Las Vegas is a city unlike any other—a vibrant hub for entertainment, sports, and gaming. If you’re visiting to enjoy the action on the Strip or place bets on your favorite teams, understanding tipping in Las Vegas is an essential part of navigating this unique city. For visitors from Europe, Asia, or other parts of the world where tipping isn’t customary, the tipping culture in Las Vegas can feel overwhelming. But with a little knowledge, you can ensure smooth experiences while enjoying everything Vegas has to offer.
Why Tipping in Las Vegas Matters
Tipping is more than just a courtesy in Las Vegas—it’s an expected part of the service industry. Many workers, including hotel staff, dealers, and servers, rely on tips to supplement their income. For sports fans and bettors, tipping can also enhance your experience, ensuring prompt service and building goodwill with the staff.
Tipping in Hotels and Casinos
Bellhop and Luggage Assistance
After arriving at your hotel, you’ll likely encounter a bellhop who helps with your bags.
- How much to tip: $2–$5 per bag, depending on the size and weight.
- Why it matters: A small tip shows appreciation and ensures your belongings are handled with care.
Front Desk Upgrades
It’s no secret that tipping the front desk staff can sometimes lead to perks like room upgrades. This is especially common in Las Vegas, where competition for premium rooms is fierce.
- How much to tip: $20–$50, discreetly passed with your ID and credit card during check-in.
- Pro tip: While not guaranteed, this “trick” often works in hotels known for accommodating such requests.
Housekeeping
Tipping housekeeping staff ensures your room is well-maintained throughout your stay.
- How much to tip: $3–$5 per night, left in an envelope or with a note specifying it’s for housekeeping.
Casino Dealers
Whether you’re at the blackjack table or trying your luck at roulette, tipping your dealer is customary, especially when you’re winning.
- How much to tip: $5–$10 for every hour of play, or 5% of your winnings.
- When to tip: You can tip throughout your session or at the end.
Cashiers and Sportsbook Staff
Tipping at the sportsbook counter is less common but appreciated, especially if you’re cashing out a significant win.
- How much to tip: $1–$5 for smaller payouts, and more for larger wins.
Dining and Drinking: Tipping at Restaurants and Bars
Restaurants
Tipping at restaurants is expected, with the amount based on the service quality.
- Standard tip: 15%–20% of the total bill.
- Check your receipt: Some restaurants on the Strip include a service charge, which often covers the tip. If a service charge is listed, additional tipping is optional.
Buffets
At buffets, tipping is less about the food and more about the drink service.
- How much to tip: $1–$3 per person for drink service or special requests.
Cocktail Servers in Casinos
When you’re gaming, complimentary drinks are common, but tipping the cocktail server is customary to keep the drinks flowing.
- How much to tip: $1–$2 per drink.
Bartenders
For drinks ordered directly at the bar, tipping ensures good service.
- How much to tip: $1–$2 per drink or 15%–20% of the total tab.
Tipping in Sports Venues and Betting Areas
Sportsbook Staff
Las Vegas sportsbooks are iconic for sports fans, offering a place to bet on games and enjoy the action on massive screens. Tipping here shows appreciation for good service.
- How much to tip: $1–$5 for placing bets or cashing out tickets.
Ushers at Sports Venues
If you’re attending a live game, ushers who help you find your seat often appreciate a small tip.
- How much to tip: $2–$5, depending on the assistance provided.
Tipping in Las Vegas: On-Strip vs. Off-Strip
While the tipping culture in Las Vegas is consistent throughout the city, the cost of services—and subsequently, how much you might tip—varies significantly between the bustling Strip and the quieter, more localized off-Strip areas. Understanding these distinctions can help you plan your budget and ensure you’re tipping appropriately no matter where you are.
On-Strip: High Prices and High Expectations
The Las Vegas Strip is known for its glitz, glamour, and premium pricing. This extends to dining, accommodations, and entertainment, where costs are often inflated compared to off-Strip locations. As a result, tipping on the Strip can be higher to match the elevated service standards.
- Food and Drink: Restaurants and bars on the Strip often include a service charge, especially those frequented by international visitors. Always check your receipt for this charge before leaving an additional tip. In the absence of a service charge, tipping 15%–20% is customary. For cocktails and drinks, tipping $1–$2 per drink is standard.
- Hotels: The Strip’s luxury hotels and resorts often set high expectations for tipping. For example, a bellhop assisting with luggage might expect $5 per bag rather than the $2–$3 more common in off-Strip locations. Similarly, a valet tip on the Strip often starts at $5, especially at high-end properties like the Bellagio or Wynn.
- Service-Heavy Environments: The Strip thrives on exceptional customer service. Whether it’s at a high-end casino or a world-class show, tipping generously is part of the experience. Cocktail servers at casinos, for example, might expect $1–$2 per drink as a baseline, especially since many drinks are complimentary while gambling.
Off-Strip: Lower Costs, Same Courtesy
Off-strip areas cater more to locals and budget-conscious travelers. Prices for meals, accommodations, and services tend to be lower, but the tipping etiquette remains largely the same. However, the atmosphere is often more relaxed and personal, which can make tipping feel more rewarding.
- Dining: Restaurants off the Strip often don’t include service charges on their receipts, so it’s important to tip the standard 15%–20%. Buffets and casual eateries might see tips closer to $1–$2 per person, depending on the level of service provided.
- Hotels and Casinos: Accommodations off the Strip are usually more affordable, and tipping norms align more closely with national averages. Bellhops might expect $2–$3 per bag, and valet services are often tipped $2–$5.
- Gaming: Off-strip casinos tend to cater to locals, creating a more intimate environment. Dealers, cashiers, and sportsbook staff still appreciate tips, but they may not expect as much as their Strip counterparts.
Key Differences Between On-Strip and Off-Strip Tipping
| Aspect | On-Strip | Off-Strip |
|---|---|---|
| Service Costs | Higher prices for food, drinks, and services. | More affordable, with fewer added fees. |
| Service Charges | Frequently included, especially at restaurants. | Rarely included, so tipping is more direct. |
| Atmosphere | Fast-paced, luxury-focused. | Relaxed, often more personal and local. |
| Tipping Amounts | Generally higher due to inflated costs. | Standard tipping practices apply. |
Budgeting Tips for Visitors
- Carry Cash: Having small bills ($1s and $5s) makes it easier to tip appropriately without overpaying.
- Check Receipts: Look for service charges, particularly on the Strip, to avoid double-tipping.
- Plan Ahead: If you’re spending most of your time on the Strip, allocate a slightly higher tipping budget.
Other Tips for Sports Fans
If you’re a sports fan betting on your favorite teams or enjoying games at local venues, tipping can enhance your overall experience. Building rapport with casino staff, sportsbook attendants, or even cocktail servers can result in better service and insider tips.
Common Tipping Scenarios for International Visitors
- Taxis and Rideshares: Tip 10%–15% of the fare or round up to the nearest dollar.
- Valet Parking: Tip $2–$5 when dropping off and picking up your vehicle.
- Entertainment Venues: Tip $1–$2 for ushers or staff who assist you with seating or special requests.
Tipping in Las Vegas
Tipping in Las Vegas is an integral part of the experience, especially in a city where service is at the heart of every interaction. For sports fans, whether you’re placing bets, catching a game, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, tipping ensures better service and adds to the enjoyment of your trip. By understanding the expectations and budgeting accordingly, you can navigate Las Vegas like a pro and make the most of your time in this iconic city.
Las Vegas Sporting Events in 2025
Las Vegas is set to host some of the biggest sporting events in 2025, solidifying its place as a top destination for sports fans.
- Super Bowl LIX: Allegiant Stadium welcomes its first-ever Super Bowl in February, promising a week-long celebration of football and entertainment.
- Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix: Returning in November, F1 will again light up the Strip with high-speed action.
- NHL All-Star Game: T-Mobile Arena hosts hockey’s best in January, featuring skill competitions and fan events.
- Las Vegas Aces: The WNBA champs will defend their title at Michelob Ultra Arena, with thrilling matchups against top rivals.
- College Football National Championship: Allegiant Stadium also hosts this massive collegiate showdown in January.
From Super Bowl excitement to the NBA Summer League and the debut of the Vegas MLS team, 2025 is packed with events for every fan. Las Vegas continues to raise the bar for sports entertainment, combining world-class venues with its signature flair.
