Las Vegas, the Entertainment Capital of the World, is known for its dazzling lights, bustling casinos, and world-class entertainment. But what if you want to experience the excitement of Vegas with your furry friend? You might be surprised to discover that Las Vegas can be quite Vegas Pet Friendly. While Sin City might not immediately scream “dog vacation,” many visitors bring their beloved pets along, and for good reason.
Whether you’re attending a conference like SuperZoo (where, admittedly, your pet might be happier at home!) or simply exploring the city, bringing your dog to Vegas is definitely possible. It all comes down to preparation and knowing the ins and outs of navigating this vibrant city with your animal companion.
Is Las Vegas Really Dog Friendly? Unveiling Pet Travel in Sin City
During my numerous trips to Las Vegas, one thing always stood out: the sheer number of dogs I encountered, leashed and strolling through casino lobbies along the Strip. This constant canine presence sparked a question: How does pet ownership truly mesh with the Vegas experience?
Initially, doubts crept in. Green spaces seemed scarce amidst the towering hotels and sprawling casinos. The thought of navigating from a hotel room to the outdoors felt like a mini-marathon, envisioning a daily routine of elevator rides and dashes across casino floors just to reach a patch of pavement.
Perhaps the frequent sight of dogs rushing through casinos wasn’t just my imagination. The layout of Vegas, designed to immerse you indoors, coupled with the long distances between locations, might explain why many hotels thoughtfully provide pee pads alongside water bowls and pet mats. It’s a practical acknowledgement of the realities of traveling with pets in an urban oasis like Las Vegas.
Dog-Friendly Shopping Sprees: Retail Therapy with Your Pup in Vegas
While casino floors might have limitations for your four-legged shopping buddy, Vegas pet friendly options open up at the Fashion Show Mall. As of October 2021, this premier shopping destination welcomes well-behaved, leashed dogs in its common areas. Individual stores may have their own pet policies, so it’s always wise to check beforehand, but overall, the Fashion Show Mall is a fantastic pet friendly retail option in Las Vegas.
The Fashion Show Mall provides a comfortable, air-conditioned environment, a welcome respite from the Nevada heat. This is a significant benefit for pet owners concerned about overheating or paw burn on scorching pavements. However, getting there requires navigating the city, including being mindful of the dog restrictions on the Las Vegas Strip after midday.
Beyond the Fashion Show Mall, keep an eye out for other pet friendly shopping spots. I’ve personally witnessed leashed dogs enjoying the ambiance of the Forum Shops at Caesars and the stunning gardens within the Bellagio Hotel. The Bellagio gardens, a must-see attraction, change themes every four months, providing a visually captivating experience for both you and your leashed companion.
Unleashing Fun: Dog Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Vegas
Many major hotels on the Las Vegas Strip embrace the Vegas pet friendly vibe, welcoming dogs (though typically not other types of pets). Several even offer designated dog runs or pet relief areas directly on their property, adding convenience for pet-owning guests.
For more expansive dog-friendly outdoor adventures, Las Vegas boasts numerous dog parks throughout the city. Charlie Frias Park on Decatur Boulevard and Sunset Park, located south of Harry Reid International Airport, are popular choices relatively close to the Strip.
If you’re willing to venture a bit further, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, about 25 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip, offers scenic trails where you and your dog can explore the desert landscape. Be mindful of the desert heat and ensure you bring plenty of water for both you and your pet.
However, when it comes to the Las Vegas Strip itself, dog walking comes with specific regulations.
Navigating the Rules: Las Vegas Dog Bylaws and Hotel Policies
It’s essential to be aware of Las Vegas’s bylaws regarding dogs on the Strip. Dogs are permitted on the Las Vegas Strip, specifically between Sahara Road and Sunset Road, only during the hours of 5 am to noon. After midday and throughout the evening, dogs are prohibited from the main drag.
Beyond these city rules, hotels also have their own pet friendly policies shaped by health regulations. Dogs are restricted from all food service areas, pool areas, and casinos – except when passing through. Dreaming of playing slots with your dog by your side? That unfortunately remains a dream in Vegas.
On the brighter side, most hotels allow dogs to be left unattended in rooms for short periods, especially if crated. Pet-sitting services can also be arranged through hotel concierge desks. Hotels along the Strip, often under the umbrella of MGM Resorts or Caesars Entertainment, generally have similar pet policies, including pet fees – with a few notable exceptions.
Vegas Pet Friendly Hotels: Where to Stay with Your Furry Pal
Finding the perfect Vegas pet friendly hotel is key to a successful trip with your dog. Many hotels on the Las Vegas Strip officially permit dogs, but it’s crucial to understand the specifics, including potential extra charges, size limitations, and pet perks. Be prepared for pet fees, as they are a common practice in Las Vegas. Properties under MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment often share similar pet policies.
Here’s a breakdown of pet friendly hotels in Vegas on the Strip:
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas:
- Welcomes dogs of all sizes (max two per room). Vaccination proof required.
- Fee: $100/room/night + tax.
- Dogs can be left unattended if kenneled.
- Perks: PupJoy gift box (eco-toy, treats, collapsible bowl, pee pad).
Excalibur:
- Any size dogs (max two, 100 lbs combined weight).
- Fees: Rooms $50/night, Suites $100/night + tax. Extra fee for second dog.
- Designated outdoor relief area with waste bags.
- Unattended dogs allowed if kenneled (arrange housekeeping times).
- Dog sitting services via concierge.
Vdara Hotel & Spa:
- Any size dogs (max two, 100 lbs combined weight).
- Fees: Rooms $150/night, Suites $200/night + tax. Extra fee for second dog.
- Designated outdoor dog park.
- Unattended dogs allowed if kenneled (arrange housekeeping times).
- Services: ‘Check-in’ service ($25/10 min), dog walking, Buddy’s Box ($30 treats, toys, bandana).
Caesars Palace, The LINQ Hotel, Paris Las Vegas, The Cromwell, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino:
- Dogs up to 50 lbs (max two).
- Fees: Vary slightly (e.g., Paris Las Vegas $85/night, Planet Hollywood $75/night), plus ~$100/night refundable incident fee.
- “Pet Stay” rooms only (book specifically).
- Unattended dogs allowed if kenneled (crate rentals available).
- Amenities: Water dishes, mats, waste bags.
- Dog walking services on request.
- Flamingo Las Vegas: Designated relief areas in wildlife habitat/garden.
The Mirage Hotel & Casino, Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Delano Las Vegas, The Bellagio, Aria Resort & Casino, Park MGM, New York-New York Hotel & Casino:
- Any size dogs (max two, 100 lbs combined weight).
- Fees: Rooms ~$100-$150/night, Suites ~$150-$200/night + tax. Extra fee for second dog.
- Designated outdoor dog park/relief areas with waste disposal.
- Unattended dogs allowed if kenneled (arrange housekeeping).
- The Mirage: Room service pet menu.
- Park MGM, Mandalay Bay, Delano, Aria, Bellagio, New York-New York: Dog walking/sitting services, ‘check-in’ service (Park MGM, Mandalay Bay, Delano, Aria, Bellagio, New York-New York). Buddy’s Box (Mandalay Bay, Delano, NoMad).
NoMad Las Vegas:
- Any size dogs (max two, 100 lbs combined weight).
- No pet fees.
- Designated outdoor dog park.
- Unattended dogs allowed if kenneled (arrange housekeeping).
- Perks: Buddy’s Box ($30 treats, toys, bandana).
Key Considerations for a Vegas Trip with Your Dog
Before packing your bags and your pup’s leash, weigh these factors to ensure a smooth Vegas pet friendly experience:
Crowds: The Las Vegas Strip is perpetually crowded. Navigating throngs of people can be stressful for both you and your dog. Consider your dog’s temperament and comfort level in busy environments.
Limited Green Space: Green spaces are scarce on the Strip. Upon hotel check-in, ask your concierge to pinpoint the on-property pet relief areas for quick bathroom breaks.
Sensory Overload: Las Vegas is a sensory explosion – loud music, flashing lights, and constant activity. Noise-sensitive or easily excitable dogs might find this overwhelming. Think about your dog’s typical reactions to intense stimuli and the hot pavement temperatures.
Making the Bet: Is Vegas Right for Your Dog?
Technically, bringing your dog to Las Vegas is achievable, albeit potentially expensive due to pet fees. However, realistically assess what you and your dog will actually do together in Vegas. Your dog might spend a significant amount of time in the hotel room, punctuated by brief outdoor walks, especially if you’re without a car.
If your dog is accustomed to being alone at home while you’re at work, then a comfortable, air-conditioned hotel room on the Las Vegas Strip might not be a significant departure from their routine. However, if your dog is used to constant companionship, being left alone in a hotel room while you explore the Vegas scene might be more challenging for them. Many of the quintessential Las Vegas experiences are not designed to be pet friendly.
Ultimately, a successful Vegas pet friendly trip hinges on understanding your dog’s personality, planning carefully, and choosing accommodations and activities that cater to both your and your pet’s needs.
Writer bio: Sherri Telenko has been a professional writer for decades and a travel writer for the last two. She’s a member of TMAC (Travel Media Association of Canada) and Dog Writers Association of America and travels almost weekly with her canine companion, Victoria. Contact Sherri at dogtrotting.net here. All written content is original, written by a person, and based on experience and research. Please subscribe!
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Tags: las vegas, las vegas strip, nevada
