What to Do on a 4 Hour Layover in Las Vegas Airport

1. So you’ve got a long layover at Harry Reid International Airport—yeah, that’s the new name, not McCarran, and if you still call it McCarran, we need to talk. The official Harry Reid airport name change happened back in December 2021, honoring the late senator who did a lot for Nevada. But enough history—let’s get down to business. You’re stuck in Las Vegas airport for a few hours, and you want to know where to eat, what to do, and if it’s worth playing the slots. I’ve been flying in and out of this place for over 15 years, so here’s your no-nonsense Las Vegas airport layover guide. Harry Reid Airport vs McCarran Airport: What’s the Deal? Look, I get it. For years it was McCarran International, named after Senator Pat McCarran, a guy with a mixed legacy— some say he was a bit controversial in his time. But as of late 2021, it’s officially Harry Reid International Airport. The name change was a move to honor Senator Reid’s contributions and move past some of McCarran’s less savory history. So when you ask “who was Pat McCarran?” or “when did LAS become Harry Reid?”, now you know: December 2021 was the switch. And if you want to sound like you know your stuff, call it “Harry Reid” or just “LAS.” Can You Leave Las Vegas Airport During Your Layover? Short answer: yes, but it depends on your time and patience. If you have a long layover LAS of 4+ hours, technically you can leave the airport, but factor in TSA security lines both ways, travel time, and the usual Vegas temptation to never return. Between you and me, if your layover is tight, stay put. But if you have 5+ hours and haven’t been to the Strip yet, it’s doable—especially if you know the cheapest way from LAS to strip and back. Transportation from Harry Reid Airport to the Strip: What’s Worth It? Here’s the thing—taxis are a sucker’s bet. The Las Vegas airport taxi cost to the Strip will set you back around $25-$35 before tip. Meanwhile, rideshares like Uber and Lyft pick you up from the Harry Reid airport rideshare pickup area, which is well signed but requires a short walk outside Terminal 1 or Terminal 3. Uber and Lyft usually hover around $20-$30 to the Strip, sometimes cheaper depending on demand. Lyft price Las Vegas airport can spike during peak times, so check the app before you commit. If you’re on a budget and not in a rush, the RTC bus is a $6 option, but honestly, who wants to deal with that on a layover? Getting Around Harry Reid Airport: Terminals, Shuttle, and Walking LAS has two main terminals—Terminal 1 (mostly Southwest Airlines) and Terminal 3 (Delta, American, and others). Delta terminal Las Vegas If you’re connecting flights, you might wonder: can you walk between terminals at LAS? The answer is yes, but it’s a hike. You can get from Terminal 1 landside to Terminal 3 without going through security, but it’s a 10-15 minute walk. If you’re pressed for time, use the Las Airport inter-terminal shuttle, which runs frequently. Pro tip: Before the Terminal 3 expansion (back in the 2010s when it was still McCarran), this was a mess. Now it’s better, but still plan accordingly. Gambling at the Airport: Are LAS Slot Machines Worth It? Vegas is famous for gambling, so you might be tempted to try your luck at the airport gambling Las Vegas spots. Yes, there are slot machines scattered around the terminals, from penny slots to $5 minimums. Here’s the cold truth: these Vegas airport slots odds are some of the worst you’ll find. The payout percentages are lower than casino floors, and the machines near gates are often set up to trap bored travelers. Do people win on airport slots? Sure, but it’s rare and mostly luck. I’ve been playing my usual Wheel of Fortune slot near gate D17 for years and let’s just say I’m still waiting for the jackpot. If you insist, stick to penny slots, and don’t bet more than $1-2. Otherwise, save your cash for the real casinos on the Strip.

2. Where to Eat at Harry Reid Airport: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 Food at airports is usually a rip-off, and LAS is no exception, but there are some decent spots if you know where to look. Terminal 1 (Southwest Airlines territory) Shake Shack Las Airport — If you’re craving a burger, this is your best bet for a quick, tasty meal. Expect to pay $12 for a beer here, so budget accordingly. Food near Southwest gates Las Vegas — You’ll find the usual fast casual fare: sandwiches, salads, and coffee. Avoid the generic chain spots if you want flavor. Pro tip: The best and quietest bathrooms are near the E gates, so if you want to recharge your phone and yourself, head that way. Terminal 3 (Delta, American, and others) Las Terminal 3 restaurants include a few higher-end options and local favorites. The Amex Lounge Las Vegas is here if you have access—you can check if the Centurion Lounge Las is crowded via apps or just wing it. How to access Centurion Lounge Las: You need an American Express Platinum or Centurion card. The Centurion Lounge food menu Las offers surprisingly good bites compared to typical airport lounges. It’s quieter than the main terminal but fills up quickly. If you don’t have Amex, try The Club at LAS, which offers Priority Pass options, but honestly, it’s nothing to write home about. Airport Lounges: What’s Worth Your Time? actually, Look, lounges can be a lifesaver during a long layover, but not all are created equal. Lounge Access Food & Drink Atmosphere Centurion Lounge Amex Platinum/Centurion Good quality, buffet style Quiet, upscale The Club at LAS Priority Pass, LoungeBuddy Basic snacks & drinks Busy, cramped Delta Sky Club (T3) Delta Flyers Standard Sky Club fare Average Honestly, if you have Amex, the Centurion Lounge is worth it. If not, save your money and grab a burger or coffee instead. Security and Other Airport Essentials Wondering how long is security at Harry Reid? It depends on the time of day. Peak times are usually early morning and late afternoon. Use the TSA PreCheck LAS Vegas airport lane if you have it, and if not, consider getting CLEAR at LAS to speed things up. Also, if you’re a smoker or vaper, Harry Reid airport smoking area and Las airport designated smoking spots exist, but they’re outside near the terminals—not exactly cozy. Lost Something at LAS? Here’s Who to Call If you left an item on a plane Las Vegas or lost luggage with Southwest or another airline, contact the airline’s lost and found first. The airport’s main Mccarran airport lost items office can help, but airlines handle most baggage issues. Bonus Tip: How to Get to Rental Car Center LAS If you’re renting a car, follow signs to the Rental Car Center. It’s connected by a shuttle from the terminals, so don’t try to walk it unless you like hiking with your luggage. Final Thoughts So, what’s the bottom line for your 4-hour layover at Harry Reid International Airport? Skip the airport slots unless you’re feeling lucky and don’t mind losing a few bucks. Grab a Shake Shack burger if you’re in Terminal 1 or check out

3. the Centurion Lounge in Terminal 3 if you have Amex. Use rideshare pickup zones to save on transportation to the Strip, and if you want to explore, make sure your layover is long enough to handle security and travel time. Between you and me, the airport isn’t Vegas itself, so don’t expect to be dazzled. But with these tips, you’ll at least avoid the usual pitfalls like overpriced food, bad coffee, and frustrating waits. Happy layover!