Las Vegas Summer Tips

Some say you shouldn’t visit Las Vegas in the summer. The reason is the extreme heat present in Nevada’s desert city during the day.

However, with our tips, visiting Las Vegas during the summer can still be a wonderful experience.

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This guide covers

• Weather Overview
• Outfit and Packing Guide
• Pool Visiting Tips
• 5 Essential Tips: Survive the Heat
• Things to Do
• Dress Codes for Shows, Restaurants, Clubs

In this helpful guide, we’ll dive into the specifics of Las Vegas’ unique May climate and outfits.

This guide is your key to packing just right, ensuring your trip is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Its extremely hot climate is due to its location in the Mojave Desert, the driest one in North America.

The absence of precipitation combined with the desert’s scorching heat results in a climate rarely cooling off. On most days, temperatures exceed 100 degrees in June, July, and August.

Make sure to read all our tips for a pleasant summer visit:

One Must-Do Activity in Summer

Discover the one thing you simply can’t miss in Las Vegas! Enjoy breathtaking views of Las Vegas and the Strip from the top of the High Roller at the LINQ. Take a ride on this 550-foot observation wheel and look out over the city in an air-conditioned compartment.

Weather Overview

Even with the possibility of monsoon rains, if you visit Vegas in the summer, there will never be a time of day when you aren’t warm. Although, the rains do sometimes bring temporary relief and can move temperatures out of the 100s and into the 90s.

During the summer, from June to August, average high temperatures in Las Vegas range from 94°F (34°C) to 105°F (40°C). The conditions are very hot and dry, with little humidity. It rarely rains, with an average between 0.1 and 0.4 inches.

Progression of average high temperatures in the summer months:

• Early June: 94°F (34°C)
• Mid-June: 98°F (37°C)
• Late June: 103°F (39°C)

• Early July: 104°F (40°C)
• Mid-July: 105°F (40°C)
• Late July: 104°F (40°C)

• Early August: 104°F (40°C)
• Mid-August: 102°F (39°C)
• Late August: 99°F (37°C)

Typical temperature progression in the middle of the summer:

• Very Early (5:30 AM): 78°F
• Early (8:00 AM): 85°F
• Afternoon (4:00 PM): 104°F
• Evening (9:00 PM): 95°F

Mornings in the summer start between 78°F (26°C) and 85°F (29°C), depending on the month, and get hotter as the day progresses. The afternoon is the hottest time of day during this period.

Rainfall

The average rainfall during summer in Las Vegas can be expected to be between 0.1 and 0.4 inches. It rarely exceeds 0.5 inches. However, July and August fall into the monsoon season, when summer thunderstorms can happen. They typically come in quickly and leave just as quickly. You can easily wait them out anywhere inside. If you are in a restaurant or casino when a storm starts, you may not even realize there was one until you leave and see the wet ground.

Good to know: It hardly rains for more than 10 or 20 minutes during a storm. After 20-25 minutes, you don’t even know it has rained. There is no need to bring an umbrella or a raincoat for your trip in the summer.

Is the Summer Too Hot in Vegas?

Summer in Las Vegas can be too hot for some travelers. However, it’s a dry heat, which is more tolerable for most people. Additionally, every restaurant, casino, and hotel is air-conditioned, making it easy to relax inside during the hot afternoons.

💡 It can feel as if someone is pointing a huge hair dryer at you in the summer. A few people can’t take it, most tolerate it, and some even love it!

It’s better not to stay outside for a long time, from late morning/midday until around 4 PM. However, if you plan anything on the Strip, you can cool off every 10 minutes in air-conditioned casinos, restaurants, and shops. Everything is so close together that it’s easy to duck into a building when it starts feeling unbearable.

Which Is the Best Summer Month?

The first two weeks of June are typically slightly more pleasant, with temperatures below 100°F (38°C) compared to the extreme heat in late June and during July and August. Additionally, it’s less busy as most school holidays haven’t started yet.

For more details and insider tips for each month, check out our full guides:

• Las Vegas in June
• Las Vegas in July
• Las Vegas in August

A heatwave can even happen in early June. Be prepared for scorching weather conditions throughout the summer months.

Outfit Tips / What to Pack

Leave your pants and long-sleeves at home. You won’t need them. You’re going to want to wear as little clothing as possible in the summer or keep your clothing loose-fitting for breathability.

During the summer in Las Vegas, you wear loose-fitting clothes for breathability. Shorts and tank tops are your go-to outfit when being outside. For sun protection, wear cotton and linen cover-ups. Pack swimwear for your pool visits.

💡 Every casino, hotel, and shop is air-conditioned. Thus it can get freezing if you are not used to it. Bring a light sweater for indoors if you get cold easily.

Pools/Swimwear: there are a lot of pool parties, including clubbing pool parties, that you can go to. Bring your best swimwear, because it might end up being your evening wear.

How Important Is a Sweater?

Whether or not you like the dry heat, just a few minutes outside will leave you sweaty and feeling like someone put you in the oven.

Some enjoy the chilly air conditioning that will be blasting everywhere indoors. If you don’t get cold easily and want to free up the space in your suitcase, leave the sweater at home.

💡 However, if you are on the chillier side, we strongly suggest packing a sweater, as you will be spending time in the air-conditioned casinos, restaurants, or doing other indoor activities.

Pack Your Day Bag Well

Bring a fanny pack or backpack that can carry all your belongings while you walk around and explore the city. With the abundance of shops and eateries, you will need your hands free to make purchases and try things out!

Before your day in Vegas, plan to stock your bag with a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, your wallet, your phone, a phone charger, and hand sanitizer.

Beware of pickpockets! Invest in an anti-theft bag, or if that is not an option for you, bring a bag you can securely strap across your chest or around your waist while keeping the opening in your line of vision.

Safety Tip

Regardless of how you choose to store and carry your belongings, always be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to where you are, who is around you, and keep track of your things at all times.

Tip: Anti-Theft Bag

💡 Vegas is a mecca for pickpockets! Invest in an anti-theft bag, or if that is not an option for you, bring a bag you can securely strap across your chest or around your waist while keeping the bag’s opening in your line of vision.

Women’s Clothing Suggestions

Mornings:

• Tank tops or short sleeve T-shirts/blouses
• Breathable leggings or loose-fitting trousers (think linen)
• Shorts or skirts
• Sundresses
• Flat shoes or sandals

Afternoons:

• Tank tops or short sleeve T-shirts/blouses
• Shorts or skirts
• A sundress or cover-up
• Your favorite swimsuit, sandals, and a hat

Evenings:

• A nice dress or jumpsuit with flats or heels
• Bold jewelry and eye-catching accessories.

Evening Dress

After a day of touring the entertainment capital of the world, you can’t go wrong with a cocktail dress in Vegas. Any little black dress will work as long as you pair it with the right accessories to get that glam look.

If you don’t have one in your closet, there are plenty of online shopping options that you can get fast and for a reasonable price.

Men’s Clothing Suggestions

Mornings:

• Short sleeve T-shirts
• Tank tops or cutoffs
• Jeans or shorts
• Athletic shoes

Afternoons:

• Muscle Tee or short sleeve T-shirts
• Tank tops or cutoffs
• Shorts
• Athletic shoes or sandals
• Your favorite swim trunks and flip-flops
• Sunglasses and a hat

Evenings:

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

Can I Wear Jeans?

Most people will find it unbearable to spend the day walking around in jeans during the hottest month in the Las Vegas desert. While the weather doesn’t have any humidity and stickiness, wearing tight denim will still feel like it’s suffocating your skin in the dry heat.

If you want to wear jeans instead of shorts or a skirt, avoid skinny jeans and go for a looser style and wider pant legs. Keeping your clothing items breathable will help your body maintain its temperature in the heat.

Styling tip: Pair your looser mom jeans with a tank or crop top and a light-colored, open, and flowy button-up top. This will mix the perfect amount of tight and loose clothing and give you a summery look that will keep you cool.

Jeans are the right move if you plan on staying indoors for most of the day, like in restaurants or casinos where the air conditioning can get pretty cold. Otherwise, try to let your legs get some air with shorts or a skirt.

Shorts

Tip: Look after your thighs! Because of how much you’ll be sweating, pack some baby powder or lotion if you plan to wear short shorts. These items will absorb the moisture between your thighs and reduce chafing.

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If you can, avoid the short shorts if you know you’ll be sweating, and try something longer, like biker shorts. Biker shorts are a fashionable alternative and will give your legs some breathing room while minimizing chafing.

Mind Your Footwear

The scorching summer weather means you might be taking several indoor breaks from walking to stay safe from the heat.

Whether you plan on sitting at the slot machines, relaxing by the pool, or marching down the entire Strip, comfortable walking shoes are a non-negotiable for your suitcase.

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Because Las Vegas is such a big melting pot, you can blend right in wearing pretty much anything. This means you shouldn’t worry about sticking out by wearing walking sneakers most of the day. Make sure you wear shoes that you can wear for all your daily activities without hurting your feet.

Tip: If you plan to wear high heels in the evening, bring a thick pair of socks in your bag. Since you likely won’t have a pair of sandals in your clutch for your dinner outfit, this will give your feet a break and keep you from walking around the Vegas streets or casinos barefoot.

The Summer Sun Is No Joke

Many people who have not experienced Vegas heat can underestimate it. Our Vegas local says that’s both an enormous and a dangerous mistake.

Dressing comfortably is always better than dressing to impress and suffering from a heatstroke. Sticking with comfortable clothes that are light, non-compressive, and breathable is the way to go.

This means fashionable but restrictive clothing, like your favorite leather pants, should wait for another vacation.

The desert sun will feel very strong, so make sure you’re wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for any extended outdoor activity.

💡 Pro Tip: Applying sunscreen in the morning won’t be enough if you plan on being out all day. Reapply at least every two hours, especially if you are sweating.

Wearing short sleeves will feel the best in the heat but won’t do much to protect your skin from the sun. At the very least, keep a hat and sunglasses on and wear plenty of sunscreen.

Tip: A pair of chic sunglasses can elevate any outfit. For hats, think stylish yet practical—maybe a cute fedora or a wide-brimmed hat for added sun protection. If you want to keep it more casual, a baseball cap can work just fine.

Pool Visiting Tips

The best time to be at the pool in Las Vegas during the summer months is in the morning before it gets crowded and too hot. Many visitors don’t spend longer than between one and three hours at the pool between mid-June and mid-August.

Depending on the pool location, you might also want to wait until the buildings provide more shade or choose a pool that offers enough shaded areas in general. For example, you can always find shade at the MGM pools.

You might also want to choose a pool/hotel in the summer that has umbrellas and/or plenty of shade. Some of the pools with umbrellas are:

• Oasis Pool (The Mirage) + enough shaded areas
• Cypress Pool (Belagio)
• Four Seasons
• Mandarin Oriental
• Vdara at Aria (almost as many umbrellas as pool guests)

Alternative: You can rent a cabana where you will have guaranteed shade or even a cabana room with a fridge, TV, bottled water, a safe, and a personal server in addition to seating and definitely enough shade. While expensive, all that will even make an extremely hot summer afternoon enjoyable at the pool.

5 Essential Vegas Summer Tips

1. Drink lots of water

Because Las Vegas is so hot on most summer days, you’ll need to drink more water than you might think. The Nevada Health District advises that adults should drink one glass of water every hour to keep from getting dehydrated.

Additionally, eat fruits and vegetables as they also contain water. Especially those with high water content, like oranges, tomatoes, and melons. In addition to drinking enough water, these fruits and vegetables help you stay hydrated during the hot summer days.

Stay away from drinking alcohol and sugary drinks during the day if possible, and wait until Happy Hour. Also, drink at least one glass of water for each alcoholic beverage to keep yourself hydrated.

Tip: Bring a water bottle and keep it wherever you go. Fill it up in your hotel room and at the buffets. It’s a lifesaver and less expensive if you have to keep buying it every time.

2. Wear Shoes or Sandals

Regardless of where you are in the extreme heat, never walk barefoot in Vegas. Walking on the pavement without shoes can damage your feet with severe burns, which require medical treatment or even hospitalization. Sidewalk and pavement temperatures easily exceed 160°F during the hottest time of day, from noon to late afternoon.

Walking barefoot on the scorching pavement is as dangerous as running to the water without sandals while trying to beat the heat at the pool. Check this video on YouTube: Hot Pavement in Vegas

Make sure you wear shoes all the time and don’t forget sandals when relaxing a the poolside.

3. Wear sunscreen

Besides hydration, one of the keys to surviving Vegas during the hottest time of year is to have sunscreen with SPF 30 on, depending on your skin type. Apply it every time you will be out and about for more than 10-15 minutes. Additionally, bring aloe vera with you in case you do get a sunburn.

Tip: Bring your own sunscreen. It might sound crazy to buy it before heading to Vegas, but it will save you money. If you purchase sunscreen at the resorts, it will be super expensive. If you forgot to pack it, don’t buy pricey sunscreen at the pools; instead, go off-Strip to a store like Wal-Mart to get a better price.

4. Bring a Hat, Loose Clothing, and a Sweater

When walking outside in the afternoon heat for more than 10 minutes, wear a hat to protect your face and neck. Additionally, loose clothing is essential as it’s easier for your body to cool down without a tight dress.

Check out more detailed outfit tips below from our Vegas resident.

Tip: You’ll want to wear a light sweater to stay comfortable in the casinos, hotels, and restaurants with their arctic air conditioning. It feels frigid inside most buildings as they set the AC on full blast in Vegas.

Extra tip: Surfaces can be extremely hot! Carry a small towel which can be helpful when opening a car door handle, touching a steering wheel, or handling any other overheated object.

5. Planning and Timing Is Critical

During the summer months, it is hot from sunrise to sunset. With dawn temps still above 85°F (30°C), it’s a bit cooler but already warm. Plan any outdoor activities for the mornings and the late afternoons. Keep in mind that this doesn’t just involve longer outdoor explorations like tours but also walking The Strip for a longer period of time or ample pool time.

Hotel Rates

Find a selection of the best hotel deals below (tip: bookmark the link if you found a good deal!):

Booking.com

Due to the extremely hot weather, hotel rates can be lower than during the month of July. August is still a popular time to visit Las Vegas, however, the cheaper times to book are from Sunday to Thursday, and as the month progresses the crowds get quieter and hotel prices begin to drop.

Things to Do

Tour Tip if you want to explore the region: The Mojave, Red Rock Sign, 7 Magic Mountains Tour (see the stunning photo) is just perfect for the summer months as it starts early and takes only 5 hours. If you plan to take other trips during the intense summer heat, pick half-day tours and choose those that start early in the morning (7 AM to 8 AM).

Also, ensure that you are prepared for the intense desert heat. Bring light coverups, plenty of sun lotion, a sunhat, and enough water for your entire trip. The hot desert sunshine is manageable for some time as long as you prepare.

Mornings

If you’re planning anything outdoors during the daytime, mornings before 9AM are your best bet for somewhat comfortable weather (think 80s-90s). You will want to make sure to be drinking plenty of water and wearing sunscreen if you’re spending any extended amount of time outside during the day. Heat exhaustion and dehydration are not fun additions to your vacation.

Red Rock Canyon is always a gorgeous drive in the comfort of air-conditioning, but it’s not worth risking the heat to hike in the summer midday sun. Consider Mt Charleston instead, as it’s only a 45 minute drive from the strip and is always about 20 degrees cooler. This “sky island” full of aspen trees and bristlecone pines(the world’s oldest organism), will feel like a whole different world from the bustling, burning streets of Vegas.

Afternoons

You can plan to spend most of your time indoors during the summer afternoons unless you are taking a refreshing dip in the pool. Luckily, there are a ton of afternoon shows to keep you entertained while beating the heat. These shows are generally not as pricey as their evening counterparts either!

If you want a unique, air-conditioned entertainment experience, consider checking out Area 15, an off-the-strip building with activities for everyone in your group.

Evenings

Even when the sun goes down, temperatures are pretty high. If you don’t mind staying up really late, once temperatures start to become more bearable, you can walk the strip and take a ride on the Highroller to see the strip from above(before midnight).

Clubbing in Vegas in the summer is unique because there are night swims, basically nighttime pool parties, and you can wear whatever you like! (No you don’t have to swim, but you might want to after a few drinks!) This can be really nice for guys because the usual dress code doesn’t apply. Maybe clubbing isn’t your thing, but you can always get dressed up for a fancy dinner and a show and stay cool inside. There are more options than you could dream of.

The High Roller at The LINQ | Mornings or Evenings

There’s no better way in the summer season to see Las Vegas than from the top of the High Roller at the LINQ in the morning or later in the evening.  It stands over 550 feet (around 168 meters) tall and 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.

Shin Lim Magic Show

Shin Lim and his up-close magic at the Mirage Hotel and Casino is intriguing. This show is a family-friendly event full of fun intriguing magic tricks. Find more information and tickets here: Shin Lim Magic Show.

Seven Magic Mountains and Red Rock Canyon

If you book an early morning trip, then the summertime is great to visit Seven Magic Mountains and Red Rock Canyon as you’ll avoid the extreme summer afternoon temperatures that Las Vegas is known for. But still, bring a hat, and water, and apply sunscreen!

Jabbawockeez at MGM Grand

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

Additional details and ticket reservations: Jabbawockeez At MGM.

Area15 (Near Las Vegas Strip) | Afternoon

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-visit in summer as everything is air-conditioned and a great opportunity to cool off.

Outfits for Casinos | Restaurants | Clubs | Shows

Casino

Las Vegas casinos don’t enforce a specific dress code, but it’s generally expected that guests dress sensibly.

Even in the most upscale casinos, casual attire is completely acceptable, provided it’s neat and presentable.

Feel free to visit any Las Vegas casino in shirts and trousers without worrying about being judged for your choice of clothing.

Dressing for the Hotel Casino

In Las Vegas casinos, your attire can vary based on the hotel and time of day. During daytime, both men and women can go for a relaxed yet neat look with shorts or jeans, blouses, sport shirts with collars, or tasteful t-shirts.

In the evening, the dress code shifts slightly towards formality. Opt for jeans, slacks, blouses, skirts, dresses, button-down shirts, or jackets. Flip flops are a no-go.

While most casinos don’t enforce a strict dress code, observing what others wear can be a helpful guide.

• Men:
  • Daytime: Shorts or jeans
  • Collared sport shirts or neat t-shirts
  • Evening: Jeans or slacks
  • Button-down shirts or jackets
• Women:
  • Daytime: Shorts, jeans, or casual dresses
  • Blouses or stylish tops
  • Evening: Jeans, slacks, or skirts
  • Dresses, blouses, or elegant tops

Nightclub

Dressing for the Nightclub

Nightclubs and lounges in Vegas usually have a dress code focused on smart and attractive attire. Avoid shorts, torn clothes, sneakers, flip flops, and plain t-shirts.

A more polished look is preferred – think business casual. This includes pressed jeans or slacks, button-down shirts, suitable dresses, skirts, blouses, and closed-toe leather shoes.

Adding a jacket to a collarless shirt like a t-shirt or pullover can elevate the outfit.

• Men:
  • Pressed jeans or slacks
  • Button-down shirts (long or short sleeved)
  • Jackets (optional but recommended)
  • Closed-toe leather shoes
• Women:
  • Suitable dresses or skirts
  • Blouses or stylish tops
  • Pressed jeans or slacks
  • Jackets or elegant outerwear
  • Closed-toe shoes or dressy sandals

Restaurant

Dressing for Fine Restaurants

Fine dining in Vegas often comes with a dress code. While only a few, like Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand and Picasso at Bellagio, may require jackets, most fine dining establishments lean towards “business casual.”

This includes pressed jeans or slacks, button-down shirts (long or short-sleeved), and closed-toe shoes for both men and women. Ladies might also consider social occasion dresses.

• Men (Fine Dining):
  • Jackets (required in select restaurants like Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand and Picasso at Bellagio)
  • Pressed jeans or slacks
  • Button-down long or short-sleeved shirts
  • Closed-toe shoes
• Women (Fine Dining):
  • Social occasion dresses
  • Blouses with pressed jeans or slacks
  • Elegant skirts or dresses
  • Closed-toe shoes

Show

Dressing for the Las Vegas Show

The time of day influences your outfit choice for Las Vegas shows. Daytime shows are casual – prioritize comfort. Evening shows, especially upscale celebrity performances, often see guests dressing up more, though strict formal wear isn’t necessary.

Aim for an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and fitting in. For men, this might be dark jeans or slacks with a smart shirt, and for women, a dress or stylish ensemble suitable for an evening out.

In all these settings, the key is to balance comfort with style, keeping in mind the specific atmosphere of the place you’re visiting. Remember, Vegas is a place to impress and enjoy, so dress in a way that enhances your experience and confidence.

• Men:
  • Daytime: Casual attire, such as jeans and a comfortable shirt
  • Evening: Dark jeans or slacks, smart shirt
  • Optional jacket for a more polished look
• Women:
  • Daytime: Casual dress or comfortable yet stylish ensemble
  • Evening: Dress suitable for a night out, or a stylish top with jeans or slacks
  • Elegant accessories to enhance the outfit

Conclusion

In all these settings, remember that Las Vegas is a place where you can express your personal style while adhering to the venue’s ambience. Comfort is key, but a touch of elegance never hurts in this vibrant city.