What’s the weather like in Las Vegas in September?

Is September a good time to visit Las Vegas?

Yes, if you want warm evenings, active pools, and slightly softer pricing than October. No, if you want cool daytime sightseeing or long outdoor walks.

Is Las Vegas crowded in September?

Crowds are medium-high. Labor Day weekend and mid-September event dates are noticeably busier than regular midweek days.

Are pools still open in September?

Yes. September is still part of pool season in Las Vegas, and many travellers specifically come for that late-summer atmosphere.

Is September too hot for walking the Strip?

It can be. Early morning and nighttime are fine for most people, but midday walks can still feel punishing.

What should I pack for Las Vegas in September?

Pack light clothes, breathable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and one thin layer for indoor air-conditioning.

Are hotel prices cheaper in September than October?

Usually, yes on many dates. The exception is event weekends, when September can jump sharply and erase that advantage.

Should I book shows in advance for September?

Yes, especially for Friday and Saturday nights. Big indoor shows are popular because the weather still pushes people inside by afternoon.

Is September a good month for the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas?

Yes, but start early and expect a full day. Guided tours are easier than self-driving if you want to save energy.

What are the biggest September events in Las Vegas?

Labor Day weekend, Mexican Independence Day celebrations, iHeartRadio Music Festival, and Raiders games are the main September demand drivers.

Can I still do outdoor attractions in September?

Yes, just schedule them smartly. Sunset rides, night tours, and early departures work far better than midday plans.

Is September good for nightlife in Las Vegas?

Very. Clubs, rooftop bars, and late-night neighborhoods all benefit from warmer nights and slightly easier movement than peak summer afternoons.

Do I need a car in Las Vegas in September?

Not for a Strip-focused trip. Use walking, rideshare, the monorail, and the Deuce. A car only helps if you plan several self-drive day trips.

Are restaurants easier to book in September than in October?

Generally yes, but Strip restaurants still tighten up on weekends, before concerts, and around major sports dates.

Las Vegas in September: Weather, crowds and things to do

September brings relief from the desert heat—highs drop to 35°C (95°F) and nights are pleasant. The city comes alive with iHeartRadio Music Festival, Mexican Independence Day, and Life is Beautiful Festival downtown. Pool season winds down, and Restaurant Week offers dining deals. Crowds return, especially on weekends, and hotel rates climb for major events. Outdoor activities become comfortable again, but sun protection is still essential. It’s a lively, transitional month with something for everyone.

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Las Vegas in September at a glance

🌧️

Weather

Maximum temperature: 35°C

Minimum temperature: 20°C

☀️

Daylight

Around 12 hours 35 minutes of daylight

Sunrise: 6:10am

Sunset: 6:45pm

🎉

Key events

iHeartRadio Music Festival, Life is Beautiful Festival, Mexican Independence Day (16 de Septiembre), Labor Day Weekend

👥

Crowds

Balanced crowds, with manageable queues and a mix of tourists and local visitors in the city.

🧳

What to pack

Light layers, swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, dressy attire for festivals, comfortable shoes for walking.

🍽️

Seasonal treats

Elote, tacos al pastor, chilled ceviche, Restaurant Week tasting menus, frozen cocktails, craft beer.

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How September compares with August and October

Category	August	September	October
Weather	25–40°C (77–104°F)	20–35°C (68–95°F)	13–28°C (55–82°F)
Crowds	Low overall, outside weekends	Medium-high, with sharp weekend spikes	High and steady
Atmosphere	Heat-first, slower daytime pace	Pools plus events plus sports return	Most comfortable month for full-day sightseeing
Key events	Fewer major visitor events, summer sports	Labor Day, Mexican Independence Day, iHeartRadio, Raiders season	G2E, NASCAR, Halloween, NHL and NFL in full swing
Public holidays	None that strongly shift tourism	Labor Day weekend, Sep 5–7, 2026	No holiday weekend with the same tourism effect
Budget	Often the cheapest month for Strip hotels	Weekend surges, but midweek can still be good value	Higher room rates across more dates
Best for	Deal hunters and pool diehards	Travellers who want energy without peak-fall pricing	Outdoor explorers and first-timers who hate heat
Book early?	Only for headline weekends	Yes for Sep 5–7 and Sep 16–20	Yes, usually 4–8 weeks ahead
Transport tips	Limit outdoor transfers midday	Use monorail, rideshare, or Deuce after 11am	Walking becomes much easier

Plan ahead: Must-visit experiences for Las Vegas in September

Top things to do in Las Vegas in September

High Roller at sunset

Why this month: September keeps long evenings and clear skies, but the ride feels far more comfortable than in peak summer.
Best time: 6:30pm–8pm
Book by: 5–7 days ahead for weekend sunset slots
Crowds: Moderate to high, especially Fri–Sun
A 30-minute ride gives you the Strip’s lighting change without standing outside the whole time.
Don't miss: The Bellagio fountains and Sphere lighting after dusk
Insider tip: If you are doing just one observation experience, choose sunset here and save daytime for indoor stops.
Match: The High Roller at The LINQ Tickets

See the Strip from the air at night

Why this month: Warm evenings and clear desert visibility make September one of the better months for a short night flight.
Best time: After 8pm
Book by: 1–2 weeks ahead for prime weekend departures
Crowds: Moderate
The Strip’s neon works much better from above than it does in afternoon sun.
Don't miss: The Sphere, Bellagio, Luxor pyramid, and downtown lights in one sweep
Insider tip: Eat lightly beforehand and arrive 30 minutes early to avoid a rushed check-in.
Match: 12-min Las Vegas Strip Highlights Night Helicopter Tour

Watch O at the Bellagio

Why this month: September afternoons still run hot, so a polished indoor show fits the weather perfectly.
Best time: Evening performance
Book by: 2–3 weeks ahead for central seats on weekends
Crowds: High for prime weekend shows
Water, acrobatics, and a cooler theater beat another hour outside on the pavement.
Don't miss: A fountain-view stroll outside Bellagio before the show
Insider tip: Plan dinner nearby and watch one fountain cycle before going inside.
Match: Cirque du Soleil 'O': Las Vegas

Catch Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay

Why this month: September brings back bigger weekend energy, and this show suits groups who want a lively night without club logistics.
Best time: Evening
Book by: 1–2 weeks ahead
Crowds: Moderate to high
It is loud, fast, and easy to pair with a south-Strip dinner plan.
Don't miss: Mandalay Bay’s quieter morning side before the casino fills up
Insider tip: Use rideshare after the show unless you already plan to stay on the south Strip.
Match: Cirque du Soleil Michael Jackson ONE: Las Vegas

Ride the Big Bus after dark

Why this month: September is still too hot for many daytime walks, so open-top evening sightseeing works much better.
Best time: 6:45pm or 7pm departure
Book by: 2–4 days ahead
Crowds: Moderate
You cover major landmarks without turning the Strip into a step-count contest.
Don't miss: The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign lit after dark
Insider tip: Sit upstairs if you can handle the heat; the sightlines are much better.
Match: Big Bus: Las Vegas Night Bus Tour

Eat your way through Chinatown late at night

Why this month: September nights are warm enough for a food crawl, and the area is busy long after Strip kitchens slow down.
Best time: 9pm–1am
Book by: Walk-in friendly for most spots
Crowds: Moderate
Spring Mountain Road is where Vegas locals go for pho, ramen, dim sum, and Korean barbecue.
Don't miss: Pho Kim Long, Monta Ramen, or a Korean barbecue dinner that runs late
Insider tip: Save this for after a show, not before; portions here are rarely small.

Go face-first on Fly LINQ Zipline

Why this month: September keeps the adrenaline fun without the savage midday heat you get in July and August.
Best time: After 7pm
Book by: 3–5 days ahead for weekend evenings
Crowds: Moderate to high
You get movement, lights, and a clean excuse to stay outside after dark.
Don't miss: The landing area near the High Roller for follow-up night views
Insider tip: Closed shoes make the whole experience less annoying when you are walking the promenade after.
Match: Fly LINQ Zipline Tickets

Take one big desert day trip

Why this month: September is still hot, but shoulder-season touring starts to feel more realistic than it does in August.
Best time: Early-morning departure
Book by: 1–2 weeks ahead
Crowds: Moderate
A guided day trip works better than self-driving if you want to rest on the return.
Don't miss: Closed-toe shoes, water, and a realistic expectation of a very long day
Insider tip: Choose one major canyon trip, not two; Vegas days disappear fast.
Match: From Las Vegas: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour

Offbeat experiences in September

Neon Museum night tour

Location: 770 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101
When: Nightly in September, after sunset
Old casino signs look better here after dark than they do in museum-style daylight.
Tip: Book one of the later slots so downtown is cooler when you head back out.

Atomic Liquors patio stop

Location: 917 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
When: Thu–Sun evenings in September
If the Strip feels overproduced, this downtown bar gives you a more local rhythm.
Tip: Go before midnight, when Fremont is lively but still easy to navigate.

Late-night pho at Pho Kim Long

Location: 4029 Spring Mountain Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102
When: Nightly in September
This is the move after a show, after drinks, or after deciding Strip food lines are not worth it.
Tip: Order fast and keep it simple; the room turns tables quickly.

First Friday in the Arts District

Location: Arts District around Main St and Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104
When: Friday, Sep 4, 2026
You get local artists, food vendors, live music, and a crowd that is far less resort-focused.
Tip: Arrive around sunset, not late evening, when parking and rideshare drop-offs get slower.

The Laundry Room speakeasy

Location: 525 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
When: Select evenings in September
A tiny bar hidden behind Commonwealth, built for people who want measured cocktails over bottle-service theater.
Tip: Reserve before your trip; this is not the place to improvise last-minute.

Fremont Street after midnight

Location: Fremont Street Experience, Las Vegas, NV 89101
When: Nightly in September
Later at night, the canopy, buskers, and casino spill-out crowd make downtown feel more unpredictable than the Strip.
Tip: Stay within the main lit pedestrian zone and use a rideshare back, not a long walk.

Festivals and events in Las Vegas this September 2026

iHeartRadio Music Festival

Dates:September 18, 2026 to September 19, 2026
Event type:Festival
Location:T-Mobile Arena

Two-night pop and hip-hop heavy festival at T-Mobile Arena. Big headliners. Book rooms early, rates jump fast.

Life is Beautiful Festival

Dates:September 1, 2026
Event type:Festival
Location:Fremont Este

Downtown multi-day music, art, and food festival in Fremont East. Street closures happen. Stay Downtown to simplify.

Las Vegas Restaurant Week

Dates:September 1, 2026
Event type:Festival
Location:Las Vegas

Citywide prix-fixe dining with participating restaurants on and off the Strip. Great for Chinatown nights. Book ahead.

Mexican Independence Day (16 de Septiembre)

Dates:September 16, 2026
Event type:Cultural event
Location:La Esfera

Citywide celebrations tied to Las Vegas’s Latino community, with concerts and special events at major Strip venues, including the Sphere. Expect higher demand that week.

Labor Day Weekend

Dates:September 5, 2026 to September 7, 2026
Event type:Local events
Location:Las Vegas

Holiday weekend that brings elevated nightclub and dayclub programming and higher Strip rates. Book pool access early if it matters to you.

Las Vegas Raiders NFL Regular Season

Dates:September 1, 2026
Event type:Sports
Location:Estadio Allegiant

NFL regular-season home games at Allegiant Stadium bring 65,000 fans and heavy South Strip traffic. Buy tickets early, and plan exit transport.

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Planning your September visit

Lead time	What to book	Why & when	Seasonal price change
2–4 months ahead	Center-Strip hotel for Labor Day or Sep 16–20 weekends	Sep 5–7 and Sep 16–20 are the clearest rate jump windows	Labor Day and iHeart weekend: +25–60% vs mid-September weekdays
4–6 weeks ahead	Cirque du Soleil 'O'	Evening indoor plans fill first because afternoons still push people off the street	Sat seats and premium sections: +10–25% vs Sun–Thu
3–4 weeks ahead	12-min Las Vegas Strip Highlights Night Helicopter Tour	Night slots are the first to tighten once sunset becomes more comfortable	Fri–Sun night departures: +10–20% vs earlier slots
2–3 weeks ahead	Eiffel Tower Las Vegas Viewing Deck Tickets	Sunset and post-dinner slots go before midday entries	Sunset windows: +10–15% vs midday
1–2 weeks ahead	Hoover Dam VIP Inside Exploration Tour	Shorter desert excursions get more appealing as summer eases	Weekend departures: +5–15% vs midweek
1–2 weeks ahead	From Las Vegas: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour	Long day trips need earlier planning because transport capacity is fixed	Popular weekend dates: +10–20% vs quieter weekdays
7–10 days ahead	Celebrity-chef dinners, Bacchanal Buffet, and Chinatown Korean barbecue	Fri–Sat 7pm–9pm dining slots disappear first	Prime Strip dining times: +10–20% vs late-night or weekday
2–5 days ahead	Big Bus: Las Vegas Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour	Flexible sightseeing filler around heat and show timings	Usually stable; midweek promos appear more often

September highlights: Must-do experiences for different travellers

Families with kids

Must-experience: Tournament of Kings for dinner-and-show energy that keeps younger travellers engaged.
Better in September: Warm evenings make the walk in and out easier than mid-summer.

Couples

Must-experience: A sunset High Roller ride, then dinner with Bellagio fountain views. Book the view first, dinner second.
Better in September: You still get warm-night Vegas without peak-fall room prices.

Art and culture lovers

Must-experience: O at the Bellagio, then a late walk through Bellagio Conservatory.
Better in September: Indoor evenings feel especially smart after hot afternoons.

Solo travelers

Must-experience: Big Bus by day, Chinatown by night, and one headline show in between.
Better in September: The city feels active again, but it is still easy to improvise midweek.

Shopping enthusiasts

Must-experience: Labor Day sales, outlet stops, and one luxury browse on the Strip.
Better in September: Early-month markdowns can be stronger than October’s steadier pricing.

Friends groups

Must-experience: A night helicopter ride or High Roller, then Fremont or a big show.
Better in September: Pool-party energy is still around, but evenings are less punishing.

Foodies

Must-experience: One steakhouse night and one late-night Chinatown crawl.
Better in September: You can still do cold drinks and patio starts without October’s heavier restaurant demand.

Adventure seekers

Must-experience: Fly LINQ Zipline or a canyon day trip.
Better in September: Outdoor thrills work best early or late, which fits Vegas schedules well.

Las Vegas in September: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

Morning: Bellagio Conservatory right after breakfast, before the lobby crowds build. September mornings are your best walking window on the central Strip.
Breakfast: Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas. Order the steak and eggs or a simple pastry-and-coffee start if you want a lighter first day.
Midday: Forum Shops and Caesars Palace interiors. Stay inside during peak heat, and keep any outdoor crossings short.
Lunch: Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace if you want one big Vegas meal early in the trip. Reserve ahead for the shortest wait.
Afternoon: Hotel pool break. September is still proper pool weather, and this is the smartest use of the hottest hours.
Evening: Eiffel Tower Las Vegas Viewing Deck Tickets around sunset. You get a clean line of sight to the Bellagio fountains as the lights switch on.
Dinner: Walk back toward Bellagio or Paris for dinner, then continue to The High Roller at The LINQ Tickets after dark.
Night: If you want a polished first Vegas show, finish with Cirque du Soleil 'O': Las Vegas. Use rideshare after the show if you are done walking.

Morning: Take a rideshare or the Deuce to The Mob Museum downtown before noon. Indoor museums are far more pleasant than daytime Strip wandering in September.
Breakfast: Grab a quick start downtown, then save your real appetite for lunch. This keeps the morning moving.
Midday: Walk under the Fremont Street Experience canopy, then duck into nearby casinos or bars when the sun sits highest.
Lunch: Saginaw’s Delicatessen inside Circa is a good downtown stop if you want something filling without turning lunch into a formal production.
Afternoon: Move south to the Arts District for breweries, shops, and galleries. If your trip lines up with First Friday, make this your anchor neighborhood.
Dinner: Head west to Lotus of Siam or into the Spring Mountain corridor for your Chinatown night. September works well for a later dinner because the area comes alive after dark.
Evening: Choose Cirque du Soleil Michael Jackson ONE: Las Vegas if your group wants a big-energy show, or keep it local with cocktails in Chinatown.
Late night: End with pho, ramen, or Korean barbecue instead of another Strip queue.

Morning: Book From Las Vegas: Hoover Dam VIP Inside Exploration Tour. The shorter travel time makes it a better fit than a full canyon day when you only have three days.
Breakfast: Keep it light before departure. Coffee, fruit, and something small beat a huge hotel breakfast before coach travel.
Midday: On tour, you will get the cooler morning transfer and spend the brightest hours in a structured half-day outing instead of improvising in the heat.
Lunch: Eat after your return or keep snacks ready. Sealed food and drinks are allowed on the coach, but not inside Hoover Dam buildings.
Afternoon: Back on the Strip, rest or pool. September trips go better when you leave buffer time between day touring and nightlife.
Evening: Pick one last big-view moment: 12-min Las Vegas Strip Highlights Night Helicopter Tour if you want a fast finale, or Big Bus: Las Vegas Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour if you prefer something easier.
Dinner: Finish with a classic steakhouse dinner or go casual with Secret Pizza if you want to spend on the view, not the meal.
Night: Make your last stop count. Vegas is a city that rewards one great final night more than three overpacked ones.

Best day trips from Las Vegas in September

Hoover Dam

Travel time: About 45 minutes each way
September is still hot, but this is a realistic half-day escape with less logistics than a full canyon run. Guided tours help you avoid parking and timing hassle.

Grand Canyon West

Travel time: About 2 hours each way by road
Good for travellers who want a canyon day without committing to South Rim travel time. Start early, and expect exposed heat at viewpoints.

Red Rock Canyon

Travel time: About 30 minutes each way
Best done at sunrise or late afternoon in September. Midday hiking is still rough, but the scenic loop works well if you keep stops short.

Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

Travel time: Full-day trip from Las Vegas
Long, but rewarding if you want one headline Southwest landscape day. Better with a guided tour than a same-day self-drive.

What to eat in Las Vegas in September: Seasonal delicacies

1/5

Prime Rib / Dry-Aged Steak [Steakhouse beef]

September convention season returns, so steakhouses fill with prime rib and dry-aged cuts. Reserve dinner times; dress up slightly.

Where to get: Las Vegas

Mexican Seafood (Mariscos) [Ceviche and aguachile]

September brings Mexican Independence events, and mariscos fit the season. Order aguachile; pair with micheladas; go off-Strip.

Where to get: Las Vegas

Elote [Mexican street corn]

September is still elote season, grilled corn with chile, cotija, and lime. Eat during street celebrations; bring wipes.

Where to get: Las Vegas

Brunch (Strip-Style) [Big weekend brunch]

September crowds pick back up, so reserve Strip brunch with bottomless mimosas. Sit on patios early; midday heats up.

Where to get: Strip de Las Vegas

Joël Robuchon / é by José Andrés [Tasting menu fine dining]

September’s cooler nights suit long tasting menus in intimate rooms. Reserve 4–6 weeks ahead; plan a slow evening.

Where to get: Strip de Las Vegas

Go shopping in Las Vegas in September

When: Sep 5–7, 2026
Where: 3500 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Early-September is one of the better windows for end-of-summer resort wear, shoes, and beauty promotions. Go before lunch; the painted-sky mall looks the same all day, but the crowd does not.

When: Sep 5–7, 2026
Where: 875 S Grand Central Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89106
This is your budget-friendly shopping play for sneakers, denim, luggage, and basics. Start at opening and work the outer edge first before the central walkways clog.

When: Friday, Sep 4, 2026
Where: Arts District around Main St and Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104
This is the local-art pick: prints, ceramics, vinyl, and small design goods. Shop before the live music crowd thickens, and carry cash as backup.

When: September home-game weekends
Where: The Raider Image stores and Allegiant Stadium area, Las Vegas, NV 89118
If your trip matches a game weekend, this is the cleanest Vegas souvenir lane for jerseys, caps, and tailgate gear. Buy before game-day rush, not after kickoff.

Pro tips for visiting Las Vegas in September

• Book hotels and event tickets 2–3 months ahead for iHeartRadio and Life is Beautiful—demand is high.
• Go early to Mexican Independence Day concerts and celebrations—venues fill quickly.
• Reserve Restaurant Week tables for prix-fixe menus at top restaurants.
• Choose rooftop bars for sunset views—temperatures are finally comfortable.
• Head to downtown for Life is Beautiful’s art and music installations.
• Avoid last-minute bookings during major festivals—prices and crowds surge.
• Plan for warm days and cool evenings—pack a light jacket for nights.
• Look for end-of-season pool parties for a final summer splash.

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Frequently asked questions about visiting Las Vegas in September

Las Vegas in September is still hot. Average temperatures sit around 20–35°C (68–95°F), with the toughest heat usually from late morning through late afternoon.

Las Vegas in September: Weather, crowds and things to do

Las Vegas in September at a glance

How September compares with August and October

Plan ahead: Must-visit experiences for Las Vegas in September

The High Roller at The LINQ Tickets

Top things to do in Las Vegas in September

High Roller at sunset

See the Strip from the air at night

Watch *O* at the Bellagio

Catch *Michael Jackson ONE* at Mandalay Bay

Ride the Big Bus after dark

Eat your way through Chinatown late at night

Go face-first on Fly LINQ Zipline

Take one big desert day trip

Offbeat experiences in September

Neon Museum night tour

Atomic Liquors patio stop

Late-night pho at Pho Kim Long

First Friday in the Arts District

The Laundry Room speakeasy

Fremont Street after midnight

Festivals and events in Las Vegas this September 2026

iHeartRadio Music Festival

Life is Beautiful Festival

Las Vegas Restaurant Week

Mexican Independence Day (16 de Septiembre)

Labor Day Weekend

Las Vegas Raiders NFL Regular Season

Planning your September visit

September highlights: Must-do experiences for different travellers

Families with kids

Couples

Art and culture lovers

Solo travelers

Shopping enthusiasts

Friends groups

Foodies

Adventure seekers

Las Vegas in September: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

Best day trips from Las Vegas in September

Hoover Dam

Grand Canyon West

Red Rock Canyon

Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

What to eat in Las Vegas in September: Seasonal delicacies

Prime Rib / Dry-Aged Steak [Steakhouse beef]

Mexican Seafood (Mariscos) [Ceviche and aguachile]

Elote [Mexican street corn]

Brunch (Strip-Style) [Big weekend brunch]

Joël Robuchon / é by José Andrés [Tasting menu fine dining]

Go shopping in Las Vegas in September

Pro tips for visiting Las Vegas in September

Frequently asked questions about visiting Las Vegas in September

What’s the weather like in Las Vegas in September?

Is September a good time to visit Las Vegas?

Is Las Vegas crowded in September?

Are pools still open in September?

Is September too hot for walking the Strip?

What should I pack for Las Vegas in September?

Are hotel prices cheaper in September than October?

Should I book shows in advance for September?

Is September a good month for the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas?

What are the biggest September events in Las Vegas?

Can I still do outdoor attractions in September?

Is September good for nightlife in Las Vegas?

Do I need a car in Las Vegas in September?

Are restaurants easier to book in September than in October?

Eat your way through Chinatown late at night

Neon Museum night tour

Atomic Liquors patio stop

Late-night pho at Pho Kim Long

First Friday in the Arts District

The Laundry Room speakeasy

Fremont Street after midnight

Families with kids

Couples

Art and culture lovers

Solo travelers

Shopping enthusiasts

Friends groups

Watch O at the Bellagio

Catch Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay

Watch O at the Bellagio

Catch Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay