EDC Las Vegas 2026 Travel Guide: Flights, Hotels & Shuttles

TL;DR: EDC Las Vegas 2026 runs May 15-17, 2026 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Fly into LAS, book hotels early (Strip/Downtown are easiest for shuttles), and plan your ride official shuttles are usually the smoothest, while rideshare surges and driving can mean long traffic. Bring ID (18+), hydrate, wear comfortable shoes, and expect late-night hours into sunrise.

Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) 2026 Las Vegas Travel Guide

Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas 2026 is set for May 15-17, 2026 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This massive EDM festival draws locals and travelers from around the world. Whether you’re a Vegas resident or flying in internationally, proper planning will help you make the most of your EDC experience. This guide covers practical travel tips from the best airport and transport options to nearby accommodations, festival entry logistics, and fun things to do in Las Vegas around EDC weekend.

Getting to Las Vegas (Flights & Road Trips)

Fly into LAS, Harry Reid International Airport (code LAS, formerly McCarran) is the primary airport for Las Vegas and the most convenient for EDC travelers. It’s located right by the Strip and about 20 miles from the Speedway. LAS offers plentiful flights, including many affordable nonstop routes from major U.S. cities and abroad. If you’re coming from overseas, ensure your travel documents (passport, visa if needed) are sorted in advance. Once you land, downtown and Strip hotels are a short 15-20 minute cab or rideshare ride from the airport (around $20+ fare depending on distance). Some hotels even offer their own shuttles from the airport, so check if yours provides this service.

Driving from nearby cities: Road-tripping to EDC is common for regional attendees. Las Vegas sits at the crossroads of major highways (particularly I-15). For example, it’s about a 4-hour drive from Los Angeles in light traffic, though a normal weekend can stretch that to 56 hours. On EDC weekend, expect heavier traffic than usual on Friday and Monday, so plan to leave early if driving in a drive from Southern California can easily take longer as tens of thousands head to Vegas. From Salt Lake City, it’s roughly 6 hours, and from Phoenix about 5 hours. If you’re driving from Northern California, one route is via Bakersfield and Barstow to connect to I-15 South. Wherever you’re driving from, consider carpooling with friends or fellow festival-goers to share fuel costs and reduce congestion (Insomniac encourages ridesharing to the festival). Joining a carpool group on social platforms or forums can help solo drivers find passengers and make new rave friends. Pro tip: Try to arrive in Vegas by Thursday or early Friday to settle in; similarly, give yourself time after the festival (which ends early Monday morning) before a long drive home so you’re rested.

Transportation to Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Once you’re in Vegas, getting to the festival each day is the next challenge the Speedway is ~18-20 miles north of the Strip, which can be a 20-minute drive with no traffic or several hours at peak times. Here are the main transportation options to EDC:

• Official EDC Shuttles: The official shuttle service is highly recommended for most attendees. Shuttles run from multiple pickup points (often major Strip hotels) and use a special dedicated route that bypasses regular traffic. This means a faster trip in/out and direct drop-off at a lot right next to the festival gates. Shuttle riders also go through security check before boarding, which expedites entry upon arrival. You’ll need to purchase a shuttle pass for the weekend, but it’s worth it for the convenience and stress-free ride. Shuttles begin departing in late afternoon and return in waves from midnight until after closing. Insider tip: Take an early outbound shuttle if you can peak time shuttles (around 78pm) may have lines, and late returns right at festival end can also mean waits. Some attendees even leave a bit before the final set ends to beat the post-event shuttle queues.
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or Taxi: Rideshares offer flexibility but come with some warnings. During EDC, demand for Uber/Lyft will be extremely high, especially in the late-night hours, leading to surge pricing and long waits. Availability can become limited after 34am as drivers get scarce. If you plan to rideshare, have a backup plan: for example, identify a taxi stand or arrange a pickup with a friend, in case the apps aren’t finding cars. All drop-offs and pickups for EDC must occur at a designated lot (the Mid-Brown Lot via a special I-15 exit at E. Tropical Parkway) drivers will be directed there. You cannot be dropped on the highway or along Las Vegas Blvd near the venue (police will enforce this), so expect to meet your Uber in the official zone. If you do catch a rideshare, consider sharing one with fellow attendees to split the cost. Traditional taxis are also an option; they have regulated rates and can sometimes be easier to find during big events. Just like rideshare, taxis must use the same drop-off zone. Bottom line: Rideshares can work if timed right, but be prepared for surge fares and bring patience for the ride back. It’s wise to not rely solely on Uber/Lyft at 5am Monday many Headliners report limited reliability at that hour.
• Driving & Parking: If you have your own car or a rental, you can drive to the Speedway but plan ahead for traffic and parking logistics. The festival offers free general parking in large lots (Brown and Green lots on the west/south sides). Follow the official directions provided by EDC organizers rather than GPS apps; they will route you via I-15 to Exit 54 and use special traffic lanes to streamline entry. General parking opens at 3:00 pm on Friday (and 5:00 pm on Sat & Sun), so you can arrive early, relax, and avoid the evening rush. Expect heavy delays if you drive during peak arrival (79 pm) veterans warn that leaving the Strip around 67 pm could result in a 23 hour journey in traffic. To beat the gridlock, some attendees depart as early as 4 pm, getting to the venue in under an hour. If you want a quicker exit after the show, consider purchasing Premier Parking for a fee it grants access to a closer lot (Yellow lot via a separate route) and can cut down your exit time. Carpool as much as possible to reduce the number of vehicles not only is it eco-friendly, it’s explicitly encouraged to minimize road congestion. Important: there is no overnight parking at the Speedway (except for Camp EDC). You cannot sleep in your car or “camp” in the lot, and any vehicles left after the festival ends each morning will be towed. Also, tailgating is prohibited the parking lot is just for arriving and leaving, not pre-games or parties. Designate a sober driver for the ride back; Nevada law enforcement will be present around the venue and DUI checkpoints are possible. After the festival, expect a slow exodus from the lots as tens of thousands of cars filter out sometimes it can take 12 hours to leave. It might help to chill in your car, grab a snack, and wait for traffic to thin, or depart slightly early before the final song if you need to beat the crowd.
• Private Charter & Helicopter: For those willing to splurge, Insomniac offers private transportation options. Private car services (luxury SUVs, limos, etc.) can be booked to take you to EDC via the exclusive charter route and often include round-trip service for groups of 37 people. This can provide a comfortable, on-demand schedule but at a hefty price. The ultimate way to arrive is by helicopter: yes, you can charter a helicopter ride directly to the festival grounds! A few companies (like Maverick Helicopters) partner with EDC for this experience. It’s an epic entrance, complete with stunning aerial views and a quick flight that bypasses all traffic. Helicopters drop you right inside the venue in minutes. Of course, this is extremely pricey and must be booked in advance. If it’s within your budget, you’ll certainly skip the lines and get a great Instagram story out of it. For most, the official shuttles remain the best mix of value and convenience, but it’s good to know all the options.

Where to Stay (Hotels, Camping & More)

Finding the right place to stay during EDC weekend is key you’ll want somewhere to recharge after dancing all night. Here are the main accommodation options:

On-Site Camping (Camp EDC): If you want to stay as close to the action as possible, Camp EDC is literally at the festival grounds. Camp EDC offers pre-set ShiftPod tents (heat-reflective tents for two or four people) and RV camping spots, along with a central hub called The Mesa featuring amenities, activities, pool, and after-party events just for campers. The upside is no daily commute you wake up right near the festival gates. However, Camp EDC sells out fast (2026’s camping passes sold out quickly and now have a waitlist). Camping also means you’ll be dealing with the desert elements (hot mornings, limited shower facilities), so it’s not for everyone. If you did secure a camping spot, make sure to read the Camp EDC guidelines on what to bring and the check-in process. For those who didn’t snag a camping pass, you’ll need to stay off-site.

Hotel EDC (Official Partner Hotel): For 2026, Insomniac has an official hotel takeover called Hotel EDC, presented by Vibee. In 2025, Hotel EDC was hosted at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and turned the entire resort into a 360° EDC-themed experience for the weekend. Expect similar vibes in 2026: the hosting hotel (to be announced or booked via Vibee) will feature exclusive pool parties, surprise DJ sets, themed décor, and special perks for guests. Hotel EDC packages typically include a 3-night stay (Fri-Mon) for up to four people and may bundle in extras like shuttle passes or merch. If you want an all-in-one party hotel where the EDC atmosphere continues even off the Speedway, this is a great choice. As of early 2026, Hotel EDC packages are still available check the official Vibee or EDC site for details and pricing. Keep in mind these packages are pricey, but you’re paying for convenience and exclusive experiences (like dedicated afterparties and a “Headliner Headquarters” vibe).

Las Vegas Hotels Strip, Downtown, or Near Speedway: The majority of EDC attendees stay in hotels either on the Las Vegas Strip or in Downtown Las Vegas, and for good reason: you have endless food options, entertainment, and EDC Week events right at your doorstep. Plus, many shuttle pickup spots are at major Strip hotels. If you love being in the center of the action, consider staying on the Strip (anywhere from Mandalay Bay at the south end up to Resorts World or Sahara toward the north). Popular choices for EDC fans include mid-Strip resorts like MGM Grand, Caesars Palace, Flamingo, LINQ, etc., for their proximity to other ravers and events. Downtown (around Fremont Street) is another fun area it’s a bit closer to the Speedway (roughly 10 miles away vs. ~15 miles from mid-Strip) and has a more casual, old-Vegas vibe with live music on Fremont Street each night. Resorts like the Downtown Grand put you right next to the Fremont Street Experience and the local arts scene. Downtown hotels are usually slightly cheaper than the Strip and offer a different flavor of Vegas nightlife (think rooftop bars, street parties, and vintage casinos).

If proximity to the Speedway is your priority (and you have a car), there are a few hotels in North Las Vegas to consider. For example, Aliante Casino Hotel & Spa is a popular choice that’s about a 15-minute drive from the Speedway. It offers a more low-key, relaxing atmosphere perfect for winding down after the rave. Another option is the Santa Fe Station or Cannery Hotel, or any hotel along Craig Road, which put you closer to the venue. Just note, these off-Strip locations mean you’ll be away from most EDC Week events and will likely need to drive or taxi to the Strip if you want to partake in nightlife there.

For those on a budget, don’t worry Vegas has accommodations at every price point. You can find budget-friendly hotels off the Strip that still keep you within a short rideshare of major attractions. For example, Palace Station (just west of the Strip) offers affordable rooms and is a quick drive to the Strip action. Booking a hotel room block as a group is also cost-effective: squeezing four people into one room with two beds (or getting a suite) can significantly cut individual costs. Many hotels allow 4 guests per room; just be sure to request extra bedding if needed.

Book early: EDC weekend is a huge draw flights and hotels can fill up or spike in price as May approaches. It’s wise to reserve your accommodation well in advance (many people book as soon as EDC dates are announced). Also, consider that checking in on Thursday and out on Monday is common. Some hotels offer special rates or waive resort fees for festival attendees via promo codes, so keep an eye out on social media or EDC forums for any discount links.

Festival Entry & Logistics

Heading to EDC involves more than just showing up here are key logistics and tips for a smooth festival experience:

Entry times & schedule: EDC is primarily an overnight festival. Each day’s festivities typically run from the evening into the early morning. In recent years, gates have opened in the late afternoon (around 5:00 pm) with opening ceremonies, and the main stages start around sunset. The music continues all night until dawn (approximately 5:306:00 am) the next morning. In 2025 EDC ran from Fri 7pm to Mon 5:30am, and 2026 should be similar. That means you’ll be dancing under the electric sky until the sun comes up! Plan your sleep accordingly many attendees nap during the day and head to the festival after sunset. If you want to catch the opening ceremony or daytime carnival square (sometimes there are early performers or rides open), arriving when gates open is a great idea. Otherwise, aim to be inside before your must-see artist’s set (the lineup schedule will be released a couple weeks prior).

Security & ID checks: Expect airport-style security screening at entry. All attendees go through a thorough TSA-like check, including bag inspections, emptying pockets, metal detectors, and pat-downs. This is for everyone’s safety, so budget a bit of extra time to get through security, especially during peak arrival hours around 810 pm when lines can form. To speed up your entry: pack light (bring only allowed items), have bags unzipped and ready for search, and follow any instructions from security personnel. EDC is an 18+ event, so you must show a valid photo ID to enter (and to pick up your wristband or Will Call tickets, if applicable). Acceptable IDs include government-issued driver’s licenses or passports (make sure it’s not expired). If you traveled from abroad, your passport will work for entry; just carry it securely. Note that if you’re 21+ and plan to drink or enter VIP areas, you’ll need legal proof of age foreign IDs may require a passport as backup in those cases. Don’t forget your ID at the hotel! They will turn you away at the gates without it, even if you have a valid ticket.

No re-entry: Once you’re inside the festival each night, you cannot leave and re-enter on the same day. There are no “ins and outs,” so make sure you have everything you need before you go in (tickets, ID, phone, medicines, earplugs, etc.). If you leave early for any reason, you won’t be allowed back that night. Plan accordingly, and if you’re taking a break, do it in the chillout areas on-site rather than heading out to your car.

What to bring (and not to bring): Essentials for EDC include a hydration pack or refillable water bottle (empty upon entry) so you can utilize the free water refill stations inside. Staying hydrated is crucial in the desert climate and long nights of dancing. Other helpful items: earplugs (to protect your hearing), sunglasses (the sunrise on the speedway is beautiful but bright), sunscreen for the late afternoon sun, a bandana or light mask (for dust), and comfortable shoes (you’ll be on your feet for hours). Dress for both warmth and cool nights can range from hot early on to chilly before dawn, so many people layer (e.g. wear a light jacket or costume fluff you can remove as needed). Check the official list of allowed/prohibited items on the EDC website before packing your bag. Common prohibited items include outside alcohol, big backpacks (typically only small bags or clear bags allowed), large plush bags, lasers, and weapons of any kind. Totems (signs or flags on poles) are allowed with restrictions (height and material) see the totem guidelines if you plan to make one. If in doubt, leave it at home to avoid losing it at the gate.

Inside the festival, amenities are plentiful. You’ll find free water refill stations, plenty of food vendors with diverse options, merchandise booths, lockers, phone charging stations, and general stores for essentials. Medical tents and Ground Control teams are spread throughout do not hesitate to seek them out if you or a friend feel unwell or need help. The music and crowds can be intense, so take breaks at the shaded rest areas or sit on the grass at Cosmic Meadow to recharge. Cell phone service is spotty with so many people, so don’t rely on your phone for coordination. It’s smart to agree on a meetup spot with your group (for example, a distinctive art installation or a specific carnival ride) in case you get separated and can’t text. Also, consider bringing an external battery pack to keep your phone charged through the night.

Navigating entry and exit: If you’re taking the shuttle, you’ll go through an initial security check before boarding, which means you’ll enter the festival faster upon arrival. For drivers, once parked, note your lot (take a photo of the parking lot number or pin it on your map app) so you can find your car later after a long night, all areas can look the same in the dark. The walk from parking or shuttles into the venue can be 10-20 minutes, so wear comfy shoes from the start. At the end of the night, give yourself patience getting home. If you see huge lines for shuttles or rideshares, sometimes hanging back inside the venue for 30 extra minutes (enjoying a last snack or wandering the art) can make your exit smoother. Above all, prioritize safety if you are too tired or impaired to travel, let the medical staff or security know; they are there to help ensure everyone gets home safely.

Things to Do in Vegas During EDC Week

One of the best parts of coming to Las Vegas for EDC is that the party isn’t only at the Speedway. EDC Week in Las Vegas means a full schedule of events in the days surrounding the festival, and the city itself offers endless entertainment. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Vegas beyond the festival:

EDC Week events: In the week of EDC (for 2026, roughly May 13-19), Las Vegas’s clubs and venues host special EDC Week parties featuring top DJs and producers. By day, you can hit pool parties at resort day clubs for example, Daylight Beach Club at Mandalay Bay often hosts big names (in 2025 ODESZA had a set). At night, the famous nightclubs on the Strip have EDC-themed nightclub events. You might catch artists like Marshmello, Martin Garrix, or other festival headliners playing intimate club sets at places like XS (Wynn), Hakkasan (MGM Grand), Marquee (Cosmopolitan), or TAO (Venetian). These events require separate tickets or table reservations, so plan ahead if there’s someone you’re dying to see. One highlight to look for is Bass rush Massive a bass music event that often happens on Thursday of EDC week (in 2025 it was at “Hotel EDC”) featuring bass-heavy artists as a pre-festival bass POD teaser. Also, keep Monday night after EDC in mind EDC Week usually concludes with a closing party (for 2025, John Summit played a Monday night set to cap off the week). If you have the stamina after the festival, these official events are a great way to extend the fun. Just remember to buy tickets in advance, as EDC Week parties can sell out.

Nightlife and shows: Even outside of EDC Week branded events, Las Vegas nightlife is second to none. If you arrive early in the week, you could check out regular club nights. Clubs like Zouk, Omnia, and EBC (Encore Beach Club) frequently have top DJs. For a different vibe, try a bar crawl downtown on Fremont East or hit a themed bar like Omega Mart’s hidden speakeasy at Area15. If clubs aren’t your scene, consider catching a world-class show Cirque du Soleil production (like O at Bellagio or Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay) are spectacular and run almost every night. Just be mindful of not overdoing the late nights before the festival; you might want to skip late-night partying on Thursday if you’re gearing up for three festival nights.

Attractions and sightseeing: Leave some time to be a tourist! During the day, Las Vegas has plenty of attractions that don’t involve partying. Stroll the Strip to see the iconic Bellagio Fountains (the water show runs every 30 minutes in afternoons and every 15 minutes at night). Head to the Stratosphere Tower (The STRAT) for panoramic views of the city and if you’re a thrill-seeker, try the crazy rides at the top of the tower, like the Big Shot or SkyJump. For an even bigger view, take a ride on the High Roller observation wheel at LINQ, especially around sunset. Downtown, the Fremont Street Experience offers a free LED canopy light show each hour after dark, plus live music stages and the SlotZilla zipline that flies right under the neon lights. Art lovers might enjoy the Neon Museum, where old Vegas neon signs are displayed in a “boneyard,” or Area15, an immersive art and entertainment complex (home to the famous Omega Mart exhibit). If you need a break from the city’s buzz, a quick trip to Red Rock Canyon or Hoover Dam can be done in an afternoon for some natural scenery.

Dining in Vegas: Don’t rave on an empty stomach! Las Vegas’s food scene is incredible, so take advantage of it. For quick and affordable bites, there are food courts and casual eateries in every casino, many open late. You can grab tacos, pizza slices, or In-N-Out Burger on the Strip easily. If you’re a foodie, consider splurging on one big meal perhaps a Vegas buffet (Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars or Wynn Buffet are top-notch) or a celebrity chef restaurant (Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen, Nobu, Joël Robuchon, etc.). Brunch is a popular activity in Vegas too a hearty brunch on Friday or Saturday can fuel you up for the night ahead. And after the festival ends in the early morning, you’ll find plenty of 24-hour restaurants and cafés ready to serve breakfast or late-night comfort food (there’s something magical about eating eggs and bacon alongside other costumed ravers at 6am!). Pro tip: Stock your hotel room with some easy snacks and drinks (water, sports drinks for electrolytes, granola bars) so you have provisions when you return at dawn. And absolutely stay hydrated the dry Vegas air and hours of dancing mean you should be drinking water consistently, both at the festival and during your daytime adventures.

Tips for Group Travelers and Solo Travelers

EDC Las Vegas is a place of unity and community, whether you’re going with a big rave fam or flying solo. Here are some tips tailored for group trips and for those attending alone:

• Group Travel Tips: If you’re coming as a group, communication is key. Exchange numbers and consider using a messaging app or group text to coordinate meetups (though remember cell service may lag at the festival). It’s a good idea to pick a meetup spot inside EDC for example, “meet at the pixel forest art installation by 2:00 am if we get split up.” This can save a lost friend situation since GPS/apps might not work well among 150,000 people. Make sure everyone is on the same page about departure times each day; if you’re driving, decide when to head to the venue (and be clear about not leaving anyone behind at the hotel!). Designate roles: Who’s driving back, who’s bringing the cooler for the car, who keeps track of the shuttle passes, etc. Sharing resources will make the trip smoother. It’s also fun to coordinate outfits or totems as a group it makes it easier to spot each other in crowds and is great for group photos. During the festival, look out for one another: agree to do occasional head-counts or buddy check-ins, especially if someone goes to the bathroom or to grab food. If someone in your crew needs a rest or isn’t feeling well, have a buddy stay with them or take a group break. Your group’s experience will be best if you take care of each other. After each night, have a plan for getting everyone home safely if the designated driver ended up not feeling up to driving, call a taxi or use another safe option. Back at the hotel, consider setting a “buddy system” if people wander the casino at odd hours. And finally, share the memories swap photos and videos each day since not everyone’s phone will last or capture every moment.
• Solo Traveler Tips: Going to EDC alone can be incredibly rewarding you have full freedom to explore on your own terms. Rest assured, EDC is generally very safe and welcoming for solo attendees. The festival crowd lives by PLUR (Peace, Love, Unity, Respect), so it’s easy to strike up conversations and make friends in line, at art installations, or while trading Kandi bracelets. Take advantage of online communities: join the EDC Las Vegas subreddit or find Facebook groups for solo travelers many organize meetups or group chats for people coming alone. Meeting up with a few other solos at the start of the festival can give you a buddy group to check in with. When you’re on your own, trust your instincts and use common sense: if a situation or person is making you uncomfortable, remove yourself and find security or Ground Control (they’re in purple shirts) they are there to help and are very approachable. Keep your valuables secure on your person (consider a anti-theft rave backpack or a hydration pack with zippers, or a fanny pack worn in front). Unfortunately, phone theft rings do target big festivals, so staying aware of your surroundings will help protect you don’t keep your phone dangling out of your back pocket, for example. If you’re a solo female traveler, know that many others do it and have a great time; the same safety rules apply as anywhere stay in well-lit, populated areas, especially on the Strip at night, and don’t over-consume substances to a point where you can’t stay alert. The festival itself has plenty of staff and police presence, so you’re never truly alone in an emergency. Let someone back home know your general schedule and check in with them each day so they know you’re safe. One nice thing about going solo is you can do exactly what you want see the artists you love, roam the stages at your pace, even leave early or stay till the end with no group consensus needed. And you will likely leave with new friends; EDC’s community is incredibly friendly. Many solo attendees say they never actually felt “alone” at the event because people embraced them and they could always find someone to dance with or talk to. Embrace the experience, and don’t be shy about striking up a conversation a simple “Is it your first EDC?” or complimenting someone’s outfit can open the door to a new rave friendship.

No matter your situation, remember that everyone at EDC is there for the love of music and vibes. Whether in a big squad or by yourself, you’re part of a larger family for the weekend. Look out for fellow Headliners, and they’ll look out for you. Most importantly, have fun and be safe!

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