a real time-saver. Just remember to bring water, dress for the weather, and maybe bring a portable fan if the heat is intense.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The core tour lasts about 2 hours, but you can extend your exploration with a 1- or 3-day pass.

Can I hop on and off wherever I want?
Yes, with a hop-on hop-off ticket, you can jump off at designated stops and catch another bus later — perfect for exploring landmarks at your own pace.

Are there options for night sightseeing?
Yes, if you select the option, you can enjoy a 7PM panoramic night tour that highlights Vegas’ glittering nightlife.

Where do I redeem my voucher?
Vouchers can be redeemed at Stop #2 LINQ Promenade or any Big Bus stop along the route.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the open-air upper deck is a fun way to see the city for all ages, though very young children might need supervision.

What should I bring for the stops?
Bring water, comfortable shoes, and in hot weather, sun protection. Some stops lack benches or shade, so plan accordingly.

Can I buy tickets on the day?
While you can, it’s recommended to book 22 days in advance for the best availability and pricing, especially during peak seasons.

In the end, this Big Bus tour offers a convenient, economical way to experience Las Vegas, especially if you enjoy a bit of independence in your sightseeing. It balances guided narration with the freedom to explore at your own pace, making it a practical choice for many travelers. Just be prepared for the heat and potential waits — and you’ll find it a useful tool for navigating the city’s many sights.