Las Vegas, also regarded as Sin City or America’s Playground is the desert Jewel of the United States and is an iconic town that is famous for its over-the-top fun. Found nestled in the Nevada desert, the sprawling city is home to glamorous hotels, world-class top-notch restaurants, bustling casinos, and wild nightclubs. Many people despise the idea of visiting Las Vegas because when they conjure up an image of the city all that appears is wild parties, showiness, expensive resorts, and the fancy atmosphere. However, there is so much more to the Sin City as it is also home to a growing art scene, a great mix of restaurants, incredible shows, history, events, and hiking spots.
Therefore, when you are planning a visit to the glistening city take into account the kind of atmosphere you are coveting as Sin City has something for every taste. In this article, we will offer you a helping hand by providing you with the best tips for visiting Las Vegas. Therefore, before embarking on your trip to America’s Playground make sure to read the article first.
Tips for Visiting Las Vegas – A Quick Glance
Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
When is the Best Time to Go? – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
There is no bad time to visit America’s P’ayground. However, it is best to keep in mind that during the summer season, daytime temperatures can go high into the 90s and 100s which can taint your trip unless you are planning on spending the entire vacation in the pool or in an air-conditioned casino or resort. The optimal months for visiting Las Vegas are March, April, May, October, and November. August is the hottest month in Sin City and most tourists steer clear of it that is why it is also the most inexpensive time to go there.
If you are planning your trips around the many events that happen in Las Vegas, keep one thing in mind the city hosts a myriad of festivals and events throughout the year so be on the lookout for the ones you want to attend. The most important events that you must attend are the major tech conference CES or Consumer Electronics Show that takes place in January, the music festival Electric Daisy Carnival or EDC which happens in May, and the Las Vegas Golden Knights hockey season that starts in October and runs till April, with playoffs happening in May and sometimes even in June.
Things to Know Before Visiting Las Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Deuce is the name of the bus that operates on the Las Vegas Strip. The bus runs for 24 hours every day, every 15 to 20 minutes, and its all-day pass costs only about $8. The Las Vegas Strip which runs along Las Vegas Boulevard, is only over four miles long. On the Strip, you will find 30 primary casinos and many more off the Strip as well as downtown.
Getting Around Las Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Sin City Buses – The local public transport in Las Vegas comes under the operation of RTCSNV also known as the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada. The RTCSNV buses service the greater Las Vegas Valley and also provide transportation from the McCarran International Airport.
The Deuce – The Deuce is a bus that operates in the Las Vegas Strip and also comes under the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada. The bus runs 24 hours per day, every 15 minutes from 7 a.m. to midnight, and every 20 minutes from 12 a.m. to 7 a.m. A 2-hour pass for the Deuce costs about $6, a full-day pass or 24-hour pass costs $8, while a three-day pass costs about $20.
Car Services and Taxis – Several rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft operate in LA Vegas. Moreover, you can also opt to travel via a taxi that you can schedule with local companies such as Nellis Cab Company. It is better to book a cab in Las Vegas because hailing it is quite difficult in the city. Or you can opt for a black car company such as Blacklane for transportation through the city.
Car Rental – If you want to drive by yourself, you can also rent a car for as little as $35 per day for a multi-day rental. The only requirement is that you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid license. To know the best rental car prices, make your way to the Discover Cars website.
Monorail – The monorail is hands down the best mode of transportation in Las Vegas. It not only makes your trip more enjoyable but also saves you a lot of time without the hassles of traffic. One ride in the monorail will cost you about $5, whereas is 1 day pass comes at a price of $13.
Where to Stay When Visiting Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
MGM Grand – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
MGM Grand is an opulent resort that is found nestled in the south end of the strip. The resort offers unique perks and is an ideal accommodation choice for anyone seeking something extra when visiting Las Vegas. On its premises, the MGM Grand houses, a comedy club, wellness-themed rooms, Top Gold, as well as several showrooms.
Address – 3799 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (877) 880-0880
Wynn Las Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
With a cascading waterfall and an aura of opulence, the Wynn extends warm welcomes to its guests. The resort sits on the north side of the Strip, a bit further from the main action. However, housed on its premises are superb restaurants, a spa, luxury high-end shopping that includes Louis Vuitton and Chanel, as well as one of the chicest casinos on the strip, which helps overlook its location. Its recently upgraded Toer Suites rooms come with free breakfast, privet check-in as well and an exclusive pool.
Address – 3131 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (702) 770-7000
ARIA Resort & Casino – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
ARIA is a spacious and stylish resort that is well-known and applauded for its stellar accommodations. Housed on its premises are restaurants that are run by acclaimed top-notch chefs such as Julian Serrano and Jena-Georges Vongerichten. The ARIA Resort & Casino also features a 150,000-square-foot casino, 3 outdoor pools, and harbor rooms that boast stunning city views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. All of its rooms come equipped with a one-touch control system that allows guests to control, various room features like temperature and lighting and also a stocked minibar. The ensuite bathrooms come with plush robes, a glass-enclosed shower that harbors a bench, and a soaking tub.
Address – 3730 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89158
Phone – (866) 359-7757
Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Residing centrally on the Las Vegas Strip, this hotel within a hotel concept is an opulent Japanese-inspired spot. The hotel weaves class, and beautify in its opulent tapestry via vibrant, curated art décor. Its rooms come equipped with air conditioning, an iPod Docking station, a 55-inch flat-screen TV, and free Natura Bisse toiletries in the en suite bathroom. Housed on its premise is the Nobu Restaurant, which is decked with white chandeliers and plush grey circular booths and serves Japanese cuisine.
Address – 3570 Las Vegas Boulevard S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (800) 727-4923
The Cromwell – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
The Cromwell is a boutique, adults-only hotel that is well known for its sleek and sexy vibe. Decked in Parisian-inspired design, the Cromwell features a nightclub, casino, a seasonal outdoor pool, as well as a restaurant. Its rooms that offer a blend of modern and vintage designs come with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. Some guests of the Cromwell also offer stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip.
Address – 3595 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – 702-777-3777
Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
The Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas which was previously regarded as the Mandarin Oriental does not harbor a casino on the premises, which can make for a nice escape from the rest of the Sin City at the end of a long tiring night. It is however home to an award-winning spa, a modern gym with a yoga room, and a tea lounge that adds to its tranquility and comfortability. Its guest rooms come with an electric kettle, air conditioning, state-of-the-art technology for room controls like lightning, AC, and entertainment, a flat-screen TV, and beautiful views of the Las Vegas Strip.
Address – 3752 Las Vegas Boulevard S, Las Vegas, NV 89158
Phone – (702) 590-8888
Bellagio Hotel & Casino – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Bellagio Hotel & Casino is a classic Las Vegas resort and offers so much more than its well-known dancing fountains. The resort has woven within itself threads of poshness and opulence that attract the ones that covet ultimate luxury. The Bellagio Hotel & Casino offers its guests elegant rooms with marble en suite bathrooms and multiple dining options. its opulently decorated rooms come with electronic drapes, a minibar, a flat-screen satellite TV, an iPod docking station as well and soft bathrobes. Guests staying at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino can also enjoy its lush botanical gardens and 5 beautiful courtyard pools.
Address – 3600 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (888) 987-6667
Circa Resort & Casino – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
In 40 years, Circa Resort is the first resort that was newly constructed in downtown Las Vegas. Lying 600 meters from Mob Museum, the resort is an adults-only accommodation that offers its guests an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, private parking, a bar, and room service. Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, as well as a concierge service. All of the rooms in this 4-star hotel come with room conditioning, a flat-screen TC with cable channels, a seating area, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom equipped with a hairdryer, free toiletries, and a shower.
Address – 8 Fremont Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Phone – (702) 247-2258
SAHARA Las Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Residing in a prime location, the SAHARA Las Vegas is a timeless accommodation that treats its guests to gourmet restaurants, a spa and wellness center, and expansive outdoor pools, it also houses a casino as well as several shops. Parking and Wi-Fi are free at the resort.
Address – 2535 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (702) 761-7000
The Berkley – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
The Berkley, which lies off the Las Vegas Strip, is a great accommodation for business, long-term or family stays. This 18-story resort lies 8 km from the Strip in the Village of Silverton and offers its guests an outdoor pool as well as BBQ facilities. Its comfortable and spacious home-like suites come with kitchen facilities along with kitchenware and a dining area, living room as well as a washer and tumble dryer. The en suite bathroom comes equipped with a full bathtub, while the living room harbors a queen-sized sofa and a media hub.
Address – 8280 Dean Martin Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89139
Phone – (702)224-7400
Where to Dine When Visiting Las Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Mizumi – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Mizumi is a chic Japanese restaurant that is helmed by Chef Min Kim and can be found nestled in the Wynn Las Vegas. The restaurant offers scrumptious food with a stellar ambiance accentuated by a 90-foot waterfall that cascades into a koi pond, and Steller views of the property’s Japanese gardens. If you are coveting an unforgettable dining experience, book in advance the Mizumi’s floating pagoda table.
Address – Wynn Las Vegas, 3131 Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (702) 770-3320
Best Friend – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
The Best Friend is a vibrant restaurant decked in colorful décor offering a menu that delivers a scrumptious fusion of Korean and Mexican dishes. An acclaimed Los Angeles chef, Chef Rou Choi, drafted the menu of the restaurant, including dishes that will wow you to the core.
Address – Park MGM, 3770 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (702) 730-6770
Bugsy & Meyer’s Steakhouse – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Bugsy & Meyer’s Steakhouse transports its guests back to the vintage heyday of the classic Las Vegas. The restaurant was named for the infamous gangster and is one of the newer steakhouse restaurants in town.
Address – Flamingo Hotel, 3555 Las Vegas Boulevard S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (702) 733-3111
É by José Andrés – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
É by José Andrés is an exclusive and classy restaurant that requires reservation in advance. It lies tucked away in a small private room, just adjacent to the Jaleo’s bar and paella grill. Featuring a clever and creative menu, the restaurant offers a multi-course meal served in an intimate room that is decked with the kind of decor that reassembles old library card catalogs. Tickets to dine at the restaurant are available three months and advance and it is open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Address – The Cosmopolitan, 3708 Las Vegas Boulevard S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (702) 698-7950
Eataly Las Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
As the name suggests Eataly Las Vegas offers a mix of open-market groceries and Italian restaurants and resonates with an authentic food hall feel. Families visiting the place can feast on a pizza with the kids or couples can grab a table at the fine dining bar and grill.
Address – Park MGM, 3770 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (702) 730-7617
SW – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
If you are craving something high-end and classic, then you can’t go wrong with the SW Steakhouse at Wynn Las Vegas. The SW features the best cuts of meat, and its steaks are a well-known celebrity that starred in the Best Thing I Ever Ate show. Moreover, it also houses an impressive wine list that goes well with its steaks.
Address – Wynn Las Vegas, 3131 Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone – (702) 770-3325
Things to Do When Visiting Vegas – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Watch a Show
Las Vegas is known for its entertainment and does it better than anywhere else. In the city, you can find the best acts in the world, from comedy shows and magic acts to circus performances and musicals. You can book the show tickets with your accommodation as it can be a much cheaper option. When visiting Vegas, use the Tix4Vegas website to find tickets for shows at 50 percent off.
Stroll Fermont Street
It is Fermont Street where Vegas was first introduced to the world. In 1906, the city opened its first hotel on Fermont Street. Moreover, in 1925, Fermont became the city’s first paved street and in 1931, the first gaming license was issued to an established establishment on this street. Today Fermont Street carries the vibe of the New Orleans Bourbon Street and offers a completely different atmosphere than the Strip. Here you can find great entertainment featuring nightly lit sows and street performances.
When in Vegas, Splurge on a Meal
Vegas is all about splurging, and even if you take budget-friendly routes for other things in Vegas, make sure to splurge on food as it offers some of the best-tasting food in the world. Las Vegas treats its guests to every kind of cuisine and here you can find a vast variety of eateries from gigantic brunch buffets to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Take a Trip to Hoover Dam and Lake Mead
The Hoover Dam, which is the largest reservoir in the United States was completed in the year 1936. It consists of a massive, curved wall that tows 726 feet or 221 meters above the bedrock. The sturdy wall holds back more than 9 trillion gallons of water in Lake Mead. An impressive feat of engineering, the Hoover Dam supplies, power to Arizona, Nevada, and California. you can see the dam for free, however, to visit the visitor’s center that harbors its exhibits and obviation deck you will have to pay $10. If you opt for a guided tour of the dam and power plants, you will have to cough up $30.
Tour the Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is an outdoor lot that harbors huge neon signs that once beckoned visitors into casinos like Stardust, Silver Slipper, and El Cortez. The museum has recently expanded in size and now harbors more signs, and a park and also offers guided tours of the glistening collection. Each sign displays its story and significance in the history of Vegas.
If you visit the museum during the daytime, you will be asked to pay $20 for admission, while admissions at night cost about $28. Moreover, as the museum is a highly coveted designation, its tickets tend to sell out fast, so make sure to book them in advance. The museum also offers nighttime helicopter tours of Las Vegas’s neon lights for $169.
Tour the Grand Canyon
When visiting Vegas don’t forget to tour the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon is a rugged and remote region where plateaus and multi-hued cliffs reign. The Canyon offers the best hiking trails and the most stunning views in the world. A hiking tour of the Grand Canyon offers visitors the opportunity to witness ancient ruins, waterfalls, spectacular rock formations, and unimaginable vistas.
Las Vegas Travel Costs – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Hostel Prices – If you are doing Las Vegas on a budget the best way to save big bucks is by staying at a hostel. There are a couple of hostels available in the Sin City and during the peak season a bed in a 4 to 6-bed dorm costs about $48 per night while a bed in an eight-bed dorm costs around $40 a night. Whereas, in the offseason, for a bed in an 8-bed dorm you will only have to pay $30 a night. Free Wi-Fi is available and both hostels in Vegas offer guests kitchens for cooking meals however neither of them houses private rooms.
Budget Hotel Costs – If you have a little money to splurge you can stay in a budget hotel while visiting Vegas. You can opt for a hotel either near the Strip or Downtown, where you will find tons of them. In the peak seasons, a two-starred budget hotel starts from $90, while in the off-season a room at the same hotel starts at $65. There are also a lot of Airbnb options available with a private room starting from $70 per night and a full apartment or home starting from $95.
Cost of Food – When it comes to food Vegas has everything, from international eats and luxury feasts to comfort food and fast food. Cheap buffets in Vegas can be found in several hotels and casinos ranging from $25 to $35. A slice of pizza in Sin City can cost about $4, while you can get a burger for $10. For a Chinese combination plate takeout that comes with egg roll, rice, and entrée, you will have to pay around $9 to $12.
There are lots of mid-range restaurants in Fermont Street where you can get a main course including meat and pasta dishes for $15 to $20. Whereas a three-course meal in the city costs anywhere between $40 to $300. You can get beer in Vegas for $7 to $9, while a glass of wine comes out to be $10 to $12. If you are in the mood for cocktails, be ready to cough up $11 to $15.
Cost of Visiting Las Vegas for Different Kinds of Travelers – Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
Accommodation | Food | Transportation | Attractions | Average daily cost | |
Backpacker | $40 | $15 | $10 | $10 | $75 |
Mid-range | $80 | $50 | $20 | $30 | $180 |
Luxury | $175 | $110 | $40 | $65 | $390 |
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