At certain times of the year, Las Vegas’ hotels have no vacancies, restaurants have extra-long wait times, tables at nightclubs are hard to book and every attraction means cozy confines with thousands of other people.
If these are the kinds of conditions that invigorate a traveler, then Halloween, Spring Break and Labor Day are ideal times to visit. But those who want a quieter and slightly low-key Las Vegas holiday should consider visiting during January, one of the city’s low seasons.
Las Vegas locals tend to avoid the Strip during the busiest times, but they come out in droves early in the year. After the holidays are over, things slow down, and in general, wait times at restaurants are mere minutes, lines at nightclubs are shorter and some attractions offer discounts in order to entice people in. With more open rooms in hotels, prices often drop significantly. For those who have visited Las Vegas before and just want a simple and inexpensive getaway and don’t mind the potentially chilly and rainy weather (average January temperatures range from around 40 degrees Farenheit to the upper 50s) it's a good time to visit.
However, taking advantage of the relatively quiet surroundings also has its disadvantages. Because this is the low season, some businesses use of the lack of crowds as an excuse to do a bit of housekeeping. This is when restaurants might shut down for renovations, and shows may go black for a few weeks to give performers a vacation or to rework certain parts of an act.
Some outdoor adventure tour companies cut back offerings in the winter, especially on trips to the Grand Canyon because it can be buried in snow.
Traveling to the city in January is not the typical Las Vegas experience, but for those who can be flexible with their plans, it can be one of the best times to visit. Likewise, for clients who want to do something specific, check to make sure their preferred attractions, shows and restaurants are open.