Travel - The Deuce: A Journey Through Las Vegas - A Moving Landmark of the Strip

By Mulder, Las Vegas, The Strip, 30 march 0002 to 30 march 2025

Las Vegas is a city that never sleeps, where the lights dazzle, the dice roll, and the iconic Deuce bus line keeps the pulse of the Strip alive around the clock. Since its debut on October 27, 2005, The Deuce has become far more than just public transit—it’s a moving landmark, a staple for locals and tourists alike. Operated by RTC Transit, this bus line was originally designed to represent four essential characteristics: double-decker buses, a $2 fare, routes covering the two major gaming zones (the Strip and Downtown), and fleet numbers starting with '2'. While the fare has since changed and the bus now services other routes, the name 'The Deuce on the Strip' still resonates with its original charm, emphasizing the tourist-focused route.

When it first launched, The Deuce was a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively. Before its arrival, the bustling Las Vegas Strip corridor was serviced by route 301, accompanied by the express route 302, under the former Citizens Area Transit (CAT) system. These buses, although functional, lacked the distinctive charm and elevated views offered by The Deuce. The change to a double-decker format wasn’t just practical; it gave riders an elevated perspective of the city, allowing them to take in the Strip’s glittering skyline and neon grandeur from a whole new angle.

However, not everything went smoothly in the journey of The Deuce. In March 2010, the city introduced a new bus rapid transit line called the ACE Gold Line, aiming to connect the Strip to downtown and other key locations like Town Square. This service, despite being rebranded to the Strip and Downtown Express (SDX) due to a legal dispute, ultimately could not survive the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Deuce, however, remained resilient, adapting to changing conditions and continuing to provide a reliable transit option for the city’s heartbeat.

Riding The Deuce is an experience in itself. As you ascend the narrow staircase to the upper deck, you’re greeted with expansive windows offering panoramic views of the vibrant chaos below. Whether it’s 2 AM or 2 PM, the city’s rhythm remains unbroken, and you feel like a spectator to a never-ending show. Each ride tells a story: from tourists recounting casino wins (or losses) to locals heading home after a late-night shift, The Deuce encapsulates the human side of the Strip.

It’s no surprise that The Deuce has become synonymous with the Vegas experience. In 2023, the bus line reported an impressive 5.7 million rides. For many visitors, it’s more than just a means of transportation—it’s a quintessential part of their trip. The double-decker buses used today are manufactured by Alexander Dennis and boast the capacity to seat 27 passengers on the lower deck and 53 on the upper, making them not just practical but also an efficient way to move people through the ever-crowded streets of Las Vegas.

Over the years, The Deuce has also embraced innovation. In 2006, the RTC purchased 40 new double-deckers, followed by another 40 in 2008, introducing enhanced models affectionately known as 'Superdeuce.' These newer buses featured two staircases, offering easier access and a smoother passenger flow. Today, the iconic buses continue to symbolize the blend of tradition and progress that defines the Strip itself.

Despite past challenges, including potential route changes that threatened to limit its coverage, The Deuce remains steadfast, connecting visitors and locals alike to the heart of Las Vegas. It’s more than just a bus—it’s a microcosm of the city’s vibrant energy, a place where stories intertwine, and the essence of Vegas itself unfolds, one ride at a time.

You can check our photos in our Flickr page

Photos : Boris Colletier / Mulderville