STLV Trek to Vegas stands as the largest Star Trek Convention globally in most years. This expansive event spans 5 days in Las Vegas and is essential for any sci-fi enthusiast (and certainly Trekkie). The vastness of STLV, coupled with a trip to Las Vegas, entails numerous moving components that can make it challenging to grasp what one actually does at a Star Trek convention.
You can view the video above for your comprehensive guide to STLV and continue reading for the highlights.
What Is STLV?
STLV is one of the numerous fan conventions organized by Creation Entertainment. While not solely dedicated to Star Trek (STLV features guests and panels related to other fandoms), it predominantly focuses on 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 first step is creating a World of Hyatt rewards program account if you don’t possess one already. You can earn and redeem Hyatt points for reservations at the Rio, but you cannot claim points after your stay (in contrast to most airline mileage schemes). It’s advisable to reserve a room at the Rio—off the strip, making it less convenient to stay at other properties—by mid-May at the latest to ensure you secure accommodation that suits your needs.
– After arriving at the hotel, you can register for a Rio Rewards card. This will allow you to accrue points from any purchases at the hotel (excluding your room) and Rio will send you complimentary stay offers throughout the year. By utilizing a Rio Rewards promotion, you can often obtain at least one night of your booking for free, either before or after the convention.
STLV tickets can be acquired as general admission or under various tiers, each offering its unique benefits. For general admission, Saturday and Sunday tend to be the busiest days, so I suggest purchasing tickets at least a month ahead. Throughout the year, particularly around several United States Federal Holidays, Creation also runs ticket sales. You can subscribe through their website to stay informed about any deals.
– Personally, I prefer to arrive at Rio the Sunday preceding STLV, plan some side excursions like Area 51, and depart the Tuesday following the convention. (There’s an unofficial Star Trek pool party on Monday after STLV that aids in recovery after the extended weekend.)
What’s STLV Like?
STLV functions like a Star Trek buffet, allowing you to select how you wish to assemble your experience. There are panel discussions with actors, crew, and writers who answer audience questions, a bustling vendor room brimming with merchandise, science presentations, concerts, and much more, all often happening simultaneously. You’ll need to make choices among all the events and any scheduled photo ops or autograph signings.
– Photo ops are enjoyable, but if you aim to engage further with a Trek personality, obtaining an autograph is a better route. You’ll pay for the autograph, but many are willing to take a selfie with you for free. Plus, you gain a few extra moments to converse with the Trek actor, writer, or crew member.
Money Saving Tips
An additional day before STLV allows you to visit a nearby grocery store to purchase snacks and any desired alcohol. The Rio, like many Las Vegas resorts, imposes steep markups on food and beverages, so shopping at a nearby grocery store can save you a significant amount over STLV. I also recommend bringing or acquiring a filtered water bottle to drink from the room faucet. The convention areas provide free water, but carrying a bottle reduces waste.
No Cosplay Needed
While dressing up isn’t necessary, feel free to get as creative as you wish if you choose to. At STLV, you can embody a different character each day, just ensure to wear comfortable walking shoes. The steps down the long hallways at the Rio accumulate quickly, and make sure to venture down to the Masquerade Bar in the evenings, where most attendees at STLV stop to relax.
For any Star Trek devotee, STLV is a convention worthy of attending at least once. Creation also organizes other regional ST-Conventions in different U.S. cities that are worth considering, but for the most significant event showcasing the best series, there’s no place like STLV Trek to Vegas.