Winter in Las Vegas is a time free from the typical trappings of the season. With practically no chance of snow and a long stretch of sunny days, this is a fantastic time to visit. Whether you’re looking for a break from the stress of the holidays or you want to start a year in style, a visit to Las Vegas will nicely fit the bill. The pools are usually closed for the season, but many other Las Vegas attractions and happenings are rolling on at full steam. If you do need a snow fix, there is Nevada skiing at the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort only about 20 miles away.

Las Vegas in December

Between Thanksgiving and the end of the year is a busy time with all of those holiday parties, family gatherings and places to be. Sometimes all this stress means its time to take a break. When you need to get away from the ordinary, few places are better than Sin City. December is also the time to go shopping, and Las Vegas is a shopper’s town. Its designer boutiques, outlet stores, and everything in between will have everything you need to work on your gift list. Besides its well-stocked gift shop, Ethel M Chocolate offers a factory tour and a cactus garden decorated with twinkling holiday lights.

The week between Christmas and New Year’s is pretty quiet around Las Vegas, but that doesn’t mean that New Year’s Eve is quiet. The last day of the year means it’s time to party. The nightclubs at Caesar’s, the Rivera, and any other resort have parties going on to ring in the new year. Downtown Las Vegas hosts a big New Year’s Eve party, and the Freemont Street Experience welcomes January 1 with fireworks.

Las Vegas Strip Map

Las Vegas in January

The first of the year is slow, but the off-season is a boon to bargain hunters. When you’re wondering when to go when the rates are the best, this could be your time. The occupancy rates tend to run a little low in the first month of the year, and that can lead to great deals. Of course there’s more to do in Las Vegas than just stay in the hotel. Winter in Las Vegas is a good time to spend some time hanging out with Lady Luck. If you’re a fan of blackjack, high-stakes poker, slots or table games, there are plenty choices waiting for you on the casino floors.

The schedule of events is a little slower in January except for the three days of the International Consumer Electronics Show. If you want to find out what’s going to be in your living room next year, it’s one of the great conferences to attend—a winter in Las Vegas tradition.

Las Vegas in February

Once the calendar turns from January to February, the weather begins to warm up, but it’s long before it gets hot. With the desert sun over your shoulder, you could watch the fountains of Bellagio, ride the roller coaster, or take a stroll through the Fremont Street Experience. The views from the top of the Stratosphere tower look amazing on a sunny day. Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, there’s plenty do indoors, like catching one of the many shows. With their holiday breaks behind them, everyone returns to stage with renewed energy for a new season.