CES 2026 Transportation Guide | How to Get Around Las Vegas

TL;DR: Heading to CES 2026 in Las Vegas? Fly into LAS if you can it’s 10–15 minutes from the Convention Center or use Southern California airports like LAX, ONT or SNA if you’re building a road trip. This Airport Van Rental guide compares airports, CES shuttles, monorail, Vegas Loop, taxis and rental vans so your team moves together, avoids surge pricing and focuses on meetings, not traffic.

Check CES 2026 van and SUV availability at LAS now.

CES 2026 takes place January 7-10, 2026 in Las Vegas, primarily at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). This massive tech event draws tens of thousands of exhibitors, tech teams, press, and global attendees into Vegas. With everyone converging on the Strip, transportation will be a top concern traffic can get intense and cabs or rideshares may be stretched thin. Planning ahead is crucial. This guide will help you navigate airports, airport-to-convention transit, “game day” style tips for getting around the Strip, and smart strategies (like rental vans) to keep your CES crew moving efficiently. Let’s dive in so you can focus on the innovation and networking, not transportation headaches!

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Airports: The best airport for CES (hint: LAS) and some alternative airport options if you’re coming from or through Southern California.
• From Airport to CES: All the ways to get from the airport to your hotel or the Convention Center including rental vehicles, taxis, rideshares, and public transit.
• Getting Around the Strip During CES: Free CES shuttles, the Las Vegas Monorail, the new Vegas Loop tunnels, and more “last mile” tips (plus parking and traffic pointers).
• Vehicle Tips for Teams: Why vans or minivans can be a lifesaver for CES groups (tech teams with gear, media crews, etc.), and how to make the most of group transportation.
• FAQs: Quick answers to common CES transportation questions from parking availability to whether you should rent a car or rely on rideshares.

Let’s ensure your CES 2026 travel is smooth, so you can hit the ground running in Vegas!

Flying In: Best Airports for CES 2026

Most CES visitors will fly into Las Vegas’s Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) and for good reason. LAS (formerly McCarran Airport) is just ~4 miles from the Convention Center, roughly a 15-minute drive. It’s the closest and most convenient airport by far, with abundant flight options. If you can book a flight into LAS, do it you’ll be in Vegas proper as soon as you land, and a short taxi or shuttle ride from the Strip and CES venues.

That said, CES week can make flights to LAS pricey or sell out early. Some travelers especially those combining CES with other West Coast stops might consider flying into alternate airports and then driving a rental vehicle to Vegas. Here are a few possibilities (primarily for those coming from Southern California or looking for cheaper flights):

• Los Angeles International (LAX)Distance to Vegas: ~270 miles (430 km) by road. LAX is a major international hub with tons of flights (often the cheapest for long-haul travel). However, it’s about a 4-5 hour drive to Las Vegas. This could make sense if you find a great flight deal into LAX (or are arriving from overseas) and don’t mind a road trip. Some CES attendees land in LAX, rent a van, and drive to Vegas with their team turning the trip into a mini caravan (just be prepared for traffic leaving LA).
• Ontario International (ONT)Distance: ~225 miles (360 km) to Vegas. ONT is a mid-sized airport east of Los Angeles (about 35 miles from downtown LA). Driving from Ontario to Vegas takes around 3.5-4 hours (you’ll bypass most LA city traffic). ONT can be a savvy alternative if flights there are cheaper or less congested than LAX Southwest, JetBlue, and other domestic airlines serve ONT. If you land at ONT, you can hit I-15 north and be in Las Vegas by the same afternoon/evening. It’s still a long drive, but you avoid LAX’s chaos.
• John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA)Distance: ~265 miles (426 km) to Vegas. SNA is another Southern California airport (in Irvine). It’s about 4.5 hours drive to Las Vegas. SNA is easy to navigate and often low-hassle, with mostly domestic flights. This could be an option if you’re visiting Orange County or if SNA offers a good fare from your city. Driving from Orange County, you’ll likely take I-15 through the Inland Empire up to Nevada. It’s a bit farther than Ontario, but similarly avoids the LA city congestion.
• Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)Distance: ~300 miles (480 km) to Vegas. Not in California, but worth a mention: PHX in Arizona is about a 4.5-5 hour drive to Las Vegas. We mention it because some might do a desert road trip loop (e.g. visiting Phoenix or Grand Canyon before CES). If flights to PHX are significantly cheaper, a one-way rental car to Vegas is possible (several rental agencies allow Phoenix-Vegas one-ways). Still, that’s a half-day drive, so plan accordingly.

After landing, LAS is unquestionably the closest and most practical airport for CES. The others are only worth considering if you have a specific plan (like a side trip or a much cheaper fare) and don’t mind a long drive. For most travelers: fly straight to LAS. Just be sure to book early flights into Vegas during CES week fill up fast, and prices climb as January approaches. The same goes for rental vehicles at LAS; CES is high season, so reserve in advance.

At all of these airports, you can rent cars or vans for the final leg to CES. We have AVR rental partners serving Las Vegas Airport (LAS) you can pick up a van right at LAS, pack in your team and gear, and be on the Strip within 15 minutes. (The airport’s Rental Car Center is a quick free shuttle ride from the terminals.) If you do opt to fly into LAX or another city, you can also rent one-way and drop off in Vegas. In short, if a road trip is part of your CES plan, we’ve got you covered with vehicles in whatever city you start from.

Getting to the Convention Center and Around Vegas During CES

Once you’re on the ground in Las Vegas, how do you actually get to CES and navigate around the Strip? With CES spread across the LVCC (and some exhibits or keynotes at the Venetian Expo and ARIA), you’ll need a game plan for daily travel. You have a few main options:

1. Driving (Rental Car or Personal Vehicle)

Driving yourself gives you maximum freedom you’re on your own schedule. With a car or rental van, you can shuttle your team between hotel, convention center, off-site meetings, and dinners without waiting on anyone. You can also store equipment or swag in the vehicle and even do supply runs as needed. If your team wants to explore beyond CES (say, a team outing to Fremont Street or a client meeting off-Strip), having wheels is convenient.

However, there are important considerations if you drive:

• Parking:Be aware that CES offers no public parking at the Convention Center or Venetian Expo. This is a critical “gotcha” during CES, the lots at LVCC are reserved for event staff, exhibitors, etc., and general attendees cannot park on-site. (ADA parking is available only at official CES hotels with proper placards.) This means if you drive, you’ll need to park elsewhere typically at your hotel or a nearby facility. Most Strip hotels have parking garages (some free for guests, others charging a daily fee or valet fee). The strategy for drivers is usually to leave the car at the hotel and then use CES shuttles or other transit to reach the convention. If you’re not staying within walking distance, you might consider parking at a location along the Monorail or near a Vegas Loop station (more on those below) and continuing from there.
• Traffic: Expect heavy traffic on all roads feeding the Convention Center during show hours. Paradise Road, Convention Center Drive, Las Vegas Blvd (the Strip), and surrounding streets get very congested, especially in the mornings and late afternoon. It’s not quite Super Bowl-level gridlock, but with 170,000+ attendees, it’s close. If you’re driving to the venue, plan to head out early (arrive before the show floor opens if you can) to beat the rush. Likewise, in the evenings, driving away at 6 PM when everyone else does will be slow consider waiting out the peak or taking an alternate route like Paradise Rd instead of the Strip. Navigation apps will help, but note that police may enforce special traffic patterns or occasional road closures around the convention center for safety. Follow any official signs and don’t try to “back road” your way too creatively you might hit barricades. Patience is key if you’re behind the wheel.
• Carpooling: If your group is split among multiple vehicles, try to consolidate to one larger vehicle if possible. Not only do you save on gas and parking fees, but you also cut down on the number of cars jamming up the roads. One 12-passenger van carrying your whole team is much simpler than 3-4 separate cars in Vegas traffic (and you only need one driver with the patience for it).
• Tailgating/Storage: Unlike a sporting event, there’s no tailgating at CES but having a vehicle can act as a “home base” in a way. You can leave coats, bags, or demo materials in the car instead of lugging them on the show floor (just be sure to lock and keep valuables out of sight). Some exhibitors who drive in even use their van to store backup supplies. Just remember you might not have immediate access if your car is parked far or you use a remote lot.

If you need wheels for CES, consider renting a van or SUV for your group instead of multiple cars. We offer convenient rentals right at LAS Airport and in town, so you can pick up upon arrival and head straight to your hotel or the convention. A single 12- or 15-passenger van can often carry your whole crew (and gear) in one go meaning you’ll only need one parking spot and can keep everyone together. (No caravan coordination or separating into multiple Ubers.) Splitting the cost of a large van can also be cheaper per person than several separate rentals or rideshares, especially when you factor in multiple taxi fares or surge pricing. If you do rent, reserve early large vans in Vegas book up fast around CES!

2. CES Hotel Shuttles (Free)

One of the best perks for attendees is the complimentary CES shuttle service. During the show, CES runs hundreds of free shuttle buses that loop between official partner hotels and the LVCC/Venetian. If you’re staying at an official CES hotel (or near one), this can be the easiest way to get to the convention each day.

• How it works: Typically, shuttle routes are organized by hotel clusters. Starting early in the morning, buses pick up registered attendees (show badge required) from hotel loading areas and drop off at either LVCC or Venetian Expo. They run continually throughout the day on a schedule (usually every 15-30 minutes, and more frequently during peak morning rush). In the evening, they’ll ferry people back from the venues to the hotels until after the show floor closes.
• Coverage: The shuttles cover most of the big hotels on the Strip and Downtown that are “official” CES hotels. Check the CES website or shuttle flyer for the route list if your hotel isn’t on it, there’s likely one nearby that is. (For example, if you’re at a smaller property, you might walk to a large hotel next door that’s a pickup point.) There are also special shuttles for ARIA (C Space) and other specific events e.g. a dedicated “C Space Shuttle” to ARIA for conference tracks there.
• Pros: It’s free (included with your CES registration), and you’ll be riding with other CES attendees which can be fun (great networking opportunity you never know who you’ll meet on the bus!). You also get dropped off close to the venue entrances, avoiding long walks from distant parking. And you skip the hassles of driving/parking altogether.
• Cons: You’re on the shuttle’s schedule. At peak times (morning inbound, evening outbound), you might have to wait in a line to board since thousands use the service but the lines generally move fast, as buses line up one after another. Mid-day, shuttles are less frequent, so plan if you intend to leave early. Also, if your hotel isn’t on a route, you may need to get yourself to one that is (which could mean a short cab or walk).

Shuttle Tip: Grab a shuttle route brochure or download the CES shuttle schedule from the official site. It will list hours and pickup locations. Many attendees find the shuttles so convenient that they don’t use any other transport during CES. Just budget a little extra time, especially when leaving the convention center in the afternoon there will be lines as everyone funnels out, but organizers usually have plenty of buses ready to go. Pro tip: if you can slip out 15 minutes before closing or wait 30 minutes after, you can often avoid the biggest crowds.

3. Las Vegas Monorail

The Las Vegas Monorail is a public transit train that runs along the east side of the Strip and it’s a popular choice during conventions. The Monorail has a station directly at the LVCC (near the Convention Center’s Central Hall) and connects to several major hotels: MGM Grand, Horseshoe/Paris, Flamingo, Harrah’s/The LINQ, Westgate, and Sahara. If you’re staying at or near one of these, the Monorail can whisk you to the Convention Center without sitting in traffic.

• Schedule & Cost: During big events like CES, the Monorail runs extended hours. Typically it starts around 7 AM daily, running until midnight on Monday, and until 2 or 3 AM Tuesday through Sunday. Trains arrive every few minutes. You’ll need to buy a ticket options include single-ride tickets (around $5) or unlimited day passes (e.g. ~$13 for a day, with multi-day passes available). Tip: Buying a multi-day pass in advance or via their app can save money and time (no ticket line). Sometimes CES attendees get promo codes for discounts worth checking.
• Pros: The Monorail is immune to street traffic, so your travel time is consistent even if the Strip is jammed. It’s also clean, air-conditioned, and safe. From, say, MGM Grand to LVCC is about a 10-minute ride. It’s often faster than a taxi for those point-to-point hops along its route (especially during peak traffic hours).
• Cons: It only goes on one side of the Strip and does not reach the Venetian/Sands Expo or anything south of MGM Grand. (The Venetian is on the opposite side and not directly served CES provides the “Tech Express” shuttle between Venetian and LVCC instead.) Also, if your hotel isn’t near a monorail station, you have to get to one. Keep in mind the stations are at the back of some properties (e.g. at MGM, you walk a bit to reach it). And after CES closes, there might be lines to board at the Convention Center station, but trains come quickly and each can move a lot of people.

Overall, if you’re along its route, the Monorail can be a lifesaver for skipping traffic. For example, someone staying at Harrah’s can monorail to LVCC in minutes rather than taking a cab that could be stuck on Las Vegas Blvd. Many veteran CES-goers swear by it. Just plan around its route limitations (you might still need other transport if you venture to venues it doesn’t serve).

4. Rideshares and Taxis

Uber and Lyft are ubiquitous in Vegas and will certainly be in high demand during CES. Taxis, the old standby, are also plentiful. Here’s what to know:

• Pickup Zones: Both the Convention Center and each hotel have designated rideshare pickup spots (and separate taxi queues). Pay attention to the signage or app instructions. For example, at LVCC during CES, Ubers/Lyfts usually pick up at the Diamond Lot near West Hall or a lot by South Hall, not at the main entrances. Hotels often direct rideshares to specific entrances (e.g. rideshare pickup might be at a side entrance or parking garage rather than the front door). Taxis, on the other hand, can only pick up in taxi queues at hotel porte-cochères or marked stands you can’t hail one on the street in Vegas. So you’ll typically go to the hotel’s taxi line or rideshare area when leaving.
• Using Rideshare: It’s app-summoned as usual. Surge pricing is something to watch for at peak times, especially right after the show ends each day (~5-6 PM), Uber/Lyft prices can spike a lot due to demand. Be prepared for possibly hefty fares if you request at the peak of the rush. One strategy is to wait it out with a drink or dinner until prices normalize. Another is to walk a block or two away from the busiest pickup zone (some attendees walk to a nearby hotel or across the street where it’s less congested to catch their Uber).
• Taxi Considerations: Taxis in Vegas have flat rates to certain destinations (e.g. there’s a set fare from the airport to the Strip hotels these days). During CES, taxi lines will form at LVCC they tend to move steadily, but you could wait 15-30 minutes at closing time. The good news is taxis are heavily regulated and you won’t get surge pricing. A taxi from LVCC to a mid-Strip hotel might be in the ~$15-$25 range (plus tip), depending on traffic and route. If the Uber prices look outrageous, hopping in the cab line is a smart fallback.
• Pros: Door-to-door service. If you’re not on a shuttle route or near the monorail, rideshares or taxis can take you directly where you need to go without multiple transfers. They’re also available 24/7, so if you’re out late at a CES after-party, you won’t worry about missing the “last shuttle” just grab a Lyft back.
• Cons: Cost can add up, especially with surge pricing. Also, at extremely busy times, you might face a wait to get a car. In some past CES events, attendees reported waiting 30+ minutes for an Uber due to driver shortages or traffic preventing drivers from reaching them. Another con: if your hotel is very close to the Convention Center, a car might actually be more trouble than it’s worth (a ride might have to loop around due to one-way roads, etc., whereas walking could be faster for short distances).

Bottom Line: Rideshare and taxis are best for shorter trips or off-peak usage. If you’re staying at, say, a boutique hotel with no shuttle, you might Uber over in the morning when you’re not in a rush and it’s not too expensive. But to leave CES at day’s end, free shuttles or the monorail might spare you both time and money. Many attendees mix and match: use shuttles in the day, and an Uber late at night after networking events when traffic is lighter.

5. Vegas Loop (Tesla Tunnels)

A new addition since CES 2021 is Elon Musk’s Vegas Loop an underground tunnel system where Teslas whisk people across the Convention Center and to nearby spots. If you haven’t experienced it: it’s essentially a fleet of Tesla cars driving through dedicated tunnels, providing a quick point-to-point ride.

• LVCC Loop (On-Campus): The Convention Center Loop has stations at the South/Central Halls and West Hall. During CES, this is free for attendees and can save you a long walk. For instance, if you need to go from an exhibit in West Hall to one in South Hall, instead of trekking 20 minutes through crowds, you can hop in a Tesla and zip under the building in ~2 minutes. It’s a fun, novel way to get across the sprawling LVCC campus without breaking a sweat. Just follow signs to the “LVCC Loop” usually there’s a station entrance with escalators going down. Even if there’s a line, it usually moves quickly since many cars are running.
• Vegas Loop to Resorts World/Encore/Westgate: As of 2025, the Loop has expanded beyond the convention center. Resorts World (a hotel just across from LVCC West Hall) has a station connected by tunnel, as do Encore (Wynn) and Westgate. These require a ticket/fare (unlike the free on-campus rides) but they’re relatively cheap (a few dollars per ride). For example, from West Hall to Resorts World might cost around $5. The advantage is you bypass street traffic entirely. If you are staying at Resorts World, Encore, or Westgate, using the Loop can be extremely convenient: it drops you directly at LVCC. It’s effectively another transit option alongside shuttles and monorail. You can buy Loop tickets via an app or at kiosks, or even on-site (check ** for ticket info and pricing).
• Pros: Super fast for certain connections. Also, weather-proof (underground and air conditioned). And frankly, it’s cool tech very on-brand to try out during CES! If you have meetings spread out around the LVCC, the Loop can save serious time.
• Cons: It only goes to a few off-site locations so far. If you’re not near those, it might not help you. Also, each Tesla carries only a few passengers, so if a huge crowd arrives at once, there could be a wait (though they often increase the fleet during large events to keep things moving). It’s also not a comprehensive city transit you can’t take it to the airport or other hotels yet (future expansions are planned, but not by 2026).

For now, consider the Vegas Loop a handy shortcut: great for jumping between CES halls or getting to those couple of connected hotels. It won’t replace the broader transit options, but it complements them. And hey, it’s one more only-in-Vegas experience to tell folks about when you’re back home.

6. Other Tips: Walking & Off-Strip

Lastly, don’t underestimate your own two feet. Depending on where you’re staying, walking can sometimes beat traffic. The Convention Center is just off the Strip’s north end; if you’re at the Westgate (right next door) or Resorts World/Wynn/Encore (just across or down the street), you might be able to walk to LVCC in 10-20 minutes. The city has pedestrian bridges at major intersections, so walking can be relatively safe and straightforward on the Strip side. Just factor in weather January in Vegas is generally mild (50s°F/10-15°C), but can be chilly in the morning or after dark. Comfortable shoes are a must; CES days are lots of walking inside the show already!

Also, if you’re venturing off-Strip (maybe attending a CES after-hours event downtown on Fremont Street, or visiting a local office), consider scheduling transportation ahead. Vegas has plenty of options like charter buses or private shuttles for corporate groups, which might be worthwhile if you have a large team going to an off-site dinner, for example. Otherwise, rideshare or rental vans will do the trick.

TL;DR: Most CES attendees will combine a few modes perhaps shuttle in the morning, monorail midday, and an Uber at night. The good news is, Vegas is very accustomed to big crowds and has an infrastructure built for it. As long as you give yourself a bit of extra time and have a Plan B, you’ll get around just fine. Now, let’s look at why the right vehicle choice can make life even easier for group travelers...

Vehicle Tips for CES Teams and Groups

If you’re attending CES with a team (whether it’s a product launch crew, a group of colleagues, or a film crew covering the event), getting everyone from point A to B efficiently is key. Here are some vehicle and rental tips tailored for CES groups:

• Keep the Group Together: For groups of 5 or more, it often makes sense to rent one larger vehicle rather than multiple small ones. A single 12-passenger van or 15-passenger van keeps everyone in one place and on the same schedule no splitting up or coordinating multiple cars. It’s logistically easier (no “Where are you? We’re stuck in a different taxi” scenarios) and can be more fun (the team can debrief or plan on the drive). Plus, as mentioned, one vehicle means you only need one parking spot or drop-off, saving hassle and money.
• Ample Space for Gear: CES often means lots of gear whether it’s demo equipment, swag boxes, camera rigs, or just everyone’s luggage. Rent a vehicle with extra seats or cargo room. For example, even if you have 6 people, renting a 12-passenger van gives you room to spread out and pile in equipment (you can fold down or remove some seats for cargo). Our AVR fleet in Vegas includes spacious options like 12-passenger vans, 15-passenger vans, and minivans. Minivans are great for up to 7 people with flexible seating, while full-size vans handle larger groups or lots of boxes. Tip: Don’t cut it too close on capacity a vehicle that just fits your headcount might struggle to fit all the extra stuff that comes with a trade show. Upsizing one category can make the ride much more comfortable.
• Reserve Early & Understand Policies: Large vans in particular are in high demand during CES. Book your rental van early (weeks or even months ahead) to ensure availability. Also, check the rental policies: in Nevada, the driver will just need a standard license (no special CDL required for 12 or 15 passenger vans). The primary renter/driver typically must be 25 or older for these vehicle classes if you have team members under 25, plan for someone of age to rent, or expect a young driver surcharge with some companies. At AVR, we specialize in vans, so our team can answer any questions about age requirements, insurance, etc., ahead of time. We also offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup in case your plans change flexibility can be a lifesaver for a big event.
• Practice Driving the Big Vans: If you’re not used to driving larger vehicles, give yourself a little time to adjust. Modern 12- and 15-passenger vans are straightforward to drive, but they are longer/taller than a typical car. Take a short practice spin when you pick it up adjust mirrors, get comfortable with the turning radius, and remember to watch overhead clearances (no parking garage for a tall van unless it fits!). Vegas roads are wide and well-marked, so you should be fine. We ensure our vans are well-maintained and many come with rearview cameras for easier maneuvering. Still, if your team’s driver is uneasy, consider a minivan or two smaller SUVs instead but in our experience, most folks handle the big van no problem after a few minutes.
• Plan for Gas and Parking: If you do have a vehicle, note that self-parking at many Strip hotels is no longer free (several charge $15-$20/day for self-park, more for valet). Factor that into your budget. Some hotels waive fees for guests or higher-tier loyalty members. Also, allow time to find parking in the mornings CES might not have parking at the venue, but hotel garages can also fill up early with attendees leaving for the show. As for fuel, there are gas stations a few blocks off the Strip that are cheaper than the ones right on Las Vegas Blvd. It’s wise to fill up outside the tourist corridor or even in the suburbs on your way back to the airport to avoid the “Strip surcharge” on gas prices.
• One-Way Trips: If your team is doing something like LA -> Vegas -> LA, you could rent a van one-way. For example, pick up a 15-passenger van in Los Angeles, drive to CES, then drop it at our Las Vegas location after the show (and fly back). We accommodate many one-way rentals like this (common for teams road-tripping to Vegas). It can save time if you don’t want to drive back tired after the event. Just book one-ways in advance since availability is more limited.

In summary, choosing the right vehicle can elevate your CES experience: you’ll move your whole crew efficiently and have a mobile base of operations for the week. Many companies find that renting a van pays off by simplifying their transport and keeping everyone coordinated. And when you split the cost across a group, it’s often quite economical compared to other modes.

We hope this guide helps you navigate CES 2026 with ease. With a bit of planning, you can avoid the worst hassles and maybe even enjoy the commute (think of the Vegas skyline views, or the interesting chats you might strike up on a shuttle). Whether you’re arriving by plane, monorail, or a trusty rental van loaded with your team, have a fantastic CES and don’t forget to take in some Las Vegas fun along the way. Safe travels and see you at the show!

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