STLV Trek to Vegas ranks as the largest Star Trek Convention globally in most years. Spanning 5 days in Las Vegas, it is an essential destination for every sci-fi enthusiast (and certainly Trekkie). The breadth of STLV, along with a journey to Las Vegas, entails numerous elements that may complicate understanding what activities occur at a Star Trek convention.
You can view the video above for your all-inclusive guide to STLV and continue reading for the key points.
What Is STLV?
STLV is among the numerous fan conventions organized by Creation Entertainment. It isn’t exclusively a Star Trek convention (STLV features guests and panels about other fandoms) but primarily revolves around the series created by Gene Roddenberry. STLV occurs annually in early August, running from Wednesday to Sunday at the Rio Hotel and Casino, which has recently come under Hyatt’s ownership.
Planning Your STLV
The initial step is to enroll in a World of Hyatt rewards program account if you haven’t done so already. You can accumulate and redeem Hyatt points for reservations at the Rio, but unlike most airline mileage programs, you cannot claim points post-stay. Booking a room at the Rio – which is off the strip and makes staying at other venues significantly less convenient – should ideally be done by mid-May to ensure you find accommodation that suits your requirements.
– Upon arriving at the hotel, you may sign up for a Rio Rewards card. This will allow you to accumulate points for any purchases at the hotel (excluding your room) and Rio will also send you complimentary stay offers throughout the year. Utilizing a Rio Rewards promotion can often provide you with at least one free day of your booking before or after the convention.
STLV tickets are available for purchase as general admission or across various tiers, each possessing its own benefits. For general admission, Saturday and Sunday are the busiest days, so purchasing tickets at least a month prior is advisable. Throughout the year around several U.S. Federal Holidays, Creation also conducts ticket sales. You can subscribe through their website to receive notifications of any deals.
– Personally, I prefer to arrive at Rio the Sunday before STLV, plan some side excursions like Area 51, and depart the Tuesday following the convention. (There’s an unofficial Star Trek pool gathering on the Monday post-STLV which aids in recovering after the extended weekend.)
What’s STLV Like?
STLV resembles a Star Trek feast, allowing you to pick and select how you wish to fill your plate. There are panel discussions featuring actors, crew, and writers who will answer questions from the audience, a bustling vendor’s hall brimming with merchandise, science presentations, concerts, and more – all often occurring simultaneously. You’ll need to navigate between all the events along with any scheduled photo opportunities or autograph signings.
– Photo opportunities are enjoyable, but if you aspire for a bit more interaction with a specific Trek personality, obtaining an autograph is the preferable option. You’ll pay for the autograph, though many will happily take a selfie with you for free. Plus, this gives you a few additional moments to converse with the Trek actor, writer, or crew member.
Money-Saving Tips
Having an extra day before STLV allows you time to stop by a nearby grocery store for snacks and any desired alcohol. The Rio, similar to most Las Vegas resorts, imposes steep markups on food and drinks, so shopping at a nearby grocery can save you substantial amounts during STLV. I also suggest bringing or purchasing a filtered water bottle so you can fill it from the room tap. The convention areas have complimentary water available, but having a bottle will help reduce waste.
No Cosplay Necessary
While dressing up isn’t mandatory, if you choose to, your creativity can know no bounds. At STLV, you can embody a different character each day, but ensure you wear comfortable walking shoes. The steps down the extensive Rio hallways accumulate quickly, and be sure to visit the Masquerade Bar in the evenings where most attendees at STLV pass through at some point to relax.
For any Star Trek aficionado, attending STLV is a convention experience to undertake at least once. Creation also organizes other regional ST-Conventions in various U.S. cities that are worth contemplating, but for the largest showcase of the finest show, there’s no venue quite like STLV Trek to Vegas.