Introduction to Las Vegas
Las Vegas is one of the most iconic cities in the world, famous for its extravagant hotels and casinos, nonstop entertainment, fine dining, and vibrant nightlife. Located in the Mojave Desert of Nevada, Las Vegas has become a premier travel destination that attracts over 40 million visitors per year.
Las Vegas emerged in the early 20th century after the construction of the Hoover Dam brought thousands of workers to the area. The legalization of gambling in Nevada in 1931 paved the way for the city’s rapid growth. Las Vegas became known for its elaborately themed hotel casinos like Caesars Palace, the Mirage, and the Venetian. In recent decades, Las Vegas has evolved into a world-class destination, offering far more than just gambling.
Though casino gaming is still a major draw, visitors also flock to Las Vegas for its spectacular shows, luxury shopping, pools, clubs, restaurants, and more. The city never sleeps, with its neon-lit marquees, vibrant energy and endless entertainment options. Nicknamed the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” Las Vegas continues to reinvent itself with increasingly lavish hotel attractions and attractions. Whether you’re looking to try your luck at the slot machines, see a dazzling show, dance the night away at a hot nightclub, or simply relax by the pool, Las Vegas promises an unforgettable getaway unlike anywhere else.
Getting to Las Vegas
Las Vegas is easily accessible by air and ground transportation, making it a convenient destination for travelers.
McCarran International Airport (LAS) is the main airport serving Las Vegas. It’s located just a few miles south of the Las Vegas Strip. The airport has two terminals – Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 handles domestic flights while Terminal 3 handles international arrivals. Major airlines operating out of McCarran include Southwest, American, Delta, United, JetBlue, Frontier, and Spirit. Flights arrive here from destinations across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The airport offers services like free WiFi, currency exchange, ATMs, and rental cars.
Once you land at McCarran, there are several transportation options to get to your hotel on the Strip or downtown. You can take a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Many hotels also offer shuttle services. There’s also a bus system called the Westcliff Airport Express that provides transportation to the Strip. Rideshares and taxis are your best bet for a direct trip, while shuttles and buses make stops at various hotels.
If driving to Las Vegas, there are several major highways that connect to the city:
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Interstate 15 is the main highway running north-south through Las Vegas. It connects Los Angeles and Southern California to Las Vegas. The drive takes around 4-5 hours.
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Highway 95 also runs north from Reno and connects to Las Vegas after about 7.5 hours.
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Interstate 40 approaches Las Vegas from the east if you’re driving from Arizona. The drive from Phoenix takes around 4.5 hours.
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Highway 93 runs south from Idaho and reaches Las Vegas after about 9 hours of driving.
Keep in mind that as a major tourist destination, Las Vegas traffic can get congested on weekends and around holidays. Give yourself extra travel time if visiting during peak seasons. Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze provide real-time traffic information to optimize your route.
Overall, Las Vegas is very easy to reach by plane or car. The airport offers smooth arrivals and transportation into the city. Several highways also lead directly into Las Vegas from nearby major cities. Getting to Vegas is a breeze!
Best Times to Visit Las Vegas
Las Vegas enjoys warm weather year-round, but some times are better than others for a visit depending on your preferences.
Seasons
Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons to visit Las Vegas. During spring (March to May), temperatures are pleasant, averaging in the 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. The climate is dry and sunny, ideal for exploring the Strip, pool parties, and outdoor activities. Crowds are manageable.
Fall (September to November) offers similarly mild weather, with highs in the upper 70s to mid-80s. With kids back in school, fall provides a nice respite from the summer crowds. Hotel rates also tend to be more affordable.
Monthly Weather Averages
The summer months of June through August are the hottest, with daily high temperatures hovering around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The extreme desert heat makes walking the Strip challenging. However, pools are open and hotel rates are low.
Winters are mild in Las Vegas, with average highs in the 60s in December and January. However, the colder nights can dip below freezing. There’s rarely any rain or snow.
Big Events and Conventions to Avoid
Las Vegas hosts major conventions and events year-round that draw huge crowds and spike hotel rates. Notable ones to avoid include CES in early January, magic conventions in February and July, World Series of Poker from May to July, and major electronics and auto shows in January. Check event calendars and book early if traveling during major conventions.
The ideal time to visit Las Vegas is in the spring or fall shoulder seasons when the weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, and room rates are affordable. Avoid summer heat and big conventions unless you don’t mind hustle, bustle, and sizzling temperatures.
Where to Stay
Las Vegas offers accommodations for every budget and taste. The main areas to stay are on the famous Strip, downtown Fremont Street, and just off the Strip near major attractions.
The Strip is where you’ll find the mega casino resorts like Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and The Venetian. These opulent hotels feature casino gaming, live entertainment, world-class restaurants, pools, spas, shopping, and more all in one location. While pricier, staying on the Strip puts you close to the action. Recommended hotels include The Cosmopolitan for luxury, MGM Grand for entertainment, and New York New York for theme.
Downtown along Fremont Street you’ll find more budget-friendly hotels like Golden Nugget, the Plaza, and Golden Gate. Though smaller, these hotels capture vintage Vegas charm and provide easy access to downtown’s pedestrian mall of casinos and bars under the lively video canopy.
Just off the Strip near attractions like the Convention Center and Las Vegas Monorail are hotels like the Westgate Las Vegas and Lucky Dragon. These provide all the amenities without the high prices and crowds of the Strip.
With thousands of rooms, Las Vegas has accommodations suitable for all visitors. Do your research to find the right location, ambiance, and amenities to meet your needs and budget.
What to Do
Las Vegas is known for its wide array of entertainment, attractions, and activities. There’s something for everyone, from world-class shows and nightclubs to relaxing pool parties, exciting casinos, helicopter tours over the Strip, and luxury shopping.
See a Show
Las Vegas is home to some of the most spectacular shows and productions in the world. From Cirque du Soleil’s whimsical acrobatic shows to residencies by A-list musicians like Lady Gaga, there’s always a variety of incredible live performances happening on any given night. Can’t-miss shows include Le Reve at Wynn, the Blue Man Group at Luxor, Penn & Teller at the Rio, and Absinthe at Caesars Palace.
Party at Clubs and Pools
Las Vegas has some of the hottest nightclubs and pool parties around. Marquee at the Cosmopolitan, Hakkasan at the MGM Grand, and XS at Encore offer thumping EDM beats and celebrity DJs, while pool parties at venues like Encore Beach Club, Wet Republic, and Liquid provide daytime debauchery. These are the places to see and be seen in Vegas’ party scene.
Try Your Luck at the Casinos
No trip to Vegas would be complete without spending some time on the casino floor. Games like blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, and poker tables run 24/7. Slot machines come in every variety from penny to high limit. Top casino hotels on the Strip include Bellagio, Caesars Palace, Wynn, Venetian, MGM Grand, and more. Some tips are to set a budget, watch for free drinks, and take occasional breaks.
Experience the Thrill of Helicopter Tours
For a unique perspective on Las Vegas’ glitzy landscape, book a helicopter tour. Fly at night to see the dazzling lights, or during the day for views of towering casinos and sprawling desert scenery. Landing pad tours allow you to touchdown on the roof of hotels like the MGM Grand. Operators like Maverick, Sundance, and Papillon offer a variety of flight options.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
In addition to its casinos and shows, Vegas offers impressive shopping with stores ranging from big name luxury brands to boutiques and souvenir shops. Shop the high-end shops at Bellagio and Caesars Forum, get designer deals at Las Vegas North Premium Outlets, or buy Vegas souvenirs at Miracle Mile Shops. Don’t miss out on tax-free shopping as well.
Food and Drink
Las Vegas is a foodie paradise, with an incredible array of restaurants, buffets, and bars to satisfy any craving. Here are some of the top food and drink experiences to enjoy in Sin City:
Signature Dishes
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Steak – Las Vegas is home to some of the best steakhouses in the world, including Delmonico Steakhouse, SW Steakhouse at Wynn, and Jean-Georges Steakhouse at Aria. Try the bone-in ribeye or porterhouse for two.
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Seafood – For fresh seafood, Nobu at Caesars Palace crafts unique Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes. At Joel Robuchon in the MGM Grand, the poached turbot with truffle sauce is divine.
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Italian – From pizza to pasta, Las Vegas has fantastic Italian restaurants. Ciro’s Pizza on The Strip bakes incredible New York-style pies, while Buddy V’s Ristorante at The Venetian serves handmade pastas and sauces.
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Mexican – Find authentic Mexican flavors at Border Grill in Mandalay Bay and El Dorado Cantina at Tivoli Village. The tableside guacamole and margaritas are excellent.
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Burgers – Vegas takes burgers seriously. Gordon Ramsay BurGR at Planet Hollywood uses quality ingredients with inventive toppings. Shake Shack at New York-New York serves juicy burgers and hand-cut fries.
Top Restaurants
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Joël Robuchon – This Michelin 3-star restaurant offers a 16-course tasting menu that is a once-in-a-lifetime splurge. Everything is impeccably prepared and presented.
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Twist by Pierre Gagnaire – With stunning views of the Strip, this 2 Michelin-starred restaurant serves modern French cuisine and imaginative tasting menus. It’s pricey but worth it.
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é by José Andrés – Experience a chef’s tasting menu with Spanish influences at this intimate 8-seat restaurant-within-a-restaurant in the Cosmopolitan. Reservations are very limited.
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Picasso – Sit surrounded by original Picasso paintings at this 2 Michelin-starred restaurant at the Bellagio. The 5-course prix fixe menu is a work of art.
Best Buffets
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Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace – This buffet boasts over 500 items and live cooking stations with everything from crab legs to custom omelets. It sets the standard for Vegas buffets.
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Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan – Offering small plates, this is a great buffet for foodies. There are creative dishes like bone marrow flan and chilled seafood.
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Buffet at Wynn – Elegant restaurant with 15 live cooking stations and decadent desserts like triple chocolate cake and gelato. Excellent quality and selection.
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Cravings at The Mirage – Get your fill of street tacos, wood-fired pizza, sushi, and more at this huge buffet with 11 show kitchens and a wide variety of global cuisine.
Bars/Lounges
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Skyfall Lounge at Delano – This stylish rooftop lounge has amazing panoramic views and craft cocktails like the Paloma Diablo with grapefruit and jalapeño.
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Chandelier Bar at the Cosmopolitan – Three stories high with 2.5 million beads, this lavish bar serves specialty cocktails and is known for its mixology program.
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Parasol Down at Wynn – Relax lakeside at this chic lounge with handcrafted cocktails and small plates like Wagyu sliders and tuna tartare.
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Ghost Donkey – This speakeasy-style bar offers an extensive list of Mezcal and Tequila cocktails in a dim, moody setting. Look for the grey donkey to enter.
From epic buffets to celebrity-chef restaurants to lively lounges, Las Vegas is truly a food-lover’s paradise with fantastic dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Come with an appetite and be prepared for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Beyond the Strip
While the glitz and glamour of the Strip gets most of the attention, there’s a lot more to explore in Las Vegas and the surrounding area. Consider taking a break from the casinos to enjoy the natural beauty and fascinating attractions just outside the city.
Hoover Dam
Located just 30 miles southeast of the Strip, the mighty Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel and a National Historic Landmark. Take a tour to learn about how the dam was built in the 1930s and to see the massive generators and other inner workings. Marvel at the stunning views of Lake Mead and the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
Grand Canyon
A road trip to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon is at the top of many Vegas visitors’ bucket lists. The drive takes 4-5 hours, but is well worth it to see one of the natural wonders of the world. Stop at lookout points along the South or North Rim to take in the breathtaking vistas. Consider hiking a trail or taking a helicopter tour for a more immersive canyon experience.
Red Rock Canyon
For beautiful desert scenery without leaving town, head to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Located just 17 miles west of the Strip, the park offers miles of scenic driving, hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous, and rock climbing challenges. Be sure to check out the 13-mile long one-way loop drive with access to trailheads and panoramic views.
Death Valley
While quite a trek at about 2.5 hours from Vegas, Death Valley National Park rewards visitors with otherworldly landscapes. Marvel at Zabriskie Point’s dramatic badlands, see the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin, and explore volcanic craters and canyons. Late winter and early spring offer more moderate temperatures for exploring this desert park.
With so much stunning scenery surrounding Las Vegas, it would be a shame to only stay within the confines of the Strip. Rent a car and devote at least a day or two to exploring Hoover Dam, the Grand Canyon, Red Rock Canyon, Death Valley, and more. The memories of these side trips will stay with you long after the glitz of the casinos fades.
Family Fun
Las Vegas is not just for adults! While Sin City is known for its nightlife, gambling, and entertainment geared towards grownups, there are plenty of family-friendly activities for kids of all ages. Here are some of the best hotels, shows, attractions, and things to do for families visiting Las Vegas.
Kid-Friendly Hotels
Many of the major hotels on the Strip offer amenities and attractions for children and families. Consider staying at one of these top family-friendly hotels in Las Vegas:
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The Venetian – This luxury all-suite hotel has a large pool deck with cabanas and a water park known as the Canyon Ranch SpaClub with a waterfall and Lazy River ride. Family suites with two queen beds are available.
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Circus Circus – This affordable casino hotel has free circus acts and carnival midway games daily. There are rooms with bunk beds and a 5-acre Adventuredome theme park with rides and attractions.
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Mandalay Bay – The pool area has a lazy river, wave pool, and beach with rentable cabanas. Family rooms with two queen beds are available, and the Shark Reef Aquarium is an on-site attraction.
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Four Seasons – For more upscale family accommodations, the Four Seasons has large luxury suites and a pool with cabanas and a waterslide. The concierge can arrange kid-friendly activities.
Family Entertainment & Shows
Enjoy these family-friendly shows on the Strip for music, acrobatics, comedy, and more:
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The Beatles LOVE – This Cirque du Soleil show at The Mirage features aerial acrobatics and dance set to Beatles music. Good for ages 5+.
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Mystère – Another great Cirque du Soleil show with music, illusions, and feats of human strength and agility. Good for kids over 5.
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Mac King Comedy Magic Show – See quirky magic tricks and family-friendly comedy at Harrah’s. Shows are afternoon and clean fun for all ages.
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Tournament of Kings – Watch a medieval jousting tournament while dining on a knightly feast at the Excalibur Hotel & Casino. Good entertainment for ages 6+.
Family Attractions
In addition to great shows, there are many family-friendly attractions and activities in Las Vegas like:
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Adventuredome – Indoor theme park at Circus Circus with rides, games, laser tag, mini golf, and more.
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Shark Reef Aquarium – Over 2,000 tropical fish plus sharks, crocodiles, and Komodo dragons to see at Mandalay Bay.
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Stratosphere Tower – Soar over 100 stories up for panoramic views and extreme thrill rides at the top.
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CSI: The Experience – Immerse the family in hands-on forensic science at the MGM Grand.
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High Roller Observation Wheel – Huge Ferris wheel with amazing views from 550 feet high.
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Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens – Stroll beautiful displays of flowers and fountains inside the Bellagio for free.
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M&M’s World – Four floors of interactive displays and fun for chocolate lovers of all ages.
Family Activities
When you need a break from the Strip, there are lots of other family activities in the area like:
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Hoover Dam Tour – Take a guided tour of the Hoover Dam, one of the greatest engineering feats of all time.
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Dig This Vegas – Let kids play with real bulldozers and excavators in a giant sandbox.
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Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing – Race high-speed electric go karts indoors for family racing fun.
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Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix – Race small scale cars around two mini grand prix tracks.
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Cowabunga Bay Water Park – Large water park with kid-friendly splash pads, lazy river, and water slides.
With kid-friendly hotels, entertaining shows, unique attractions, and lots of activities, Las Vegas offers plenty of family fun beyond just the casinos and nightlife scene. All ages can have an unforgettable vacation in Sin City.
Nightlife
Las Vegas is known around the world for its incredible nightlife. From opulent nightclubs to raging pool parties to lively bars and lounges, Vegas has endless options for enjoying the night.
Nightclubs
The nightclubs in Vegas are some of the biggest and most lavish in the world. Top DJs perform while beautiful dancers entertain the crowds. Bottle service with mixers, champagne and liquor starts at around $500 and goes into the thousands for a VIP table. Some of the most popular Vegas nightclubs include:
- Hakkasan at MGM Grand – Massive 5-level club with top EDM DJs.
- Omnia at Caesars Palace – 75,000 square feet over 2 floors with high-tech design.
- XS at Encore – 40,000 square foot club with pools and an outdoor area overlooking the Strip.
- Marquee at The Cosmopolitan – Multilevel club with a huge domed ceiling and pool area.
To get into the top clubs, make sure to dress to impress and arrive early. As the night goes on, the vibe gets more high energy. Go ready to party!
Pool Parties
Las Vegas takes pool parties to a whole new level. Beautiful pools are transformed into open-air clubs with live DJs, bars, and lots of scantily clad partiers. The alcohol flows freely as guests dance and splash in the pool. Popular dayclub pool parties include:
- Encore Beach Club – Three tiered pools surrounded by palm trees and cabanas.
- Wet Republic at MGM Grand – Two saltwater pools with views of the Strip.
- Marquee Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan – Overlooks the Strip from multiple stories high.
Pool parties require dayclub admission starting around $20 for women and $40 for men. Cabanas and tables cost more but come with VIP amenities. Arrive by 11am to enjoy the full experience.
Bars and Lounges
For a more laidback vibe, Las Vegas also has many lively bars and lounges. Visit hotel lobby bars to enjoy craft cocktails in upscale surrounds. Or check out dueling piano bars like The Bar at Times Square for interactive fun. Other options include cocktail lounges like The Chandelier at The Cosmopolitan, swanky rooftop bars like Skyfall Lounge, and lively sports bars like Tap.
With its endless array of nightlife, Vegas truly offers entertainment all hours of the day and night. Visit with an adventurous spirit and get ready for an unforgettable time. The city’s infectious energy promises you’ll be sleeping in Vegas another day.
Insider Tips
Las Vegas can be an expensive place to visit if you don’t know the insider tricks for saving money and avoiding tourist traps. Here are some of the best insider tips for making the most of your Vegas vacation:
Take Advantage of Comps
Most of the major casino hotels offer their guests various comps, short for complimentary gifts, to entice you to stay and play at their property. Make sure to join the player’s club at whichever hotel you’re staying at to take advantage of things like discounted or free rooms, meals, show tickets, and more. The more you play, the more generous the comps.
See the Free Shows
The Bellagio Fountains, the Mirage Volcano, and the Sirens of TI are some of the best free shows on the Strip. Make sure to check times and arrive early if you want a good viewing spot. Many bars and restaurants also have great views if you want to enjoy a drink or bite while watching.
Gamble on a Budget
If you want to gamble without blowing your budget, stick to low minimum tables like $5 blackjack and penny or nickel slots. Set a budget for each session and walk away when you’ve lost your allotted amount. Always assume you’ll lose what you gamble—that way any wins are just a bonus.
Avoid the Strip When Possible
Dining, shows, drinks, and activities on the Strip can be extremely overpriced. Head downtown or off-Strip for more affordable options. The Downtown Arts District, Chinatown, and Fremont Street area offer plenty of bargains.
Take Advantage of Happy Hours
Nearly every bar and lounge in Vegas has amazing happy hour specials for cheap drinks and discounted appetizers. Check schedules and plan your drinking around the best deals. Some of the best happy hours are at Casino Royale, The Cosmopolitan, and Golden Nugget.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration in the hot and dry desert climate can ruin your Vegas trip. Always carry a water bottle during the day. Ask for free tap water at restaurants. Stay away from alcohol and sugary drinks in the afternoon heat.
Don’t Jaywalk
Jaywalking laws are strictly enforced on the Strip. Only cross at designated pedestrian bridges and intersections or you could get slapped with a hefty ticket. The foot traffic and huge intersections make jaywalking extremely dangerous anyway.
Use Rideshares or Walk
Avoid ridiculously overpriced taxis in Vegas whenever possible. Download the Lyft or Uber apps to get around affordably. The Strip is also very walkable, while the monorail provides cheap public transportation between some major hotels.
Stick to a Smartphone for Photos
Many Las Vegas shows and nightclubs do not allow cameras or GoPros. Save yourself the hassle of storing and checking a separate camera and rely on your smartphone for photos. Avoid using flash or shooting video during shows.
By following these insider tips, you can still enjoy everything Las Vegas has to offer on a budget and avoid the common tourist traps and hassles. With some insider knowledge, you can get more for your money, gamble wisely, stay safe, and maximize the Vegas fun.