Airport transportation in Vegas can be a ripoff, but there’s a solution: The CX bus route, which is the cheapest way to get to Fremont Street hotels (and a few on the Strip).
It’s easy to use, find, and at only $2 cash ($3 if buying on the RTC phone app), the CX bus is one of the best ways to preserve your gambling budget.
CX Bus Route Deets
The CX has stops at both Terminal 1 & Terminal 3.
If catching the bus at Terminal 1: Navigate to level zero by taking the escalator down one level at baggage claim, exit the terminal, and cross the street.
If catching the bus at Terminal 3: Head to the departures level, which can be found by taking the escalator up one level at baggage claim. Head outside and cross the street. The stop is well marked.

Paying for your ride is straightforward.
The easiest way is to have 2 crisp one-dollar bills to feed the machine as you enter the bus.
RTC has an app that lets you purchase fares in advance; however, it only allows you to buy a $3 local fare, rather than CX’s $2 cash rate. It works, but you’ll be overpaying. Plan ahead and bring a couple of bucks.
The bus takes 30-40 minutes to get from the Airport to Fremont Street, which is a bit longer than other means of transportation.
This bus also has a luggage rack, but I found it easier to set it on the floor in front of me.
Route-wise, the CX runs down Flamingo to I-15, past the North Premium Outlets, and then downtown Las Vegas. As a visitor, what’s important is you’ll board, ride for a while, and get dropped off on Fremont Street for next to nothing. Get off at the 4th and Carson stop and you’ll get off the bus right next to The D.
Here is the CX bus route map and schedule:

And there you go, the cheapest way to get from the airport to your hotel in Downtown Las Vegas.
Now take the money you saved and blow it at the tables.
Related: Las Vegas Airport transportation options.

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.

Arnie Gutierrez
Monday 8th of August 2022
Jake I've been to Vegas at least 15 times over the years and have to say I really enjoy your take on a lot. Thsnks for helping an old gezzer get around.
Cindy Shelton
Monday 4th of November 2019
Hi do you have a shuttle ? I need to get a shuttle from the airport to the rental cars !!
[email protected] Thank you Cindy Shelton
Bonnie
Thursday 7th of November 2019
There is a free car rental shuttle bus just outside of the terminals. It takes you to the place where all the car rentals are. Ask anyone if still lost.