Las Vegas: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas and want a convenient way to see the city’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own, a hop-on hop-off bus tour might be just what you need. This experience, offered by Big Bus, promises a flexible way to explore the main attractions—from the iconic Strip to Fremont Street—while enjoying the fresh air and panoramic views. We’ve gathered insights from many travelers to help you decide if this tour fits your style.

One thing we love about this tour is the freedom it offers. Being able to hop on and off at your own pace means you can spend more time at the places that catch your eye. Plus, the digital commentary keeps you entertained and informed, often adding little stories or insider tips that make the sights come alive. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the occasional wait times due to traffic or the bus schedule, especially later in the day. But overall, this tour is tailor-made for visitors who want a broad overview and the flexibility to explore at their own speed, whether you’re a first-timer or someone returning to rediscover Vegas anew.

Key Points

• Flexible hop-on, hop-off allows you to explore various attractions at your own pace
• Panoramic views from the open-top bus enhance your sightseeing experience
• Engaging digital commentary adds interesting details and local insights
• Night tour option offers stunning views of Vegas’s neon-lit skyline
• Good value for a 24 or 48-hour pass, especially if you plan to see multiple sights
• Accessible and family-friendly with wheelchair accommodations and multilingual audio options

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The Las Vegas hop-on hop-off tour is designed to give you a broad, yet flexible, look at the city’s most famous spots. For around $57 per person, you get either 24 or 48 hours of unlimited access to the open-top double-decker buses. This means you can start your adventure early, pause at stops for photos or snacks, and continue exploring without feeling rushed.

Many travelers appreciate how convenient and straightforward the experience is. You simply redeem your voucher with the Big Bus staff at any stop, with a recommendation to start at Stop 2 (High Roller/LINQ Promenade). The buses run on a set route, but with frequent stops, so you can jump off at places like the Bellagio Fountains, MGM Grand, The Venetian, or Fremont Street, then hop back on when you’re ready.

What You Can Expect

Comfortable Transportation and Route Flexibility

The buses are described as comfortable and open-top, perfect for sightseeing in sunny Vegas. The bus schedules and the free app help you track arrivals, reducing waiting time. Yet, some reviews mention that during busy times or heavy traffic, the buses can be less frequent, which might extend your wait. Still, the ability to hop on and off makes this a strong choice for exploring without feeling tied down.

The Stops and Landmarks

You’ll pass by some of the most iconic sights: the Las Vegas Welcome sign, the sparkling Bellagio Fountains, the MGM Grand, The Venetian, and the Stratosphere Tower. The Fremont Street experience is also a highlight, especially for those wanting to see the neon spectacle and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

One of the most praised stops is Fremont Street, with travelers loving the chance to stroll the famous pedestrian mall, watch the light show under the canopy, or grab a quick bite. Several reviews mention the driver-guides, like Reuben or Dez, as being knowledgeable, humorous, and welcoming—adding personality to the tour and making it more engaging.

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The Night Tour

If you opt for the night tour, you’re in for spectacular sights. Seeing Vegas’s neon lights glowing against the night sky is a different experience altogether. Reviews mention the night bus as being about two hours, giving you a chance to appreciate the city’s vibrant nightlife from a comfortable vantage point.

Audio and Commentary

The digital commentary is another key highlight. It’s available in English and Spanish, and the provided souvenir earbuds help you listen clearly, even on the noisy open deck. Travelers note that some guides are more engaging and informative than others, but overall, the commentary adds valuable context about Vegas’s history, landmarks, and stories behind the glitz.

The Value for Money

For around $57, you get a multi-hour experience with the option to explore at your own pace, which many reviewers feel offers good value. The inclusion of free 30 minutes of play at Atomic Golf and the night tour add extra perks, making the package more appealing.

However, some feel the buses could run later in the evening, especially if you want to see the city beyond sunset. Also, the bus stops aren’t always easy to find or adequately marked, which can cause some confusion, as noted by a few travelers.

The Real-Life Experience: Pros and Cons

From reviews, it’s clear that many guests love the informative guides and the spectacular views. One traveler from Ireland mentions that their guide was “great, informative and amusing,” highlighting how a friendly personality can make a big difference. Another reviewer from the UK expressed how the tour gave them a “great insight into the Vegas strip” and helped plan their subsequent sightseeing.

On the downside, some reviewers mention that the commentary can be dry or lacking in detailed stories, especially during longer stretches of driving. One traveler wished for more historical or insider info to be included, rather than just passing landmarks.

The traffic is another factor—heavy congestion can mean longer wait times and sometimes less frequent buses during busier periods. If you’re on a tight schedule, this is something to keep in mind.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The route covers the famous Vegas Strip and extends to downtown Fremont. You can hop off at any stop—such as the Bellagio, MGM Grand, The Venetian, or Stratosphere—to explore further or snap photos. The Fremont Street stop is especially favored for its lively vibe and neon spectacle, with many reviews praising it as a must-see.

Stops to Note

• Stop 2: High Roller/LINQ Promenade — recommended starting point, with easy access to the High Roller observation wheel and LINQ attractions.
• Bellagio Fountains — a perfect place to see the famous water show.
• MGM Grand and The Venetian — iconic hotels with plenty to see and do.
• Fremont Street — lively nightlife and neon lights, a bit off the main Strip but highly recommended for its unique atmosphere.
• Stratosphere Tower — for panoramic views from one of the tallest structures in Vegas.

Additional Activities

While the main focus is sightseeing from the bus, some add-ons like the Night Tour and free golf provide extra fun and variety.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited to first-time visitors wanting an overview of the city. The hop-on hop-off format allows you to customize your day, whether you want to spend hours exploring Fremont or just take a quick spin around the Strip. It’s also good for travelers who prefer a guided element without a full tour guide — the digital commentary is informative enough for most.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want to avoid complicated logistics, this is a straightforward way to see a lot without renting a car. However, those expecting detailed historical narratives or themed guides might find the commentary a bit basic, as some reviews noted it can be “dry” or lacking depth at times.

The Bottom Line

In the end, this Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off tour is a practical and flexible way to get a lay of the land in Las Vegas. It offers stunning views from the open top, the convenience of unlimited stops, and entertaining commentary—all at a fair price point. Many reviews highlight the friendly guides and the value for money, especially if you plan to spend a couple of days exploring.

It’s best suited for travelers who value ease and flexibility and want an overview that they can tailor to their interests. If you’re someone who enjoys learning a little along the way and prefers to see sights at your own pace, you’ll likely find this tour a helpful addition to your Vegas plans. Just be prepared for the traffic and occasional waiting times, and consider combining it with other activities for the full Vegas experience.

FAQ

Is there a hotel pickup included? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You need to redeem your voucher at any stop, preferably at Stop 2 (High Roller/LINQ Promenade).

How long does the tour last? The tour can be purchased as a 24 or 48-hour pass, giving you plenty of flexibility to explore at your own pace over one or two days.

Does the tour operate at night? Yes, there is an optional 7 PM night tour that lasts about two hours, offering spectacular views of Vegas’s neon lights.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

How is the commentary delivered? Digital commentary is provided via souvenir earbuds in English and Spanish, with some reviews noting the guides’ personality and humor enhance the experience.

Can I hop off at any stop? Absolutely. The main advantage is the freedom to hop on and off at any stop along the route, spending as much time as you like.

Will the buses run late? Buses are known to be less frequent later in the day, and some reviews suggest the service could close earlier than desired, so plan accordingly.

Is the experience suitable for families? While not explicitly marketed as a family activity, the open-top bus can be enjoyed by most, but keep in mind the commentary and stops are geared mainly towards adults.

What should I wear? Dress appropriately for the weather—Vegas can be hot during the day and cooler at night. The buses are open-top, so sun protection or rain gear might be needed.

To sum it up, the Las Vegas Hop-on Hop-off Tour by Big Bus offers a solid, flexible way to see the city with some excellent views, friendly guides, and helpful commentary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Vegas veteran wanting a quick overview, this tour can be tailored to your schedule and interests. Just keep in mind the traffic and stop locations, and you’ll have a smooth, enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: