Las Vegas Travel Guide
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Top Attractions
Cheap Flying Tips
Where to Stay
Things to Do
Your Guide to Las Vegas
Navigating Vegas can be challenging, with the distraction of bright lights and the sound of slot machines. Having a simple guide to help you pick and choose how to spend your time and spend your time makes it much easier.
Las Vegas tends to make you live in the moment, so let us do the planning for you. We’ll detail the top attractions, what to expect when flying into the city, some simple tips to save money on flights, and where to stay so you can get right into the action the moment you arrive.
Whether you’re here for a trip with your family, partying with your friends, or exploring on your own, we’ve got you covered. We’ll detail attractions and lodging that pertains to a myriad of tastes and group sizes, so there’s a little bit of something for everyone.
Top Attractions in Las Vegas
There’s a reason Las Vegas has been nicknamed “The Entertainment Capital of the World.” Everything about this city entices you to explore its entirety to the point that it’s easy to lose track of time as if the city runs on its own clock. For those of you overcome by your options or looking to hit all the hotspots, these are the top attractions of Las Vegas.
The Strip
Undoubtedly, when travelers explore Las Vegas, one of the first places they will (or should) visit is The Strip. Stretching 4.2 miles of the city, this area is filled with casinos, restaurants, shops, and more, all for the purpose of keeping you entertained until the wee hours of the night.
Walking through The Strip can feel like you’re walking around the world once you pass by popular locations, such as the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, Paris Las Vegas, and the Venetian Las Vegas Resort.
Of course, the gambling tables at casinos aren’t the only options for entertainment, and if you have kids, they’re far from the primary choice.
Luckily, there are plenty of great options for families on The Strip, such as Adventuredome, a massive indoor amusement park filled with rides, rock-climbing, escape rooms, and more.
Kids can also step into the shoes of their favorite superhero at Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. or feast at Vega’s best dinner show, Excalibur’s Tournament of Kings.
Fremont Street
If you’re looking for a glittering display of lights and neon signs, you’ll want to head over to Glitter Gulch, now more commonly known as Fremont Street. Enclosed by a 90-foot high L.E.D. light canopy, this mall-strip is great for shopping and free entertainment.
Street performers take precedent by the day, and by night, public stages are claimed by the best musicians and entertainers of the city. Sensational light shows also take place here several times a night.
Bellagio Fountains and Lobby
Although it is located on The Strip (as most popular Vegas attractions are), the Bellagio is its own must-have experience. If its colossal architectural beauty isn’t enough to give you pause, then its once record-holding fountains certainly will.
Every day from 3 pm to midnight, you can watch dazzling fountain shows complete with lights and music by classic artists, such as Whitney Houston, Frank Sinatra, and Elton John. This world-famous spectacle is truly something to behold.
When you’re done watching the fountains, head inside to the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden, this spectacle of natural wonder typically reflects the holiday or event of the season. The displays consist of more than 10,000 potted flowers, and the fantastical scenes they create are unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
The Experience Flying into Las Vegas
Flying into Las Vegas doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor. There are several airports in and surrounding the city, but the most recommended would be McCarran International Airport (L.A.S.). Not only is L.A.S. a mere walk away from The Strip, but it’s also the most likely to have the best deals. However, be warned that McCarran is the 8th busiest airport in the U.S. and 19th in the world, so expect a decent amount of foot-traffic after landing.
Top 3 Tips to Fly Cheap to New York
1. Timing is Everything
One of the biggest contributing factors to ticket prices is when you plan to arrive. The cheapest month to fly to Las Vegas in January when the city is coldest and the holidays have passed. However, if sub 40-degree weather doesn’t appeal to you, as long as you avoid peak summer months and holiday seasons, you can still find tickets at a significantly reduced price.
2. Competition is Healthy
When you’re searching for tickets from a particular airline, make sure you compare their rates to the competition. Don’t settle for the first moderately priced flight that you see. Airlines will often have their own deals over the week, and if you catch them at the right time, you’ll score a killer bargain on your ticket prices.
3. Get Ahead of the Game
If there’s one place that spontaneity doesn’t benefit you, it’s shopping for plane tickets. Once you’ve decided you’re ready to brave Sin City, make sure you don’t plan to arrive for at least a few months. Deals will decline closer to 6 months from the departure date, but if you can buy tickets from that 2-4 month sweet spot, you’ll undoubtedly be rewarded for your initiative.
Popular Areas of the City to Stay
If you’re unfamiliar with Las Vegas, apart from its famous Strip, it might be a challenge to figure out which area is best to stay. Your lodging location should reflect your trip priorities, whether that requires it to be a haven for the weary traveler or simply a private space to refresh before delving back onto the streets. Either way, all your lodging needs are laid out here.
For Tourists:
The Strip is clearly the tourist hub of Las Vegas. You can’t walk five steps down The Strip without finding something new to experience. As a result of its popular casinos and immense tourist appeal, there are countless hotels and resorts to house the millions of annual travelers that congregate here.
For an added bonus, considering how close The Strip is to the McCarran International Airport, tourists can save significantly on travel fees by just staying in this area for the duration of their trip. Not only will you get the classic Las Vegas experience, but you can get to it all under your own steam. And when you’re done, you just walk down the street back to your hotel.
For Families:
Summerlin is one of the most sought-out areas in Las Vegas for raising a family. Therefore, if you’d rather stay away from the overwhelming noise of The Strip and its mob of tourists, Summerlin is the optimal retreat.
Rather than the hyped Vegas attractions, this area is filled with parks, shops, restaurants, and movie theatres. But don’t worry, if you hope to visit the tourist hotspots at some point, most are only a 15-minute drive away.
For Foodies:
Chinatown is the prime location for diverse and exquisite cuisine. Rather than being tucked inside ostentatious resorts, most of the food here can be found in a more traditional restaurant setting.
Visitors love to test the resilience of their taste buds with Chengdu Taste‘s Scoville breaking dishes. Classic ramen is also a favorite at Monta, and unmatched Japanese cuisine reigns supreme at Raku.
For Authenticity:
Downtown is the place to be if you want to know what life is like for those who call Las Vegas home. This is also the original section of Las Vegas before it expanded, and tourists moved their attention towards The Strip.
Not only is this the prime location to learn about Las Vegas’ history, but there are also several popular attractions here as well. Most notably, the Mob Museum, which depicts the dark but highly influential role of organized crime in America.
Popular Hotels in those areas
Although it wouldn’t be surprising if you didn’t spend much time in your hotel room, you’ll undoubtedly need one at some point. Considering the sheer number of hotels and resorts in the city, this decision might be a struggle to make, so let us make it for you. These are the most popular hotels, either for budget travelers or those not afraid to splurge on lodging.
The Strip
Affordable Hotels
Treasure Island is ideal for those looking to stay on The Strip for a budget price. The hotel has a series of restaurants, a spa, a casino, and a prime location that is partnered with a pedestrian bridge to some top attractions.
Luxury Hotels
M.G.M. Grand is the largest single hotel in the United States, and so, unsurprisingly, it comes with all the bells and whistles. You could arguably just take a trip to M.G.M. Grand and enjoy its numerous pools, waterfalls, garden area, spa, stores, and nightclubs.
Summerlin
Affordable Hotels
Suncoast Hotel and Casino has fantastic rates on rooms, but they don’t come at the cost of amenities. In addition to the casino, guests can golf, bowl, or watch a movie in their private theatre.
Luxury Hotels
Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa prides itself on providing a “refined experience” and “unrivaled aesthetic.” The design and color palette of the resort is inspired by the natural beauty of the desert and canyons surrounding the city.
Chinatown
Affordable Hotels
Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino is famous for hosting the World Series of Poker, but in the offseason, it is a prime choice for quality amenities and a convenient location for a reduced rate.
Luxury Hotels
Palms Casino Resort is decked in unique and tasteful art that pairs well with its fine dining options. Top off your luxurious experience by heading up to the APEX rooftop bar and lounge for a refreshing drink and awe-inspiring view.
Downtown
Affordable Hotels
Four Queens has been providing superb service since the late ’60s and is the only downtown hotel and casino that doesn’t charge guests a resort fee.
Luxury Hotels
Wynn Las Vegas offers unprecedented services that rival the most luxurious hotels in the city. Guests have described the facility as “pure class” and particularly enjoy the wide range of cuisine offered at the buffets.
Popular VRBO Places in Those Areas
The Ultimate Vegas Mansion
Experience the ultimate Vegas vacation in this palatial mansion. With a private pool, game room, and luxurious amenities, this spectacular rental offers an unforgettable stay for groups and families.
Modern Strip Condo
Enjoy stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip from this sleek, high-rise condo. Located within walking distance of top casinos and entertainment venues, this contemporary rental promises an exciting Vegas experience.
Red Rock Retreat
Escape the city lights and unwind in this tranquil retreat, located near Red Rock Canyon. With a private pool, outdoor kitchen, and desert-inspired decor, this elegant rental offers a serene getaway close to nature.
Vintage Vegas Bungalow
Step back in time and experience Old Vegas charm in this lovingly restored bungalow. Situated in the historic downtown area, this characterful home features a lush backyard oasis and easy access to the city’s top attractions.
Top 5 Things to do in Las Vegas
After visiting some of the popular tourist attractions, make sure you save time to have these extraordinary experiences.
- Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay: take a refreshing dive into the underwater wonders on display, including up to 30 types of sharks. See more on Tripadvisor.com
- Soar Over the City on a Helicopter Ride: embark on a thrilling ride over the city and observe the stark contrast between the vast cityscape and its desert canyon surroundings. See more on Tripadvisor.com
- Dine-in at a Celebrity Chef’s Restaurant: The culinary skills of chefs like Guy Fieri, Gordon Ramsay, Giada de Laurentiis, and Bobby Flay are unmatched. So, don’t pass up the chance to taste their culinary masterpieces. See more on Tripadvisor.com
- See it All on the High Roller Observation Wheel: at 550 feet tall, this colorful observatory provides undoubtedly the best view of Las Vegas in all its splendor. We recommend you wait until the sun goes down before you board. See more on Tripadvisor.com
- Watch the Raiders Triumph in their Brand-New Stadium: In July of 2020, the Las Vegas Raiders got a significant upgrade with the opening of Allegiant Stadium. The stadium is decked in sleek black and silver with ten levels and top-of-the-line amenities. See more on Tripadvisor.com
Coolest Airbnb Experiences in Las Vegas
Never underestimate the experiences offered by Airbnb. Here are some popular options, both in and surrounding the city, that is guaranteed to enhance your visit.
- Fly with Vegas Cirque Pros
- Emerald Cave Kayak Tour Las Vegas
- Gaming Lessons & Tour with Local Guide
- Night/Day Club Party Bus Tour
- Shooting in Nevada’s Desert
Final Thoughts
The entertainment possibilities in Las Vegas are endless. And while your entire trip could be spent exploring every casino, restaurant, and modern marvel the city has to offer, our last piece of advice is to not ignore the natural beauty Vegas is nestled in.
The grandeur of the Nevada desert is home to some of the most iconic natural wonders of the world, including Death Valley and the Grand Canyon. Plus, as Vegas goes there are just so many fun facts you gotta check out!
But if you don’t want to trek out to these national parks, Red Rock Canyon immediately borders the city and is a great alternative. Hike the rugged peaks or kayak the canyon rivers but don’t miss your chance to immerse yourself in Nevada’s unique desert sand and red rock.
Read More Las Vegas Travel Tips
- Best Boutique Hotels in Las Vegas
- Best Bed & Breakfasts in Las Vegas
- Best VRBOs in Las Vegas
- Las Vegas’s Best Resorts
- The Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Las Vegas
- The Top Things to do in Las Vegas
