Located in the Mojave desert, Las Vegas has a dry climate with little rainfall. In fact, the city boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine per year. The arid climate and brilliant sunshine makes Las Vegas a year-round destination. The best time to visit Vegas in terms of weather depends on what you plan on doing, how much heat you can handle and your budget.
If budget is your primary concern, then the best deals are during the summer, particularly in July and August, when the average high temperatures soar above 100. Hotels often offer steep discounts during this period. If you plan on spending your time gambling or engaging in other indoor activities, then the outside heat won't affect you much. Also, many people who visit Vegas in the summer spend a large part of their day lying by the hotel pool. In fact, the Vegas summer pool scene can be quite the party, particularly at hotels that attract younger crowds, like the Hard Rock. Of course, if you enjoy more active outdoor sports, such as golf, then you might prefer going when the temperature is more seasonable.
You can also find discounts in the months of January and February. After the busy holiday season, tourism to Las Vegas usually drops off, and hotels lower their room rates to attract visitors.
If you want the weather to be warm but not sweltering, the best time to visit is in March, April or October, when the daytime temperature is in the '70s. During these months, you can spend as much or as little time outdoors as you like without being concerned about the heat. In May and September, the temperatures can climb past 90, which you may still find quite manageable.
Highs can be as low as the '50s during the day in December, January and February, so if you like to hang out by the pool or prefer warm weather for activities such as golf, avoid the winter months.
If you visit Las Vegas during the hotter months, drink a lot of water. Just because it's a "dry" heat doesn't mean you're not getting dehydrated. The sun is quite strong during the summer, so it's advisable to use a high-SPF sunscreen whenever you'll be spending time outside.
Due to the desert climate, the months of October through May often bring cool nights, so if you visit during these months, bring a jacket and layers.
Because Las Vegas is a year-round destination, there are always a fair amount of tourists. If you want to deal with the fewest crowds possible, go during the weekdays during the summer or the off-season winter months.
If you like to hike, plan a trip during the spring while the wildflowers are in bloom.
Finally, keep in mind that Las Vegas offers so many indoor activities, from gambling to clubbing to theatrical performances, that no matter when you go to Vegas, you're sure to find a lot to do.
