It’s almost Super Bowl Sunday, and this year the host city is something we’ve never seen before in the NFL. A couple of years ago the Las Vegas Raiders officially made the move from Oakland to the desert, and now the NFL has donned Sin City’s Allegiant Stadium as the home for Super Bowl LVIII. The desert oasis will be a battleground for glory as the Kansas City Chiefs face off against the San Francisco 49ers. But you probably knew that already.
What you might not know is how much it would cost to get yourself from the couch to the comfort of a seat at the Super Bowl. We’re here to tell you how much it’ll cost to immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Yes, you can spend endless amounts on a Super Bowl Weekend. The video below highlights what $1 milion got you at the Super Bowl two years ago in Los Angeles.
But you don't need to spend millions to see the game.
Read on for costs associated with the cheapest seat and average accommodations, meals and transportation.
Beyond the adrenaline, beyond the cheers, and the unforgettable moments, lies the practicality of planning such a journey. While the experience is priceless, the expenses—from flights to hotels, tickets, and beyond—are very much tangible. So, how much does it truly cost to be a part of history? As we peel back the layers of excitement, let's delve into the exact costs of a last-minute Super Bowl trip to Las Vegas. Buckle up for a journey that promises to be as thrilling as the game itself.
Last-Minute Super Bowl Flight Costs
As the anticipation for the Super Bowl in Las Vegas grows, fans from across the country are scanning the skies for their best route to Nevada. But with the clock ticking down to kickoff, what can last-minute travelers expect to pay? It’s actually not as bad as you might think.
Here are a few examples of last-minute flight costs to Las Vegas from across the USA.
These prices reflect round trip airfare for one, arriving Friday and departing on Monday.
From the misty coasts of Seattle to the bustling streets of New York, the price of admission varies widely. Those setting off from Seattle find themselves with the most budget-friendly option, a nonstop, roundtrip flight costing $287 right now. Bay Area residents looking to support the 49ers can catch a direct flight from San Francisco for $443, while East Coasters face a bit more of a hurdle; New Yorkers and Chicagoans can expect to part with around $428 and $437, respectively, for a one-stop journey to Vegas.
Miami's sun-seekers will find their path to the desert oasis for $394, though this too requires a layover. But it's the heartland's Kansas City Chiefs fans who are digging deepest into their pockets, with nonstop roundtrip flights soaring to $737. This spike isn't just about geography; it's a testament to the fervor and loyalty of Chiefs fans eager to witness their team's championship quest. The demand has even prompted a unique homage in the skies: American Airlines has unveiled Flight 1989, a playful nod to pop sensation Taylor Swift, who is famously dating Chiefs' star Travis Kelce. This special flight, along with Flight 87—honoring Kelce's jersey number—symbolizes the extraordinary lengths to which airlines will go to celebrate this grand sporting event, providing fans with a memorable start to their Super Bowl journey.
This range in flight costs underscores a crucial Super Bowl truth: the price of your seat in the sky can vary as widely as the plays on the field. Yet, for many, the allure of being part of the spectacle in Las Vegas outweighs the monetary cost. In our experience, travel to some of the other Super Bowl cities can be much more expensive a week out from the game. Las Vegas has the added value of having plenty of flights coming into Harry Reid International every single day. It’s a great spot for the game for more than a few reasons.
Whether you're flying from the shores of the Pacific or the beaches of Miami, prices for flights aren’t too bad right now. Our apologies to the KC faithful, but hey, you’re team’s almost always in the Super Bowl–we don’t feel too bad for you!
The Hotel Landscape in Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII
The spectrum of accommodations in Vegas ranges from the opulent to the economical, catering to every taste and budget. But with the Super Bowl drawing near, understanding the lay of the land becomes crucial for those making last-minute lodging arrangements.
On the Strip: A Showcase of Luxury and Convenience
The Strip offers iconic luxury with prices that are, as you might expect, higher than usual. That’s what happens when 500,000 fans and press outlets visit the city for the weekend.
The brand-new Fontainebleau was our first inquiry, commanding about $750 per night for a stay from Friday to Monday. Not far behind in the luxury stakes, The Bellagio mirrors Fontainebleau's opulence and price point, offering an experience synonymous with Vegas luxury. Caesar's Palace presents a slightly less extravagant option at around $500 per night.
Even the more budget-conscious options on the Strip, such as the Excalibur, known for its cheap nightly rates, are fetching prices around $443 per night (this is a room rate 10x what you’ll often find at the hotel). These rates reflect the premium on location and convenience, placing guests at the heart of the action.
Off the Strip: Value Meets Comfort
Venturing off the Strip can significantly reduce accommodation costs without sacrificing comfort. The Grandview, a favorite for those seeking a more relaxed vibe away from the neon buzz, is available for $158 per night. Meanwhile, the Rio, which is slightly off-Strip, offers a balance of value proximity to the Strip at $257 per night.
The Airbnb Alternative
For more options, you might want to consider turning to Airbnb, where a range of cozy apartments and more spacious homes are listed in the $300 to $400 per night range. This platform provides flexibility and often more space, appealing to groups or families looking for a home away from home.
The Last-Minute Booking Conundrum
Waiting until the eleventh hour to book your stay in Las Vegas during Super Bowl week is somewhat of a gamble, pun intended. While last-minute deals are sometimes available, the influx of fans to the city means prices are generally higher and choices more limited.
Some hotels and third-party providers may offer packages that include Super Bowl tickets and accommodations at a bundled rate, presenting a value proposition that could offset the cost of booking late. It's a scenario where diligence and quick decision-making can pay off, allowing for both attendance at the game and a pleasant stay in the city.
The Bottom on Lodging
The cost of lodging in Las Vegas during the Super Bowl varies widely, influenced by location, luxury, and how late you book. There's also tons of construction happening in the run up to the game, so be aware the Strip might look a little different than you expected it to (rundown in the video below).
As Super Bowl LVIII promises to be an event like no other, choosing the right base in Las Vegas will ensure an unforgettable experience both on and off the field.
The Golden Ticket: Super Bowl Ticket Prices
Securing a spot at the year's biggest sporting event is no small feat, with ticket prices reflecting the immense demand and prestige associated with the game. From the dizzying heights of the nosebleeds to the exclusive access of VIP packages, let's dive into what it costs to witness football history in the making.
From Nosebleeds to VIP: A Spectrum of Prices
The quest for Super Bowl tickets can lead fans to a variety of marketplaces, with StubHub, GameTime, and SeatGeek being among the most popular. Currently, the entry point for those looking to be part of the 65,000-strong crowd starts at around $5,800 for a single ticket. Yes, these seats may offer a bird's eye view from the upper echelons of the stadium, but in the electric atmosphere of a Super Bowl, there truly are no bad seats.
Each ticket, no matter its location, serves as a passport to an unparalleled live experience that combines high-octane gameplay, a spectacle of a halftime show, and the camaraderie of tens of thousands of fellow fans.
A Halftime Show to Remember
Adding to the allure of Super Bowl LVIII is the halftime show, headlined by eight-time Grammy winner Usher. This performance marks a significant moment for the artist, being his first solo Super Bowl appearance and a grand finale to his two-year Las Vegas residency. Here's a sneak peek of his show.
Usher's previous cameo with the Black Eyed Peas in 2011 merely hinted at what's to come as he takes center stage in 2024. Fans can anticipate a memorable show, potentially featuring appearances by some of Usher's illustrious collaborators. The prospect of seeing stars like Pitbull, Ludacris, Alicia Keys, or Justin Bieber joining Usher adds an extra layer of excitement to the halftime festivities.
The VIP Experience
For those seeking the ultimate Super Bowl experience, VIP packages and experiences offer more than just a seat. These premium options can include exclusive access to pre-game events, gourmet catering, and meet-and-greets with NFL legends, transforming game day into an unforgettable luxury experience. While specific prices for these packages vary, they are significantly higher than standard tickets, offering unparalleled access and amenities for those willing to invest in a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These packages can be well upwards of $20,000 a ticket.
Transportation in Las Vegas for Super Bowl Weekend
There’s no shortage of transportation options in Las Vegas, from the convenience of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft to the traditional taxis ready to whisk fans to their next destination. For those looking to explore the Strip or venture to off-the-beaten-path attractions, the Las Vegas Monorail offers a seamless way to navigate the city's sights without the hassle of traffic. Car rentals provide a flexible option for those planning day trips outside the city limits, though parking fees during high-demand events like the Super Bowl can add up. Budgeting for transportation is an essential part of planning your Super Bowl trip, with costs varying based on your preferred mode of transport and how far you plan to roam from your hotel base.
Food and Entertainment in Sin City
Dining options range from lavish meals at celebrity chef restaurants to more budget-friendly eateries offering delicious fare without the gourmet price tag. A daily budget for meals can vary greatly; high-end dining experiences can easily exceed $200 per person, while more casual dining spots and fast food can keep your food expenses to a more manageable $20-$50 per day. One thing’s for sure though, if you’re visiting for Super Bowl weekend, you’re going to make some reservations. Now.
Outside the stadium, the city offers shows ranging from Cirque du Soleil to live music performances, with ticket prices varying widely based on the show's popularity and seating choices. Budgeting for entertainment means considering both these special events and the myriad of other attractions Las Vegas has to offer, from its famous casinos to unique experiences like the High Roller observation wheel.
Miscellaneous Expenses for Visiting Las Vegas During the Super Bowl
A trip to Las Vegas for the Super Bowl wouldn't be complete without accounting for those additional expenses that tend to pop up. Souvenirs to commemorate the experience, tips for various services, and the inevitable urge to try your luck at the casino tables can all add to your trip's overall cost.
Super Bowl merchandise, in particular, can be a significant expense for fans looking to sport their team's gear, with official jerseys, hats, and memorabilia adding a premium. Additionally, the spontaneous adventures that Las Vegas is known for—whether it's a last-minute ticket to a show or a helicopter tour over the Strip—mean that having a flexible budget can enhance your experience. A safe rule of thumb is to allocate an additional 5% of your total budget to cover these miscellaneous expenses, ensuring that you can enjoy all that Super Bowl LVIII and Las Vegas have to offer without worrying about overspending.
The Grand Total For Your Last Minute Super Bowl Trip
Let’s assume you’re booking the following trip last minute for two people: Flying in from New York City, staying at Caesars Palace, eating at mid-range restaurants, and buying the cheapest ticket in the stadium. Here’s a breakdown of what the trip could cost you.
Flights: $428 x 2 = $856
Hotel: $1,500
2 Tickets: $11,600
Transportation: $200
Food and Entertainment: $1,000
Miscellaneous: $758
Total: $15,914
Per person: $7,957
So you’re looking at pretty close to $8,000 per person for a last-minute Super Bowl trip.
Who’s in?
Summary:
A comprehensive guide to calculating the costs of a last-minute trip to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas, covering essential expenses from flights and hotels to tickets, transportation, dining, entertainment, and miscellaneous expenditures.
