You step off the plane in Las Vegas, the Strip’s neon jungle sparkling in the distance, promising a whirlwind of fun. You’re pumped to hit the slots, catch a show, or just soak in the vibe, but then it hits you: the Strip is a sprawling four-mile beast, and walking it in the desert heat sounds like a recipe for sore feet and a drained wallet. What if you could glide between iconic spots like Mandalay Bay, Aria, or Bellagio without spending a single cent or wearing out your favorite kicks? That’s where free trams in Las Vegas come in, your secret weapon for cruising the Strip with ease, leaving you more cash for cocktails and more energy for the party.
These trams aren’t just free rides; they’re like a VIP pass to hop between some of the Strip’s hottest resorts in cool, air-conditioned comfort. They’re open to everyone, not just hotel guests, so whether you’re a budget traveler or a high roller, they’re a no-brainer for getting around. Picture yourself zipping from Luxor’s pyramid to Bellagio’s fountains without battling crowds or racking up rideshare bills. This guide’s got you covered with everything you need to know about las vegas free tram map, routes, schedules, and insider tips to make you feel like a Vegas local in no time.
Why Free Trams in Las Vegas Are a Game-Changer
You’re in Vegas, ready to make memories—maybe a late-night poker game, a buffet feast, or a stroll through a casino’s dazzling lights. But the Strip’s size can be a buzzkill. It’s not just long; it’s packed with distractions, and walking from one end to the other can feel like a marathon. That’s when free trams in Las Vegas swoop in like a trusty sidekick, courtesy of MGM Resorts, connecting their top properties for zero cost.
These trams aren’t just about saving money; they’re smart, moving thousands of people daily while cutting down on traffic and emissions—think 20 tons less CO2 a year from similar systems. They’re a win for everyone: families juggling strollers, folks with mobility needs, or anyone who’d rather skip the sweaty sidewalk shuffle. Plus, riding above the Strip gives you a cool view of the chaos below, like a mini-tour without the price tag. Imagine hopping from Mandalay Bay’s beachy pool vibes to Aria’s sleek nightlife without breaking a sweat or your budget.
I heard about a group of buddies who used the free tram in las vegas to bounce between Excalibur’s quirky castle and Bellagio’s upscale charm in one night, saving $30 on cabs for extra rounds at the bar. It’s practical, eco-friendly, and fits Vegas’s vibe of getting the most bang for your buck. Ready to jump on board? Let’s break down the two main trams in Las Vegas and how they’ll make your trip a breeze.
The Two Free Tram in las vegas Systems: Your Strip Shortcut
Las Vegas has two awesome free trams in Las Vegas, both run by MGM Resorts on the west side of the Strip. They’re totally separate from the paid Las Vegas Monorail on the east side (more on that later). These trams cover the south and central Strip, linking big-name resorts in just minutes. They don’t connect directly, but a quick walk or pedestrian bridge makes switching super easy. Grab a Free Trams in Las Vegas map at any MGM concierge for a simple layout of las vegas tram stops and routes.
The Mandalay Bay tram is your go-to for the south end, perfect for diving into tropical pools or pyramid adventures. The Aria Express tram owns the central Strip, ideal for shopping sprees or fountain-gazing. Both use modern, cable-driven cars that fit up to 160 people, so you’re never squished, even when Vegas gets wild. They run on schedules that match tourist hours, keeping your day flowing smoothly. Let’s dive into each one to plan your moves.
Mandalay Bay Tram: South Strip, No Sweat
You’re kicking back at Mandalay Bay, maybe fresh from a dip in its epic wave pool, but you’re curious about Luxor’s glowing pyramid or Excalibur’s medieval castle vibe. Why hoof it a half-mile in the scorching sun when the Mandalay Bay tram offers a free, air-conditioned ride? This elevated line connects three southern MGM resorts, making it a total lifesaver for south-end explorers.
Route and Key Stops
The Mandalay Bay tram map is super easy to follow: it’s a loop hitting three stops in about seven minutes northbound, with a speedy three-minute express southbound. From Mandalay Bay, it cruises to Luxor, then Excalibur. Heading back, it skips Luxor for a quick dash to Mandalay Bay. Here’s the scoop:
Mandalay Bay tram station: Tucked near the casino’s northeast corner, past the House of Blues. Escalators take you up from the gaming floor—perfect after chilling by the pool.
Luxor tram station: Outside by the iconic Sphinx entrance, right by valet parking. It’s your spot for cool exhibits like Titanic or a quick bite inside the pyramid.
Excalibur tram station: Smack at the front entrance, just steps from the Strip. From here, pedestrian bridges connect you to New York-New York or MGM Grand.
This setup makes chaining adventures a breeze. For instance, tram from Mandalay Bay to Excalibur, then stroll to T-Mobile Arena for a concert. The cars are roomy, air-conditioned, and roll in every three to seven minutes, keeping your plans on point.
Hours and Frequency
The Mandalay Bay tram schedule runs daily from 9 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Sunday through Wednesday, stretching to 2:30 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. During big events like boxing matches or conventions, hours might extend—check the MGM app for real-time tram hours las vegas updates. Mornings are chill, while evenings buzz with post-show crowds.
I know a couple who used it after a huge Mandalay Bay buffet, hopping to Excalibur for a 10 p.m. show in under 10 minutes, no cab needed. If you’re out past closing, walking between stops takes about 10-15 minutes, so keep that in mind for late-night plans.
Is It Really Free? Cost and Accessibility
Yup, the Mandalay Bay tram cost is zero for everyone—no hotel stay required. MGM foots the bill to get folks moving between their resorts, so you ride free while they hope you’ll hit the slots. It’s super accessible, with elevators at every tram station las vegas, wide doors for wheelchairs, and plenty of room for strollers. No tickets, just walk on and go.
If mobility’s an issue, staff can help during busy times. Compared to the las vegas monorail’s $5+ fares, this is a total steal. Pair it with free shuttle las vegas options from nearby hotels to stretch your savings even further.
Aria Express Tram: Central Strip, Vegas Style
Now let’s swing to the heart of the Strip, where glitzy resorts like Aria and Bellagio steal the show. You want to hit the shops at Crystals, grab dinner at Park MGM, then watch Bellagio’s fountains dance—all without circling for parking or dodging selfie-stick crowds. The Aria Express tram is your free pass to central Strip magic, a slick electric ride that’s as fancy as the resorts it serves.
Stops and Route Details
The aria express tram map spans 2,000 feet, hitting three stops in about eight minutes. From Park MGM, it glides to Crystals (near Aria and Cosmopolitan), then Bellagio, with Vdara as a bonus on return trips. Here’s the breakdown:
Park MGM tram station: Outside, between Park MGM and Aria entrances. Great if you’re crossing from New York-New York via bridge.
Crystals/The Aria station: Above the Shops at Crystals mall, with escalators to Aria’s casino or Cosmopolitan’s bars. A shopper’s dream spot.
Bellagio tram station: Near the south tower, close to the spa and fountains. Easy access to Vdara via elevators.
You can link to the Mandalay Bay tram by walking from Park MGM to Excalibur—about 10 minutes—or use bridges for smooth switches. It’s perfect for chaining activities: shop at Crystals, tram to Bellagio for a show, then back to Park MGM for nightlife.
Operating Hours and Frequency
The Aria Express tram schedule runs daily from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., stretching to 4 a.m. for special events like New Year’s Eve. Trains roll in every three to seven minutes, so waits are short. Mornings are calm; evenings hum with fountain-watchers. Check tram hours las vegas on the MGM site for holiday tweaks.
A friend of mine used it to hit Bellagio’s conservatory at 9 a.m., then Aria’s poker room by noon, dodging the midday heat entirely. It’s reliable, but steer clear of peak dinner hours if you’re in a hurry.
Free and Accessible? You Bet
The Aria tram cost is nada, open to everyone—no hotel key needed. It’s 100% electric, eco-friendly, and decked out with elevators, wide doors, and pet-friendly policies (in carriers). Snag a free tram in las vegas map pdf or grab one at Aria’s desk for easy planning. Pro tip: Use it to hit T-Mobile Arena from Park MGM in minutes, saving you cab fares.
How Free Trams Compare to Other Vegas Transport
You’ve got options beyond free trams in Las Vegas, but how do they stack up? The Las Vegas Monorail runs along the east side from Sahara to MGM Grand, with seven stops, but it’ll cost you $5 one-way or $13+ for passes, running 7 a.m. to midnight or later. It’s great for long hauls but skips west-side spots like Aria.
The Deuce bus chugs along the Strip 24/7 for $6 a day, stopping everywhere but getting stuck in traffic. Rideshares like Uber run $10-20 for short trips, spiking during busy times. Free hotel shuttles exist but stick to specific routes.
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Here’s a quick look:
| Option | Cost | Coverage | Frequency | Best For |
| Free Trams in Las Vegas | Free | South/Central Strip (MGM resorts) | Every 3-7 min | Resort-hopping, budget travel |
| Las Vegas Monorail | $5+ | East Strip (Sahara to MGM Grand) | Every 4-8 min | Long-distance, conventions |
| Deuce Bus | $6/24 hrs | Strip + Downtown | Every 15-20 min | All-day sightseeing |
| Rideshares | $10-20/trip | Anywhere | On-demand | Late nights, off-Strip |
| Walking/Bridges | Free | Short distances | N/A | Immersive Strip strolls |
Trams win for free, fast resort links. A family I know used them for daytime hops and buses for Downtown, saving $50 over a three-day trip.
Insider Tips for Riding Free Trams in Las Vegas
Get the most out of free trams in Las Vegas with these pro moves. Download the MGM Rewards app for live las vegas tram schedule updates and tram stops las vegas alerts. Wear comfy shoes for short walks between systems, like aria to mandalay bay via bridges. Travel light—trams have space but no bag storage.
Families, keep strollers unfolded unless it’s packed. Got mobility needs? Ask for priority boarding. Mornings are chill for quick rides; evenings get lively with partygoers. Pair with free shuttle las vegas from airports or off-Strip hotels to max out savings. One traveler I know trammed from Luxor to Bellagio in 20 minutes, leaving plenty of time for a Cirque show.
Check out our posts on public transportation in las vegas or vegas hotel tram perks for more ways to navigate Sin City like a pro.
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FAQ
Are the trams in Las Vegas really free?
Yup, both the Mandalay Bay tram and Aria Express tram are 100% free for everyone, no hotel stay needed. Just hop on at any tram station las vegas.
Where can I get a free tram in Las Vegas map?
Snag a free tram in las vegas map at MGM resort desks or download a las vegas free tram map pdf from the MGM app, showing mandalay bay tram map and aria express tram map.
What are the Mandalay Bay tram hours?
The Mandalay Bay tram schedule runs 9 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Sunday-Wednesday, until 2:30 a.m. Thursday-Saturday. Check tram hours las vegas for event extensions.
How does the Aria Express tram work?
The Aria Express tram links Park MGM, Crystals/Aria, and Bellagio/Vdara, running 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily, every 3-7 minutes. It’s free and accessible.
Can I tram from Mandalay Bay to Bellagio?
No direct tram from mandalay bay to bellagio, but take the Mandalay Bay tram to Excalibur, walk to Park MGM, then catch the Aria Express tram to Bellagio—about 20 minutes, free.
Is the Las Vegas Monorail free?
Nope, the las vegas monorail charges $5+ per ride, unlike free trams in las vegas. It runs east-side from Sahara to MGM Grand, not covering aria tram or luxor tram.
What are the key tram stops in Las Vegas?
Key las vegas tram stops include Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur for the south tram; Park MGM, Crystals/Aria, Bellagio for the central tram. Check a tram las vegas map for details.
Are free trams in Las Vegas family-friendly?
Totally—free trams in Las Vegas are stroller-friendly with elevators at tram stations las vegas. They’re safe and roomy for kids and families.
How often do free trams run in Las Vegas?
Free trams in las vegas roll in every 3-7 minutes during tram hours las vegas, ensuring quick rides. Check vegas tram schedule for real-time updates.
Can I use trams to get to T-Mobile Arena?
Yes, take the Aria Express tram to Park MGM, a short walk from T-Mobile Arena. Or use the Mandalay Bay tram to Excalibur, then cross to the arena—both free.
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