Budget 3-Day Las Vegas Getaway (Aug 30 – Sep 1, 2025)

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Morning: Catch an early low‑cost flight from SJC or SFO to LAS (≈ $80 round‑trip) and take a shared shuttle to your budget hotel on the Strip (≈ $15).

Afternoon: Check in, drop your bags, and stroll the Las Vegas Strip to admire the iconic neon lights and watch the free Bellagio Fountain Show.

Evening: Enjoy an inexpensive dinner at a local buffet or fast‑casual spot (≈ $12) and cap the night with the free light displays at Fremont Street Experience.

Day 2: Adventure & Relaxation

Morning: Head to Red Rock Canyon (entry $15) for a scenic drive and short hikes, spending about 2‑3 hours amidst striking desert vistas.

Afternoon: Return to the Strip for window shopping at the Forum Shops and relax at a nearby park or casino lounge (free).

Evening: Grab a budget‑friendly dinner (≈ $12) and catch a low‑price street performance or a discounted comedy show (≈ $20).

Day 3: Departure

Morning: Unwind with a dip in the hotel pool and a casual brunch at a café (≈ $15).

Afternoon: Visit the Neon Museum (discounted ticket $15) for a quick tour of historic signage before heading to the airport.

Evening: Take the shared shuttle back to LAS airport (≈ $15) and fly home on an early evening flight.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Round‑trip flight (SJC/SFO ↔ LAS) – 4 hrs total – $80
• Budget hotel (2 nights) – 2 nights – $120
• Shared airport shuttles (both ways) – 1 hr total – $30
• Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) – 3 days – $90
• Bellagio Fountain Show – 30 min – Free
• Fremont Street Experience – 1 hr – Free
• Red Rock Canyon entry – 2–3 hrs – $15
• Neon Museum ticket – 1 hr – $15
• Discounted comedy show – 2 hrs – $20
• Total Estimated Cost: $350

Tips

If you have an extra day, consider adding a visit to the nearby Hoover Dam or a day trip to Lake Mead for more natural scenery. To trim the budget further, skip the Red Rock Canyon hike and replace it with free attractions like the Miracle Mile Shops or the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. Conversely, extending your stay by one night allows you to explore more shows or the nearby Valley of Fire State Park without rushing.