There’s never a bad time to visit Las Vegas, a city that’s always on and ready. But, depending on what you’re looking to get out of your trip, some months are better than others. Las Vegas is home to nearly endless means of entertainment, but some seasons boast different offerings than others, and visiting Vegas at the right time of year for festivals, pools and more requires some research ahead of time. Read on to find out the best time to plan your ideal Vegas trip.

For the Pools
The City of Sin boasts some of the most elaborate pool-scapes and pool parties. It may be surprising to some that optimal poolside sprawling takes place during May and September, not June, July or August. Average temperatures in May and Septembers skew toward the mid to low 90s, as opposed to the scorching heat of the desert summer which can often exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, as most schools are not out yet in May and have already begun in September, the crowds are considerably more manageable. Looking to experience more than one of Sin City’s coolest pools? Make a splash with a 5 Day Pool Party Pass. 

For the Festivals
Timing your trip with a festival can layer some culture into your Vegas vacation. “Life is Beautiful” is a celebration which takes place Downtown every September. This festival features a variety of musical headliners (from DJ Snake to Death Cab for Cutie to Lizzo) along with visual artists, culinary and cultural icons. However, if sitting and celluloid is more your thing, then April is the festival month for you. Hosting both the Las Vegas Film Festival and the Las Vegas Black Film Festival, April provides entertainment and enlightenment.

For the Food
Once a year, in June, the charitable organization Three Square teams up with restaurants throughout the Strip and the city to raise money for those who experience food insecurity.  During this event, known as Restaurant Week, foodies can find prix fix three-course meals at affordable prices in high scale eateries throughout MGM Resorts, Caesar’s Entertainment and The Venetian properties. The menus are crafted to showcase the best that each establishment has to offer. What better way to help yourself while helping others? Just make sure to reserve your table.

For the Shopping
December 31st is THE holiday, visitors come in droves to welcome the New Year with all the flash and fun for which Vegas is known. In January, after the holiday celebrations, after the crowds leave, the sales start. Fabulous holiday fashions along with pricy winter essentials are available at a fraction of their original price. The savvy shopper can take advantage of the many deals on offer throughout Las Vegas’ many retail options, from the outlets to the lavish luxurious malls and everything in between.  

For Peace and Quiet
Popular occasions such as conventions, holidays, sporting events and festivals draw hundreds of thousands of tourists to Las Vegas. Avoiding those times can mean lower costs in lodging and transportation. But, most importantly, it can mean more space to experience everything the city offers. There are many exceptional architectural, design and culinary spectacles that can be missed when attempting to navigate seas of people. That’s why the beginning of March and the end of August can be the best times to enjoy the city in all its glory.