You’re standing on the Strip. It’s 10:00 PM on a Tuesday in mid-December. You wore a thin t-shirt because, hey, it’s the desert, right?
Big mistake.
The wind whipping between the Caesars Palace columns feels like it sat in a freezer for three hours. Most travelers think of "Vegas temperature in December" as a dry, mild escape from the snowy East Coast. While it won't drop to sub-zero levels, the Mojave Desert has a way of humbling anyone who underestimates its bite.
Honestly, the weather here is a bit of a chameleon. One minute you're soaking up 60-degree sunshine at a sidewalk cafe, and the next, the sun ducks behind the mountains and the mercury nosedives into the 30s. It’s a dry cold, which is better for your hair but surprisingly harsh on your skin.
The Brutal Reality of the Numbers
Let's look at the actual data. According to long-term records from the National Weather Service, the average daytime high in Las Vegas during December sits around 57°F or 58°F. That sounds lovely. It feels like a crisp autumn day in the Midwest.
But here is the kicker: the average low is 38°F.
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That is a 20-degree swing. You'll often see mornings where the temperature starts at a shivering 34°F before creeping up to a peak around 2:00 PM. By the time the neon lights of the Flamingo flicker on, you’re back in the 40s.
Is it going to snow? Probably not. While locals still talk about the 2008 storm that dumped several inches on the palms, December 2026 is trending toward the usual pattern: bone-dry air and rare, scattered sprinkles. You’ll get maybe three days of actual "rain" the whole month.
Can You Actually Swim?
This is the question everyone asks. "Should I pack my swimsuit?"
Yes, but don't expect to be "lounging" in the traditional sense unless you've booked the right spot. Most resort pools, like those at the Flamingo or Caesars, shut down their main decks for the season. They use the time for maintenance.
However, Vegas wouldn't be Vegas without a workaround. Places like the Bellagio, Aria, and The Venetian keep at least one pool heated to a balmy 80°F year-round. If you really want a party vibe, Stadium Swim at Circa is the place to be. They keep their pools at a staggering 94°F to 104°F. It’s basically a massive hot tub with a 40-foot screen.
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Just remember the "exit strategy." The water is great, but the walk back to your towel in a 45-degree breeze is a special kind of torture. Bring a thick robe. Seriously.
What to Wear (Without Looking Like a Tourist)
If you pack only shorts, you will end up buying a $65 "I Love Vegas" hoodie at a CVS just to survive. Don't be that person.
The secret is layers. A typical December day in Vegas looks like this:
- Morning: A light puffer jacket or a heavy flannel.
- Midday: A long-sleeve tee or a light sweater. You might even get away with short sleeves if you're in the direct sun.
- Night: A wool coat or a leather jacket.
Denim is your best friend here. It blocks the wind better than leggings. Also, leave the flimsy sandals at home. The Strip requires miles of walking, and your feet will get cold. Boots or stylish sneakers are the move.
The "Dryness" Factor
People forget that Vegas is at an elevation of roughly 2,000 feet. The air in December has almost zero humidity—usually hovering around 30% to 40%.
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This makes the cold feel "sharper." It also means you’ll be dehydrated faster than you realize. Between the dry air and the salty casino snacks, you’ll want to double your water intake. And chapstick? It’s not optional. Your lips will start cracking by day two if you aren't careful.
Why December is Still the Best Time to Go
Despite the chill, the weather is actually perfect for the stuff you can't do in July.
You can hike Red Rock Canyon without worrying about heatstroke. In the summer, the trails are dangerous. In December, they are heaven. The rocks stay cool, the sky is a deep, impossible blue, and you can actually finish a 5-mile loop without needing a gallon of Gatorade.
The festive atmosphere also changes the "vibe" of the temperature. Walking through the Bellagio Conservatory to see the holiday display or ice skating at The Cosmopolitan’s rooftop rink (which they build over the Boulevard Pool) makes the cold feel intentional. It feels like winter, but without the slush and gray slushy mess of the North.
Actionable Takeaways for Your December Trip:
- Check the wind forecast: A 15-mph wind in 50-degree weather feels like 35 degrees. If it’s windy, stay indoors or stick to the tunnels/walkways between casinos.
- Book a hotel with a year-round pool: If you’re a swimmer, verify your hotel's pool status. Don't assume. Bellagio and Wynn are safe bets.
- Moisturize religiously: Pack heavy-duty lotion and lip balm. The desert air in winter is a vacuum for moisture.
- Layer for the "Transit Gap": Remember that casinos are aggressively climate-controlled. You’ll be sweating at the blackjack table and shivering at the valet stand. A zip-up hoodie or cardigan is easier to manage than a pull-over.
- Sunset is early: The sun usually drops behind the Spring Mountains around 4:30 PM. Plan your outdoor photos for the "Golden Hour" between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM before the light vanishes and the temperature drops.