SHOT Show Vegas Guide: Travel Tips, Hotels, and Event Schedule

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The SHOT Show in Las Vegas is one of the largest and most influential trade events in the world for the shooting sports, outdoor, tactical, and law-enforcement industries. Whether you’re attending for the first time or you’re a seasoned exhibitor, having a complete, well-organized guide can make the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth, productive experience.

This comprehensive SHOT Show Vegas Guide gives you everything you need to plan your travel, book the best hotels, navigate the event, and make the most of your time in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Strip at night near convention centers

What Is SHOT Show?

SHOT Show, organized by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), is an annual trade-only event that brings together thousands of manufacturers, retailers, media professionals, and industry leaders. The show floor spans hundreds of thousands of square feet, featuring innovations in outdoor equipment, personal defense accessories, optics, apparel, training services, and more.

Held every January at the Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, SHOT Show draws over 50,000 attendees from around the globe.

Learn more about the official event here: https://shotshow.org


Planning Your Trip to SHOT Show

When to Arrive

Most attendees arrive one to two days before the show begins. This allows time to:

  • Pick up badges
  • Register for seminars and side events
  • Get familiar with the venue layout
  • Adjust to time zone changes

Best Airports for SHOT Show

The primary airport is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), located just minutes from the Strip and convention venues. Nearly every major airline flies into LAS, making it one of the easiest cities in the U.S. to access.

Popular airline resources:


Transportation in Las Vegas

Getting to the Convention Centers

SHOT Show spans multiple venues, primarily:

  • Venetian Expo
  • Caesars Forum

Transportation options include:

  • Uber and Lyft
  • Hotel shuttles
  • Taxi services
  • Rental cars

Pro tip: Ride-share pickup areas can get extremely busy during peak hours. Budget extra time in the mornings.


Best Hotels for SHOT Show Attendees

Staying close to the action can save hours of travel time and reduce stress during busy show days.

Top Convention-Adjacent Hotels

  • The Venetian Resort – Direct access to the Expo hall Book Here
  • The Palazzo – Luxury suites and convenient walkways Book Here
  • Caesars Palace – Close to Caesars Forum Book Here
  • Harrah’s Las Vegas – Budget-friendly and centrally located Book Here
The Venetian Resort Las Vegas exterior

SHOT Show Event Schedule Overview

While the official schedule varies each year, SHOT Show typically follows this format:

Typical Week Layout

  • Monday: Registration, industry meetings, special events
  • Tuesday – Friday: Full exhibit hall days
  • Evenings: Brand showcases, networking receptions, private events

For the most up-to-date schedule, always refer to the official calendar: SHOT Show Event Calendar


Must-Attend SHOT Show Events

Industry Networking Mixers

These evening events are where real relationships are built. Many major brands host invitation-only gatherings, while others offer open mixers for retailers and media professionals.

Education & Training Sessions

SHOT Show University and educational tracks cover:

  • Retail growth strategies
  • E-commerce best practices
  • Marketing and branding
  • Compliance and regulations

How to Navigate the Show Floor

Download the Official SHOT Show App

The official mobile app includes:

  • Interactive maps
  • Exhibitor lists
  • Session schedules
  • Personal agenda builder

Create a Daily Game Plan

Trying to “see everything” in one day is impossible. Instead:

  • Prioritize must-see booths
  • Schedule meetings in advance
  • Allow buffer time for walking

What to Wear to SHOT Show

Comfort and professionalism go hand in hand at SHOT Show.

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Business-casual attire
  • Layered clothing for cold mornings and warm afternoons
  • A lightweight backpack or messenger bag

Helpful gear options:


Food and Dining Near SHOT Show

Quick Bites

  • Grand Lux Cafe
  • Earl of Sandwich
  • Food courts inside Venetian and Caesars Forum

Client Dinner Spots

  • Delmonico Steakhouse
  • Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
  • STK Las Vegas

Making the Most of Your Evenings

Las Vegas offers endless entertainment after show hours:

  • Live music venues
  • Comedy shows
  • Networking lounges
  • Brand activations

Remember: pace yourself. Long show days plus late nights can add up quickly.


Tips for First-Time SHOT Show Attendees

  • Bring more business cards than you think you’ll need
  • Charge your phone nightly
  • Stay hydrated
  • Use a notes app to track contacts
  • Follow up within 48 hours after the show

Why This SHOT Show Vegas Guide Matters

Attending SHOT Show is an investment of time, money, and energy. This guide helps you:

  • Save hours in planning
  • Avoid common travel mistakes
  • Choose the right hotel
  • Navigate the event efficiently
  • Maximize networking opportunities

Whether you’re an exhibitor, retailer, media professional, or industry newcomer, this guide is designed to help you walk into SHOT Show prepared, confident, and ready to succeed.


Start Planning Your SHOT Show Trip Today

From booking flights and hotels to mapping out your show floor strategy, the SHOT Show Vegas Guide gives you everything you need in one place.

Use this resource to plan smarter, move faster, and get more value from every minute you spend in Las Vegas.

We’ll see you at SHOT Show!

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