Sin City Showdown: The Ultimate Guide to NFL Fan Travel Weekends in Las Vegas for Raiders Games

Sin City Showdown: The Ultimate Guide to NFL Fan Travel Weekends in Las Vegas for Raiders Games

The roar of the crowd, the glitz of the Strip, and the thrill of NFL football – Las Vegas offers a unique game day experience for Raiders fans. In 2024, Allegiant Stadium saw an average attendance of over 62,000 fans per game, proving that Raider Nation travels. Whether you’re a die-hard member of the Raider Nation or a first-time visitor, this guide will ensure your Sin City Showdown weekend is unforgettable.

Planning Your Trip

  • 2025 Home Schedule: The Raiders’ 2025 home schedule kicks off with a Monday Night Football showdown against the Los Angeles Chargers on September 15th. Other key matchups include the Chicago Bears (September 28th), Tennessee Titans (October 12th), and Dallas Cowboys (November 17th).
  • Travel Packages: Several travel agencies, including Elite Sports Tours and Sports Traveler, offer comprehensive Raiders travel packages. These packages typically include hotel accommodations near Allegiant Stadium, game tickets, airport transfers, and access to pre-game tailgate parties. Allegiant Airlines also offers exclusive Allegiant Stadium Travel Packages when booking a flight to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS).
  • Flights: Numerous airlines offer direct flights to Las Vegas from cities across the country. Allegiant, Southwest, and other major carriers often have competitive deals.
  • Hotels: For the quintessential Raiders Vegas experience, Mandalay Bay is the official Raiders team hotel. Other hotels close to Allegiant Stadium include Luxor and Delano. Consider hotels on the Strip for easy access to both the game and Vegas entertainment.

Game Day Experience

  • Getting to Allegiant Stadium: Allegiant Stadium is located just west of the Mandalay Bay hotel. Several transportation options are available:
    • Walking: A pedestrian overpass connects the Strip to the stadium.
    • Public Transportation: The RTC offers buses and shuttles to the stadium. The Deuce, Vegas’ bus service, has stops all along the Strip.
    • Rideshare: Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off and pick-up locations near the stadium.
    • Driving & Parking: Parking is available near Allegiant Stadium, but booking a spot ahead of time is recommended.
  • Tailgating: Vegas tailgating is a spectacle.
    • Raiders Pregame Masquerade Tailgate: Located in Lot B along Allegiant Stadium Way and Hacienda Ave, this VIP tailgate includes all-you-can-eat food and drink, music, entertainers, and activities.
    • Modelo Tailgate Zone: Located in Lot N, admission is free, and you don’t need a game ticket to join the fun.
    • Silver Zone Tailgate Experience: Held before every home game near the stadium, this tailgate offers all-inclusive food and drinks, live entertainment, and games.
  • Inside Allegiant Stadium:
    • Cashless Venue: Allegiant Stadium is a cashless venue. Guests can pay using debit or credit cards, or mobile wallets.
    • CLEAR Entry Lanes: Use the CLEAR app for faster entry through designated lanes.
    • WiFi: Allegiant Stadium features a state-of-the-art, high-density WiFi system.
    • ChargeFUZE Mobile Charging Kiosks: Rent a portable charger from conveniently located kiosks.
    • The Raider Image: The main store is located at the Ford North Entrance and is open 2 hours prior to kickoff.
  • Pregame and Postgame Hotspots:
    • Raiders Tavern & Grill: Nestled within Mandalay Place, this Raiders-themed sports bar is a pregame mecca.
    • Beerhaus at The Park: Just steps from the stadium, enjoy the open-air excitement of this beer hall’s sprawling outdoor patio.
    • The Still: Inside the Mirage, this sports bar transforms into a sea of silver and black every Raiders game day.
    • Blondies Sports Bar & Grill: Find this lively spot within the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood.
    • AmeriCAN Beer & Cocktails at The LINQ Promenade: Serves nearly 70 beers, all in cans.

Beyond the Game

  • The Las Vegas Strip: Explore iconic casinos, world-class restaurants, and dazzling shows.
  • The Sphere: Catch a show at this groundbreaking entertainment venue.
  • Grand Canyon: Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon.
  • Hoover Dam: Visit the iconic Hoover Dam.
  • NFL-Themed Slots: Hunt for NFL-themed slot machines on casino floors.
  • The Raiders Image Store: Located inside the Fashion Show Mall on the Strip, this is your one-stop-shop for official Raiders merchandise.
  • Original Raiders Headquarters: For the history buffs, the building at 3329 E. Russell Rd. in Las Vegas once housed the Raiders main offices during their initial run in Oakland.

Fan Culture

  • Gear Up: Don your loudest, proudest Raiders gear.
  • The Black Hole: This legendary fan section in Allegiant Stadium is known for wild costumes, unwavering support, and an intense gameday atmosphere.
  • Chant: Do scream “raaaaiiiiderrrrssss” everywhere you go.

Raiders Roster and Coaching

  • Head Coach: Pete Carroll
  • Key Players: Keep an eye on Maxx Crosby, Tyree Wilson, and rookie Jack Bech.

Important Tips

  • Stay Hydrated: Desert heat is no joke, especially during fall and summer games.
  • Arrive Early: Get to the stadium early to soak in the pregame atmosphere.
  • Book in Advance: Secure your flights, hotels, and game tickets well in advance.
  • Take Advantage of Hotel Perks: If you’re going to more than one game, get a players card at the casino and use it every time you gamble or spend money at the casino/restaurants. Get those perks! This can get you comp rooms or discounted.
  • Leaving Sunday night on a 1pm game is easily doable. more than two nights in Vegas is rough.

With its blend of NFL action and Vegas entertainment, a Raiders game weekend in Las Vegas is an experience like no other. Plan your trip, embrace the Raider Nation, and get ready for a Sin City Showdown!