Thomas & Mack Center parking is simple on a normal night and a real squeeze during the National Finals Rodeo. Here’s where to park, what the rules are, and when to skip the car, from a 24-year local.
Park in the lots around the arena, or take the free NFR Express in December.
The arena runs about 4,000 spaces in color-named lots, with prices set event by event. During the NFR, the free shuttle is the easier move.
Arena Lots
Lots surround the building, with accessible and VIP areas in each. Overflow opens when they fill.
Free NFR Express
Runs from official host hotels and the convention center to the arena. No shuttles during the performance.
Virgin Hotels
An easy ride to campus, with free parking at the hotel. It has hosted an official NFR viewing party.
Check Virgin HotelsReserve Ahead
For events elsewhere in town that week, book parking before you leave home.
Search SpotHeroThe Thomas & Mack Center sits on the UNLV campus at Tropicana Avenue and University Center Drive, east of the Strip. It’s home to UNLV basketball, the Mountain West tournament and NBA Summer League. And every December, it hosts the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, when ten straight nights of sold-out crowds turn a normally easy lot into a scramble.
How Thomas & Mack Center Parking Works
- About 4,000 spaces on 30 acres, in color-named lots around the building.
- Accessible and VIP parking are available in every lot.
- Prices are set event by event. The arena runs its own lots, so check your event details for the current rate.
- Overflow lots open when the main lots fill, first come, first served, with attendants directing traffic.
Know the rules: No tailgating or parties in the lots, and no overnight parking unless it’s related to an event and approved by the arena. Don’t count on UNLV’s regular visitor parking office for event parking either. It doesn’t handle Thomas & Mack event parking.
Getting there
Tropicana Avenue takes you right to the arena at the corner of Tropicana and University Center Drive, and University Center Drive runs straight into it. The address is 4505 S. Maryland Parkway. On a big night, give yourself extra time, since everyone is funneling onto the same few streets.
NFR Week: Parking During the National Finals Rodeo
The 2026 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo runs December 3 to 12, with every performance at 5:45 p.m. This is the busiest stretch of the year at the arena.
| Option | How It Works |
|---|---|
| NFR Express shuttle | Free, from the Las Vegas Convention Center and official NFR host hotels on the Strip and downtown. No service during the performance. |
| Driving and parking | Arena lots fill fast on NFR nights. Arrive early, and expect overflow parking if you’re late. |
| Rideshare | Follow event signs and your app for the pickup and drop-off area, which can change by event. |
Local tip: NFR organizers push the shuttle for a reason. Traffic and parking around the arena get congested every night of the rodeo. If your hotel is on the shuttle route, use it, and enjoy a drink without worrying about the drive.
Cowboy Christmas
The big NFR shopping expo, Cowboy Christmas, is at the Las Vegas Convention Center, which is also an NFR Express stop. Our convention center parking guide covers parking there.
Other Ways to Get to the Arena
RTC bus: Several RTC routes serve the UNLV area, including the new RED LINE along Maryland Parkway. Check the rideRTC app for the best route from where you’re staying.
Rideshare: An easy choice from the Strip. After a sold-out event, expect a wait and possible surge pricing, so consider walking a few minutes away from the arena before you request.
The Monorail doesn’t go to UNLV. See our Getting Around Las Vegas guide for every option.
Where to Stay for the NFR and Arena Events
Close to campus: Virgin Hotels is a short ride from the arena, has free parking, and has hosted an official NFR viewing party, a fun place to watch on nights you don’t have tickets. Check this year’s lineup before you book.
On the shuttle route: Many official NFR host hotels are on the Strip and downtown. Check the official NFR site for this year’s host hotel list, then book one so the free shuttle comes to you.
Something quieter: Henderson is calmer and cheaper, though you’ll drive or rideshare to the arena.
Book NFR Week Early
Hotels fill fast for the rodeo, especially the ones on the shuttle route.
Thomas & Mack Center Parking FAQ
Where do you park at the Thomas & Mack Center?
In the color-named lots surrounding the arena on the UNLV campus, with about 4,000 spaces. When those fill, overflow lots open on a first-come, first-served basis.
How much is parking at the Thomas & Mack Center?
It depends on the event. The Thomas & Mack Center runs its own lots and sets parking prices event by event, so check your event’s details before you go.
Can you tailgate at the Thomas & Mack Center?
No. Tailgating and similar parties aren’t permitted in the Thomas & Mack Center parking lots.
When is the National Finals Rodeo in 2026?
The 2026 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo runs December 3 to 12 at the Thomas & Mack Center, with performances at 5:45 p.m.
Is there a free shuttle to the NFR?
Yes. The free NFR Express runs from the Las Vegas Convention Center and official NFR host hotels on the Strip and downtown to the Thomas & Mack Center. There’s no shuttle service during the performance itself.
Can I park overnight at the Thomas & Mack Center?
No. Overnight parking isn’t permitted unless it’s related to an event and approved by center management.