Key Points:
- Yes. You’ll be paying the resort fee at a resort that charges one (in most cases).
- Exceptions can include significant gambling, booking a condo property, staying at one of the few hotels that don’t charge a fee, or complaining about an aspect of your stay.
- Articles online claiming that resort fees are “illegal” and that you don’t have to pay them are wrong.
Most strip resorts charge a nightly resort fee that can range anywhere from $20-$50 per night, depending on the opulence of the property.
By charging a fee, resorts make their properties appear less expensive on online travel agency (OTA) websites like Hotels.com and Orbitz.
A bonus, resorts avoid paying OTA’s a commission on that part of the rate as it’s billed directly to the customer.
It sucks… and leaves many wondering, “Do you have to pay resort fees in Vegas?”.
Although there are ways to avoid paying, most of us have to tuck our tail and pony up despite misinformation online suggesting resort fees are illegal.
They’re not, and there’s nothing surprising about them at this point. If you get through the booking process and don’t realize you’ll be charged the fee, well, that’s on you at this point.
How to Avoid Resort Fees in Las Vegas
Book at a hotel Without Resort Fees
There are a few notable hotels in Las Vegas that don’t have resort fees.
Casino Royale on the Strip, as well as 4 Queens and Binion’s downtown, don’t charge a fee.
Treasure Island also allows you to avoid paying the resort fee if you book through their TV Ad Special specifically.
Rent a Condo Directly From the Owner
Renting an owner-operated condo will sometimes provide the opportunity to skip resort fees without sacrificing the resort experience. These types of rentals also commonly offer unique amenities such as a full kitchen and a balcony.
Note that you’ll want to read the listing carefully to ensure your option doesn’t require any fees. This is usually highlighted in the listing description as it’s a coveted perk.
Spend up in the Casino
For those staying at either a Caesars or MGM property, resort fees can be avoided if you’ve earned Diamond status (Caesars) or Gold status (MGM) within their respective loyalty programs.
If the property doesn’t offer a blanket resort fee waiver policy based on tier status, connect with a casino host or loyalty desk employee at the tail end of your stay. They’ll be able to gauge if the fee can be nullified based on your play.
Point out a Deficiency/Unavailable Amenities
People have successfully had their resort fees waived by complaining to the front desk about a deficiency in their hotel room.
Things like soiled sheets, A/C units on the fritz, bug infestations, and similar issues could be your ticket.
Another angle is pointing out amenities covered by the resort fee that are unavailable, such as the pool and fitness center, if applicable. Some resorts say the fee covers some weird stuff like 10 faxes or boarding pass printing. Put them to the test. Ask to send a fax. If they can’t, ask for the fee to be waived.
Can You Refuse to Pay Resort Fees in Vegas?
No, however, if going “full Karen” as the kids say nowadays is your goal, then give it a shot. I haven’t tried it, nor will I.
As mentioned, resorts do a good job of communicating the existence of resort fees at the time of booking. To me, refusing to pay resort fees is akin to arguing about the cost of a cucumber to the cashier at Wal-Mart. You’re going to lose.
For what it’s worth, there are people out there on the internet (take it with a grain of salt) who say refusal to pay has worked for them. I don’t buy it. But like my Dad always said, “The worst thing that can happen is they say no”… If you go this route, be ready to tuck your tail and hand your credit card over.
Ultimately, the answer for most guests to the question “Do you have to pay resort fees in Vegas?” is yes.
The only real way to avoid them is to book at one of the few properties that don’t charge them, or be a big spender in the casino and either earn waived fees through tier status or by talking to your casino host.
I’d recommend simply figuring the resort fee into the nightly rate when comparing your hotel options. Even with the fee, Las Vegas hotels are a STEAL when compared to what equivalent rooms go for in other major cities like Chicago, New York City, Orlando, etc., which by the way, also commonly charge resort fees.
See Also: Find the loosest slots in and around Las Vegas – Based on data from the Nevada Gaming Commission.
Feature Image: ©nata7777/123RF.COM
I’m a former software salesman turned Vegas aficionado. While the craps table is my preferred habitat, I pull myself away to explore new attractions, shows, restaurants, and outdoor activities around Las Vegas with the intent of sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I just want to help folks plan a better trip and save a few bucks in the process.
Candi
Sunday 30th of January 2022
My question is the resort fee covers the pool, spa, and tv, plus more. But our stay this past week. The pool was closed, sauna closed ,spa closed, all the tv channels, didn't come in/work, the arcade was not open even at hrs posted. Ice was dirty in the ice machine. Which is apart of the resort fees
Jake
Sunday 20th of February 2022
@paula, it isn’t illegal. Just think of it as part of the room rate.
paula
Sunday 20th of February 2022
@Candi, hi did u have to pay? iam in vegas in march and heard iys illegal to charge those fees
Joesph
Sunday 26th of September 2021
Another way to avoid paying resort feed is just vacation somewhere other than Vegas. They aren't the only game in town and if enough people play elsewhere long enough. See how fast those fees magically disappear.