How to avoid paying parking fees in Las Vegas

Travel to Las Vegas is booming, and next year promises to be another exciting one for the city.
While Fontainebleau Las Vegas and The Sphere (a $1.8 billion entertainment complex and the world’s largest circular structure) opened in 2023, each continues to draw crowds. Of course, travelers also flock to the area for non-stop entertainment, around-the-clock entertainment and casinos, a dynamic food scene and a wealth of hotels.
One thing that can be hard to find in this city, though? Free parking.
Related: The best hotels in Las Vegas
If you’d rather spend your money on dinner, drinks, a show or the casino instead of parking, we’ve got good news: We’ve found a few ways to park without paying a fee.
This includes looking for hotels that offer free parking to guests and visitors. We also have several solutions for finding free parking on The Strip.
Here are all the tips and tricks you need to know.
Stay at a hotel that offers free parking
Whether you’re looking for a budget or luxury location, several hotels on and around The Strip offer free parking.
If you bring your own car and free parking is important, plan to visit Strip stalwarts Circus Circus Hotel and Casino, Sahara Las Vegas, Trump International Hotel Las Vegas and Treasure Island Las Vegas. These hotels all offer free parking for both guests and hotel guests.
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Some hotels only offer free parking to guests. These include the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (where there is also free valet), Wynn Las Vegas and Encore at Wynn Las Vegas.
Over at the IHG-affiliated Venetian and Palazzo, Venetian Grazie Rewards Premier members and above receive exclusive parking. Nevada residents get three hours of free parking by scanning their Nevada driver’s license at a self-parking store. Note: IHG will end its relationship with the Venetian in 2025, so this policy is subject to change.
Free parking with MGM and Caesars Rewards
Exclusive members of the MGM rewards program receive free parking at MGM resorts – including the Cosmopolitan, Bellagio Las Vegas, Aria Resort & Casino and MGM Grand – depending on their status level. Currently, members with Pearl status or higher receive free parking, while those with Gold status or higher are eligible for free valet.
Self-parking is available for current MGM Rewards Mastercard cardholders.
MGM Rewards members with Pearl status or higher are eligible for special event parking.
Related: 18 things you should know before staying at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas
For Caesars loyalists, Caesars Rewards offers free valet and free parking for those with Platinum status or higher.
Free parking in shopping malls
If you’re looking for free parking during the day and don’t mind a short walk to your destination, consider parking in a shopping center. The Fashion Show at Las Vegas mall, The Shoppes at Mandalay Bay and The Shops at Crystals offer free parking.
Parking at the mall for free may be easier if you visit different nearby casinos that do not offer free parking. Just be aware of store hours. Also, move your car when the shops are closed as overnight parking is not allowed.
Related: Yes, Las Vegas can be done on a tight budget – here’s how
Free parking for veterans
Caesars Entertainment has a special discount program for veterans, active duty US military members and their spouses.
Salute members receive free parking at Caesars hotels, including Caesars Palace, Harrah’s Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood and others. Salute also offers discounts on dining and show tickets.
Free parking for local residents
Being a local pays for free parking in Las Vegas.
At all MGM resorts, Nevada residents receive up to three hours of free parking by showing a valid Nevada driver’s license at the exit gate, except during special events.
Area residents also receive three hours of free parking at Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Harrah’s Las Vegas, Horseshoe Las Vegas (Bally’s property) and Hard Rock (formerly The Mirage). Three hours of free parking at Paris Las Vegas is also available to Nevada residents.
Related: How buying points saved me $700 on my Las Vegas hotel stay: Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World review
Use a ride service
If you want to avoid the cost of parking and the hassle of renting a car, ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are the way to go.
You can hail a ride from Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) to a hotel on The Strip for around $25. Getting around without a rental car is possible and free, thanks to shuttles available between popular hotels on The Strip.
Bottom line
Going to Vegas is booming, but you don’t have to dip into your entertainment budget to pay for parking.
Instead, follow these tips to avoid parking fees in Las Vegas this coming year, and use your savings to play and stay in Sin City.
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