When planning a trip to Las Vegas, one of the key activities many visitors look forward to is experiencing the array of world-class shows. From Cirque du Soleil performances to magic shows, concerts, and comedy acts, Las Vegas offers something for everyone.
However, a common question arises: is it cheaper to buy show tickets in Vegas or online? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both purchasing methods, providing examples of popular shows like Mystère by Cirque du Soleil and Michael Jackson ONE to help you make an informed decision.
The Convenience of Buying Tickets Online
Advantages of Online Ticket Purchases
- Advanced Planning and Booking: One of the primary advantages of buying tickets online is the ability to plan and book in advance. This ensures that you secure a spot at your desired show, especially for popular performances that sell out quickly.
- Price Comparison: Online platforms allow you to compare prices across different websites, helping you find the best deals and discounts. Websites like Ticketmaster, Vegas.com, and StubHub often offer competitive pricing.
- Special Discounts and Promotions: Many online ticket sellers offer special discounts and promotions that are not available at the box office. These can include early bird specials, group discounts, and promo codes.
- Customer Reviews and Ratings: Purchasing online gives you access to customer reviews and ratings, helping you choose the best shows based on other visitors’ experiences.
Disadvantages of Online Ticket Purchases
- Service Fees: Online ticket purchases often come with additional service fees that can increase the overall cost. These fees can vary depending on the platform and the specific show.
- Limited Last-Minute Deals: While some websites offer last-minute deals, these are generally less common than what you might find in Vegas. If you’re a spontaneous traveler, this might not be the best option.
- Potential Scams: When buying from third-party websites, there’s a risk of encountering scams or fraudulent tickets. It’s important to use reputable websites to avoid such issues.
Example: Mystère by Cirque du Soleil
- Online Price: $69/person
- Additional Fees: Service fees vary but can add up to $10-$15 per ticket depending on the platform.
Example: Michael Jackson ONE
- Online Price: $111.90/person
- Additional Fees: Service fees can range from $12-$20 per ticket.
Buying Tickets in Vegas
Advantages of Buying Tickets in Vegas
- Last-Minute Deals and Discounts: One of the biggest advantages of buying tickets in Vegas is the potential for last-minute deals. Tix4Tonight and other discount ticket booths offer significant savings on same-day show tickets.
- No Service Fees: When purchasing directly from the box office or authorized resellers in Vegas, you often avoid the service fees associated with online purchases.
- Personal Interaction: Buying tickets in person allows you to ask questions and get recommendations from knowledgeable staff. This can be particularly helpful if you’re undecided about which show to see.
- Flexibility: If your plans are flexible, buying tickets in Vegas allows you to adapt your itinerary based on availability and new recommendations.
Disadvantages of Buying Tickets in Vegas
- Risk of Sold-Out Shows: Popular shows can sell out quickly, and waiting until you arrive in Vegas might mean missing out on your top choices.
- Limited Planning: For travelers who prefer to have everything planned in advance, buying tickets in Vegas can be less convenient.
- Time-Consuming: Visiting multiple ticket booths or box offices can be time-consuming, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.
Example: Mystère by Cirque du Soleil
- Vegas Price: Discounted prices at Tix4Tonight booths can be as low as $50/person, but availability is not guaranteed.
Example: Michael Jackson ONE
- Vegas Price: Discounts can range from 10% to 30% off the regular price, with potential savings of up to $30 per ticket.
Factors to Consider
Timing and Availability
- Peak Seasons: During peak travel seasons and weekends, popular shows are more likely to sell out, making advance online purchases a safer option.
- Weekdays and Off-Peak: If you’re visiting during a less busy time, you might have better luck finding last-minute deals in Vegas.
Show Popularity
- High-Demand Shows: For highly popular shows like Michael Jackson ONE, it’s often better to secure tickets in advance online.
- Less Popular Shows: For less popular or newer shows, you might find better deals in Vegas.
Budget and Preferences
- Budget-Conscious Travelers: If budget is a primary concern, checking both online options and discount booths in Vegas can help you find the best deals.
- Planners vs. Spontaneous Travelers: Your personal travel style will heavily influence whether you prefer to buy tickets in advance or wait until you arrive in Vegas.
Tips for Getting the Best Deals
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Many online ticket platforms offer newsletters with exclusive discounts and promotions. Signing up can give you access to these deals.
- Use Promo Codes: Search for promo codes before making an online purchase. Websites like RetailMeNot often have codes for popular ticket sellers.
- Check Multiple Sources: Compare prices on different websites and at various discount booths in Vegas to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
- Be Flexible with Dates and Times: If you can be flexible with your show dates and times, you’ll have a better chance of finding discounted tickets.
- Buy in Bulk: If you’re traveling with a group, buying multiple tickets at once can sometimes lead to additional savings.
- Consider Package Deals: Some websites and travel agencies offer package deals that include show tickets, hotel stays, and other attractions at a discounted rate.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to buy show tickets in Vegas or online depends on your personal preferences, travel style, and the specific shows you want to see. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will vary depending on your situation.
Summary
- Online Purchases: Great for advanced planning, price comparison, and accessing special discounts. Be mindful of service fees and the risk of scams.
- Purchases in Vegas: Ideal for last-minute deals, avoiding service fees, and personal interaction. Risk of sold-out shows and time-consuming searches.
Final Recommendation
For popular shows like Mystère by Cirque du Soleil and Michael Jackson ONE, it’s often safer to secure tickets in advance online to guarantee your spot.
However, if you’re flexible and enjoy the thrill of last-minute deals, checking out discount booths in Vegas can lead to significant savings.
By considering your travel plans and budget, you can choose the best method to enhance your Las Vegas experience without breaking the bank.
