Travel Time: La To Vegas By Bus

If you're looking for a cost-effective way to get from LA to Las Vegas, taking the bus is a great option. The bus journey from LA to Las Vegas covers a distance of approximately 260-270 miles, and the travel time is usually around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the bus company and route. With about 3 to 42 buses travelling between the two cities daily, you're sure to find a departure time that fits your schedule. In this guide, we'll provide an overview of the different bus companies, amenities, and things to consider when choosing your bus ticket.

Bus companies and what they offer

When travelling by bus from LA to Las Vegas, there are several companies to choose from, each offering different amenities and services. Here is some information about the most popular bus companies and what they offer:

FlixBus

FlixBus is a popular choice for this route, with multiple daily trips and affordable prices. They offer comfortable seats, toilets, Wi-Fi, and power outlets on board. FlixBus also has a Real-Time Bus Tracker that allows you to check your bus location and arrival time. Tickets start at $45.99, and you can choose from different types of seats, including classic, table, and panorama seats. FlixBus is also one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel, with sustainability initiatives and carbon offset programs.

Tufesa

Tufesa provides comfortable, safe, and affordable bus travel. Their buses are equipped with reclining seats, power outlets, bathrooms, and WiFi (only in Mexico). Tufesa has over 3 daily trips between LA and Las Vegas, and they accept e-tickets for convenience. They have received positive reviews from travellers, who compliment their comfortable buses and reliable service.

Greyhound

Greyhound is another option for this route, offering daily trips between LA and Las Vegas. Their buses include basic amenities, and they have a large network of destinations across the country. However, reviews for Greyhound on this route are mixed, with some passengers reporting delays and late arrivals.

Los Limousines

Los Limousines operates on the LA to Las Vegas route, with ticket prices starting at $52.00. They have received an average rating of 3.1 stars on Busbud, with travellers particularly satisfied with their ticket access and staff.

Megabus

Megabus is a well-known bus company that provides service across the United States. They offer multiple route options to popular destinations, including New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Megabus aims to make travel easy and affordable for passengers.

How to find the best tickets

The best way to find cheap bus tickets is to book them online using a search comparison site. This allows you to compare fares from different companies side-by-side, making it easy to find the highest-rated, fastest, and cheapest options. Here are some tips for finding the best bus tickets:

Book Early

The earlier you book your bus tickets, the better the price. It is recommended to book five to six weeks in advance to lock down the lowest price on bus tickets from all major carriers.

Travel During Off-Peak Times

Travelling during off-peak times can reduce your transportation costs. Sunday afternoons are the most expensive, so if your schedule is flexible, plan to travel mid-week or in the mid-morning on a Sunday. Weekend trips are available from LA to Vegas, so you could also consider departing on a Saturday.

Search for Nearby Bus Stations

If you are travelling to a major city, you may have different stations or local bus stops to choose from. Expanding your search to include nearby locations may help you find a lower price.

Search Multiple Bus Companies

Different bus companies offer different amenities, levels of comfort, and prices. FlixBus, for example, offers an eco-friendly, budget-friendly service. If you are looking for added comforts, you might want to consider a company like Greyhound, which offers discounts for seniors, children, students, and military veterans.

Look for Special Deals

Some companies offer $1 bus tickets, although these are usually limited to the first handful of seats sold. To secure these seats, make sure you book early.

Where to get the bus in LA

If you're considering taking a bus from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, there are a few convenient locations in LA where you can board, depending on your preferred bus company and your starting point in the city. Here are some common departure points for buses heading to Las Vegas:

Union Station, Downtown LA:

Many bus companies, such as Greyhound, FlixBus, and CoachRun, offer trips to Las Vegas departing from Union Station. This is a major transportation hub in LA, located at 800 N Alameda St. You can easily reach Union Station by taking the Red/Purple Line subway or several bus lines, including the Metro Local 68, 70, 71, 78, 79, 378, and the Metro Express 442 and 460i. If you're driving, there are also parking lots and garages nearby for long-term parking.

Hollywood:

Some bus companies, like Lux Bus America, offer departures from Hollywood, which can be convenient if you're staying in this area of LA. The pick-up location is often at a major hotel, such as the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, or a nearby designated stop. This area is well-served by buses and the Red Line subway, making it easy to reach the departure point.

LAX Airport:

If you're arriving in LA by plane and want to head straight to Las Vegas, you can do so by bus. Both Greyhound and FlixBus offer routes from LAX to Las Vegas, with stops located near the airport. For example, the Greyhound stop is at the LAX City Bus Center, which you can reach by taking the free "G" shuttle from any terminal. FlixBus also offers a similar service, with a stop located a short walk from the airport.

Anaheim:

Although not directly in LA, some bus companies offer departures from Anaheim, which is a short distance away and may be convenient if you're visiting Disneyland or staying in the area. For example, Tufesa offers a bus service to Las Vegas, with a pick-up location near Disneyland at 2200 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim.

Remember to check the specific departure point when booking your bus ticket, as there may be multiple options, and some companies offer several locations to choose from. It's always a good idea to arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth start to your journey.

Where to get off in Vegas

So, you've taken a bus from LA to Vegas – but where should you get off? Well, it depends on where you're staying and what you want to do. Here are some options:

Las Vegas Strip (Las Vegas Blvd)

If you're looking for the bright lights of the famous Las Vegas Strip, this is the stop for you. The bus will drop you off near Forever 21, on the north side of the Fashion Show, close to Fashion Show Drive. From here, you can easily access the Strip's many resorts, casinos, and other attractions. This stop also offers a designated ride-share pick-up area.

Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

The S Strip Transit Terminal is another option for accessing the Las Vegas Strip. It is located on Gilespie Street and is served by several bus routes.

Las Vegas Downtown (1st St)

If you want to explore the heart of the city, getting off at 1st Street will put you in the middle of Downtown Las Vegas. The bus will drop you off on the west side of 1st Street, across from the Bonneville Transit Center, near the intersection of 1st Street and E Bonneville Avenue. Look for the green FlixBus sign. Please be respectful of the nearby residences and do not loiter, litter, or smoke at this stop.

Henderson (Galleria at Sunset)

This stop is located at the Galleria at Sunset, a shopping mall in Henderson, just outside of Las Vegas. The bus will drop you off in the loading zone in front of World of Beer and Gen Korean BBQ House, on the south side of the mall.

Las Vegas North (E Craig Rd)

If you're staying in North Las Vegas, this might be the most convenient stop for you. The bus will drop you off at a Shell gas station, located in the parking lot behind a bus shelter on Craig Road.

Las Vegas Airport

If you're arriving in Las Vegas by bus and need to get to the airport, or if you're heading out of town and need to catch your bus, this is the stop for you. The bus will drop you off at Terminal 1, Zero Level, in the Courtesy Shuttle Zone. To get there, go down the escalators east of baggage claim.

Things to do in Vegas

A bus trip from LA to Vegas takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes, covering a distance of 264 miles. Now, let's take a look at some of the exciting things you can do once you're in Vegas:

Explore the Las Vegas Strip

The famous Las Vegas Strip is a must-see, with its bright lights, world-class resorts, and casinos. You'll find plenty of entertainment, dining, and luxury shopping options to keep you busy.

Visit the Neon Museum

The Neon Museum is a unique attraction that showcases the history of Las Vegas through neon lights and signs. It's even better at night, and you can opt for a guided tour to learn more about the city's past.

Experience Nature and Adventure

If you're looking for a break from the bustling city, there are plenty of outdoor activities nearby. Red Rock Canyon, Lake Mead, and the Grand Canyon offer opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding. You can also try your hand at off-road desert adventures or take a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon.

Indulge in Fine Dining

Las Vegas is a food lover's paradise, with celebrity-chef restaurants and award-winning culinary experiences. You can find classic French cuisine, Italian, Japanese, and Dim Sum options to satisfy your taste buds.

Shows and Entertainment

Las Vegas, also known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, hosts some of the biggest names in music and show business. From Cirque du Soleil to magic and comedy shows, there's always something exciting happening on stage.

Free Attractions

Vegas has a lot to offer even if you're on a budget. You can explore the Fountains of Bellagio, the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas, or the Atlantis Show at The Forum Shops. The Fremont Street Experience and the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign are also must-sees.

For the Thrill-Seekers

If you're an adrenaline junkie, Vegas has plenty of unique activities to get your heart pumping. Try skydiving from 100 stories up at The STRAT Hotel, racing exotic cars at SPEEDVEGAS, or operating heavy machinery at Dig This.

Family-Friendly Fun

Las Vegas has a surprising number of kid-friendly attractions. The Adventuredome at Circus Circus, Mandalay Bay Beach, Shark Reef Aquarium, and the High Roller Observation Wheel are just a few options for family fun.

Relax and Unwind

With its array of spas, Las Vegas is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Treat yourself to a gemstone-infused facial at the Bellagio Spa or a stone massage at Qua Baths & Spa.

Remember, this is just a glimpse of what Vegas has to offer. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, foodie, gambler, or entertainment seeker, Vegas has something for everyone!

Frequently asked questions