A 2024 Guide to Las Vegas Airport Harry Reid International (LAS)

by Nick Hagan / October 17, 2024
Estimated reading time: 18minutes

Get the full lowdown on Las Vegas Airport via Blacklane’s comprehensive guide, from the comfiest lounges to the best restaurants.

Las Vegas is served by three airports, with Harry Reid International Airport being the primary gateway for the city’s bustling tourist and business traffic. Image credit: Wikimedia

Also known as Harry Reid International Airport since 2021, LAS is located just five miles south of downtown Las Vegas, offering swift and smooth access to the bustle and bright lights of one of the USA’s perennial travel hotspots.

Table of Contents

Las Vegas Airport History

Established in 1943 by aviator George Crockett (a descendant of American icon Davy Crockett), LAS airport began life as Alamo Field. In 1948 it was bought by Nevada’s Clark County and renamed McCarran International, after Senator Pat McCarran – an instrumental figure in the development of the aviation industry across the USA.

Since its early days, LAS went through several significant, ambitious expansions in order to optimize capacity, growing alongside the burgeoning Las Vegas itself. As the city developed into a tourism powerhouse, a new terminal was added and then amended to support increased passenger traffic – the latest upgrade took place in 2012. For countless visitors, the airport has become an indispensable means to access Vegas’s 24/7 smorgasbord of entertainment.  

In 2021 the airport changed names again, becoming Harry Reid International in honor of the US Senator for Nevada, who served from 1987 to 2017. Today, Las Vegas’s air hub plays host to more passengers than ever before, with 57.6 million using it for their journey in 2023. 

LAS acts as an operating base for a number of key American carriers, including Southwest Airlines, Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, JSX and Spirit Airlines. As well as being a key hub for domestic routes, it also offers international flights to Asia, Europe and other parts of North America.

For visitors, it’s also notable for its high density of shops, outlets and facilities – including, naturally, plenty of gambling options.

With so much on offer, we’d recommend you make use of a Las Vegas airport map – plus this one-stop guide – to make sure you get lucky while you’re in town.  

Where is Las Vegas Airport

Address: 5757 Wayne Newton Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
Phone: 702-261-5211

How to Get to Las Vegas Airport

There are several convenient ways to get to Harry Reid International if you’re not driving. It’s possible to get to and from the strip in under 20 minutes using the right transport.

  • RTC Transit Bus: Local bus routes, operated by RTC (the Regional Transport Commission), provide convenient and low-cost access to downtown Vegas in as little as 15 minutes. Buses taking Route 108 and 109 can be boarded at ground level at Terminal 1, taking you directly along Las Vegas Boulevard – also known as the world famous Strip. The stops are even named after memorable resort hotels like the Flamingo, Tropicana and Sahara, making it pretty easy to find the landmark you need. 
    Ticket vending machines for the RTC bus can be found at the airport bus stop, or you can pay with cash when you board. Tickets can also be purchased with the rideRTC app, which shows you bus arrivals and departures in real time.
    Once you’ve hit the strip, there’s also The Deuce – a handy local bus that goes up and down the strip all the way to Fremont. Ideal for exploring.
    RTC bus fares start from just $4 for a single ride, or up to $8 for a 24-hour unlimited pass.
  • CX Bus: The CX (Centennial Express) will also get you from Harry Reid International to downtown Vegas in a jiffy. And at only $2 a ride, the price is hard to beat. Just be aware that there’s only one CX bus an hour, and it’ll take around 35 minutes to get you downtown, stopping at Flamingo on Las Vegas Boulevard. It’s the only place the bus stops on the Strip proper, so don’t miss it! 
    You can catch the CX from Ground Level Zero at Terminal 1 and also from Terminal 3.
  • Taxi: Las Vegas Airport is a bustling place, and it’s no surprise that there are plenty of taxi firms plying their trade. Cabs can be found outside baggage claim at Terminal 1, or at Level Zero outside Terminal 3. They will take you directly to the fun times for around $30.
  • Book a Blacklane: If you’re looking for a more upscale and exclusive travel option, try booking your airport transfer with us. Our reliable chauffeur services will make you feel like a VIP during your visit to Vegas.

Las Vegas Airport Parking

LAS keeps parking simple, with short term, long term, valet and economy options available at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

Short Term

  • For stays of 3 hours or less, short term is the parking flavor you need.
  • Short term parking is covered, and conveniently located just outside Terminal 1 on Level 2M, and just outside Terminal 3 on Level 1.
  • Be aware that Terminal 1 parking can be in high demand.
  • Parking is priced at $1 an hour, rising to $4 for every additional hour. The daily max clocks in at $36.

Long Term

  • Long term parking is intended for stays of 3 hours or more.
  • In Terminal 1 the long term garage is found right next door at levels 1M, 3, 4, 5 and 6. In Terminal 3, you’ll find it immediately adjacent on levels 3, 4, 5 and 6. 
  • Be aware that long term Terminal 1 parking can be in particularly high demand. Terminal 3 long term may be the best option.
  • The first 3 hours cost $10 – after that it’s $2 an hour. The daily max clocks in at $18.
  • 30 days is the maximum limit for long term parking at Vegas airport without prior notice.

Valet

  • In a rush, or just prefer a professional to look after your car? Las Vegas Airport valet parking is available to meet your needs.
  • Find it in the garage right next door to Terminal 1 on level 2, and in Terminal 3 at level V.
  • For 1 hour’s valet parking it costs $10; for 1 to 2 hours, $12; for 2 to 3 hours, $14; for 3 to 4 hours, $18. Then $2 extra for each additional hour up to a daily max of $30.

Economy

  • Need a flexible parking option at a reasonable price? Opt for LAS’s economy garage.
  • In Terminal 1 you’ll find economy next to the long term garage. In Terminal 3, locate it on the east side within walking distance of check-in.
  • Economy parking costs just $4 for up to two hours, then an extra $2 per additional hour, up to $12 max a day.

Remote Lot

  • Just across the road from the airport, the remote lot offers cheap parking at a convenient distance, next to the Rent-A-Car center.
  • Free shuttles to and from the LAS terminals provide convenient access to the remote lot, located on Gilespie Street.
  • Parking here costs just $4 up to two hours, then an extra $2 per hour up to $12 max per day.
  • Please note that overnight parking of oversized vehicles is not allowed here.

Cell Phone Lot

  • Picking up or being picked up? The cell phone lot offers a handy short term waiting area next to the passenger pickup curbs for Terminals 1 and 3.
  • Open from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily, this paved and well-lit lot is free of charge to wait in, and is also watched by security cameras. Ideal for drivers who need a comfortable and safe spot to occupy temporarily.

Las Vegas Airport Terminal Overview

Harry Reid International is made up of two separate terminals, with Terminal 1 acting as the main domestic terminal while Terminal 3 caters to international flights and other domestic flights. Terminal 2 was demolished in 2016.

Transportation Between Terminals

A free airport shuttle bus connects the two terminals 24/7. It runs every 20 minutes and takes between 5 and 10 minutes each way. Find the pick-up and drop-off areas outside baggage reclaim at both terminals – just follow the signs for ground transportation.

A frequent airport tram is also available to get you to your concourse. The green line tram will transport you to the C gates in Terminal 1, while the blue line goes to the D gates from Terminal 1 and the red line goes to the D gates from Terminal 3.  

Alternatively, you can walk the 0.75 mile between terminals 1 and 3 in around 15 to 20 minutes. Note that this involves walking around the airport perimeter, so comfortable shoes and awareness of weather conditions are advised before setting out – remember, you’re in the desert. Passengers with heavy luggage are recommended to take the shuttle instead.

Airlines Flying Out of Las Vegas Airport

Terminal 1

  • Advanced Air
  • Allegiant Air
  • American Airlines
  • Avelo
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Southwest Airlines
  • Spirit Airlines

Terminal 3

  • AeroMexico
  • Air Canada
  • Alaska Airlines
  • Avianca Airlines
  • Breeze Airways
  • British Airways
  • Canada Jetlines
  • Condor
  • Copa Airlines
  • Edelweiss Air
  • Eurowings
  • Flair Airlines
  • Frontier Airlines
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • JetBlue Airways
  • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
  • Korean Air
  • Norse
  • Porter
  • Sun Country Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Virgin Atlantic
  • Viva Aerobus
  • Volaris
  • WestJet

Lounges at Las Vegas Airport

Vegas has long been shorthand for a luxurious, VIP experience – so why not get started right at the airport? Choose from the following selection of lounges to maximize comfort, style and convenience during your visit. 

The Club LAS

Two branches of The Club LAS can be found at Harry Reid – one in Terminal 3 at concourse E and the other at Terminal 1, Concourse D.

These sleek, modern lounges are reminiscent of hotel lobbies. They offer a complementary bar serving soft and alcoholic beverages, self-service tea and coffee, plus snack options including soups, vegetable plates, cheese and crackers, pretzels and cookies. You can enjoy these in comfortable seating, complete with Wi-Fi, TVs and flight info screens.

Destress by using the showers or treat yourself with an upgrade to the first class area. Elsewhere you’ll find business facilities if you’re working on the go, and an array of digital magazines and newspapers. 

A day pass to The Club costs $50, while Priority Pass holders can access the lounge by showing the concierge a same-day boarding pass. The Terminal 1 lounge is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., while the one in Terminal 3 is open from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. 

USO Lounge

Available in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, Harry Reid’s USO lounge is dedicated to current and former military personnel and their dependents.

Billed as a quiet and relaxing space for service members, the USO lounges come equipped with board games, TVs with DVD and Blu-ray players and a sleeping and quiet area for those in need of some downtime. Or, if you’re feeling creative, there’s even a music room complete with instruments.

Comfortable seating, flight info screens and refreshments and snacks are also on offer here.

The USO Lounge in Terminal 1 is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., while the one in Terminal 3 is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

The Centurion Lounge

American Express is famed for looking after its members, and The Centurion Lounge is available for holders of Platinum and Platinum Business cards, as well as Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business Amex.

At Concourse D you’ll find a colorful and cozy lounge stocked with a self-serve buffet offering hot and cold dishes and a full service bar. Alongside this a range of useful amenities includes a business center, family room, conference room and showers.

Family members and up to 2 complimentary guests can join you subject to spending thresholds.

United Club

Also found at Concourse D, the United Club lounge provides comfy seating in a sophisticated environment. Enjoy the full spectrum of snacks, beers, wines, spirits and liquor and amenities including Wi-Fi, printers and copiers, flight monitors, newspapers and magazines.

This lounge is available for United Club members and passengers flying United Business and Polaris Business class. First Class and Business passengers on Star Alliance airlines are also welcome, as are Air Canada Maple Leaf Club and Virgin Australia Velocity members. Finally, active US military personnel can access the lounge by showing their boarding cards, wearing uniform and having the correct documentation.

For any other passengers, a day pass can be purchased online or on the door for just $59.

Capital One Lounge (coming soon)

If you’re the lucky holder of a Capital One Venture X Rewards credit card, you’ll soon be able to enjoy access to the exclusive Capital One Lounge at LAS. Simply present a boarding pass for a same-day flight.

Dining facilities will include a full-service espresso area, plus a bar containing local beers, wines and artisan cocktails. A variety of food options are also on offer to whet your whistle.

Meanwhile, you can take advantage of relaxation and nursing rooms, showers and work areas to unwind or get things done.

If you don’t happen to have a Capital One card, fear not – for just $65 you can also sample the delights of this lounge. No opening date has been announced yet, but you’ll soon find it at Concourse D.

Chase Sapphire Lounge (coming soon)

Another exciting upcoming lounge is the Chase Sapphire, designed by The Club (yes, the same folks behind The Club LAS). 

Free to enter for Sapphire Reserve cardmembers, the Chase Sapphire will place the focus on locally inspired menus, a bespoke selection of drinks and an ambience to relish while you await your flight. 

Las Vegas Airport Restaurants

Las Vegas is a city built on entertainment, and the airport is a great place to start enjoying yourself. Harry Reid International boasts a wide selection of eateries, restaurants and vibey spots to enjoy a meal.

  • Burke In The Box: Located in Concourse D, Burke In The Box is the brainchild of American chef and restaurateur David Burke, best known for his appearances on Iron Chef America. Here you can enjoy upscale American fare such as artisan sandwiches, craft burgers and truffle fries in a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill: Pizza is rarely a bad idea – and Sammy’s is on hand to provide you with a gourmet slice before you take to the skies. Renowned for their wood oven flavor and fresh, tasty ingredients, a varied menu full of interesting pizza toppings, not to mention pasta and salad dishes, will fully satisfy your cravings.
  • Rachel’s Kitchen: In search of something healthy and nourishing to sustain you for the journey ahead? Swing by Rachel’s Kitchen and choose from a menu full of wholesome, California-inspired options, including refreshing salads, wraps, breakfast sandwiches, acai bowls, fresh smoothies and delicious fruit juices.
  • The Great American Bagel: This may be Vegas, but Lord knows you can still get a taste of New York on your plate – thanks to The Great American Bagel.
  • Pei Wei Asian Diner: Pei Wei is an Asian food brand beloved by many, and you can get your fix at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 at Las Vegas Airport. Classic Asian-inspired dishes like fried rice, noodles, Mongolian beef and orange chicken are all on offer, spanning a whole gamut of influences from Japanese to Chinese to Thai.

Las Vegas Airport Shops

All kinds of high quality shops and boutiques can be discovered at LAS. Don’t gamble with your free time – choose from the exceptional list below to make the most of your visit with a dose of retail therapy.

  • Hudson Booksellers: For books and magazines, Hudson has you covered. Get some decent reading material for the plane, and stock up on snacks, beverages, personal care items and travel accessories.
  • InMotion Entertainment: Whether you’re catching up on the latest TV and movies during your flight or getting things done for work, make sure you have the right electronics. InMotion has headphones, travel gadgets and much more.
  • Duty Free Americas: Take advantage of those tempting duty free prices, with liquor, tobacco, fragrances, cosmetics and travel-exclusive products all available.
  • Welcome to Las Vegas Gift Shop: It’s one of the most famous signs in the world, and this gift shop does its very best to back up the legend. Grab a whole clutch of souvenirs to remember your big trip with, including fridge magnets, keychains, T-shirts and delightful novelty items.
  • Lick Candy Store: Got a sweet tooth demanding attention? Lick is here for you, offering a kaleidoscope of brightly colored, sugary goodness to board your flight with – or to take away as a gift for loved ones or business contacts.
  • Marshall Rousso: Whether casual or business, Marshall Rousso has stylish shoes, belts, and accessories to help women refresh their wardrobe for the perfect impression.
  • Brookstone: From chargers to noise-canceling headphones, they’ve got everything for a stress-free flight.

Las Vegas Airport Hotels

A hotel is more than just a place to lay your head – it’s a whole experience in itself. And in a town like Vegas, you’re absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to luxurious accommodation situated nearby your flight.

Skylofts at MGM Grand

Location: 3799 Las Vegas Boulevard S, Las Vegas, NV 89109-4319
Free airport shuttle: No

Head to the very top and enjoy a true slice of the high life, with the five-star Skylofts at MGM Grand, just 1.7 miles from Harry Reid International Airport.

These exquisite two-story pads push the envelope for luxury. Each one comes complete with 24-foot high, floor-to-ceiling windows, providing some of the best hotel views you can find in Vegas. Feast your eyes on the iconic lights of the strip below and mountains beyond, before retiring inside to your one, two or three-bedroom luxury accommodation, with floor plans ranging from 1,400 to a jaw-dropping 6,000 square feet.

The split floor mezzanine layout of these sumptuous lofts complements their modern, stylish decor, complete with high quality designer furniture, bespoke fittings and incredible beds. Each loft even includes private butler service, whisking you back to a time when guests could rely on above-and-beyond service in truly elevated surroundings.

Visitors are raving about the customer service at Skylofts, making this exceptional hotel a no-brainer if you’re looking to live large in the home of the big spenders.

Outside your Skyloft haven, don’t forget you also have an entire resort and casino at your disposal. From gambling to haute cuisine, unforgettable shows and even an on-site nightclub, the MGM Grand is a one stop shop for all your entertainment desires.

Excalibur Hotel and Casino

Location: 3850 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109-4300
Free airport shuttle: No

Be the king or queen you know you are, with a stay at one of Vegas’ most bombastic hotel and casino combos – complete with a castle that gives Disney a run for its money.

The Excalibur regularly makes the top 5 in the list of best hotels in Las Vegas, and just one glance at its fantastical facade tells you why. So why not unleash your inner King Arthur or Lady Guinevere in the heart of the desert? You’re in a town where dreams come true, after all.  

From the Sherwood Forest Bar to its live medieval jousting experience and other exciting, high profile shows, the Excalibur has been designed for (k)nights you’ll never forget. Throw in a casino with slot and table games, poker room, live keno, sports betting and a videogame arcade, and you’ve got a package fit for a king. 

Alongside its fun theme, the Excalibur offers plenty of amenities, including no less than four heated pools, valet parking and fitness rooms with a gym. But the real jewel in the crown might be this hotel’s location – just 1.8 miles from Harry Reid International, and also right on the Strip itself. If you’re looking for a wild and wacky Vegas stay complete with all the razzmatazz you’d expect, this might be the one for you. The room selection also includes luxurious suites with city and mountain views, giving you full immersion in the crazy whirlwind that is Las Vegas.

Desert Rose Resort

Location: 5051 Duke Ellington Way, Las Vegas, NV 89119-1143.
Free Airport Shuttle: No

For travelers who appreciate the glamor of Las Vegas, but are less keen on the idea of gambling, consider the gorgeous Desert Rose Resort, located just 1.5 miles from the airport. This chic, understated hotel combines lounge charm with Latin design flair, conjuring the feel of a distinctly modern desert hacienda. Take your time to slow down beneath the red tiled roofs and stretching palm trees, and get some proper rest time in one and two-bed condo-style apartments just a stone’s throw from the bright lights – yet entirely secluded at the same time.

The Desert Rose prides itself on being a laid back antidote to Sin City’s more garish side, with a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by an ample amount of chairs and sun loungers enticing you to unwind and grab a refreshment from the bar. Just because you’re next to the strip doesn’t mean you need to go crazy, after all – instead, take your time and enjoy the many pleasurable amenities here instead.

The concierge is on hand to make your stay as comfortable as possible, but if your vibe is more DIY you might want to make plans for the picnic and BBQ areas. Alternatively, if you’re craving privacy, rooms with a private balcony, kitchenette and flatscreen TV are available. This calm oasis of a hotel impresses with its warm, easygoing atmosphere, attentive staff and excellent value. Best of all, you’re within walking distance of the beating heart of Vegas, truly giving you the best of both worlds in one place.

Amenities at Las Vegas Airport

LAS offers a range of services and conveniences for its passengers.

  • ATMs: Find ATMs throughout LAS’s terminals and concourses.
  • Wi-Fi: Enjoy unlimited free Wi-Fi access in all areas of Vegas Airport.
  • Charging stations: Find charging points for your devices at various junctures of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, as well as dedicated workstations for laptop charging.
  • Baby feeding and changing rooms: Nursing pods can be found in all departure areas of Las Vegas Airport. 
  • Medical services: If you’re in need of medical assistance, head to the University Medical Center in Terminal 1, near the A/B security checkpoint.
  • Smoking areas: Find dedicated smoking areas outside ticketing and baggage claim, and in Barney’s Lounge (near C gates), Bud Track Lounge and the Gaming lounges between gates A and E.
  • Water Bottle Filling Stations: You can fill your empty bottle at one of the water bottle filling stations throughout both terminals. Stations in T3 offer both hot and cold water.
  • Pet relief areas: There are a number of pet relief areas scattered across LAS. Look for them outside security in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, and at C, D and E gates.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nick Hagan
Nick Hagan is a freelance writer based in Oxford and Reading, UK. He runs Curio Books and Culture in Oxford, and enjoys writing about culture, travel, film, psychology and just about everything in-between.