Nevada

What to Know Before Visiting Las Vegas

What to Know Before Visiting Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the gem of the Mojave. But before setting foot in Sin City, it’s best to come armed with plenty of local info.

There are few cities in the world like Las Vegas. It’s a place that’s well-known for casinos and shows and no less for clubs and restaurants. All of this is packaged in architecture that ranges from stunning to that highly questionable (and potentially comical) taste.

One thing is for sure: the city will leave you with lasting memories. If you’re visiting Las Vegas, here are some things you need to know first.

1. Must-Know Restrictions

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While Las Vegas is trying to become more family-friendly, the city is still geared toward adults. There are, of course, activities for underage people, but many are age-restricted.

Casino dealers will check for a valid ID. So will the security at the bars. This means there’s not much to do in those places if you’re underage.

Minors can’t legally drink. They also can’t be on the street unaccompanied after 9 pm. Unless for family weekends, it’s best to wait until you’re 21 to visit Las Vegas.

Speaking of drinking, feel free to do so outdoors if you can legally drink. A few places in the US allow drinking in the open, and Las Vegas is one of them. The only limitation is that the beverage container should not be made of glass.

This freedom doesn’t mean disorderly conduct gets overlooked, though. Those that go stumbling around the streets causing trouble will find themselves facing charges and fines. Also, it’s forbidden to have an open drink container while driving a car.

2. Where to Stay on a Budget

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The most famous Las Vegas hotels have extravagantly high-priced accommodations. But there’s still a wide range of other options. There are places suited for every pocket – from budget rooms to elite lofts.

The location of your hotel is something to consider when planning for a budget. Cheaper accommodation that’s too far from key sites might turn out to be more costly in the long run. To avoid transportation costs, it’s best to find a hotel on the Las Vegas Strip.

3. Beware the Notorious Taxis (And Lack Thereof)

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There’s no chance of hailing a Las Vegas taxi on the street. This isn’t a figure of speech but a legal fact. It’s because cabs and other transportation services can handle passengers only in designated areas. As these areas are usually at the casinos, prepare to wait in line.

And once you get a taxi, beware of long-hauling. It’s quite common for Las Vegas cab drivers to take the longer route to build up the fare. If you’re riding from the airport, pay attention when the driver asks you if it’s your first visit – it might not be just innocent small talk. The best way to counteract long-hauling is to get familiar with the route beforehand.

4. Before Painting the Town Red

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While the desert climate brings scorching heat, the interiors are fiercely air-conditioned. This means you’ll need to wear light clothes outside to cool you off. But it would be a good idea to wear something warmer for casinos, shows, and dining.

Some venues also have strict dress codes, so it’s best to pack accordingly and come prepared.

An example of places likely to have dress codes is Las Vegas nightclubs, places of extreme fun. Here you can experience exciting dance parties with light shows and celebrity DJs. Finding a good club will make your night feel too short.

But a counterweight to the fun is waiting in line for hours and not getting in at the end. To avoid this, stop by the concierge desk at your hotel first. You could get a good recommendation, a discount deal, or even get on the guest list.

5. Time to Indulge in Amazing Entertainment

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Many visitors spend the majority of their time in the casinos. However, gambling is hardly the only thing worth your attention while there. That’s why you should plan your time and budget for at least one of the world-class shows.

Whatever performance you enjoy the most, Las Vegas has them all. Some of the most famous entertainers play in the city’s venues. Concerts, magic shows, comedy nights, and plenty more are available nightly. It would be downright wrong to miss out on the experience.

Aside from seeing the popular shows, you can also enjoy amazing food. In the past few decades, the Las Vegas restaurant scene has really taken off. Fine dining is becoming a staple of the city on par with gambling. You’ll find celebrity chefs in their restaurants all over Las Vegas.

Although buffets, cafeterias, and fast-food joints are still there, they don’t have the same allure. So if you’re spending some time in Las Vegas, reserve some of your budget for a unique dining experience.

Of course, Las Vegas casinos are famous for a reason – these can easily mesmerize and occupy your mind. They have much to offer when it comes to games and ambiance. Free cocktails, soothing music, excitement, and the notable absence of clocks will make the time fly.

Most likely, you already know that the proverbial house always wins. That’s why every additional hour spent on the casino floor will mean less money in your pocket. Rather than limit the time and fun, plan a gambling budget – set a limit for spending and walk away once you get near it.

If you want to make the most out of your visit, plan your gambling expenses daily. That way, you’ll be safe to spend some time at the tables or the slot machines every day. The thrill will be there, but your funds won’t disappear overnight.

Return to Explore More of Las Vegas

Since visits to Las Vegas can be intensive, many trip advisors cite four days as the perfect visit length. If that seems short, it’s because there’s too much to see and enjoy.

However, no Vegas vacation will be long enough to discover everything the city has to offer. That’s why the best way to experience Las Vegas is in more frequent, shorter trips.

You’ll get to recover from the overload of splendors, and the gem of the Mojave will be there for your next visit.

Related Topics:performance entertainment restrictions shows accommodations budget weather transportation clothing tips las vegas food usa

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This Is What Vegas Locals Really Do (Hint: It’s Not on the Strip)

Las Vegas might be the Entertainment Capital of the World—but ask any local, and they’ll tell you: the real Vegas is miles away from the Strip. Beyond the neon glow and slot machines lies a vibrant, creative, and surprisingly laid-back city that most tourists never get to see. If you’re ready to explore Las Vegas like a local, here’s what you’ll find:

1. Hit the Arts District, Not the Casinos

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Just 10 minutes from the Strip, the 18b Arts District is a local favorite. Packed with colorful murals, hip breweries, vintage shops, and indie galleries, it’s where creativity thrives. First Friday art walks, local makers’ markets, and food truck fests bring the community together in the coolest way.

2. Hike Red Rock Canyon at Sunrise

Locals trade blackjack tables for desert trails. Red Rock Canyon offers jaw-dropping hikes, rock climbing, and sunset views that rival any Vegas light show. Get there early to beat the heat and see the desert in its golden-hour glory.

3. Ditch the Buffets, Try the Chinatown Eats

Chinatown Las Vegas Food — Thrillist.com. (2025). Available at: https://assets3.thrillist.com/ [Accessed 16 Jul. 2025].

Vegas has one of the best Chinatowns in the U.S.—and it’s not just Chinese food. Locals love hole-in-the-wall spots serving everything from Thai street noodles to Korean BBQ and Japanese desserts. It’s a foodie paradise without the resort markups.

4. Catch a Live Band in a Backyard Bar

Forget massive arena concerts—locals head to dive bars like The Sand Dollar or Jammyland for soul, jazz, funk, and indie sets. These hidden gems have real character, cold drinks, and some of the best local talent in town.

5. Soak in the Views at a Rooftop Bar Downtown

Instead of pricey lounges on the Strip, Vegas residents hit up rooftop spots in Downtown or Summerlin. Think fewer lines, better service, and unbeatable skyline views—without the tourist chaos.

6. Explore Vintage Vegas

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Locals know the charm of Old Vegas. Fremont East has reinvented itself with retro neon signs, cool speakeasies, and throwback diners that channel the Rat Pack era with a modern twist.

7. Escape to Mount Charleston

Yes, Vegas has mountains. And locals love escaping the desert heat by heading up to Mount Charleston for hiking, skiing, or a cozy cabin weekend—just under an hour from the city.

The Bottom Line? Vegas locals know how to live well without the crowds. Whether it’s hiking at sunrise, sipping craft cocktails downtown, or discovering under-the-radar food joints, the real Vegas is full of surprises—and it’s waiting for you to explore it.

Trip Ideas

How to Stay 3 Nights in Las Vegas for Less Than a Night at the Blackjack Table

It sounds impossible—because in Vegas, a single bet can cost you $100 in seconds. But we just found a deal that flips the odds in your favor: 3 full nights in Las Vegas for just $59 total.

After digging through travel sites and hunting for the best bang-for-your-buck escape, we stumbled on this unbelievable offer through Booksi. Here’s how to experience the glam and excitement of Vegas—without dropping serious cash.

🎲 The Deal We Found: 3 Nights for $59

Booksi has teamed up with select hotels to offer a 3-night Vegas stay for just $59 total. Yep, less than what most people lose on their first hand of blackjack. It’s the kind of deal that feels too good to be true—but we’ve checked it out, and it’s real.

🏙️ Stay Near the Strip

You won’t be miles away from the action. This deal puts you within minutes of the Strip, so you’re close to shows, casinos, world-famous eats, and all the neon sparkle you came for.

🍽️ Save on Sleep, Splurge on Fun

With lodging basically covered, you can use your budget where it counts: – Front-row seats to a Cirque du Soleil show – Dinner at Gordon Ramsay Steak – Sky-high cocktails at rooftop lounges – Pool parties and unforgettable nights out.

💡 Who Should Jump on This?

This find is perfect for: – Couples who want a quick, affordable getaway – Bachelor or bachelorette crews – First-time Vegas visitors who want to explore without overspending – Anyone who loves a good travel hack.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Las Vegas doesn’t have to be expensive. With this $59 Booksi deal we uncovered, you can enjoy the glam without the gamble. Three nights in Vegas for less than a blackjack hand? That’s a win.

👉 Snag your 3-night Vegas stay for just $59 before this hidden gem disappears.

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Beyond the Strip: Unique Things to Do in Las Vegas

Las Vegas might be famous for its bright lights, high-stakes gambling, and over-the-top entertainment, but let’s be real—the city has way more to offer than just The Strip.

If you’re ready to ditch the casinos and explore the other side of Vegas, you’re in for a treat. From neon graveyards to underground speakeasies, here’s your guide to the coolest, quirkiest, and most unforgettable things to do beyond the usual tourist traps.

Wander Through the Neon Boneyard

Vegas is all about the neon glow, but have you ever wondered what happens to those legendary signs when they retire? Enter the Neon Boneyard, where classic Vegas signage gets a second life.

This outdoor museum is packed with vintage neon signs from iconic casinos and hotels of the past. Take a guided tour, snap some epic photos, and soak up a little Vegas history with a side of nostalgia.

Kayak the Emerald Cave

Yes, you can absolutely swap slot machines for scenic waterways in Vegas. A short drive from the city takes you to the stunning Black Canyon, where you can kayak to the mesmerizing Emerald Cave.

The water literally glows green thanks to the sunlight filtering through the canyon walls. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and a total 180 from the Vegas most people know.

Explore the Valley of Fire

Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Just an hour outside the city, the Valley of Fire State Park is a jaw-dropping landscape filled with fiery red rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and some of the best hiking trails in Nevada.

Whether you’re snapping photos, climbing rocks, or just soaking in the silence of the desert, this place is pure magic.

Discover the Secret Pizza Spot

Vegas is full of hidden gems, but few are as delicious as the secret pizza joint inside The Cosmopolitan. No signs, no obvious entrance—just a tucked-away hallway that leads to some of the best late-night slices in town.

If you manage to find it, congrats! You’ve unlocked one of the city’s best-kept foodie secrets.

Zipline Over Fremont Street

Fremont Street Zipline — Vegasexperience.com. (2025). Available at: https://vegasexperience.com [Accessed 7 Feb. 2025]

If you’re craving a little adrenaline rush, head downtown and take on the SlotZilla zipline. You’ll soar high above the Fremont Street Experience, flying past dazzling lights and an electrified crowd below.

Choose between the lower zipline or the superhero-style zoomline that sends you racing face-first toward the action. Either way, it’s a thrill ride like no other.

Wrapping It Up Vegas-Style

Las Vegas is full of surprises, and the best experiences often happen away from the casino floors. Whether you’re exploring neon graveyards, kayaking through glowing caves, or uncovering hidden speakeasies, there’s a whole other side of Vegas just waiting to be discovered.

So, next time you’re in Sin City, take a break from the slot machines and see what’s beyond the Strip—you won’t regret it.