Las Vegas in May

The month of May is considered spring in most places in the US, but in Vegas it already feels like summer. It is, in fact, one of the best months to visit Las Vegas.

However, there can be a few downsides in May while visiting Las Vegas. Let us provide you with every possible tip about the weather, what to wear, and the best things to do, so your trip during this month won’t be spoiled.

This article was written by our Las Vegas resident!

3 Activities We Recommend

We highly suggest at least one of these three activities. Check them out for an unforgettable Vegas vacation in May. Reservations are easy and very comfortable. You will receive a voucher for your mobile phone or you can print it.

Weather

May in Las Vegas brings sunny conditions and pleasant days with usually no rain. The weather truly begins to heat up with temperatures up to 94°F on average. However, be prepared for chilly evenings once the sun goes down and the temperatures begin to drop.

Average high temperature progression during the month:

  • Early May: 85°F (29°C)
  • Mid-May: 89°F (32°C)
  • Late May: 94°F (34°C)

The weather during May in Las Vegas is pleasant and sunny. The daily maximum ranges from 85°F to 94°F. While it is unlikely that the temperatures exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit on most days, it’s possible towards the end of the month.

Local opinion: The May weather In Las Vegas starts out warm and pleasant in the 80s, but by the end of the month the 100°F weather often begins.

Temperature progression on a typical day in May:

  • Early (7:30 AM): 74°F
  • Noon (12:15 PM): 88°F
  • Evening (9:00 PM): 85°F
Coldest Temperature

Las Vegas is not cold in May. The lowest average temperate is 61°F (16°C) in the early morning at the beginning of the month. Cooler temperatures below 60°F (15°C) are quite rare, occasionally occurring during the night in early May.

Humidity

Because it is located in the desert, Las Vegas is extremely dry all year. In May, the city’s relative humidity normally ranges from 11 percent (which is extremely dry) to 34 percent (pleasant). The likelihood of a muggy and unpleasant day is basically zero.

Rainfall

During May the average precipitation in Las Vegas is 0.1 inches throughout the month. There is only one rainy day on average. That means rain is unlikely during your May visit. Even if it rains, it’s typically short and often drizzles for about 10-20 minutes only.

Basically, you probably won’t see many rain clouds during May. Thus, you will be able to enjoy the Vegas sun uninterrupted by any surprise downpours.

Wind

During a typical day in May, wind speeds range from almost no wind to a fresh breeze in Vegas. The winds can increase to about 20 mph, especially around lunchtime, on a few days. That means it can get a bit breezy on some days and light layers are a good idea after checking the forecast.

However, the average hourly wind speed remains quite low and stable during this month:

  • May 1: 9.1 mph
  • May 11: 9.0 mph
  • May 21: 8.8 mph
  • May 31: 8.8 mph
Sun/Daylight

The length of the day in Las Vegas is increasing throughout the month. The length of the day increases by 46 minutes from the beginning to the end of the month. May 1 is the shortest day, with 13 hours, 41 minutes of daylight, and May 31 is the longest day, with 14 hours, 27 minutes of daylight.

Pools

The pools in Las Vegas are open throughout May. However, they are not open 24 hours daily. The hours vary by hotel with opening times from 7 am to 10 am and closing times between 5 pm and 11 pm.

What to Wear / What to Pack

Sunny days are to be expected in May, so pack your sunscreen and sunglasses, because you’re going to need them. Chances are you won’t need to pack sweaters. However, if you wake up early or get chilled easily, packing a light sweater is not a bad idea.

The majority of the clothes you wear in Las Vegas during May should be lightweight which allows your body to stay cool. Pack shorts, short-sleeve t-shirts, breathable leggings (women), jeans for cooler mornings or evenings, comfortable shoes, and swimwear.

Local tip: The weather during May in Vegas is great for most outdoor activities. I mostly get cold indoors when traveling during May in Vegas, as the air conditions always seem to be on full blast. I recommend light layers that you don’t mind carrying along. Additionally, it can be windy sometimes in May so the layers can be helpful to outside as well. However, most years during my May visits, layers come off when outdoors and go on while inside. As far as pants go, I almost always wear capris.

Tip: Definitely bring a couple of swimsuits and a pair of sandals. Wearing a hat while lounging poolside is highly recommended. The desert sun is extremely powerful.

WOMEN’S CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS

Mornings:

  • A light sweater (optional)
  • Short sleeve T-shirts/blouses
  • Breathable leggings or loose-fitting trousers (think linen)
  • Shorts or skirts
  • Comfortable flat shoes for walking

Afternoons:

  • Tank tops or short sleeve t-shirts/blouses
  • Shorts or skirts
  • Your favorite swimsuit, sandals, and a hat

Evenings:

  • A dress or pantsuit with flats/heels
  • Jewelry that elevates your look
MEN’S CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS

Mornings:

  • Short sleeve T-shirts
  • Jeans or shorts
  • Athletic shoes

Afternoons:

  • Muscle Tee or short sleeve t-shirts
  • Jeans or shorts
  • Athletic shoes or sandals
  • Your favorite swim trunks and flip flops

Evenings:

  • Dark jeans/slacks and a button-down shirt
  • Fitted suit (optional)
  • Dress shoes or minimalist sneakers

 

Recommended Shows

We put together a list of the best shows, concerts, stand-up comedy, and other special events at the most popular hotels and casinos (subject to change):

MGM Grand
Cirque Du Soleil:
  • Michael Jackson: ONE
  • O By Cirque Du Soleil
  • Mystere
  • The Beatles LOVE
Mandala Bay:
The Venetian
Planet Hollywood:

Hotel Rates



Booking.com

Accommodation rates climb on the first weekend (Kentucky Derby) and on Memorial Day Weekend in late May.

💡 Check great deals from booking.com (see above), or via this link: Las Vegas Hotel Deals (Tip: sort by start rating and price!)

Mid-week is better: Besides the higher prices during those times, you can always find hotel deals in Vegas, especially mid-week. If possible, try to avoid weekends as they are more expensive.

The Bellagio

Clicking on the image takes you to the hotel deals for The Bellagio on booking.com

You should stay in the legendary Bellagio at least once in your lifetime. The resort is in the middle of the Strip, but it’s situated back behind a lake with the iconic fountains, so you’re not surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the streets.

Crowds

Fremont Street, Las Vegas

Las Vegas is not busier or more crowded in May than during other months. The city welcomes over 3.5 million visitors on average during this month. This is not higher than during other times.

However, it gets busier at certain times:

Weekends: The weekends are busier in general with higher rates than during mid-week.

Derby: The first weekend in May is exceptionally busy with the Kentucky Derby. It’s one of the busiest weekends of the year. It will always be held on the first Saturday in May. Visitor information Kentucky Derby

Mother’s Day: This is one of the busiest restaurant days in the country, and Las Vegas is no exception. Expect the Strip to be busier, buffets, and restaurants in general. Make your brunch and dinner reservation as far in advance as possible. Wikipedia Mothers’s Day Dates

Memorial Day: The Memorial Day weekend brings more crowds and higher hotel occupancies in Las Vegas.

Electric Daisy Carnival: The EDC is either in late May or June and it gets busier during that time. Check the upcoming dates here: Las Vegas EDC

If you consider visiting Vegas later, please read our full guide to Las Vegas in June.

Things to Do | Mornings – Afternoons – Evenings

Depending on the time of day it can be too hot for some activities, even in May. Find our suggestions from Las Vegas experts for every time of the day below.

Walking tip: Another important thing to keep in mind is that many visitors underestimate the amount of walking they’ll be doing. Bring a pair of comfortable shoes. Your feet will thank you! Ladies, I know heels look cute to wear out to the club but consider bringing a pair of roll-up flats in your purse for later. We wouldn’t want you walking around barefoot!

Mornings

Las Vegas mornings in May are usually comfortable with temperatures in the 60s and 70s, which is perfect for sitting outside for brunch or getting on the green to play a round of golf. If you’re an especially early riser, consider spending part of your morning going for a hike or scenic tour of Red Rock Canyon only 20 minutes from the strip. (Be aware that it can be about 10 degrees cooler here, so if you chill easily you might want to wear a light sweatshirt that you can take off later.)

Afternoons

May afternoons range from warm to hot, but luckily you won’t feel like you’re being baked alive like you might in June, July, or August. Make the most of these temps by bringing your swimsuit and sandals to lounge poolside. If warm weather and pools aren’t your thing, there are hundreds of air-conditioned activities available to you!

Consider checking out Area 15, a fully air-conditioned space with over 200,000 square feet of unique entertainment experiences. You’re bound to find something fun for everyone!

Evenings

💡 Remember that many nightclubs will be expecting people to be dressed to the nines, so bring at least one very nice outfit.

Nighttime temperatures in May are perfect. It’s still warm from the day, but without the sun beating down on you. It’s a great time to walk the strip, take a ride on the Highroller at the Linq, see a world-renowned show, go dancing at a club, or all of the above.

The High Roller at The LINQ

There’s no better way in May to see Las Vegas than from the top of the High Roller at the LINQ.  It stands over 550 feet (around 168 meters) tall, provides an excellent vantage point for viewing everything going on along the Strip. Reserve your tickets: High Roller at The LINQ

  • From 550 feet, take in incredible views of the Las Vegas Valley and The Strip.
  • While on your 30-minute ride, enjoy a party with an open bar cabin for those over the age of 21.
  • Skip the long wait and get right to the front of the line.
Mojave, Red Rock Sign, and 7 Magic Mountains Tour

May is a great time to be at these intriguing locations as you’ll avoid the extreme summer temperatures that the Las Vegas area is known for. Marvel at the inspiring sights of Red Rock Canyon, The Spring Mountains, and The Mojave Desert.

Additionally, the tour guide is just spectacular. There aren’t enough stars to express how much fun we had on this tour. He knows the area’s history, is an enthusiastic storyteller, and is super-friendly!

Jabbawockeez at MGM Grand

This hip-hop dance group offers a fantastic show! You’ll be able to watch exciting, choreographed dances that will definitely impress you. Jabbawockeez is the perfect activity when wondering what to do in Las Vegas in May.

Additional details and ticket reservations: Jabbawockeez At MGM.

Grand Canyon/Hoover Dam Tour

A tour of the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam in May is a welcome change of scenery from the typical Vegas activities. A full-day tour (11-12 hours) features the sights of the West Rim. You will be driven through Joshua Tree Forest and lead you on a hike to Guano Point, among other natural attractions. Purchase tickets here: Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam Tour.

Area15 (Near Las Vegas Strip)
Photo by jericl cat on flicker

Area15, an indoor attraction just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, provides larger-than-life art installations, virtual reality experiences, unusual and intriguing experiences, and events. It’s similar to a shopping mall, except instead of the usual stores, you’ll find artists and unique things to interact with. This is a must-see in May!

The Neon Museum

This attraction was built in the 1930s, and there are now over 200 neon signs on the spacious property.

The Neon Museum is a great activity until mid-May because everything is outside and it often gets far too hot during the summer period.

Tip: Visit our full guide with tips for the best time to visit Las Vegas.

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