Since the National Rugby League (NRL) announced its plans to return to the United States in 2025, fans have ramped up their excitement and anticipation around the event.
The NRL has confirmed that the Penrith Panthers, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Canberra Raiders and New Zealand Warriors will headline the nine-hour festival in Las Vegas.
The Raiders and the Warriors will square off in the first NRL match of the day – a game that will undoubtedly get pulses racing, especially within the betting community.
After a fourth-placed finish last season, the Warriors will be looking to start as they mean to go on, offering their large Kiwi fan base a chance to bet on them through New Zealand betting sites.
The Raiders are no strangers to high-stakes contests, but they have hardly lit up the NRL, so the Warriors will fancy their odds of starting the new season with a win.
With other enticing games on the agenda, including a Super League game and a women’s international, our travel guide will help you make the most of your experience in Las Vegas.
Where to Stay: Your Ideal Base in the City of Light
Las Vegas is home to some of the world’s most iconic hotels, but if you can’t afford a five-star space, you can explore a host of other budget-friendly options.
Luxury Hotels
If you’re going to indulge in luxury, the Bellagio Hotel is your go-to location. It has a jaw-dropping water show, fine dining restaurants, multiple pools, a luxury shopping centre and a casino space.
The Bellagio is an ideal place to unwind, but you can also check out other options such as Caesars Palace, which boasts state-of-the-art accommodations, and the Venetian, popularly known as the world’s most extraordinarily designed hotel.
Mid-Range Options
If you’re not the type of person who craves five-star opulence, the MGM Grand Hotel can provide you with maximum comfort and is also extremely affordable.
Guest rooms have plenty of amenities, including a minibar, a flat-screen television and air conditioning. Room service and a parking space are also available.
Planet Hollywood is also a decent option if you want to experience a room designed for A-list celebrities.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you are saving your cash for match tickets and other explorations in Vegas, you should consider exploring The LINQ hotel.
Tuscany Suites and The Orleans are other decent options that offer you a home away from home without breaking the bank.
Best Transport Tips for Getting Around Las Vegas
Las Vegas may seem like a maze of glitter and grandeur, but getting around is surprisingly straightforward once you know the options.
Public transport is one way to explore the city. RTC Transit buses are an affordable and reliable way to travel between the Strip, Downtown Las Vegas and other key locations.
The Las Vegas Monorail adds a different dimension to transportation, especially for those who are new to the city. It’s a quick and efficient way to move around, stopping at major hotels and attractions.
If you would rather zip across the city by road, you can explore apps such as Uber and Lyft. They are widely available in Las Vegas and often cheaper than the state-owned taxis.
Uber and Lyft are ideal for late-night movement or direct routes to stadiums, but renting a car may be your best bet if you want to explore beyond the Strip.
If you are staying on the Strip, many venues are within walking distance. However, remember that distances can be deceiving, and Las Vegas’ desert climate makes it imperative that you stay hydrated.
Must-Visit Attractions in Las Vegas
The City of Light is one of the most attractive places in the world and arguably the most ideal location for vacations, so there are a lot of attractions waiting to be explored.
Even if the NRL’s return to Las Vegas is at the top of your to-do list, you will still have several other opportunities to ensure an unforgettable visit to the City of Light.
For people on the Strip, you cannot skip past the fountains of Bellagio without taking a minute to marvel at the water show set to music and lights.
The High Roller Observation Wheel is also a must-see attraction that offers tourists and visitors a bird’s-eye view of the Strip from the world’s tallest observation wheel.
If you want to try your luck by indulging in a few casino games, you could use that opportunity to explore the Wynn Resort, which offers gaming experiences for both beginners and high-rollers.
After a few hands of blackjack or games of roulette, you can head to nightclubs such as OMNIA or Hakkasan to dance the night away.
If you are a fan of outdoor adventures or road trips, you can travel to the Hoover Dam or the Red Rock Canyon, which is perfect for hiking and soaking up the desert’s natural beauty.
