I guess I should have researched the best itme to visit Vegas before I actually made permanent plans but I didn't. My fiance and I along with my brother and GF are going to Vegas from 7/12 - 7/16. I have a rental car for 7/13 as it's our plan to hit up Hoover Dam in the morning, do a little kayaking at Lake Mead, and then we'd have the car to see downtown in the evening (Fremont Light Show) as well as hit up the Strat for the rides. I know traffic's not the best in Vegas (on the Strip) but would it be worth it to have a car the whole time versus walking because of the horrid temperatures or should we stick to our current plan? Short of the few things off the strip that I mentioned we're going to be on the strip the rest of the time but would like to see the other casinos up and down the Strip. Any input would be apprecaited. Thanks.

Probably only Friday and Saturday evening, will be heavy traffic wise on the strip. The other evenings and daytime will be okay. I would rent a car for the full time for more flexibility, if the cost of the rental car isn't an issue.

I'd give up the car once you get back to strip and plan on taking cabs around. Driving is very inconvenient, and you'll melt in the heat walking. And it's a lot further between hotels than you realize. A LOT further.

Even when we've driven to Vegas we will opt for a taxi instead of take the car out. Driving on the strip can be really frustrating. The taxi drivers know all the short cuts. You're not only dealing with lots of cars but crazy pedestrians too : )
Have a great time. One thing, I find that even though it's 100 outside the casinos keep the temps pretty cool so I end up bringing a sweater and take it on and off...

I had heard that traffic on the Strip would be crazy and that's why I was asking if it'd be better to rent a car or use public transportation. For the most part I really don't want to have to take Taxis as that can get really expensive, too. How's the monorail system?

We've never had a problem with driving a rental car in Vegas. Valet parking at hotels is free--just tip. As other people have mentioned, Friday and Saturday nights are miserable, driving wise, but other than that, you should be fine. We've also done the taxi thing, which is fairly inexpensive. I would say in the 15 times or so I've been to Vegas, I've probably rented a car 4-5 times at the most.

We've been in Vegas the past two years in July and definitely have a few tips to pass along. Do your 'strip walking' in the early morning and after dark. During the heat of the day, either immerse yourself in a swimming pool, take a nap or hit a casino or shopping mall--do not wander around outside! Your plan for Hoover Dam in the morning sounds great as well as hitting Fremont Street at night. Have fun!