I got a 25K to Vegas a while back with no problems at all on US. I'm looking at some other 25K awards for this summer and they're available, albeit a little restricted now. They were more open a few weeks ago.

An alternate is to go through LAX (which can't always be pulled off online) or to go to LAX and get a (currently) $58 r/t to LAS, on WN, UA/Ted, or someone else that's supporting that route.

(Edited to add: I obviously missed the prior post by Bobmann indicating that he had found FF seats. :o I'll learn to read one of these days.)

Several carriers (at least US and NW) are showing fares of $195 + taxes for NYC-LAS for that weekend, on Travelocity. That might be a better deal than spending 25k miles and flying to a different airport. Those fares may require a 14 day advance purchase.

Yes, it is frustrating to hold miles for a trip and then not be able to find availability.

You hit the nail on the head with check back everyday!

I am going to Vegas in July with my sister and hubby from UK. I started looking for award tickets on NW in January. Nothing at the 25K level. I did learn a lot however on the NW forum about the system. Apparently cannot fly on an award Fri, Sat or Sun for 25K. Unless you want either a really early departure ie 6:00 AM or a late return 1:00 AM then 25K seemed out of the question. (We are to old for that!)
However I tried almost everyday on NW and WPAA and finally opted for 2 tickets at 75K. I paid for me and the wife $275.00.

bobmann - I'm glad that it worked on! Now, with all of that money you saved by not having to buy a ticket, you will feel better when you 'donate' it to one of the casinos while playing one of their games of 'chance'.

Yeah, I'm definitely going to splurge a little more once I get there. I haven't decided whether that means more gambling, more shows, better dinners, or more booze. But I guess I'd better not go crazy, or I will easily spend more than I saved...

Heck vegas airfare is so cheap dont waste miles