Book 4 to 8 Weeks Ahead

These are the experiences that consistently sell out. If any of these are on your must-do list, book them as soon as you have your travel dates confirmed.

Cirque du Soleil Shows

Cirque du Soleil productions are among the most sought-after shows in Las Vegas. Weekend performances and premium seats sell out 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially during holiday periods and conventions.

Top Cirque shows to book early:

• "O" at Bellagio – The crown jewel of Cirque productions. This aquatic masterpiece performs in a 1.5 million gallon pool and consistently ranks as the top show in Vegas. Book at least 6 weeks ahead for weekend seats.
• "KÀ" at MGM Grand – Features a rotating stage and martial arts combat. The technical spectacle makes this a favorite for repeat visitors.
• Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay – A high-energy tribute to the King of Pop with immersive sound and acrobatics. Popular with all ages.

Pro tip: Booking early also gives you better seat selection. The difference between row 5 and row 15 is dramatic for these productions.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

A Grand Canyon helicopter tour is a bucket-list experience with limited daily departures. Morning flights book up first because of better visibility, cooler temperatures, and calmer air conditions.

During peak season (March through May and September through November), tours can sell out 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Summer months have more availability but early booking still gets you preferred departure times.

The Sphere Experiences

The Sphere is Vegas's newest must-see attraction. The Wizard of Oz immersive experience showcases the venue's 16K wraparound visuals and spatial audio in a way that has to be seen to be believed. This is currently one of the hardest tickets to get in Vegas.

Celebrity Chef Restaurants

Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen, Wolfgang Puck's restaurants, and similar high-end spots book up 30 to 60 days in advance for prime dinner times (7pm to 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays). Set a reminder to book the day reservations open.

Money-saving tip: Lunch reservations are much easier to get and often feature the same menu at 30% lower prices.

Book 2 to 4 Weeks Ahead

Hotels During Peak Weekends

Las Vegas hotel prices can triple during major events. If you're visiting during these times, book at least 2 to 4 weeks ahead to lock in reasonable rates:

• New Year's Eve – The biggest night of the year. Book 6 to 8 weeks ahead.
• CES (January) – The consumer electronics show fills every hotel on the Strip.
• March Madness – Sports bettors flood Vegas for NCAA tournament.
• Big Fight Weekends – UFC and boxing events at T-Mobile Arena or MGM Grand.
• Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day – Holiday weekends bring heavy traffic.
• SEMA (November) – Automotive trade show takes over the city.

Browse our hotel recommendations and check availability →

Magic and Headliner Shows

David Copperfield at MGM Grand is the longest-running solo act in Vegas history, and his shows still sell well. While not as hard to get as Cirque, booking 2 to 3 weeks ahead ensures good seats.

Pool Cabanas and Daybeds

If you want a cabana or daybed at popular pool venues during summer weekends, book 2 to 3 weeks ahead. Walk-ups on busy days either get turned away or pay significant premiums.

Book 1 Week Ahead (or Less)

Most Las Vegas Shows

Many excellent shows have good availability even a few days out. These are great options if you're planning a last-minute trip or want flexibility:

• Blue Man Group at Luxor – The iconic percussion and comedy show runs multiple times daily with consistent availability.
• Tournament of Kings at Excalibur – A fun medieval dinner show with jousting knights. Great for families and usually available same-week.

Day Trips and Ground Tours

Unlike helicopter tours, ground-based excursions have more capacity. A Hoover Dam tour or Red Rock Canyon trip can usually be booked just a few days ahead, even during busy seasons.

Hotels During Normal Weeks

Outside of peak events, Las Vegas has over 150,000 hotel rooms competing for guests. Prices can actually drop as your travel date approaches if occupancy is low. If you're flexible on which property you stay at, waiting can sometimes save money.

Exception: If you have your heart set on a specific hotel like the Bellagio or Venetian, book early to guarantee your preferred room type.

No Advance Booking Needed

Free Attractions

Some of the best Vegas experiences are completely free and require no reservations. Just show up:

• Bellagio Fountains (shows every 15 to 30 minutes)
• Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
• Mirage Volcano (nightly shows)
• Fremont Street Experience light show
• Welcome to Las Vegas Sign photo op

See all free Las Vegas attractions →

Casual Dining

Buffets, food courts, and casual restaurants don't require reservations. Even popular spots rarely have waits longer than 30 minutes.

Nightclub General Admission

You can typically arrange club entry the same day through hotel concierges or promoters. Table reservations should be booked ahead, but general admission is usually available for walk-ups willing to wait in line.

The Bottom Line

Focus your advance planning on the experiences that truly sell out: top Cirque shows, helicopter tours, and hotels during major events. Everything else offers more flexibility than you might expect.

The beauty of Las Vegas is that there's always something amazing to do, even if your first choice is sold out. Plan the highlights, but leave room for spontaneity.